This summer, K-fashion trends are getting a major refresh, and they are all about effortless cool, elevated casual, and functionality. KREAM, the StockX of South Korea, just released its “Switch Summer” report based on real-time consumer data from June 2025. This report may be a better indicator of what Korean shoppers are actually buying, saving, and searching in droves, compared to ad-filled TikTok videos. Here’s a breakdown of three items that reflect K-fashion trends in summer 2025, according to KREAM’s consumer data.
1. Chrome Hearts Tees
Once a niche flex brand for fashion enthusiasts, Chrome Hearts is now officially mainstream. As temperatures rose drastically in June, demand for statement short-sleeve tees surged, especially ones with that unmistakable Chrome logo. According to KREAM, searches for “Chrome Hearts short sleeve” skyrocketed by 1,785% in the first week of June alone. The black “Horseshoe Logo Pocket Tee” saw sales jump by 168%, becoming the go-to summer staple for both seasoned hypebeasts and fashion-curious newcomers.
So what triggered this explosion? The celebrities. Global It-girl Lisa of BLACKPINK appeared at her flea market wearing a cropped Chrome Hearts tee, causing an online frenzy. Similarly, actress Park Gyu-young, who has expanded her global fanbase through her appearance in the Netflix original series “Squid Game 3,” is dubbed the “Chrome Hearts soldier” by fans after rocking the brand, which led to even more buzz.
This shift signals a broader trend: luxury streetwear is no longer just for the fashion elite. Short-sleeve tees tend to be cheaper than fall and winter clothes, and this relative affordability also contributed to the surge of Chrome Heart tees. With Chrome Hearts hitting casual wardrobes, the line between high fashion and everyday wear continues to blur.
2. Nike ReactX Rejuvenate
The summer of Crocs is over. There’s a new summer essential hitting the streets of South Korea: the Nike ReactX Rejuvenate. These hybrid kicks combine sneaker-level support with sandal-level breathability, and they’re selling like crazy.
KREAM reports that in early June, the ReactX Rejuvenate jumped 855% in sales within just three days, making it the platform’s fastest-growing summer item. The shoe’s slip-on design and ultra-ventilated structure make it ideal for everything from quick errands to long airport layovers. These sleek slip-ons are perfect for the K-fashion trends of Korean consumers demanding comfort and utility without compromising style, and have become the new staple shoe of the summer season.
What sets them apart from previous faves like Crocs is that they blend sneaker aesthetics with technical performance, creating a versatile silhouette perfect for Korea’s hot, humid summer weather. Whether you’re heading to the Han River or hopping between cafes in Seongsu, these are your go-tos.
3. Foldable Sunglasses
When it comes to accessories, foldable sunglasses are emerging as the unexpected hero of the season. Not only are they hyper-practical (hello, tiny bags!), but they’re also getting a high-fashion makeover.
Leading the changing landscape of K-fashion trends is the buzz from Gentle Monster x Bratz’s “Pocket Collection” teaser, which racked up over 580K likes on Instagram. Since then, interest in foldable eyewear has exploded. KREAM noted that Montbell’s folding trekking glasses saw sales double within just two days, with a 35% month-over-month increase in transactions.
These compact sunnies are particularly resonating with two key summer tribes: runners and vacationers. Whether you’re jogging along the Han River or jet-setting to Jeju, foldable sunglasses are now an everyday essential, merging form with serious function.
So, What Does “Switch Summer” Mean for K-Fashion Fans?
K-fashion trends this summer are no longer about just beating the heat. From streetwear icons going mainstream, to footwear hybrids redefining comfort, to tech-forward accessories made for real life, these trends reflect a cultural moment where style meets lifestyle.
And for global fashion fans watching from abroad, this shift isn’t just happening on Korean streets. It’s coming to a screen (and cart) near you.
Want In? Here’s How to Shop the Look Globally
While many of these hot items sell out fast on Korean platforms, international shoppers can turn to resell and export-friendly platforms like KREAM Global or curated sites like Olive Young Global for lifestyle and beauty add-ons that are in line with K-fashion trends.
These aren’t just fleeting fads. They’re shaping how K-fashion trends are worn, shared, and sold in 2025. Whether you’re running errands in Gangnam or browsing trends from abroad, one thing’s for sure. Switch Summer is here, and it’s redefining everything you thought you knew about K-fashion trends.
