Unbelievable Quality for the Price!
When in Korea, take advantage of Korean Brands!
In the past, I avoided any Korean SPA brands (specialty retailer of private label apparel) altogether. Not only was it "fast fashion" but well, the material was "fast" in wear and tear.
Today, things are different and I am about to show you what I have come to enjoy as a mom of two boys.
Top Ten: The Steel Blue Shirt, Summer Jeans, and Linen-Blend Skirt
Size: 100
Why I chose this item: Originally I was looking for a white linen-blend shirt and only tried this shirt on to see what a size 100 (L in US size) would look on me and just fell in love with the look. The color is unique, almost a chambray, material is soft enough and lightweight enough for the early part of summer or as a cover up for tank tops. I can see myself wearing this into the Fall and Winter seasons for layering and bring it back for the Spring and Summer all over again.
Cons: I wasn't exactly in love with the fitted sizes (85 and 90, nor 95). If you are looking for something oversized, size up.
Size: 26
Why I chose this item: Not too thick, and the mid-rise fit is just right for my size and height. Normally, I don't like the cropped look but this one looks neat enough as it sits just above my ankles. Jeans are slim-fit but has plenty of give for comfort as well as style. These jeans will be great for all seasons.
Cons: I probably would not wear this at the hottest most humid parts of Korean summers as there are other more lightweight breathable options but overall, the material is not that thick.
Size: Small
Why I chose this item: Lightweight, breathable and lined, this has already served me well for brunches with friends and running errands. The buttons are a nice accent to this simplistic, slight A-line skirt that covers most of my calves. Easy to match with all kinds of tops. Friends have commented at how feminine I look in this skirt. There is a bit of elasticity at the back, so it adds to the comfort factor.
Cons: Although lined to prevent any see-through, the skirt is lightweight enough that it has a tendency to cling to your crotch area (aka: "y-zone" in Korea). I would suggest a silk slip or slip shorts.
8 Seconds: The Perfect Beige Shorts, The Puff Sleeve Blouse
Size: X-Small
Why I chose this item: No matter how hot or humid it gets, these shorts will be something I put on over and over again. The fit, the cut, the comfort, and also the material is amazing. The stitching is quite clean.
Cons: It says "hand-wash only" and who has time for that? I would most likely put these shorts in a laundry net and wash with like colors in cold and hang dry. Usually that does the trick for most pieces that say "hand-wash only."
Size: Small
Why I chose this item: I've seen this type of blouse in so many designer brands and the more affordable ones just didn't quite get it right until I ran across this piece. The fit is perfect and the material is just so delicate on your skin. The tied string on the back adds a nice touch.
Cons: This one also says "hand-wash only" but again, I will override that option with laundry net, wash in cold, and hang dry.
SPAO: The Lightweight Linen-blend Pants
Size: Small
Why I chose this item: Ultra-high-waisted, full-length, but just the right length for my height and body type (no need to hem). This was another surprise find. The material is so lightweight and breathable that I will be wearing it all summer long. It is a pair of pants that can go from lounge wear to business casual.
Cons: These pants are NOT lined, therefore it is somewhat see-through. I would wear nude colored, seamless underwear most days. If you are going to tuck in dark colored tops, I would suggest nude colored, high-waisted under shorts. Not necessarily shapewear, as these are loose-fitted pants but if you tuck in the dark colored top into the nude shorts, it does not show through the pants.
BIND: Unexpected Find Summer Cardigan, Summer Hat and Crochet Shoulder Bag
Size: Free
Why I chose this item: Normally I am against free-sizes because they are ill-fitted and meant for someone taller and bigger in size. This cardigan however, was an exception. I was going for beige but for my skin-tone, this ivory color suited me best as well as being capable of matching with everything in my wardrobe. No matter how hot it is outside, it will be cold inside with air-conditioning and a good option (other than blazers and shirts) for indoor layering is a must. Also, this IS South Korea and still quite conservative overall. Covering up sleeveless tops are unspoken in certain situations.
Cons: The knitting is quite delicate, so I would be careful to not let it get snagged on anything. Also because it is free-sized, the sleeves are a bit long.
Size: Free
Why I chose this item: The sun does beat down and I am not about to carry a sun umbrella nor wear one of those Korean ajumma visors. This hat however will get the job done without compromising a fashionable look. Not too wide brimmed, it has a sweet yet sophisticated appeal and will match with many of my items. I am excited just to wear this hat everywhere.
Cons: Just like the cardigan, I would be careful not to let it get snagged anywhere as it is crocheted.
Size: Free
Why I chose this item: Feminine and fashionable, it may be crocheted but it is definitely not your grandma's bag. Not too large but just right to carry many essentials as a homeschooling mom might need. I love the drawstrings on this bag. Lightweight from the start, it will be a go-to bag for every day wear.
Cons: Because it is a light-colored bag, I would be careful not to throw it on the ground to prevent dirt.
Overall, I am definitely satisfied with everything that I chose this season and I imagine wearing these pieces over and over again without any reservations.
Let me know what you think. If you are not in South Korea, I hope that my summer capsule wardrobe helps you narrow down your choices when you shop in your area.