"Where'd They Get That?" The Top 5 Korean Brands Dominating Idol Airport Fashion
Hello! This is Sunny from K-Music Note.
Whenever photos of our favorite idols at the airport drop, our fingers start flying. We zoom in, search social media, and ask the one burning question: "Seriously, where is that outfit from?" It used to be that the answer was always a global luxury brand, but the situation has completely changed. K-fashion brands armed with unique designs and fresh aesthetics are rapidly taking over idols' closets. Today, I'm here to solve that mystery for you. Here are the top 5 domestic Korean brands that are appearing most frequently in idol airport fashion as of 2025. Get ready to dress like an idol!
1. Mardi Mercredi (마르디 메크르디)
The Epitome of French Chic, The Idols' Uniform
You've probably seen its signature large flower graphic somewhere. 'Mardi Mercredi' has become one of the most beloved brands not just in K-fashion, but across Asia. Its unique French-inspired logos and graphics add a clear statement to comfortable items like sweatshirts and t-shirts. It has earned the nickname "the idol uniform" after being spotted on countless stars like IVE's An Yujin and Red Velvet's Yeri, who seem to own one in every color. There's no better brand for creating that effortlessly styled, "I just threw this on" look.
2. Matin Kim (마뗑킴)
The Choice of the Coolest It-Girls, Edgy Street Vibes
If you were to ask, "What's the hippest brand in Seoul right now?" many would point to 'Matin Kim.' Based in a chic yet free-spirited street mood, the brand showcases unique details and bold logo play. Its half-moon bag with a signature logo plate, in particular, has become a must-have item not just for idols but for all fashionistas. It's an essential brand in the off-duty wardrobe of idols who, like aespa's Karina, pursue a cool and edgy style.
[An Insider's Tip]
The secret to idol airport fashion is the perfect balance of 'comfort' and a 'statement piece.' Outfits need to be comfortable for long flights, but they can't sacrifice style in front of the cameras. Most of the brands introduced today offer comfortable items like sweatshirts and tees that also serve as a statement piece, thanks to their distinct logos or graphics. Try this yourself: take your comfiest outfit and just add a cap or bag with a cool logo. That's the first step to mastering K-idol airport fashion.
3. ADER ERROR (아더에러)
Beyond Fashion, Into Art, An Unmatched Aura
ADER ERROR is less of a clothing brand and more of a 'design collective' that creates cultural content based on fashion. Its deconstructed designs, bold oversized fits, and unique retro color palette create an unparalleled aura that other brands can't replicate. It's especially loved by artists like BTS and SEVENTEEN who value their own artistic sensibilities. ADER ERROR's signature blue tag has now become a badge for those who are 'in the know' about fashion.
4. Marithé François Girbaud (마리떼 프랑소와 저버)
Classic is Forever, Effortless Logo Play
Though originally a French brand, Marithé François Girbaud is enjoying a second golden age thanks to a highly successful relaunch in Korea. Its classic logo t-shirts and sweatshirts complete the most basic yet sophisticated 'ggu-an-ggu' (effortlessly styled) look. It gained massive popularity after being worn by stars with a pure and classic image, like BLACKPINK's Jisoo and actress Go Youn-jung. It's the perfect choice when you want a timeless piece that is still perfectly on-trend.
5. Rest & Recreation (레스트앤레크레이션)
The Rising Star, Between Minimalism and Sportiness
If you had to pick one brand that has recently blown up, it's 'Rest & Recreation (R&R),' especially after being worn by NewJeans' Haerin. As its name suggests, the brand pursues comfort for rest and leisure, but its chic silhouettes and unique details are anything but ordinary. It adds sporty elements to minimalist designs, creating a luxurious 'one-mile wear' aesthetic. Its logo ball caps and sweatshirts are cementing their place as the new go-to for idol airport fashion, which demands both comfort and style.
The 3-Line Summary
- Idol airport fashion is currently being led by distinctive domestic K-fashion brands like Mardi Mercredi and Matin Kim.
- Brands with diverse concepts, from French chic (Mardi) to street (Matin Kim) and artistic (ADER ERROR), are popular, showcasing the variety of K-fashion.
- The common thread among these brands is providing a clear statement point via a logo or graphic on a comfortable item like a sweatshirt or tee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are the brands introduced today very expensive?
A1: It varies. T-shirts from Mardi Mercredi or Marithé François Girbaud are relatively accessible, often in the $50-$100 range. Matin Kim is a mid-range brand, with items from $100-$300. ADER ERROR is a high-end designer brand with a significantly higher price point.
Q2: Where can I buy these brands when I travel to Korea? Do they ship internationally?
A2: Most of the brands offer worldwide shipping through their official online stores. If you visit Korea, you can see them in person at their flagship stores in neighborhoods like Hannam-dong or Seongsu-dong, or in major department stores like The Hyundai Seoul and Shinsegae.
Q3: Are these brands mostly for female idols? Do they have menswear?
A3: Not at all. ADER ERROR and Marithé François Girbaud are completely unisex. Matin Kim and Mardi Mercredi also have popular men's lines, and R&R has many items that can be worn by anyone. You can easily find male idols wearing items from all of these brands.