Red Velvet are K-pop royalty. The SM quintet has been dominating the charts since their debut in 2014 and now, they are back to take up their throne this spring. Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri are known for their great music and unique concepts. Visually, Red Velvet has dabbled between their cutesy style (as seen in the legendary “Dumb Dumb”) and more mature, daring looks (think “Psycho”) over the years.
In an interview with Vogue from October 2021, Joy explained what fashion means to her, stating, “I’d say fashion is like armor that makes me feel safe, protected, and confident. It’s such a powerful medium for musicians when it comes to self-expression.” In 2018, Billboard also dubbed Red Velvet as the “standard-bearer for girl group’s conceptual versatility” as they constantly switch up their style. After all, it is in their name, with the “red” being their more playful vibe and the “velvet” signifying their more dark and sexy style. Put together, Red Velvet is never boring and continuously leaves fans trying to guess what's coming next.
Even outside of music videos and concept photos, Red Velvet’s looks for award shows and festivals tend to combine a plethora of pieces from high-end brands like Prada and Balenciaga, high-street brands including Forever 21 and Zara, as well as Korean designers such as streetwear label SJYP and celeb-favorite Dénicheur. Below, we look back at Red Velvet's style and concepts throughout the years — from their most recent title track "Feel My Rhythm" to their debut with “Happiness.”
2022: “Feel My Rhythm”
For their latest comeback, we’re seeing the quintet tap into a classy era. Red Velvet set the tone for “Feel My Rhythm” through a series of extravagant and exquisite teasers, showcasing, among other concepts, their graceful ballerina looks. Opting for posh glam with their matching black hair, blushy and sleek makeup looks, and pearl accessories, the members had Twitter in a frenzy with this concept.
Two sets of outfits for “Feel My Rhythm” were created by haute couture designer Seo Seungyeon of Dénicheur. The first was a set of matching white dresses layered with pink bustiers and made the members look like works of art, as pictured above, which were seemingly a hint for the music video.
After dropping the captivating teasers, Red Velvet released the “Feel My Rhythm” on March 21, 2022. The music video for the song was filled with art references, such as Irene and Seulgi mirroring one of Claude Monet’s impressionist paintings. We also saw the second set designed by Dénicheur: dreamlike puffy white dresses contrasted with black leather lace-up corsets — almost a visual nod to Red Velvet's concept of duality.
As they danced, the members stood out in their Y2K-inspired outfits by designers like Blumarine and Valentino, which included belted mini skirts, twist-tie tops, and chunky heels for a trendy yet nostalgic feel.
However, the glam didn’t stop there. The members even brought their A-game (as usual) to the press conference for the project as well. Each came in ready and absolutely delivered. Leader Irene looked whimsical in her white midi dress; Wendy also opted for a white dress, paired with Jimmy Choo heels; Seulgi stunned in her black and white cardigan paired with a chic white skirt; Yeri attended in her matching jacket and skirt set with Manolo Blahnik heels; and Joy looked angelical with her baby blue 'fit and shoes from Tods. (Also, Wendy’s long, glittery nails? Gorg. And it looks like Yeri had some cute multi-colored pastel nails too, which were absolutely perfect to usher in spring and celebrate their colorful comeback.)
2021: “Queendom”
Red Velvet's “Queendom” comeback was highly anticipated. The members did not have a comeback as a group for over a year and eight months (a significant amount of time in the world of K-pop, where artists sometimes only have a couple of months between their new releases), following Wendy’s hiatus due to her injuries. With a fitting homecoming concept, the teasers continued to build up anticipation, especially with their vivid aesthetics emphasized by pieces from Miu Miu and Prada that perfectly fit the larger-than-life concept.
The hype led to the"Queendom" music video. In their Alice in Wonderland-like world, the members wore vintage looks with pieces from Gucci and Miu Miu to create a high glam look. Seulgi’s yellow cardigan, Irene’s gingham top, Joy's sparkly set, Yeri's plaid jacket, and Wendy’s baby blue halter neck are only some of the standout looks.
For the dancing clips, the members wore denim-on-denim outfits paired with lace-up biker boots as well. The all-denim look is a sure-tell sign of pop royalty — we just have to look at Britney Spears.
Of course, the "Queendom" look wasn't complete without the edgy punk-princess look. Their tulle skirts, lace, and black and purple color palette set the vibe. Wendy even took it a step further and matched a strand of her braid to the same hue as her purple halter top for her special return to the stage with Red Velvet.
2019: “Psycho,” “Umpah Umpah,” and “Zimzalabim”
You can count on Red Velvet to bring elegance to every event they attend. In 2019, the quintet showed off their poise in coordinating black dresses and heels for The Fact Music Awards. Joy and Seulgi opted for black dresses with tulle and feather details, respectively. Wendy went for a cute 'fit featuring a collared dress, similar in vibe to Yeri's midi dress. Irene, on the other hand, kept it sexy and simple with her little black dress.
2019 was an infamous year for Red Velvet, with "Zimzalabim" being one of their most experimental eras – sound- and looks-wise. For the music video, the ladies were dressed in quirky and eccentric colors with green, purple, and pink hues dominating the palette to create a fun, pop-centric feel.
