In a recent article that’s caused quite the conversation, Vogue Business has endorsed the term “babygirl” for a unique breed of style icons who defy conventional norms. Among them, four K-Pop idols – BTS‘s RM and Jimin, Stray Kids’ Felix, and SEVENTEEN‘s Mingyu – have been fittingly christened with this label.
These stars have given many reasons why Vogue’s choice to call them “babygirls” is a spot-on reflection of the evolving fashion landscape.
Picture collage by Vogue, inlcuding the 4 K-Pop stars. | Vogue Business
According to Vogue, the term “babygirl” in fashion is more than a mere nickname — it’s a recognition of men who daringly blend traditionally feminine elements into their style, challenging the age-old dictates of gendered dressing. The hot new label isn’t just about being stylish. Rather, it’s about embodying a persona that’s both captivating and adventurous in fashion choices.
One of the examples given was Pedro Pascal wearing a look inspired by a Bottega Veneta SS24 women’s runway look at the 2024 Golden Globes. | Gorunway.com
1. BTS’s RM
The BTS leader has been widely recognized for his unique fashion sense that often defies gender norms. He has been spotted in various gender-neutral and traditionally feminine attire. RM is renowned for seamlessly incorporating elements like skirts into his attire, moving beyond the confines of gender-specific clothing. His choices represent a bold statement in the fashion world, signaling a shift towards more inclusive and diverse style expressions.
2. BTS’s Jimin
Jimin’s fashion narrative is equally compelling. His iconic appearance in leather corsets alongside Jungkook for the “Black Swan” music video was a groundbreaking moment. It signified a new era where men’s fashion is not just about traditional masculinity but about exploring and embracing a wider spectrum of style possibilities.
3. Stray Kids’ Felix
Felix has only recently emerged as a notable figure in this trend. His use of accessories, typically categorized as feminine, exemplifies his disregard for outdated fashion rules. As a Louis Vuitton ambassador, he is not just wearing clothes — he is redefining what those clothes represent in terms of gender expression in fashion.
felix in a skirt SLAY KING pic.twitter.com/hmMV6xcerW
— 복 (@lixiezone) October 21, 2021
Y’all remember when felix was asked about fashion and he said he looked forward to doing fashion that breaks gender norms because he believes that clothing shouldn’t have a gender….he was so real for that…we Stan a woke king
— Cine 樂 (@felixsbrowni3) October 19, 2022
4. SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu
Mingyu’s inclusion under the “babygirl” tag is attributed to his fluid fashion sense. He artfully combines bold accessories from luxury brands with various clothing styles, ranging from casual to avant-garde. His adaptable fashion sense is a testament to the evolving narrative that style isn’t confined by gender labels.
191006 MINGYU at GMP airport heading to Japan
Cr. Dandelion_0406#SEVENTEEN #MINGYU #MINGYU_OUTFITSTYLE #SEVENTEENSTYLE pic.twitter.com/VL6t7nc8Yi
— (REST) seventeen fashion style (@svt_outfitstyle) October 6, 2019
oh my god putting mingyu in the center for something titled “the rise of babygirl men”,,, PEAK PEAK journalism. pic.twitter.com/FIFL3WTnHy https://t.co/CotkQXTttt
— sara sara. (@svteenwrld) January 17, 2024
Vogue’s labeling of these K-Pop idols as “babygirls” is not just about giving them a trendy title. It’s an acknowledgment of their role as trailblazers in a fashion revolution that’s redefining the norms. Their fearless approach to fashion is paving the way for a future where style is not dictated by gender but is a canvas for personal expression and creativity.
