In the realm of K-Dramas, female leads often serve as the epitome of elegance, grace, and style. Their unique, impactful, and often enviably fashion choices not only perfectly exemplify and reflect the character’s persona and memorability, but also set in motion real life fashion trends and influence spectators across the globe. 2023 has been no exception, with a multitude of stunning actresses setting the screen ablaze with their impeccable style. From ex-idols and CEOs to spoiled starlets and social media influencers, this year’s leading ladies are undoubtably some of the best dressed and pivotal fashion icons of this era.
Here are some of the most distinctive, breakout K-Drama actresses whose elegant and exceptional style left audiences absolutely blown away.
1. Bae Suzy in “Doona!”
In arguably one of the most impactful dramas of the year, “Doona!”, which stars Bae Suzy as Lee Doona, who was formerly the star of a Korean girl group named Dream Sweet, is filled with tasteful, sophisticated and flashy fashion pieces showcasing the realistic nature of idol costuming, while also balancing classic, calm fits in the following years after her retirement.ย
Suzy’s unique, striking white, gemstone and feather covered debut outfit is the most impactful of the season, only elevated further by carefully chosen accessories, such as a crystal choker and accompanying earrings. After her retirement, her flair for standout accessories continues to be showcased in choices such as large hoop earrings, plaid hats, and silver necklaces. Furthermore her casual, sweet, everyday attire continues to showcase youthful fun through adorable flowery patterns, pastel pinks and white camisoles. Her designer brands and memorable pieces include Gucci hair clips, Miu Miu cardigans and black Bulgari bags.ย
2. Lim JiYeon in “The Glory”
Although she portrays a vicious, cold hearted antagonist in Netflix’s hit series, “The Glory,” Lim JiYeon is likely among the best dressed stars of this year. The character’s grandiose wealth paired with her obsession with social status and appearance culminates to some of the most sophisticated and costly outfits of any K-Drama villain. With perfectly tailored luxury brand fits that cost more than the average person’s rent, her closet is something every fan is undoubtably envious of.
Lim JiYeon’s attire typically revolves around expensive matching tweed suit sets, a common staple among many actresses this year, although the meticulously designed and exquisite material in her outfits stands out among the rest of the cast. She often adorns affluent accessories and brands, such as Valentino and Givenchy. Even her sleepwear is lavish, commonly embellishing silky, elegant robes and matching slip set. Her classic high or slight V-line necklines accentuate her frame perfectly, and give an air of class to any outfit she wears. Her designer brands and statement pieces include Elcanto open toed mules, multiple silky, ivory fits from Graceu and an off white Tess bag from Chloe.
3. Park GyuYoung in “Celebrity”
The breakout K-Drama “Celebrity,” which centers around exposing and exploring the dark side of wealthy social media influencers in South Korea, is filled with characters who are both memorable in persona, and also bonafide style icons in their own right. Park GyuYoung portrays Seo AhRi, a modest door-to-door makeup saleswoman who resides with her mother. AhRi’s life took a sharp turn following the demise of her affluent father, who once helmed a prosperous factory. By a stroke of luck, she finds herself drawn into the realm of elite fashion aristocrats, compelling her to elevate her style to unique heights.
Park GyuYoung’s fashion choices seamlessly melded luxurious high-end brands with an edgy urban style, switching between bold black leather jackets to perfectly tailored, subdued ensembles. Every outfit she donned radiated a unique blend of elegance, only elevated by an innate confidence, solidifying her status as a true fashion icon in this K-Drama. Her designer brands and stand out pieces of choice include a jewelled blazer from Balmain, a Thom Browne tweed suit set and classic Christian Louboutin pumps.ย
4. Lee ChungAh in “Celebrity”
As another leading actress in “Celebrity,” Lee ChungAh takes on the character of Yoon SiHyun, an elite socialite whose influence surpasses all other Korean influencers, all without using any sort of on social media. Lee Chungah’s esteemed status is evident in her choice of attire, seamlessly blending the finest luxury items.ย
Her character’s wardrobe typically embodies neutral tans and greys, fitted trousers, ivory tops and beautifully jeweled necklaces. The soft fabrics of her outwear are almost always complimented by unique silhouettes, such as her iconic Givenchy halter neck top and fitted black midi dress. Her designer brands and stand out pieces of choice include a black, silky Louis Vuitton pajama shirt paired with a matching LV belt and Thom Browne grey Milano jumper.ย
5. Im YooNa in “King the Land”
In the romantic comedy, “King the Land”ย Im YooNa portrays Cheon SaRang, a diligent and vivacious hotel employee aspiring to ascend the ranks at the esteemed King Hotel. Her encounters with the reserved and moody heir propels the focal point of the narrative, creating memorable relationship moments that can make even veteran K-Drama connoisseurs swoon.ย
In her typical attire, YooNa seamlessly combines playful charm with a laid-back elegance. She typically wears classic double blazers, collared shirts, long skirts often in pastel, soft colors such as baby blue, pastel pink and muted yellow. Her designer brand and statement pieces of choice include a Miu Miu tweed sequinned suit set, black shoulder Prada bag and BAU flared dress.ย