Exposed K-pop idols' attire elevates spectacle in the music scene
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, the K-pop scene is making a significant impact, particularly with the resurgence of low-rise pants and the underwear-as-fashion movement. This trend, once criticized, is now being embraced by Gen Z consumers, thanks in part to the bold and edgy styles of K-pop idols.
The revival of low-rise pants, a style that harks back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, is a key part of this trend. K-pop stars, such as Blackpink and rising stars like MEOVV, are incorporating this fashion element into their outfits, often revealing branded underwear or lingerie as part of the ensemble. This fusion of daring streetwear and high fashion can be seen in their collaborations with luxury brands and their appearances in fashion editorials.
One such example is the W Korea magazine editorial from 2025, where these idols showcase cutting-edge looks that blend past trends like low-rise bottoms with modern design sensibilities. This trend is part of K-pop's larger impact on fashion, where idols set new aesthetics that quickly circulate worldwide.
The underwear-as-fashion movement involves making undergarments deliberately visible as part of an outerwear ensemble. This style, often referred to as "underwear, but make it fashion," is gaining traction, especially for tops that resemble camisoles. A popular example of this trend is the lace camisole style, as seen in Rose of Blackpink's recent photos.
The fashion trend of sagging, where pants are worn low enough to reveal the waistband of undergarments, is also making a comeback among young K-pop idols. Stars like Jennie of Blackpink, Tarzzan of All Day Project, Aespa's Karina and Giselle, and many others have been spotted styling their outfits to leave their panty elastic bands or lace trim visible.
While this trend is gaining popularity, not everyone is on board. Some online comments criticize the trend, stating that it might look strange on regular people. However, for K-pop idols, the sagging trend has gone viral with fans, becoming a symbol of youth rebellion and stylish confidence.
Even though this trend was once popularly associated with Justin Bieber, it seems that K-pop stars are leading the charge in making it a mainstream fashion statement among Gen Z. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this trend develops and influences global fashion choices.
[1] W Korea magazine editorial (2025) [2] E-Land World's women's lingerie brand Evelyn sales data (January to July 2023) [3] Analysis of K-pop music videos, performances, and photo shoots (2023)
[1] The W Korea magazine editorial from 2025 showcases how K-pop idols are revolutionizing fashion, pairing vintage trends like low-rise pants with modern designs to create bold, head-turning ensembles that fuse streetwear and high fashion.
[2] The underwear-as-fashion movement, epitomized by the popularity of lace camisoles, has witnessed a surge in demand among Gen Z consumers, as reflected in the sales data of E-Land World's women's lingerie brand Evelyn during the January to July 2023 period.
