Windbreaker Worn by Karina of Aespa Unexpectedly Sells Out Online Amid Political Controversy
Surprising Sales Surge for aespa’s Karina After Controversial Windbreaker Incident
Recently, fashion and fandom intertwine uniquely as the windbreaker donned by Karina, a member of popular girl group aespa, has become a hot item online, selling out rapidly despite facing backlash over its political implications. The controversy surrounding the design has paradoxically elevated the brand’s profile significantly.
On May 17, Karina shared moments from her trip to Japan on her Instagram, showcasing a striking windbreaker that featured a blend of black and red hues. Prominently featured was a large red number ‘2’ on the front, which some internet users interpreted as a nod to a specific political party’s color and a candidate’s emblem, igniting discussions and debate across social platforms.
In response to the stir this caused, SM Entertainment communicated clarity regarding the matter, stating, >“Karina simply shared everyday content on social media without any other purpose or intention." They added that, upon realizing the potential for misinterpretation, they promptly removed the post, offering an apology for any unintended distress caused. Moreover, the agency committed to ensuring similar situations are managed more thoughtfully in the future, emphasizing, >“We hope that the artist’s intentions are no longer distorted or misused for specific purposes.”
The windbreaker, produced by the New York-based label Vaquera, has made waves in the fashion scene. Titled “WINDBREAKER BLACK RED,” the item, which boasts a bold red diagonal design alongside the number ‘2’ on a sleek black backdrop, retailed for about 720,000 KRW (approximately 525 USD). Remarkably, every size is currently sold out on the brand’s official site, with international resale prices soaring to around 1.5 million KRW (~1,092 USD) on various fashion platforms.
TRENDINGKarina’s choice of Vaquera is not a first; she has been spotted in the brand several times, highlighting its appeal. Founded in 2013 by Patric DiCaprio and Bryn Taubensee, Vaquera is recognized for its experimental designs that challenge conventional luxury fashion. The brand has carved out its contemporary niche through debut collections shared on social media and avant-garde runway presentations.
Celebrities have also embraced Vaquera, furthering its reputation. Last year, actress Han Ye Seul caught the public’s eye while wearing one of the brand’s distinct sleeveless shirts, showcasing the allure of Vaquera’s cutting-edge style.
In a captivating twist of fate, what began as a controversy over political symbols has transformed into a phenomenon of heightened demand, making Karina’s windbreaker a coveted item in today’s fashion landscape.