aespa Karina’s “Strange” Fashion Week Look Sparks Strong Reactions

aespa’s Karina is one of the most closely watched K-pop stars during fashion week, with fans and netizens paying close attention to every appearance she makes.

As a Prada global ambassador, expectations are always high. Naturally, many were curious to see what she would wear for the 2026 Prada event at Paris Fashion Week. This time, Karina stepped out in a look that surprised many.

For the event, Karina wore a full Prada SS26 Ready-To-Wear Womenswear outfit, paired with pieces from the Prada Eternal Gold Bow Collection. From the dress and shoes to the jewelry and handbag, every element of her styling came from the luxury brand.

Her outfit featured a structured black dress layered over a light blue shirt, finished with a pleated skirt and a sleek black Prada bag. The top of Karina’s dress has seemingly sparked mixed reactions.

Prada brand ambassador Karina attends the Prada Men’s Fall/Winter 2026 show at Milan Fashion Week.#Karina #PradaFW26 pic.twitter.com/OR7d3P7yQA

— L’essence Studios (@lessencestudios) January 18, 2026

Photos of Karina at the event quickly went viral in Korea and beyond. A post featuring her Prada look gained attention on TheQoo, where netizens shared a mix of praise and mild criticism.

【#WWDJAPANメンズコレ取材 】「プラダ（PRADA）」 2026-27年秋冬コレクションのショーにaespaのカリナが来場！
⁡#PradaFW26 #KARINAxPRADA #KARINA #milanfashionweek #mfw pic.twitter.com/tvH1R6Pi6D

— WWDJAPAN (@wwd_jp) January 18, 2026

Many netizens focused on her visuals, hairstyle, and overall aura, with several noting that her face carried the outfit even if the clothes themselves felt unusual.

• “She’s so pretty. The hairstyle suits her perfectly, and the Prada look is nice too. There are photographers who take good photos and those who don’t — not every Getty photo looks bad lol. This one feels solid.”
• “She’s seriously so pretty…”
• “The outfit feels kind of strange, but her face is so pretty that it covers everything.”
• “I think this is the prettiest Karina I’ve seen recently… she gives off actress vibes.”
• “She’s cute lol. The outfit itself isn’t that pretty, but Karina looks neat and pretty.”