Unveiling the secrets to achieving the ultimate fashion sense, the following article reveals 6 styling tips from prominent Korean fashionistas on Instagram.
What is the Serene Style?
The serene style is a way of dressing that evokes a refreshing and gentle impression at first glance. Instead of extravagance or complexity, this style emphasizes simplicity without monotony, achieving a relaxed yet profound effect. With a pale color palette, lightweight fabrics, and simple cuts, the overall outfit exudes a graceful, dynamic, and relaxed vibe—much like the feeling of gazing into a crystal-clear glass of water.

The serene style is simple yet intriguing, exuding a refreshing aura.
This style also aligns with the prevailing aesthetic trend of light makeup in South Korea. In contrast to the once-popular intricate and bold makeup looks, today’s youth embraces a more natural and subtle approach. Actresses like Kim Go-eun, Kim Tae-ri, and Noh Yoon-seo embody this new direction in beauty ideals.
How to Style the Serene Look.
6 Tips for Dressing in the Serene Style
1. Simplicity in Design
Minimalism is at the heart of the serene style. Clean cuts and soft silhouettes create an overall outfit that feels crisp, light, and refined.
Take, for example, a summer white dress. Instead of figure-hugging or high-waisted styles, opt for a short, loose-fitting dress inspired by Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy. When paired with accessories like silver jewelry, pearls, long necklaces, or delicate metal details, the ensemble exudes elegance while retaining a captivating simplicity.
The white two-strap dress showcases a delicate and ethereal beauty, accentuating glowing skin under the summer sun.
The sleeveless white dress embodies the essence of Nordic minimalism, exuding a youthful and ethereal charm.
2. Sheer, Skin-like Fabrics
Fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and other natural materials not only provide a cooling sensation but also offer a visually soft and graceful effect, akin to a second skin. The subtle drape and delicate transparency of these fabrics lend an air of both sophistication and freedom to the overall outfit.
Skillfully pair a sheer silk or chiffon blouse with wide-leg pants to maintain a breezy and light appearance on the upper body, while the lower body continues to exude a relaxed and carefree vibe.
The sheer white chiffon shirt creates a sensual yet refined look.
3. Knitted Designs
In addition to lightweight fabrics, knitted details are another “secret weapon” for a refreshing summer look. Items like crocheted sweaters or woven pants with large mesh patterns provide ventilation for the skin while exuding a natural, bohemian charm.
The knitted design evokes a seaside vacation vibe, instantly conveying a relaxed and cool atmosphere—the very essence of the serene summer style you’re aiming for.
The classic cardigan with a crocheted pattern evokes a sense of the 1970s while remaining contemporary.
4. Low-Saturation Color Coordination
Much like the clarity of filtered water, the color palette in the serene style leans towards gentle and soothing shades. Instead of vibrant colors, opt for neutral tones with low saturation, such as beige, ivory, light gray, or misty blue, as your primary colors. These hues not only provide a soft and cool sensation but also create a visually graceful and relaxed effect.
Incorporate light pastel shades like pale green or blue, along with the softness of linen fabrics, to achieve a harmonious and multidimensional outfit.
The white strap top and striped wide-leg pants evoke memories of sunny tropical vacations.
Amidst the vibrant bougainvillea backdrop, the woman stands out in her pristine white ensemble: a figure-hugging crop top paired with a tiered mini skirt.
5. Loose-fitting Garments
For office workers and students, one of the simplest and most effective styling formulas is an oversized white shirt. This design effortlessly blends professionalism with casual elegance.
Pair an oversized shirt with wide-leg linen pants for a comfortable and ethereal look. Alternatively, for a touch of youthful edginess, try denim shorts, creating an intriguing contrast between loose and fitted pieces. This combination not only refreshes your look but also stays true to the modern and serene aesthetic.
The classic combination of an oversized white shirt, a short skirt, and white knee-high socks embodies the preppy style.
The bold plunging neckline of the bib dress, paired with high-waisted, wide-leg jeans, strikes a balance between sensuality and sophistication.
6. Sophisticated Makeup and Hairstyles
Makeup and hairstyles play a crucial role in completing the serene style. To complement the light-colored outfits, take a cue from leading fashionistas: embrace natural hair colors, soft and wavy hairstyles, and subtle, refined makeup looks.
When paired with simple and light-colored garments, the entire look exudes an effortless elegance, conveying a sense of freedom and serenity—much like the gentle summer breeze on your skin.
The combination of a white tweed blouse with delicate fringe details and wide-leg light-colored jeans creates a modern yet soft and feminine silhouette.