Introduction
K-Pop idols are not just known for their music – they are also major trendsetters in global fashion. From luxury red carpet looks to edgy streetwear, British fashion brands have become a staple in the wardrobes of K-Pop’s biggest stars. Burberry, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and Dr. Martens are just a few of the UK brands that have been embraced by the K-Pop industry.
This article explores the top 10 British fashion brands that K-Pop idols love, featuring real-life examples of BTS, BLACKPINK, Stray Kids, SEVENTEEN, and more rocking these iconic UK labels.
1. Burberry – The Luxury Staple in K-Pop
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Burberry’s iconic trench coats, plaid patterns, and high-fashion appeal make it a favourite among idols who want to showcase classic British elegance with a modern twist. ✅ Who Wears It:
- V (BTS) has worn Burberry on multiple occasions, including in his Elle Korea cover shoot (2023).
- Jisoo (BLACKPINK) is an official Burberry ambassador and frequently spotted in their tailored coats.
- Felix (Stray Kids) rocked Burberry for a Harper’s Bazaar shoot.
📌 Notable Appearance: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo attended Burberry’s London Fashion Week show in 2019, making headlines for her elegant look.
2. Alexander McQueen – Edgy Elegance
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Known for its dark, dramatic, and avant-garde designs, Alexander McQueen is a go-to brand for idols who want to exude power and sophistication. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Lisa (BLACKPINK) wore McQueen for a Vogue Hong Kong editorial, showcasing the brand’s structured silhouettes.
- Jungkook (BTS) has been seen wearing McQueen boots and suits on multiple occasions.
- Mark (GOT7) sported a striking Alexander McQueen look for a magazine shoot.
📌 Notable Appearance: BTS’s Jungkook has been spotted wearing Alexander McQueen on stage and in casual settings, solidifying its place as a K-Pop favourite.
3. Vivienne Westwood – The Rebel’s Choice
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: With its punk-rock heritage, Vivienne Westwood aligns perfectly with K-Pop’s experimental and rebellious aesthetic. ✅ Who Wears It:
- G-Dragon (BIGBANG) has long been a fan of Westwood’s statement pieces.
- Hyunjin (Stray Kids) wore a Vivienne Westwood pearl choker in promotional photos.
- Mingi (ATEEZ) styled a signature plaid suit from the brand during a performance.
📌 Notable Appearance: Hyunjin’s pearl choker moment sparked a trend in the K-Pop community, leading to a rise in popularity for Westwood accessories.
4. Dr. Martens – The Iconic Footwear of K-Pop
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Dr. Martens’ grunge aesthetic and durable design make it a staple for idols who want a mix of punk and casual streetwear. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Rosé (BLACKPINK) styled Dr. Martens boots in multiple airport fashion looks.
- J-Hope (BTS) has been seen pairing Docs with oversized streetwear outfits.
- Stray Kids members often wear Dr. Martens in performances and photoshoots.
📌 Notable Appearance: BLACKPINK’s Rosé posted an Instagram photo styling Dr. Martens boots, leading to a surge in Korean sales for the brand.
5. Stella McCartney – The Sustainable Luxury Brand
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Stella McCartney’s eco-friendly luxury fashion aligns well with many idols’ support for sustainability. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Jennie (BLACKPINK) has been seen wearing Stella McCartney’s cruelty-free designs.
- Taeyong (NCT) wore McCartney in a fashion-forward editorial shoot.
📌 Notable Appearance: Stella McCartney’s sustainable mission has attracted more idols, especially those advocating for eco-conscious fashion.
6. Paul Smith – British Classic Meets K-Pop Trendsetter
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Paul Smith’s tailored suits with playful prints make it a favourite for K-Pop artists who want a balance of fun and sophistication. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Kai (EXO) has been spotted in Paul Smith suits during promotions.
- Jin (BTS) wore a Paul Smith ensemble at an awards show.
📌 Notable Appearance: Kai’s Paul Smith runway appearance at Milan Fashion Week made headlines.
7. Fred Perry – The Streetwear Essential
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Fred Perry’s preppy yet sporty aesthetic is perfect for idols who mix casual and refined fashion. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Baekhyun (EXO) has worn Fred Perry jackets in airport fashion.
- Seungkwan (SEVENTEEN) incorporated Fred Perry pieces into his casual wardrobe.
📌 Notable Appearance: SEVENTEEN’s music video outfits have featured Fred Perry polo shirts, boosting their appeal.
8. Mulberry – The Luxury Handbag Favourite
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: British craftsmanship and timeless designs make Mulberry’s handbags a staple among female K-Pop stars. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Suzy (Miss A) has been seen carrying a Mulberry Bayswater.
- Jennie (BLACKPINK) has included Mulberry bags in her social media posts.
📌 Notable Appearance: Mulberry’s presence at Seoul Fashion Week has strengthened its connection with K-Pop idols.
9. Barbour – The British Heritage Brand Loved by K-Pop Stars
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: Barbour’s classic wax jackets provide a unique blend of traditional and trendy outerwear. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Jimin (BTS) wore a Barbour jacket in a travel vlog.
- Yeri (Red Velvet) styled a Barbour coat in a fashion shoot.
📌 Notable Appearance: BTS’s Bon Voyage series showcased Barbour jackets during their UK travels.
10. JW Anderson – The Experimental Designer for K-Pop Idols
✅ Why K-Pop Idols Love It: JW Anderson’s bold designs and gender-fluid aesthetic resonate with K-Pop fashion-forward artists. ✅ Who Wears It:
- Taemin (SHINee) has worn JW Anderson pieces in promotions.
- Yeonjun (TXT) styled a JW Anderson sweater in a viral social media post.
📌 Notable Appearance: JW Anderson’s collaboration with BTS’s J-Hope led to increased brand interest in Korea.
Conclusion
British fashion brands have cemented their influence in the global K-Pop scene, with idols frequently wearing UK designers in music videos, red carpets, and everyday fashion. Whether it’s the luxury appeal of Burberry, the rebellious spirit of Vivienne Westwood, or the streetwear aesthetic of Dr. Martens, UK brands are a staple in the K-Pop fashion revolution.
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