IU's K-Drama style guide: Fierce, fresh and always on trend, from Hotel Del Luna to When Life Gives You Tangerines

She’s back to the K-drama world, and she’s doing it with a bob haircut, and a few cute hairpins.

It’s been a while since South Korean star IU graced the K-drama scene, but the brief teaser for When Life Gives You Tangerines is a reminder of her on-screen presence and magnetic charm. Of course, she hasn’t been idle—far from it. Last year, she dominated music charts and melted hearts with her hit video Love Wins All, featuring none other than BTS’s V. No doubt, she still managed to look ethereal and delicate, while trying to escape an apocalypse.

While we already got a glimpse of how she is ready to twist the knife in the new show, it’s her fashion sense that is already speaking volumes, and this time, it’s a cute, chic bob that’s got a wistful charm. The length is just above the shoulders, giving her a look of fresh-faced innocence. Paired with her natural dark hair colour, the haircut perfectly seems to give hints about her character’s personality, too: Winsome, perhaps, a tad rebellious and feisty, too.

Here’s the thing about IU: her K-drama fashion and style always steal the spotlight, giving her the true main-character energy, with a zesty twist.

Hotel Del Luna: A lesson in vintage glamour

Floor-length gowns, coats, dresses, accessories, doesn’t matter, IU wore them all with a brazen flair. As a brusque ghost cloaked in vintage opulence and haunted by a fractured past, her character, Jang Man-Wol, channeled her searing emotions through her wardrobe, hiding her feelings behind lace and ruffles.

Her gowns often showcased high necklines, flowing skirts, and elaborate embellishments like sequins, embroidery, or beadwork. Fabrics such as silk and velvet dominated her wardrobe, which symbolised the real power that her character Man-Wol had.  A standout piece was black, body-hugging gown with sheer lace sleeves, which also represented the air of mystery that hung around Man-Wol. And you won't forget her sharply manicured nails.

Her Victorian-inspired ensembles, complete with lace gloves and dramatic hats, solidified her character’s elegance, with a sassy twist.

Keeping it simple in My Mister (2018)

My Mister was not an easy watch, and IU’s performance was searing. Her character’s personality was reflected in the outfits, as she leaned into a quiet minimalism to reflect her character’s struggles. The oversized hoodies, muted tones and outfits that overall are meant to represent comfort and practicality, in fact, showed her exhaustion in life.

The Producers (2015): Modern chic

As Cindy, IU turned heads with her idol-worthy wardrobe that combined cutting-edge trends with a fierce edge. From asymmetrical dresses to sharp-shouldered blazers, her looks were about bold, rebellious sophistication. A standout was a structured leather jacket paired with slim-fit trousers, adding a rebellious flair to her polished idol image. Accessories told their own story—oversized sunglasses, chunky jewelry, and a signature wide-brimmed hat elevated her ensembles while underscoring Cindy’s aloof, untouchable persona. Beneath the layers of glam, however, her fashion hinted at her vulnerability, using style as a shield for her emotions.

Fresh innocence: Dream High

IU’s Pil-sook bright and perky personality in Dream High shone through cosy sweaters, flouncy skirts, and a dreamy pastel palette. Her wardrobe is a mix of oversized knits in blush pinks and baby blues, paired with flowy skirts or floral dresses that were all about girlish charm. Pretty accessories—like bow hairclips, quirky earrings, and her signature lollipop—add a whimsical touch, while her simple sneakers and ballet flats keep it grounded. Pil-sook’s style evolves with her confidence, transitioning from shy and cozy to polished and chic, as tailored blouses and sleeker silhouettes replace her oversized looks. Her soft pigtails and messy buns also give way to more refined hairstyles.