One fifth and also the leader of K-pop group, Big Bang, G-Dragon needs no introduction. He is the most followed Korean celebrity on Instagram (@xxxibgdrgn) with 14.2 million followers and rising, as well as a cool 7.8 million on Twitter (@IBGDRGN). It looks like no Korean celebrity can catch up to G-Dragon’s social media presence. Besides his influence on South Korea’s music scene, the 28-year-old rapper has also set several fashion trends, never afraid to experiment with his wardrobe and looks. From wearing “man-skirts” to donning blonde dreadlocks, G-dragon’s creativity shines in fashion as it does through his songs. Though many have heard of him and certainly seen his face pop up from time to time, not many know him as an individual artist, away from his rapper role in the K-pop group.
In light of G-Dragon coming to our sunny Singapore shores for a solo concert for the first time in June 2017, BAZAAR has compiled 5 things to note about this rapper cum fashionphile:
1. An affinity for fashion runs in G-Dragon’s family.
As the youngest in his family, perhaps G-Dragons’ passion for fashion was slightly influenced by his older sister, Kwon Dami who is a fashion boutique owner for many years. Apparently, a young Kwon Ji-Yong (G-Dragon’s real name) had always helped his sister out, mending the store. This fueled his own love for fashion and fearlessness to try new trends. He mentioned in several interviews that if he didn’t pursue music, he would’ve definitely gone into fashion. His sister’s boutique, called “Rare Market” is still doing great with a strong social media following. Thanks to its collection of trendy and unique pieces (as well as a little help from having an ultra famous younger brother).
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2. G-Dragon wasn’t originally under YG Entertainment.
Turns out, Ji-Yong was a trainee for none other than SM Entertainment (aka YG’s rival company *gasp*) for 5 years before he was poached by YG’s CEO, Yong Hyun-Sik. Now, we can’t imagine YG Entertainment without G-Dragon. Ji-Yong started his entertainment career at the tender age of 7-years-old, rapping in a kid’s group called “Little Roora” (proving that swag is something you are born with, just look at that beanie action). He was always groomed for stardom but what many didn’t know was that he was initially an SM-trainee (the entertainment company that produced bands like Super Junior and Girls’ Generation) for half a decade before jumping ship to YG Entertainment. Who knows what would’ve happened if he hadn’t? Perhaps the “Big Bang” would’ve never occurred.
3. G-Dragon’s biggest influence is none other than Pharrell Williams.
And we can see why, besides being a talented rapper and singer, Pharrell is an incredible producer whilst being respected in the fashion industry. Sounds familiar? When you look at the two artistes, there are definitely strong similarities in terms of their careers and creative talent. Perhaps G-Dragon is Asia’s Pharrell Williams, after all, he is always seen sitting front row at Chanel’s runway shows just like Chanel’s male muse, (you guessed it) Pharrell Williams. G-dragon’s other muses include Jay-Z, Beyonce, Rihanna, Blackstreet, and Wu-Tang Clan.
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4. G-Dragon really, really wants kids.
Ladies, G-Dragon is ready to get married! In fact, he is “ready to get married tomorrow” as he said in an interview. Reason being, G-Dragon is actually a family man who wants above all a daughter to call his own. “I want a daughter no matter what. I really want to have a daughter quickly.” he said to an interviewer. With the end of his relationship with Kiko Mizuhara, it’s fair game for anyone as time is certainly ticking for this determined wannabe-dad.
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5. G-Dragon is a fashion daredevil.
There is no trend too “out there” for this superstar and he pulls them all off. G-Dragon’s style is constantly evolving, moving one step ahead from the current trends. He plays with androgynous silhouettes and was colouring his hair all sorts of vibrant hues before every K-pop star started hopping on that trend. Some days he goes for the classic look with a blazer and pants and other days he is clad in multi-coloured, mismatched streetwear à la Jeremy Scott. Don’t be too bothered about coordinating your outfit or clashing some prints, instead just wear what you want and own it, no matter how outlandish it might seem.
To get his style, the key is to be fearless when it comes to fashion experimentation and to be confident. The reason why G-Dragon pulls off even the craziest most over-the-top looks is because he wears the clothes and doesn’t let the clothes wear him. Confidence is major key!
By Hanan Haddad