Chaelin Lee, also known as CL of 2ne1 fame, has been the talk of the town since she left YG agency for good and went on with her solo career. Known for her smash hits like “Hello B*tches” and “Baddest Female”, the queen of K-Pop always makes sure her style is “bold and fun”, like her music. Aside from her music and stage persona, CL is easily celebrated for her fashion sense.

The pint-size rapper has been friends with fashion designers Jeremy Scott and Alexander Wang, modeling their risque creations be it for red carpet events, performances or IG . Her 9.6 million followers on Instagram are always on the lookout for CL’s next show-stopping outfits– from designer pieces, sky-high platforms to chunky jewelry. 

Lately, you can see that CL’s style has evolved, along with her solo prowess. Still very “girl crush” concept ala 2ne1, let’s just say her style has transitioned into more elevated coolness:

Look 1:  Leather black gown with fur details 

CL at British Fashion week 2021 Photo by Gareth Cattermole

CL attended the British Fashion Awards recently, wearing a signature piece by debuting designer Luis De Javier. Kinda like leather jacket sleeves on top with satin skirt with train, then embellished with fur in the front, the look totally shows that a gown could be edgy. The printed caged platforms are fierce, too. 

Look 2: Americana meets Korean

Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris; Met MuseumSeriously, who missed out on CL‘s MET Gala cream carpet look? Answer: no one. The look instantly went viral the moment Miss Thang posed for the paps. Far from ordinary, the denim piece is a nod to her Korean roots, with sihlouette like a hanbok, while the denim itself and the high-waist brief are aligned with the event’s Americana theme. The rapper later on revealed that it was actually a last minute style decision, as fashion designer Alexander Wang opted to rehash her MET Gala look a day before. Meme-worthy or not, this look had netizens talking.

Look 3: Modern structural

This look during the iHeart Radio music festival late last year got fashionistas swooning over CL‘s style. Let’s just say it as it is, only a few can pull this look off, and CL rocked this Mikhael Kale creation flawlessly.

Look 4: Fringed jumpsuit

Another iHeart Music Festival look, CL stole the red carpet scene with this Jasmine Chong creation. With a sexy bodysuit paired with fringed pants and accessorized with multiple belts, this look just works.

Look 5: Red couture

Hand it to CL to make a red tulle gown by ACT N°1 look edgy. This promo pic for her song release for Lover Like Me is both dreamy and fierce.

Image Source: Gareth Cattermole for  British Fashion Awards look, Dimitrios Kambouris for Met Museum, Joy Tisha Instagram page