Best Wonyoung-Inspired Outfits That Aren’t Overhyped or Overpriced

Best Wonyoung-Inspired Outfits That Aren’t Overhyped or Overpriced

Let’s be real—Jang Wonyoung is that girl. Whether she’s fronting IVE, walking into the airport like it’s a runway, or casually breaking the internet with a mirror selfie, her outfits strike the perfect balance between sweet, elegant, and drop-dead fashionable.

But when you go to recreate her look, you quickly hit two problems:

  1. Everything is sold out or designer-priced.
  2. The dupes feel cheap, costume-y, or overhyped.

So how do you channel Wonyoung’s signature style without blowing your budget or wearing low-quality knockoffs?

That’s what this post is all about.

We’re breaking down the best Wonyoung-inspired outfit ideas that stay authentic to her style, feel wearable in real life, and most importantly—don’t cost a small fortune. These looks are drawn from real outfits she’s worn (both on and off stage), with alternatives that are affordable, elegant, and easy to mix and match.


Why Wonyoung’s Style Works (And How to Adapt It Affordably)

Wonyoung’s signature vibe combines:

  • Polished silhouettes (A-line skirts, tailored blouses)
  • Soft colors with contrast (white, pink, black, navy)
  • Youthful femininity (ribbons, socks, cardigans)
  • Idol-level posture and confidence

The magic is in the details: the proportions, the balance of innocence and poise, the subtle accessorizing. She wears carefully styled basics that look expensive—but don’t have to be.

Here’s how to build outfits that echo that energy without following overpriced trends.


1. Pleated Mini Skirt + Knit Top Combo

Inspired by: Wonyoung’s Music Show Outfits, IVE promotions

Why it works:

This combo is the foundation of K-pop school-core—and Wonyoung wears it often. The clean pleats add motion and structure, while the knit top keeps things soft and flattering.

How to build it affordably:

  • Pleated skirt: Look for cotton-blend tennis skirts under $25 on sites like YesStyle or H&M
  • Knit top: A short-sleeve ribbed knit from Uniqlo or Zara ($15–$30) works perfectly
  • Finish with: Knee socks and platform Mary Janes (affordable versions on Amazon or Shein)

Style tip: Tuck the top in fully and wear a dainty necklace for extra polish.


2. Cropped Cardigan + Midi Skirt Combo

Inspired by: Airport outfits and personal Instagram looks

Why it works:

This look is cozy, age-appropriate, and elegant. Wonyoung often wears slightly cropped cardigans with delicate skirts—keeping the silhouette modest but fashionable.

Budget-friendly picks:

  • Cropped cardigan: Ribbed button-up styles at Forever 21 or Mango (under $30)
  • Midi skirt: Satin or cotton-blend styles from H&M, Romwe, or secondhand shops
  • Shoes: Loafers or kitten heels for grown-up girl vibes

No-buy tip: You can fold or tie a regular cardigan to mimic a cropped version.


3. Peter Pan Collar Dress + Flats

Inspired by: Fan meeting and magazine shoots

Why it works:

Wonyoung embraces classic feminine elements—like collars, bows, and A-line silhouettes—but keeps them simple and mature. The Peter Pan collar is retro in the best way.

Affordable styling:

  • Dress: Check Korean-inspired brands like Chuu or mixxmix ($35–$45)
  • Shoes: Simple flats with bow detail from Amazon or Target
  • Hair: Half-up style with a satin ribbon or matching clip

Avoid: Overly poofy or babyish cuts—look for tailored lines and modest necklines.


4. All-Black Outfit with Balletcore Twist

Inspired by: Wonyoung’s more mature stage looks

Why it works:

She often balances her ultra-feminine image with sleek all-black outfits that hint at balletcore: fitted tops, sheer sleeves, tights, and sculpted silhouettes.

How to copy it without breaking the bank:

  • Fitted black top with square or sweetheart neckline
  • Black skater skirt or fitted knit skirt
  • Tights or sheer mesh long sleeve underneath
  • Ballet flats or lace-up shoes

Style tip: Keep makeup soft with flushed cheeks and pink lips for that contrast Wonyoung always nails.


5. White Blouse + A-Line Skirt Combo

Inspired by: Variety show appearances and formal press looks

Why it works:

This combo gives off that “top of her class” energy that Wonyoung has perfected. The A-line skirt keeps things youthful while the blouse adds elegance.

Build it with:

  • Blouse: Sheer puff sleeves, bow tie collar, or lace detail
  • Skirt: A-line or pleated, in neutral tones like cream, gray, or dusty pink
  • Shoes: Slingback flats or pointed toe flats (under $25 at DSW or YesStyle)

No-buy tip: Add a detachable collar or bow to a blouse you already own for instant K-vibe.


6. Soft Monochrome Sets (Pastel or Neutral)

Inspired by: Behind-the-scenes and TikTok content

Why it works:

Matching sets take the guesswork out of styling and are Wonyoung’s go-to for looking expensive without extra effort.

