Cool shade stunner indeed.
BTS’ V, born Kim Taehyung wasn’t playing around, when he delivered those smooth lyrics in the BTS song, Butter. While his deep voice spans from jazzy Christmas classics to upbeat pop hits, it’s also his fashion that always keeps him two steps ahead. And his suits, oversized coats, vibrant colours, paired with jewellery stands testament to his unconventional style and fashion sensibilities. As his fan, Aashima Chatterjee, a corporate communications professional and true ARMY explains, “He just knows how to pair high fashion with streetwear. His individuality just shines through each and every attire that he wears. And I think, that’s why he is also considered such a fashion icon.”
Surreal, as most ARMY’s say. From baggy jeans in the band’s debut era of 2013, to donning leather jackets in 2015-2016 and turning experimental with bold, chunky jewellery in 2017-2018, to finally eclectic, artsy in the past few years, V’s fashion statements could fill books.
So what makes his fashion game so unbeatable? Well, here’s a roundup of his most unforgettable sartorial looks.
1) Timeless and trendy silhouettes
Trench coats, velvet blazers, tailored suits? BTS’ V knows how to reimagine them with contemporary textures, embellishments and details.
For instance, V has made heads turn with his appearances at the Paris Celine’s show in a sparkling black sequin jacket. His dazzling black sequin jacket stole the spotlight. The shimmering detail of the jacket was both bold and refined, a perfect contrast to the crisp white shirt he paired it with—a classic staple that allowed the jacket to shine without overwhelming the ensemble.
The tailored black pants further anchored the look, offering a silhouette. This unusual combination of textures—sequins, crisp cotton, and smooth tailoring—was a nod to his understanding of fashion as both an art and a statement. His tousled hair softened the boldness of his outfit, as Cynthia Johnson, a fashion studies student, who is pursuing a course in designing from London, explains. “As for accessories, his choice of minimalistic pieces, such as a silver chain and statement ring, demonstrated his ability to elevate a look without overcomplicating it,” she says.
2) Retro-inspired patterns with contemporary edge
V can channel different eras through his wardrobe and somehow keep it modern with a twist of his own. For the BE album press conference he embraced vintage sophistication with a tailored brown suit that oozed old-school charm, explains Johnson.
The suit’s intricate pattern, reminiscent of classic 20th-century men’s outfit, added a textured depth to his look, while the earthy tone perfectly suited the warm, introspective vibe of the BE album. The ensemble was elevated further with a tie that provided a pop of playful elegance. The tie’s ornate design complemented the structured houndstooth, showcasing V’s ability to mix patterns, and just somehow make it work. This subtle yet daring touch turned what could have been a straightforward vintage look into something more dynamic and fashion-forward. It was the blend of retro and modern, as many fashion enthusiasts called it. Moreover, it aligned with the heartfelt themes of the BE album, too
3) Playful use of patterns and colours
From bold, retro prints to soft pastel hues, V’s ability to experiment with colour and design has become a hallmark of his style. “I think, what sets him apart is his knack for incorporating these elements into his outfits in a way that feels both contemporary and wearable, whether he’s on the red carpet, on stage, or simply making an airport appearance,” explains Miranda James, an Abu Dhabi-based graduate in Fashion Studies.
For instance, at the Billboard Music Awards 2019, BTS’s V made a bold and playful statement by incorporating polka dots into his outfit, showcasing his love for patterns. He wore a standout shirt featuring a subtle polka-dot design, which he paired with a tailored suit. Classic, artistic, yet elegant and with a sense of fun, as many ARMY’s noted at the time. The polka dots added a pop of personality to the group’s otherwise cohesive styling for the event. By wearing this playful pattern, V stood attention, while still complementing the overall aesthetic of BTS’s coordinated outfits. Another memorable example would be during the Dynamite promotions, when he took to pastel tones, embracing retro aesthetics with modern flair. One standout look featured a mint green blazer over a soft yellow shirt, paired with white trousers. The combination of muted yet vibrant colors exuded a playful charm reminiscent of the 1970s.
4) Vintage accessories with a modern twist
Berets, brooches or delicate collars? It doesn’t matter; they all look good on him. For instance, during promotions for Boy With Luv in 2019, V wore a light blue button-up shirt with a lace-trimmed collar. The collar was reminiscent of vintage menswear but was styled with a youthful energy, making it a hit among fans.
5) Master of duality: Comfort meets couture
V’s fashion repertoire can transition from luxurious couture to effortlessly casual, always with a focus on individuality and flair. True ARMY’s might recall his iconic Singularity performance, where he wore a deep green velvet suit that exuded opulence and drama, that just somehow blended with the performance’s mood. In contrast, his off-duty looks often feature oversized sweaters, relaxed trousers, and vintage-inspired sneakers, radiating comfort while maintaining his signature charm.
