Curated by Editorial · Mar 26, 2026
Hongik on a Friday night is younger than I am now and I make peace with that every time I go out there. The neighborhood doesn't really start until 10 p.m. and most of the people you see are still in their early twenties, which is fine — I'm there for the food and the small bars on the second floor of buildings you'd never otherwise enter. What I've figured out is that the right outfit for this isn't the obvious thing (mini dress + heels). It's the slightly preppy version: pleated mini skirt, fitted top, a sweater vest if it's cold, Mary Janes. You read as 'considered' instead of 'going out,' which is the better read in a neighborhood where everyone is already going out. I switch out the Mary Janes from Edit 006 for this — same shoe, doing different work.
3 pieces
By Editorial
Sangtree
Plaid Pleated High-Waist SkortBuilt-in shorts underneath a pleated plaid skirt is the kind of practical detail that means you can actually sit on the quad, chase a kid, or bike to brunch without strategizing. The fabric has enough weight to hold its pleats instead of going limp by noon, and the elastic waistband sizes up generously. Pair with a white tee and chunky sneakers, or a black turtleneck and loafers when the weather turns.
XMM
Patent Lug-Sole Mary Jane FlatsGlossy patent uppers sit on a chunky lug sole, which gives the classic Mary Jane silhouette a bit of stomp instead of sweetness. Reach for them when a pleated mini or a long black skirt needs grounding, the way K-fashion stylists pair shiny round-toe shoes with slouchy white socks. Buckle strap keeps it tidy without veering into costume territory.
JOLLQUE
Glossy Patent Mini Baguette BagThe curved baguette shape and high-shine patent finish do the early-2000s thing without veering into costume, especially in the leopard or red. Pack it for dinner and drinks when you only need a phone, a card case, and a lipstick; the short strap sits right at the underarm, so it reads more deliberate than a crossbody slung across the body.