Byeon Woo Seok on Korean Fashion and Matching Jimmy Choos with Streetstyle Garbs
The Korean model shares with us his street-meet-runway essentials.
There’s no denying Korea’s overhauling presence in fashion. In recent years, artists and models alike have taken the industry by storm with their apt mix of street-meets-runway looks. Model Byeon Woo Seok is one of such ambassadors, whose style draws from an array of categories — pop references to esoteric subcultures. In this styling shoot, Seok nods at ’50s counter culture of mods & rockers with the double breasted biker jacket and elongated parka, while studded high-top and slip-on sneakers from Jimmy Choos shows his affinity for sophisticated designs.
Constantly on-the-go, with agencies in Milan and Hong Kong scouting job for him, Seoks’ style is a reflection of his globetrotting career. While brushing shoulders with designers and stylists has contributed to his unique style, Seok admits that much of his getup draws cues from K-Pop stars. We catch up with the rising talent to learn more how K-Pop titan G-Dragon influences his fashion outlook, and the essential items he can’t live without when attending meetings and castings throughout the day.
How would you describe your style in three words?
I would say simple, comfortable and white, because that’s my favorite color.
How has the recent Korean street style effected your modeling career?
The Korean street style wave came at a time when the focus on high vs. street fashion was just picking up. Seoul’s fashion industry really embraced that look, which is evident in many of the lookbooks and editorials from Korea (some of which I’ve been featured in). In a time of fast fashion, I’ve found that the emphasis is no longer on print or graphics but on quality . For example, if a garment is created with quality fabrics such as cowhide leather, it’ll develop a unique patina through time. This gives each piece a unique sensibility that overrides any graphic print.
Who’s a street style icon you look up to?
G-Dragon and Big Bang. They’ve plucked from various hip-hop cues from the past (bandanna, chains necklaces, tracksuits) and styled it with their own fashion-forward look. This match of old vs.new makes them unique in their own way, and continues to inspire me in how I dress. This is why I pair classic footwear labels like Jimmy Choo with more modern streetwear brands. I like the contrast.
Having to attend meetings and casting throughout the day, what’s are essentials items you keep close to you?
Jimmy Choo slip-on shoes because they’re comfortable and a leather backpack to fit my portfolio.
Where is Korean fashion heading?
I think we’ll see more and more Korean streetwear brands on a global scale. Seoul’s a very trend-conscious city. The way people dress on the streets are all considered. With the focus on Korea now, I think it’s a great time for new brands. Previously, to get their name out, younger brands will have to get designs in overseas retailers before gaining any traction, now buyers are coming to Seoul for inspiration, so the process is cut short.
