From NewJeans & Jennie to TXT & Stray Kids, “Balletcore” Spreads Even Among Male Groups
The fashion trend of “balletcore”, which has been popular among female K-pop idols, has also expanded to male idols.
“Balletcore”, which is characterized by tulle, bows, and silk strips that wrap around the legs, refers to a fashion trend that casually reinterprets the ballet attire. It is a style that can exude a pure, lovely, and sometimes dreamy charm by using items such as Mary Jane shoes, chiffon skirts, and ribbons.
In fact, many female celebrities have tried this style since last year. Representative examples include BLACKPINK’s Jennie for her special solo single “You and Me” and NewJeans’ styling in the song “Cool With You” from their mini 2nd album “Get Up”.
Besides them, various female celebrities such as singers Sunmi, Jessica, Lee Chaeyeon, BLACKPINK’s Rosé, girl group LE SSERAFIM, IVE, Kep1er, and fromis_9, have met the public with ”balletcore” as part of their daily or activity styling.
However, since the end of last year, the range of “balletcore”, which mainly perpetuates female styling, has gradually expanded.
In particular, many male idols are now boldly showcasing balletcore in their stage outfits. Back in October last year, Stray Kids first showcased balletcore looks when they released the mini-album “Rock-Star”, and received a good response from fans. They wrote a new history in male idol styling by creating a mysterious atmosphere with items such as beaded hairbands and silk ribbons.
This spring, TXT will also show balletcore looks. They have already garnered hot responses with the styling of their mini 6th album to be released in April. Members, who have all turned blonde, successfully exuded a romantic yet innocent and daring atmosphere from teaser videos to appearing with ribbons around their ankles and using silk blouses with lace accents.
TXT is a group that has been recognized for their unique styling. They have shown styling that transcends gender with items such as sleeveless shirts, shorts, and pearl necklaces. Although not all these styles have always received a good response from fans, this time, the majority of opinions are positive. Perhaps it’s because they have tried various stylings before. They have successfully established their group’s color even more boldly and provocatively in balletcore looks.
The transformation of male idols that has continued since last year appears to be a smart choice that quickly catches trends. Starting with designer Marc Jacobs and luxury brand B, many fashion brands introduced men’s ballet flats for the 2024 F/W season. Incorporating styles that have long been noticed by fashion insiders into group concepts and garnering positive responses is undoubtedly an excellent strategy of male idols.
The new transformation of male idol styling brought about by Stray Kids and TXT is drawing attention to what influence it will have on the idol styling industry. One thing is clear: they are leading the new trend of “balletcore” in male idols.
Source: Daum
