If Suzy is called “the Nation’s First Love,” no one would argue. But is she truly a fashion icon, or merely a “Dior muse” crafted by luxury brands? The answer isn’t as simple as the flattering words on magazine covers.
From “First Love” to the Fashion Game
Suzy first appeared in front of the public with a sweet and innocent image—pastel dresses, long flowing hair, and a gentle aura. But to become a true fashion icon, beauty alone is not enough.
🌸 2012 – 2018: Elegant but Safe
In the early years of her career, Suzy’s style revolved around princess-like dresses and soft pastel sweaters—a perfect match for her “Nation’s First Love” image. She was a top advertising model but hadn’t yet established a distinctive fashion identity. Fashion critics noted:
“She exudes elegance, but she hasn’t set any trends.”
However, starting in 2016, Suzy gradually transformed her style with sharp-cut suits and classic trench coats. The Dior Fall Show 2018 marked a turning point as she stepped onto the scene in a powerful menswear-inspired look, a stark contrast to her previous feminine image. Suzy’s Dior fashion was no longer just safe—it was evolving.
💃 2020 – 2023: Moving Beyond “First Love” to Fashion Icon
By 2020, Suzy began to appear in high fashion ensembles with a clear personal touch. From her tailored Dior suit in Elle Korea to the wine-red cut-out dress at Dior Fall Show 2021, Suzy was no longer just a “perfect mannequin” for brands; she had learned to turn fashion into her own statement.
Her biggest breakthrough came in 2023 at Suzy Baeksang 2023. The sheer black Givenchy dress she wore instantly went viral, making it one of the top searches in Korea. Vogue Korea even crowned her “the queen of the red carpet.” At the Dior Pre-Fall 2023 show in Mumbai, she continued to prove her fashion prowess by pairing black lace with a longline blazer—a flawless blend of femininity and power.
🔥 2024 – 2025: Embracing “Quiet Luxury” with Elevated Sophistication
Rather than chasing after flashy or daring trends, Suzy is cementing herself as a quiet luxury icon—exuding refined elegance without excess. Recently, she appeared on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Korea, donning Celine’s minimalist yet captivating ensembles. At the opening of Celine’s flagship store in Seoul, she once again made waves with her neutral-toned outfit, proving that elegance doesn’t have to be loud to stand out.
Even in her latest Lancôme campaign, Suzy stays true to this aesthetic. No bold makeup, no extravagant gowns—just poise, grace, and understated sophistication that command attention in every frame.
She doesn’t need loud and extravagant outfits to make an impact—the fashion world follows her every move regardless.
Has Suzy Reached Fashion Icon Status?
Suzy is the global ambassador of Dior, Lancôme, and Guess—brands that do not lightly bestow their names upon just anyone. Her recent appointment as Celine’s global ambassador in 2024 further solidifies her status in the luxury fashion scene, especially given that Celine considers South Korea a key market.
However, compared to Jennie, G-Dragon, or CL—who turn everything they wear into the next trend—Suzy’s approach is different. She doesn’t push boundaries with avant-garde styles, but rather embodies effortless elegance that feels aspirational yet accessible.
Designer Lee Chung-chung comments:
“Suzy brings a sense of familiarity while still exuding luxury—something not everyone can achieve.”
So, has Suzy truly earned the title of fashion icon? Or does she still need time to completely step out of the shadow of “the Nation’s First Love”?
Share your thoughts! 👗
