BLACKPINK’s Jennie, already renowned for her trailblazing fashion sense, has once again made waves online — but this time, not for the reason fans expected.
On July 12, while departing from Incheon Airport en route to the United States, Jennie stunned onlookers and netizens alike with a look that combined chic comfort and unexpected flair.
Dressed in a stylish ensemble featuring a blue-and-white crocheted vest layered over a striking red bra, gray sweatpants, and flowing hair, she embodied her usual effortless cool.
But it wasn’t her trendy outfit that caught the internet’s attention — it was her footwear.
The Shoes That Broke the Internet
As photos of Jennie at the airport began circulating on social media, fans and netizens quickly honed in on what appeared to be… socks?
Confusion spread rapidly as zoomed-in images revealed what looked like toe socks with no shoes in sight.
Upon closer inspection, however, fans discovered she was actually wearing a pair of Vibram V-Soul toe shoes, a minimalist shoe design known for mimicking the natural shape of the human foot.
Priced at around $110 USD, the Vibram V-Soul shoes feature separate toe compartments and a lightweight sole.
Originally designed for activities like yoga or Pilates, they’ve occasionally made appearances in the fashion world — though rarely in such a public, high-fashion setting.
Despite the initial skepticism, the model Jennie wore sold out online almost immediately, proving her unmatched influence in both music and fashion.
Netizens React With Amusement and Curiosity
As expected, the comments section across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and online forums was flooded with mixed reactions ranging from bewilderment to humor:
“It looked like she was only wearing socks…”
“I’m not usually someone who zooms in on feet, but Jennie-unnie, what are those?”
“Please don’t let this become a trend.”
“They look like athlete’s foot socks, not runway-ready shoes.”
“Even with Jennie wearing them, they still don’t look cute. Are they really just for comfort?”
Some netizens expressed concern over the practicality of such shoes for airport walking, joking about how uncomfortable they must be if stepped on by mistake.
Others were more curious about the trend, wondering whether these unconventional shoes offer surprising benefits, like breathability or foot support.
There was also a playful critique about her floor-sweeping sweatpants, which seemed to collect dust as she walked.
A Trendsetter, No Matter the Reaction
Jennie has long been celebrated for her fashion-forward choices — whether attending international fashion weeks, collaborating with luxury brands, or launching her own label.
Her influence is so strong that even her most controversial or unconventional looks become talking points in the fashion world.
This latest moment is no exception.
While some questioned the appeal of toe shoes, others admitted they might now be tempted to give them a try — because if Jennie wears them, maybe they aren’t so bad after all.
Her decision to sport the Vibram V-Soul shoes might just push these niche functional shoes into the mainstream spotlight, further proving that Jennie can make even the strangest styles a trend.
From Fashion Curiosity to Viral Moment
Jennie’s airport look has once again cemented her place as a style icon whose influence goes beyond the stage and screen.
Whether it’s a red carpet gown, a casual fit on a stroll through Paris, or unconventional footwear at the airport, Jennie never fails to spark conversation.
While the jury is still out on whether toe shoes will become a full-fledged K-fashion trend, one thing is certain: Jennie knows how to get people talking, and even the most unexpected details of her outfit can lead to a viral sensation.
