My casual observations on how people dress in Korea

 My casual observations on how people dress in Korea

Dressing in Korea is its own language, and as a foreigner, I’ve been learning it one outfit at a

time. Here are some of my honest, slightly chaotic observations about how people dress

here. And how I’ve had to adjust.

As a free-the-tits girly, I’ve had to learn to wear a bra in Korea. Back home, if I wasn’t at

work, church, or somewhere formal, I wouldn’t bother. I’d often go out with my nipples

showing through my shirt. Sometimes people would look at me, but it didn’t feel weird —

probably because I felt comfortable enough, or because the people around me looked like

me. Plus, freeing-the-tits was becoming more popular.

But in Korea, seeing nipples through a shirt is basically unheard of. Since I already look very

different from most people around me (physically), I figured I didn’t need any extra

attention. So, wearing a bra felt like the easier option- I don’t need people staring at me

because of my tits peeking through my top.

Koreans dress modestly, but of course there are exceptions. What I’ve noticed is that they

usually cover the top half of their body (shoulders, arms, neckline). Short-sleeved tops are

everywhere, but strappy tops and low-cut tops, not so much. Shoulders, in general, are

expected to be covered. On the flip side, shorts and skirts are totally normal, though super

short ones might draw stares. Younger people however are starting to push the boundaries,

especially in big cities where foreigners are more common.

Another thing I’ve noticed: bright, popping colours are rare. While neutrals (mostly black,

white) and soft pastels dominate. Overall, the style is minimalist, functional, stylish.

Appearance matters a lot here, and sticking to the dress code almost makes everyone look

the same. I’d even go as far as saying there isn’t really “personal style” in the way I’m used

to.

Now let’s talk leggings. In Korea, leggings are considered underwear?! Back home, I love

rocking a cute workout set to run errands or when I just don’t feel like dressing up. But not

here. It’s safe to say my Pilates–Range Rover wife aesthetic is out the window. Workout

leggings are really only for the gym (and even then, they’re not that popular). Koreans

prefer running shorts or loose workout pants. The few who do wear leggings usually throw

on an oversized T-shirt to cover the nyash.

Comfort, though, is definitely a priority, especially shoes. Korea is super walkable, so

sneakers and trainers are everywhere. And Crocs. Crocs are everywhere. Different styles,

different colours, on everyone. I’ve made some questionable choices in my life, but at least I

haven’t bought a pair (yet).

Living in Korea has made me notice things I never thought twice about back home,

especially when it comes to what’s considered “normal” or acceptable to wear. Adjusting

my style isn’t just about the clothes, its also about understanding and respecting the culture

around me.