Mention fashion in Asia and usually the first thoughts that come to mind are the streets of Tokyo. Japan has been the dominant and prevalent fashion force in Asia for a long time. Designers would woo the world with their creations on catwalks and fashionistas would strut their latest buys on the streets of Harajuku, Shibuya and Shinjuku to name a few.
The rest of Asia and even the world would look to Japan for fashion trends.
But times are changing and with the ever-increasing presence and status of Korea as a beauty hub, the winds of are blowing the worlds’ interest to the streets of Seoul. 
The array of contrasting styles and audacious mix of colors
The array of contrasting styles and audacious mix of colors can at times make Korean fashion seem like nothing more than a pursuit of self pleasure; yet it is the same hedonistic sense of adventure and the willingness to try something new that shapes and feeds the demands of its fashion industry.
The myriad of trends and styles that can be found on the streets of Seoul reflects the influences and creativity that’s in abundance.
Koreans are not afraid or shy to wear what they like
From Japanese-influenced style to 80s inspired neon colored designs, what’s apparent is that Koreans are not afraid or shy to wear what they like. This positive attitude is reflected in the ease and comfort they project in their choice of clothing. Being trendy and yet tasteful at the same time seems to be the unspoken motto and a precarious balance that’s struck well.
Heels and wedges: the performance of natural grace and precise balance
On the subject of balance; South Korea’s terrain is made up of mostly hills and mountains and as such the streets of Seoul presents more of a little up and down slope maneuvering than the usual casual walking (though the boutiques and other street attractions make welcomed distractions).
Yet Korean women can be seen taking to these very streets in heels and wedges in what can only be described as a performance of natural grace and precise balance. Some are decked in the latest trend off the runway as well and this reflects how Korean women are in touch with what is current and their acceptance of global fashion trends and changes.
Korean fashion is inspired by European and American design aesthetic?
Korean fashion is said to be inspired by European and American design aesthetic, which explains the vast mixture of styles. Perhaps that also explains the rising interest and ready acceptance by the rest of the world for Korean fashion creations. Simple ensembles like a tank top (or tees) and shorts are made head turn worthy just by adding on a long floral vest or the right accessories. Bright colors are matched and put together tastefully to create an outfit that’s interesting and inspiring even.
In general Korean fashion veers towards the more relaxed, casual and practical. It doesn’t adhere to a particular trend or genre per se but it’s a combination of different ones which makes it unique and uniquely, Korean.
The Hallyu, or better known as the Korean Wave
The tide of Korean soap dramas and pop music sweeping international shores has not only increased its popularity as a tourist destination. The Hallyu or better known as the Korean Wave, has also enabled its beauty industry - ranging from beauty products to cosmetic surgery - to reach a wider spectrum and pool of people from all across the globe.
The Korean definition of beauty has become a world standard of sorts (benchmark even) and with its influential and inspiring fashion trends, Korea’s status as a leader in aesthetic and all things beautiful looks set to soar even higher.
Related Articles and Videos on our trip to Seoul, Korea:
6. How South Koreans take their Beauty Products Seriously
7. Fashion Spotting in Garosugil, Seoul, Korea
8. Not only a Beauty Mecca, the Winds of are Blowing the Worlds’ Interest to the Streets of Seoul, Korea for Fashion