Logomania was also a major trend spotted here. One of the most notable examples is Marine Serre's moons featured on Joy's top with a black leather skirt and red tights. Wendy also sported Marine Serre moon-print leggings, Marine Serre Formula 1 Futurewear turtleneck top, and No21 embellished green tote bag blouse which added a fun element of texture. In terms of beauty, Irene's red graphic eyeliner and Yeri's blue and pink mascara were ahead of the more colorful and unique makeup trends that became popular in the following years.
Pops of neon pink and green were dominating the color palette at Red Velvet's performance in Hong Kong and we love to see it. With zebra print being a staple component of Joy and Wendy’s outfits, the ladies tapped into a more fun and freeing vibe with their outfits.
Irene was glammed up in her pink mini dress, Wendy in her red zebra print dress, Seulgi in her black outfit with pops of neon green, Yeri in her printed bandeau top with black pants, and Joy in her neon pink crop top and zebra-print mini skirt.
Seulgi’s burnt orange hair was slicked into a bun, Wendy showed off her blunt-cut bob with her wispy bangs, and Yeri shined with bright blonde hair. Irene and Joy represented the brown-haired girls with their varying hues.
August 2019
In “Umpah Umpah,” Red Velvet went for a cowgirl-inspired look in their all-pink ensembles. From Joy's oversized hat to Seulgi's button-up shirt to Irene's pleated skirt, the details took after Western-inspired fashion.
They did swap them out for more casual outfits in yellow tones, complete with crop tops, high-waisted shorts, and even more Miu Miu when they arrived at the vacation house in the music video, but the themed looks didn't stop there. The chorus saw the members in gingham prints, each in a different color. Statement earrings also had a moment with Wendy's initial attached to hers, Seulgi's star-shaped hoops, and Yeri's dangling hearts.
December 2019
The “Psycho” era is one for the books. The classic black and white color palette used throughout the music video set an elegant, sophisticated tone. Mixing luxury pieces from Alessandra Rich and high-street pieces from H&M, the stylists ensured “Psycho” had something for everyone — from the group's coordinated black and white ensembles to each member's colorful choice of evening wear. Adding to the glamour, it feels like everything was adorned with sparkles, feathers, and, fittingly, velvet.
Though the outfits already had plenty of glitter, the makeup artists delivered as well with Irene's eye gems and Seulgi's eye makeup that mimicked tears. With all these elements, it's impossible not to find yourself watching the music video again and again to see all the details you might have missed the first time.
2018: “RBB (Really Bad Boy),” “Power Up,” and “Bad Boy”
2018 was a huge year for Red Velvet and their fans, ReVeluvs. The quintet has consistent releases such as the mini albums Summer Magic, RBB, their Japanese debut #Cookie Jar, and as well as the English release of the hit track "Bad Boy." Despite being busy bees, at the Seoul Music Awards, the ladies kept it simple with their darker color palettes consisting of black and navy. Joy was seen in a classic little black dress, Yeri in a black skirt and lace top, and Irene in her all-black outfit with her pants and blouse. Seulgi wore a black and navy dress and Wendy donned a belted black dress.
Irene and Joy opted for the classic jet black look with their hair, similar to Seulgi who also wore short bangs. Wendy opted for some curly brown bangs and maknae Yeri lit up the group with her wavy blonde hair.
With “Bad Boy,” Red Velvet served punk realness in their fishnet tights, chains, black boots, and leather pants. They not only stunned in their trend-driven performance outfits complete with crop tops, skinny jeans, and choker necklaces but also made the classic plaid skirts for school uniforms look punk with their accessories.
They contrasted the alternative look with their Y2K-esque pink and white lounge outfits that seemed like they were straight out of a classic teen movie from the era, showing their versatility. This look expanded their aesthetic beyond their more cutesy outfits, representing a new era and aesthetic for the members.
In “Power Up” we see more fruits and sailor-inspired outfits, revisiting the theme of the “Red Flavor” comeback. The members also donned girl scout uniforms with bright red skirts for their music video. Trust Red Velvet to make uniforms look chic.
Throughout the video, the group was able to curate a cheerful, end-of-summer party vibe with the use of gingham print, flower accessories, whimsical silhouettes, and light, airy fabrics. They also dressed up in shades of yellow, blue, and pink for a playful and warm color palette.
Building off the momentum of “Bad Boy,” with "RBB (Really Bad Boy)," Red Velvet focused on more streetwear pieces from the likes of Balmain and Balenciaga. They wore a mix of bold and bright colors with pops of animal print. The music video evoked a darker vibe, taking place on the set of a werewolf movie in what they call “Holliwood.”
This contrasted the bright colors of the clothes like Irene’s red Balenciaga hoodie, making the looks pop. Tapping into a creepier vibe, Irene and Yeri mirrored the twins from horror movie The Shining in their matching sleeveless tulle Prada dresses which reified Red Velvet's horror-inspired themes.
