There was a world before Girls’ Generation (SNSD), and there is another world after — one that is more energised, more inspired and bigger than ever imagined. At the centre of this “Golden Age of Kpop” was Lim Yoona. Just a 17-year-old girl during her debut in 2007, the starlet set a new standard for Korean idols. Aside from singing and dancing, she played leading roles in hit TV shows like You Are My Destiny (2008) and became a ubiquitous face in commercials. What’s more, Yoona was named “visual” of the girl group, an unprecedented role at the time. When SNSD released Gee in 2010, the rest of the world immersed themselves in a universe of bubblegum pop and vibrant skinny jeans. The rest is history. 

After 16 years in the spotlight, almost half her life, Yoona’s style has evolved with her. Recently, she has been veering towards co-ords comprising a buttoned top and mini skirt. Her new favourite arm candy? The Miu Miu Wander Bag, as expected from a Miu Miu ambassador. At the 28th Consumer Rights Day Awards, she took home “Actress of the Year” in a modest single-breasted bouclé jacket and bouclé mini-skirt also by Miu Miu, a classy and refined look achieved through a minimalist colour palette. 

Bows have become a recurring favourite for the star. At the APAN Star Awards, Yoona stunned in a Frida Bridal black silk gown featuring a giant bow at the back and accessorised with jewellery from Qeelin, which she was recently named the brand ambassador of. On another occasion, she sported South Korean brand La Silhouette de Eugenny’s baby pink jacket and “Lovely Girl” dress adorned with black bows running down the front. 

From career achievements to her style evolution, Yoona goes from strength to strength. Safe to say, she’s earned her name as a global icon of our generation.