5 New Korean Fashion Brands To Shop Online Now

New online e-tailer 5:5, which launched a pop-up store at #01-494/495 Suntec City yesterday, aims to introduce independent Korean labels into the market. Out of the 25 brands available on the site (comprising a mix of menswear, womenswear and accessory labels), we highlight five that are making their debut here.

By ISABEL ONG, 27 Jan 2017

#1: Salad Bowls

The womenswear label's fun, feminine pieces have been worn by K-pop girl groups such as I.O.I and Dal Shabet. As its name suggests, everything has a tongue-in-cheek reference to food: T-shirts say phrases like "Eat a lot", while dresses come with embroidered patches of a runny egg and a latte takeaway cup.

#2: Sculptor

Pyjama-esque stripes feature heavily in the unisex label's latest collection ($49 onwards), ranging from collared short-sleeved shirts to shirt dresses. Its boyish aesthetic is complemented by girlier offerings, like slip dresses with flouncy, ruffled hems.

#3: AOEMQ

For Cos-like sensibilities, check out womenswear brand AOEMQ. Silhouettes are generally loose-fitting and come with feminine details like ruffles, while sheer skirts make great layering options. Prices are also affordable - they range from $109 for a t-shirt to $206 for an oversized blouson.

#4: Ryul+Wai

Also great for the minimalist: Womenswear brand Ryul+Wai, which offers neutral separates and structured cover-ups like trench coats and cosy cardigans. The biggest draw here? Their designs make great everyday wardrobe additions.

#5: Beyond Closet

The emerging label was founded by Ko Tae Yong, who received the New Designer award from the Korea Fashion Brand Awards seven years ago. The unisex pieces include adorable embroidered sweaters and hoodies at prices that don't break the bank ($105-$127).

Shop these brands on www.fivefive.kr.

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