With viral aesthetics changing so frequently, it’s hard to know where to shop for the latest cool girl looks—so let us get you started
Catchy terms like “blokette”, “indie sleaze” and “old money” may sound more like cryptic code names, but they are indeed fashion trends and ones that are likely to invade your social media and wardrobe this summer.
Unlike preppy or monochromatic, what makes these hyper-specific trends stand out is that they are not just about the clothes or the aesthetics—they also require the wearer to exude a certain energy. And when style and attitude come together just right, these trends amplify that energy and the impact is one that is hard to ignore.
For instance, blokette trend mixes hyper-feminine touches like bows and frills with athletic wear, and calls for a very flirty and cool energy. Meanwhile, indie sleaze is a nod to hipster fashion of the mid- to late-aughts—think tight denim, tank tops and grunge accessories that embodied the chaotic yet cool energy of the 2000s’ party scene. Whereas old money aesthetic, which is similar to the quiet luxury trend, is all about wearing crisp linens and clean lines that wouldn’t look out of place on a summer vacay to Saint-Tropez.
If you’re keen to give one of these trends a try but aren’t sure where to shop, here is a roundup of five Korean boutiques, all of which deliver to Hong Kong, that offer the variety you need to get started.
Read more: How you can embrace peek-a-boo fashion with mesh, crochet and sheer fabrics this summer
1. Open YY
Ease into the sporty vibes of the blokette trend or the ’90s hipster aesthetics of indie sleaze on Open YY’s online store. The Seoul-based boutique, formerly known as TheOpen Product, counts American model Hailey Bieber, who wore one of the label’s knitted vests in 2022, among its fans. And its latest summer collection includes silver swimsuits, chunky platform sandals and a variety of bedazzled, bejewelled or otherwise more ornate “going-out tops” in muted, cool pastel shades that can be worn to the bar and beach alike.