K-pop’s style stars are known for being in your face—and the dramatic, hip-hop–influenced pieces worn by G-Dragon, CL, and Minzy tend to garner the bulk of the sartorial attention. But while there is always a case to be made for over-the-top Moschino, a quieter look can be just as powerful. Enter Girls’ Generation’s Kim Tae-Yeon, aka Taeyeon, whose refreshing alternative approach to pop star chic results in a look that relies as much on cuteness as it does on straight-from-the-runway pieces. With her platinum blonde hair and kewpie good looks, Taeyeon would be adorable no matter what she opted to wear, but her mix of casual off-duty styles and bohemian red carpet gowns has proven captivating.
As the leader of Girls’ Generation—she’s the Beyoncé of the band—a member of its subgroup TTS, and a solo artist in her own right, Taeyeon is constantly on the go. As such, she’s become as well known for her carefully considered airport looks. Favoring embellished bombers from Juicy Couture, or custom denim jackets by Caine London worn over flirty dresses or paired with kitsch-covered sweatshirts, Taeyeon provides an Instagram-worthy moment every time she steps out the door. Alexander Wang tops, pastel Markus Lupfer jumpers, and multicolored Fendi cross-body satchels are also in regular rotation, but it’s less about the labels and more about the cuteness factor. Though she switches designers and styles easily, Taeyeon’s daytime wardrobe is defined by its youthful details; smiley faces, bows, cartoon motifs, and candy colors abound.
Even with the focus on sweetness, Taeyeon can still vamp it up when the moment calls for it. She often dons Versus Versace or reveals custom pieces when showtime arrives. And when she’s ready to add a seductive edge to her look, the result is laced with the same charming sensibility her fans have come to love. After all, who needs cutouts and crop tops when you’ve got a ruffled skirt and a playful denim romper? Here, see all the times, on- and off-duty, Taeyeon has taken her style to the next level.