The history of Korean fashion

Korean fashion has skyrocketed in recent years, with Korean designers and K-pop celebrities at the forefront of the global fashion business. However, the history of Korean fashion goes far further back than this present trend. We shall look at the history of Korean fashion, from traditional attire to present streetwear, in this post.

Traditional Clothing

Hanbok, or traditional Korean dress, has a long history dating back thousands of years. Hanbok was primarily made of silk, cotton, or ramie and was worn by both men and women. Hanbok styles changed according on social status and event. The greater the social position, for example, the more detailed the needlework and the brighter the colors utilized in the hanbok.

The hanbok style of the early Joseon Dynasty was quite basic, consisting of a jeogori (a jacket-like shirt) and a chima (a full skirt). The hanbok style, however, got more ornate during the late Joseon Dynasty with the inclusion of a baeja (an overcoat) and durumagi (a long robe).

Western Influences 

Western attire began to influence Korean fashion in the late nineteenth century. As Korea became more accessible to the outside world, more Koreans began to dress in Western-style apparel. Traditional Korean dress, on the other hand, remained popular, particularly for formal events such as weddings.

Western attire became more common in Korea during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945). This was owing in part to Japanese fashion's influence and the Japanese government's efforts to promote Western dress as a show of modernisation.

Post-War Fashion 

Korea enjoyed a period of fast economic expansion following World War II and the Korean War. This economic expansion had a big influence on Korean design. Western-style attire grew even more fashionable in Korea throughout the 1960s and 1970s, particularly among the younger population.

Korean fashion began to evolve in its own distinct manner in the 1980s. Traditional Korean components, such as hanbok textiles and shapes in modern apparel, were introduced by Korean designers. This style, known as "hanbok fusion," contributed to the development of a distinct Korean fashion identity.

The Rise of K-Pop

K-pop's growth in the 1990s and 2000s had a tremendous effect on Korean design. K-pop stars became into fashion icons, and their followers adopted their personal sense of style in their attire. K-pop's appeal contributed to the internationalization of Korean design as well.

At this time, Korean streetwear also started to become more well-known. For their distinctive designs and Korean influences, streetwear companies including Ader Error, NONAGON, and 99%IS started to acquire popularity.

Current Trends

Korean fashion is still evolving and gaining appeal nowadays. Korean designers such as Chang Kwang Hyo, Choi Bum Suk, and Jung Wook Jun have achieved international acclaim. Korean streetwear remains popular among fashion aficionados, and K-pop idols continue to influence fashion trends.

Korean fashion is distinguished by its distinct combination of traditional and modern features. Hanbok fusion is still a popular trend, and Korean streetwear continues to push fashion limits.

Korean fashion has a rich history that spans thousands of years. From traditional hanbok to modern streetwear, Korean fashion has evolved and adapted to changing times. Today, Korean fashion continues to influence the global fashion industry and gain recognition for its unique blend of traditional and modern elements.