K-pop fashion battles have long fueled heated online debates, and the latest revolves around two of the industry’s top idols: BLACKPINK’s Jennie and TWICE’s Nayeon. The controversy? Strikingly similar outfits and style choices that have netizens questioning: is Nayeon copying Jennie?
Jennie, known as K-pop’s ultimate “It Girl”, has built her reputation with unique visuals and a luxurious, trendsetting fashion sense. Whatever she wears sells out instantly, and fans and celebrities alike often take inspiration from her style.
However, in recent years, fans have noticed a recurring trend every time Jennie debuts a bold look, Nayeon seems to follow with a remarkably similar outfit, hairstyle, or makeup style shortly after. The situation hit a boiling point when Nayeon attended BLACKPINK’s concert in early July dressed in an ensemble many deemed “Jennie-esque.” Social media erupted, with some labeling Nayeon as a “Jennie copy machine,” while others leapt to her defense.
Critics claim Nayeon lacks a personal style, relying instead on mimicking Jennie to stay relevant. Supporters argue the similarities are either due to shared stylists, brand sponsorships, or simply similar fashion taste between two longtime friends. One viral comment asked: “How can there be this many matching outfits—is it coincidence, brand deals, or do they share a closet?”
Some netizens claim that these comparisons are fueled by anti-fans trying to tarnish Jennie’s image, not genuine fan observations. Others insist Nayeon has admired Jennie’s style for years and that this mutual admiration shouldn’t be demonized.
“Even their casual outfits are often sponsored. It’s not that deep,” one user commented.
“They’ve known each other since their trainee days. Their tastes are just naturally similar,” said another, defending the idols’ friendship.
It’s worth noting that both idols debuted in the third generation of K-pop and belong to rival groups: Nayeon with TWICE in 2015 and Jennie with BLACKPINK in 2016. Despite the rivalry between their fandoms, Jennie and Nayeon are known to share a close bond behind the scenes.
As some fans pointed out, even stage outfits are often stylist-driven, not selected by the idols themselves. And in an industry where fashion cycles are fast and brand sponsorships dictate much of what idols wear, it’s not surprising for overlaps to occur.
Whether it’s homage, coincidence, or something more, one thing is clear: the Jennie-Nayeon fashion debate isn’t dying down anytime soon. But instead of fueling fan wars, perhaps it’s time to appreciate how both women have shaped and inspired K-pop fashion in their own ways.
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