Monsta X on Their Changing Style, Influence, and Fashion Faux Pas

One would think the members of K-pop group Monsta X have tried practically every style almost eight years after their debut, but all these years later, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and I.M still keep their fans, known as Monbebe, guessing. With their newest single, “Beautiful Liar,” and EP, Reason, the group is serving new looks and showcasing a new side of the signature style they’ve spent nearly a decade developing. 

Monsta X might have debuted with edgy tattered all-black clothes in 2015, but they have since built a luxe image, marked by an appearance for Chanel in 2019, a special collaboration with Urban Decay in 2021, and more. Coming off recent campaigns with Versace and Louis Vuitton, the group’s recent comeback is just as eye-catching as it is catchy, reifying that they’re not quite done touting their experienced style just yet — musically and sartorially.

“I think at first, when we just debuted we needed to show ourselves as a team, so our clothes were almost the same patterns, same color, and same style. But, these days, I think [Monbebes] respect all our characters and personalities,” rapper I.M tells Teen Vogue, as he reflects on Monsta X’s style and their switch in recent years. Minhyuk, the eldest of the group while leader Shownu serves in the military, on the other hand, attributes the changes to “being adults.” 

Leading up to the album, Monsta X dropped four unique concept teasers, each depicting a different side of the group’s well-rounded image. The first seemed like an homage to their early days with all-black outfits, but elevated by trendy super crops and layered belts. Next came fiery fits consisting of red suits and body jewelry. Fitting for the early January weather, the members also sported cozy knits with shiny embellishments that matched their Euphoria-style makeup. Last but not least, the members channeled regencycore for their picturesque final teaser photos.