Affordable set styling:

  • Colors: Soft pink, beige, sky blue, lavender
  • Look for: Sweatshirt + skirt sets, knit co-ords, or even monochrome lounge sets
  • Stores: YesStyle, Shein, or Mango often carry budget-friendly options

Add-ons: Tie a cardigan around your shoulders for that stylized idol touch.


7. Varsity-Inspired Look

Inspired by: IVE’s stage looks and concept teasers

Why it works:

Preppy meets idol. It’s playful and structured—especially when paired with platform sneakers and perfect hair.

Style with:

  • Varsity jacket or cropped pullover
  • Mini skirt (plaid or neutral)
  • Socks and platform sneakers
  • Ponytail or high pigtails with subtle bows

Budget alert: Thrift stores are treasure troves for real varsity jackets that don’t look like fast fashion imitations.


8. Tennis Skirt + Crewneck Sweatshirt + Ribbon Hair

Inspired by: Practice room looks and casual appearances

Why it works:

This outfit hits the sweet spot between comfort and K-pop polish. The ribbon is the key detail that elevates a basic crewneck.

Use what you have:

  • Any basic sweatshirt (tuck it into the skirt waistband)
  • White or beige tennis skirt
  • Ribbon hair tie and white sneakers

Quick fix: Tie a small bow around your ponytail with ribbon from a gift box—yes, really.


9. Sheer Blouse + Simple Dress Combo

Inspired by: Live performances and soft concept shoots

Why it works:

Layering a sheer blouse under a strappy dress is a Wonyoung favorite. It gives you coverage, movement, and a floaty, graceful vibe.

What to pair:

  • Sheer puff or lace blouse (white or ivory)
  • Black spaghetti-strap dress or pastel mini dress
  • Mary Janes or low-heeled boots

Where to buy: Blouses like this are everywhere on YesStyle, but you can also DIY one with thrifted lace tops.


10. T-Shirt + Tulle Skirt + Flats

Inspired by: Wonyoung’s fansign and TikTok casual looks

Why it works:

The graphic tee makes it youthful, and the tulle adds softness. It’s a perfect casual-day look that still has K-pop charm.

Outfit pieces:

  • White tee (graphic or slogan)
  • Tulle or chiffon skirt (midi or maxi length)
  • Pointed toe flats or minimalist white sneakers

Style tip: Tuck the tee in and add a pearl hair clip or simple jewelry to complete the look.


Where to Shop Wonyoung-Inspired Pieces (Without the Markup)

🛍️ YesStyle

Great for feminine Korean silhouettes, matching sets, and blouses.

🛍️ Mixxmix

Idol-approved, affordable and often seen on actual K-pop stagewear.

🛍️ UNIQLO & H&M

Perfect for basics like knit tops, A-line skirts, and layering pieces.

🛍️ Amazon + DSW

Low-cost finds for ballet flats, Mary Janes, platform sneakers, and hair accessories.

🛍️ Thrift Stores

Don’t underestimate secondhand cardigans, lace tops, or skirts. Just tailor or accessorize to modernize.


How to Make Any Outfit More “Wonyoung”

Even without exact replicas, you can create her aesthetic with these non-clothing details:

💄 Makeup:

  • Soft pink cheeks
  • Glossy lips
  • Defined lashes, not heavy eyeliner
  • Highlighter on nose bridge and cheeks

💇‍♀️ Hair:

  • Clean middle part or soft waves
  • Ribbons, small bows, or minimalist clips
  • Sleek ponytails or half-up styles

🎀 Accessories:

  • Pearl jewelry
  • Dainty silver or gold rings
  • Mini bags or shoulder purses
  • White socks with flats

What to Avoid: Overhyped “Wonyoung Dupes” That Don’t Deliver

Some trending Wonyoung-inspired items are overpriced and underwhelming. Here’s what to skip:

Overhyped PieceWhy It’s Not Worth ItWhat to Wear Instead
$90 designer pleated skirtFabric is often thin or stiffCotton tennis skirt from Amazon ($25)
Fake pearl headbands from TikTokLook childish or costume-yReal ribbon bow in neutral tone
Mass-produced “idol co-ord sets”Fit is inconsistentMonochrome outfit built from separates
Lace-up ballet flats with zero paddingPainful and impracticalFaux leather ballet flats with sole

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need Designer to Dress Like Wonyoung

Jang Wonyoung’s style is about more than expensive clothes. It’s about:

  • Curated silhouettes that flatter her figure
  • Thoughtful styling (hair, posture, subtle accessories)
  • Consistency in tone—sweet, elegant, polished

You don’t need the exact brands or designer tags. With the right combos, smart layering, and a little attention to detail, you can pull off Wonyoung-level elegance and charm—without falling into overpriced trends.

So next time you want to dress like a K-pop queen, skip the hype.
Build the vibe, not the receipt.

Author

  • Jiyoon Park

    Jiyoon Park is a Seoul-born K-fashion writer who helps girls turn K-pop style into everyday confidence. From modest layering tips to curvy-friendly dress picks, she writes for fans who want to look like idols — without feeling like they’re playing dress-up.