2017: “Peek-A-Boo,” “Red Flavor,” and “Rookie”
Tapping into their bubblegum pop side, “Rookie” was more cute and bright, rather than the dark and sexy concept. The music video totally complimented their outfits with the bright colors and doll-like vibe in the setting of a theater production directed by puppets. With a dashing color palette, the music video transports us to a vibrant world where the members are matching in blue doll dresses from Korean designer MINJUKIM.
We also see the group in red and white paneled dresses with red gloves, clear overall dresses with embellishments, and fun, quirky streetwear. That includes eye-catching pink skirts that were almost holographic and Wendy's rainbow-striped shirt, a nod to a previous era's focal point.
"Red Flavor" featured vibrant colorful outfits, opening with each member coordinating with different fruits. They also wore sailor-themed outfits with red accents that contrasted with the bright fruits in the background of their dancing clips. While the music video focused on shades of blue, red, and whites in the outfits, we also couldn't help but obsess over the members' hair colors. Joy’s bright red hair, Yeri's long blonde hair, and Wendy's ombré look certainly made it to our Pinterest boards. Plus, Seulgi's loose curls and Irene's high ponytail with soft bangs were picturesque.
“Red Flavor” is all about summer and fun. Evoking a playful vibe throughout the music video with their house party towards the end, the entire aesthetic remains timeless and is part of K-pop history.
You've probably seen them all over Twitter, but Red Velvet's viral rainbow sequined pieces are originally from luxury brand Ashish and were showcased in the “Peek-A-Boo” era. The members were able to each make their rainbow pieces their own based on their unique styling, like Joy’s iconic rainbow dress and Yeri's more casual and playful off-the-shoulder dress.
Their matching red outfits and accessories from brands like Balenciaga and Vetements stand out in the music video as well, contrasting the darker setting. As the eras went on, we can see how Peek-A-Boo kicked off their edgier concepts — just take a look at “Bad Boy,” “Really Bad Boy” and “Psycho.”
2016: “Russian Roulette”
As we tap into “Russian Roulette,” it’s all about the bright hues. The style is a retro take on the athleisure trend with the group's gym outfits in primary colors and the bold red tennis outfits. Yeri pops out with her red hair, Seulgi with her signature orange look, Irene with her powder pink curls, Wendy with her light brown space buns, and Joy in her short blonde bangs.
Only Red Velvet can create murderous concepts under the guise of a fun, bubbly music video that is actually depicting a game of Russian roulette. But, between all the cute looks, who would have noticed?
2015: “Dumb Dumb,” “Ice Cream Cake,” and “Automatic”
Red Velvet originally debuted in August 2014 with only four members — Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, and Joy. The youngest and final member, Yeri, joined the group in March 2015 shortly after her 16th birthday. Taking it back to January 2015 with Red Velvet, just a few months before the maknae Yeri was added to the group, Joy, Irene, Seulgi, and Wendy opted for similar hairstyles and glam looks with their brown shades and softer makeup. Wearing a neutral black and white palette, Red Velvet attended the Seoul Music Awards in 2015, where they won the Rookie Award.
March 2015
With Yeri officially joining the group, "Automatic" leans into their more mature side with the soothing R&B sound and the retro vibe elevated by their blonde hairstyles, especially Wendy's bumped look, Irene's old-Hollywood glam, and Seulgi's side part and curls. Throughout the video, they wear classic prints, subtle colors, and minimalistic accessories. In their dance parts, the members wear white blouses with lace detailing, high-waisted black pants, and strappy black heels to match. You can’t go wrong with this classic look.
In contrast to “Automatic,” the “Ice Cream Cake” music video was filled with casual, sporty vibes from their sweaters to their socks. As the members went on their road trip, they were in their tennis skirts, matching tennis shoes, and cozy sweaters. Their fun, colorful aesthetic and bright hair colors contrasted the barren setting of the music video, highlighting the cheerful concept and use of color.
“Dumb Dumb” is more fun and funky than the previous 2015 releases. The group was able to recreate a retro vibe throughout the music video as puppets with matching doll dresses. Other outfits include varsity sweaters, tulle skirts, and light blue jeans. The Pippi Longstocking-inspired hair, combined with the outfits, scream Red Velvet. Their contrasting outfits from their dresses to their more casual fits — the different color tights and a color blocking scheme — set a precedent for the more experimental “Zimzalabim.”
2014: “Be Natural” and “Happiness”
With just four members at the time, Red Velvet debuted in August 2014. "Happiness" highlighted their more cutesy, fun side. Nobody could forget their sailor accessories, cheerleader costumes, and unique streetwear. Plus, they captured one of the biggest trends of the era: dip-dyed hair.
Joy's green, Seulgi's yellow, Irene's pink, and Wendy's blue ends were coordinated with their outfits for a fun yet cohesive look. Red Velvet gave us major hair envy at the time, and even now since the look seems to be having a comeback of its own.
Red Velvet showcased a different side of themselves with the remake of S.E.S’s “Be Natural.” Dressed in black and white suits and heels, the members exuded elegance and set the pace for their future concepts that showed their more sultry vibe like “Automatic.” They also wore their signature shade with red suits for a pop of color.
Seeing their spotless track record, we can only dream of what concepts Red Velvet will surprise us with next.
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