Master K-Drama office fashion for work: Style cues from Park Min-young's Secretary Kim and Han Ji-min in Love Scout

What’s your office style—Park Min-young’s sleek pantsuit in Her Private Life or the effortlessly chic skirt-and-top combo, complete with that enviable ponytail?

Honestly, both are a vibe.

K-Dramas haven’t just redefined office romance (cue brooding CEOs falling for feisty employees); they’ve also given office wear a stylish upgrade. So, if you’re looking to add a little flair to your work wardrobe, why not take inspiration from your favourite K-Dramas?

To help you out, we got some ideas from UAE-based fashion entrepreneurs and designers, who are also avid K-drama enthusiasts.

Tailored blazers and pantsuits

Just like Min-young’s resolute Kim Mi-so from What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, or Han Ji-Min in Love Scout, a perfectly fitted blazer or pantsuit can do wonders for your office look. For instance, Han Ji-min owns the scene in a a cream double-breasted jacket paired with matching trousers featuring side-button details, both from YCH. To complete the look, the star rocked a pair of sleek cat-eye sunglasses by Michael Kors, as noted by Inki Style.

So, how to ace this on a budget? Carey Cole, a Dubai-based fashion designer and stylist breaks down the blazer and pantsuit look. “The key to this look is the impeccable fit. Opt for tailored blazers that hug the shoulders and cinch at the waist, creating a sharp, structured silhouette. Neutral shades like black, navy, and grey will always be in style, providing a versatile base for any workday.”

But, as she says, don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your suits. Experiment with different textures (think wool or velvet) or a pop of colour, like a jewel-toned blazer or pastel accents, to make a statement without sacrificing professionalism. A bold, statement belt can be a game-changer, drawing attention to your waist and giving your outfit an extra flair. Remember, Kim Mi-so’s style was very clean, minimal and sophisticated, with just a touch of personality.

You can take this approach by mixing classic tailoring with modern updates to keep your office wardrobe fresh and on-trend.

Blouses and skirts

If you’re inspired by Kim Sejeong’s Ha-ri in Business Proposal, blouses paired with high-waisted skirts are the perfect way to channel feminine energy while staying professional. Look for blouses that have delicate details like bows, ruffles, or pleats to add a bit of charm to your office look. These feminine accents break away from the corporate monotony, giving a softer touch to your wardrobe. Whether it’s a blouse with puff sleeves or a tie-neck blouse, these little details add personality while keeping it polished.

Rachel Kim, a Dubai-based Korean expat and sales professional, has some more insights to share. “It depends on your style: You can go all out with colours, frills and glam like Kim Ji-won in Queen of Tears, but you can also keep it low-key and still show off your style, like Love Scout and Business Proposal.”

Explaining why she enjoyed Kim Sejeong’s style and fashion so much in Business Proposal, she says, “It was just so realistic. I loved the blazers, oversized shirts, the long skirts and coats. So, if anyone wants to channel that look, you should try some structured blazers, perhaps in a neutral or pastel shade, paired with an oversized blouse or shirt. You look professional, as well as relaxed,” she says.

The footwear in K-Dramas

Footwear is another great way to make a statement, and K-Dramas have mastered the art of pairing shoes that complement both the office vibe and the stylish, often dramatic, personalities of the characters.

As Cole says, “Pointed-toe pumps are a good choice for professional settings, offering a powerful, elongating effect on the legs. They command attention.”

Sharp ankle boots, on the other hand, bring a touch of bold and modernity to your look, showing that you can be fashionable while staying professional. These styles help balance the structured nature of office attire with an element of personal flair.

The hairstyles: Ponytail to bob cut

One of the most iconic and timeless elements of K-Drama office fashion? The ponytail. “I think it’s a character in itself,” laughs Kim. It’s what made Kim Mi-so more endearing from What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim.  “A perfectly styled ponytail can give you a taciturn vibe, while still looking effortlessly chic. It’s the hair equivalent of a tailored suit—sleek, polished, and ready for business,” adds Cole.

However, there’s room to play with this look. A ponytail adds sophistication, while a looser, tousled ponytail exudes casual coolness without trying too hard. Try adding a little volume at the crown or a statement hair tie for a modern twist on the classic. The beauty of the ponytail is that it allows you to look pulled together without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re in back-to-back meetings or running errands after work, a well-maintained ponytail can carry you through the day with elegance and ease.

Or, how about Song Hye-kyo’s bob cut from Encounter? It wasn’t too sharp or angular; instead, it featured soft waves that added volume and movement, giving her a youthful, fresh appearance while maintaining an air of professionalism. “The chin-length cut framed her face beautifully, accentuating her sharp features and delicate jawline,” says Kim.

How to get the Song Hye-kyo bob cut look, explain Ameenah Jordan, and Aliah Khan, two Dubai-based professional hair stylists:

Get a layered bob cut

Ask for a chin-length bob with soft, blended layers that add texture and volume without being too heavy, framing the face in an elegant, natural way.

Add soft waves

Style with loose, beachy waves, focusing on the ends to create subtle texture. Use a flat iron or curling wand for soft waves if your hair lacks natural texture.

Choose the right parting

Opt for a middle or slightly off-center part to maintain a natural, soft look, allowing the layers to fall naturally around your face.

Maintain with regular trims

Trim every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the bob shape fresh and preserve the volume and texture of the layers.

Use lightweight styling products

Apply a styling cream or mousse for volume and finish with a texturizing or sea salt spray for a natural, tousled look.

Finish with shine serum

To replicate Song Hye-kyo’s glossy hair, use a lightweight shine serum on the ends and through the layers for a polished, healthy glow.

The little touches

It’s all about the right mix and blend: Blazers and trousers with softer, delicate details create a strong balance of power and style. Just like Han Ji-min in Love Scout,  mix sharp suits with subtly feminine elements like a lace blouse or floral print can add softness without losing the strong, professional look. Soft fabrics like silk, chiffon, or cotton will introduce movement into your outfit, while gentle patterns like polka dots or stripes will keep the look playful yet sophisticated.

Adding these touches doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your edge. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between tailored, structured items and softer, more delicate pieces. “Consider pleated skirts, wrap dresses, or shirts with subtle frills, these elements can infuse your workwear with personality and charm, giving you the freedom to express yourself while still feeling professional. It's the K-Drama way to combine strength, elegance, and a dash of fun, all in one outfit,” says Cole.