I went to Seoul Fashion Week, and I fell in love—with the fashion, of course. How could I not? Not only has Seoul Fashion Week been growing for years now, but also the designers who show are truly unique, bringing something to the industry that's new even for been-there-done-that editors. The fashion in Seoul is bright, fun, and exciting, which was made all the more clear to me when I was able to see the brands in person and meet the designers. Plus, the street style there is to die for. Did I mention yet how much I love it all? I never wanted to come home.
But since I had to come back to New York, I've rounded up my 10 favorite brands from Seoul Fashion week, not only so that I can relive my fashion memories, but also so you guys can see for yourself how incredible Seoul Fashion Week really is. Meanwhile, I'm looking for a roommate in Seoul, if anyone wants to join me.
D'Antidote: This gender-fluid line is based on menswear, but successfully crosses over to womenswear. Like the name says, this brand is an antidote to fast fashion and luxury brands, providing the answer to the missing pieces in your closet. The best pieces of the collection were inspired by British punk and from the newly unveiled collaboration with Fila that resulted in some amazing puffer pants, jackets, and scarfs in bright blues and yellows.
Cres. E Dim.: Launched in 2009, this is the brand that blew me away, with its combination of streetwear, basics, and new silhouettes. The shining star of the collection was the deconstructed denim, including looks with layers of different washes, loose hems, and different kind of slits and cutouts.
Kye: This brand is relatively well-known in the U.S., specifically in New York, because they show at New York Fashion Week. But I was naturally excited to see them showing in their home base of Seoul. V-Files, Gentle Monster and even Shu Uemura have done collaborations with the brand, and, this time, their partnership was with Nike that resulted in faux fur-adorned Air Force 1s. Kye is also great at experimenting with textures and prints, leading to some incredible combinations you'd never dream up for yourself, but that still make perfect aesthetic sense.
MÜNN: This menswear line is known for its mix of basics and stand-out pieces, and their Fall/Winter 2017 collection had amazingly thoughtful details. The jewelry and accessories were truly transgressive (think: Hood by Air), and the well-designed jackets, pants, and layer pieces created an incredibly cohesive collection.
Supercomma B: This is a brand that knows to have fun; it closed night one of Seoul Fashion Week with a show that was, essentially, a party. The models danced down the runway, taking selfies, and doing Instagram Live video feeds; you just knew the brand was meant for a millennial. Known mostly for their sneakers, the ready-to-wear was super on-point, too, and the way the line plays with bright colors, streetwear merch basics, and great accessories makes it really covetable for both men and women.
Charm's: This brand is known all throughout Korea, thanks to a mix of branded clothing and fun, new silhouettes. With a front row consisting of K-Pop royalty and even a huge bear mascot, this was one of my favorite shows to attend. Plus, their capsule collection in collaboration with Kermit the Frog is amazing. Imagine: lime green acid wash denim, faux fur muppet-like jackets, and all-over printed pants. Miss Piggy is going to love it.
Antimatter: An underdog of Seoul Fashion Week, Antimatter blew me, and everyone else, away. With amazing workwear-inspired pieces, like vests, jumpsuits, and jackets, this utilitarian collection was one to beat. In neutral tones of gray, black, and a bit of camouflage, the Heron Preston x DSNY vibes were real, and we weren't mad at it.
The-Sirius: The most avant-garde collection to come out of Seoul Fashion Week, Sirius was a highlight of the shows I attended. Designed by Younchan Chung, who just recently won the prestigious International Fashion Showcase Designer from The British Fashion Council, this brand—and its designer—are rising stars, to say the least.
Fleamadonna: I was already in love with this brand before coming to Seoul, but I fell even more deeply with upon seeing their show, thanks to their new takes on suiting, ultra-wearable sequin looks, and adventurous moves, like showing faux-fur bras worn on the outside of shirts. Plus, their collaboration with Nike meant we spotted the newest Air Max Vapor walking down the runway, and it was an accessory that really worked for us.
Beyond Closet: Beyond Closet was a breath of fresh air, mixing streetwear with a certain preppiness. Think, varsity stripes and emblems mixed with athletic wear and stripes. The mix of bright colors in classic silhouettes like blazers and trousers really felt new. Add a hint of rockabilly, and you've got this collection down.
