Jang Won Young: Denim Dreams

At 22, Jang Won Young already understands the power of a good first impression. As a member of K-pop phenomenon IVE, the singer has grown up in public, emerging not only as one of her generation’s most recognisable performers but as a fashion figure in her own right.

Since joining the Tommy family, Jang has brought her distinctly feminine sensibility to the brand’s all-American codes, wearing its denim and preppy styles in a way that is guided less by the rulebook than her own terms. It is an approach that mirrors her wider philosophy towards fashion, one which is shaped by instinct and a willingness to experiment.

Following campaigns for Tommy Jeans through 2025 and Spring 2026, Jang steps into Fall 2026 with another proposition altogether. “Tommy Jeans has always portrayed a young and energetic image, but I think what I am able to show each time is that you can always bring your own point of view to what you wear. That’s so important when you want to look stylish,”she says.

Across the following pages, GQ catches up with Jang on personal style, the appeal of Tommy Hilfiger, what her generation wants from fashion now and how personal style takes shape when millions are watching.

When you first started working with Tommy Hilfiger, what attracted you to the brand?

Tommy has a rich history of celebrating individuality. The clothes have a timeless sense of cool, but there’s always a sense of optimism running through them, too.

How has your relationship with Tommy Hilfiger changed since your first campaign together?

We bring out the best in each other. Every time we work on a campaign, it’s about showcasing the best “colours” of both sides. We always have fun working together.

Tommy Hilfiger has a long history. What do you think makes the brand still feel fresh to your generation?

There’s no age limit to the clothes. People from all walks of life can wear them. That’s the beauty of the timeless pieces Tommy creates. These days, self-expression has become even more important, and the brand’s wardrobe staples are great building blocks for anyone who wishes to develop their own style language.

How do you make the classic Tommy style feel like your own?

It’s about knowing what works for you. Style is something so personal — once you understand what brings out the best in you, whatever you choose to wear can amplify your individuality.

For me, the classic Tommy style translates so well to so many occasions. A pair of jeans always works with a nice shirt, especially when I’m dressing for a more casual occasion. There are also many ways to layer the pieces. I can throw a sweater over my shoulders for a more laidback, casual vibe. Small changes can make an outfit feel very personal.

Tommy Hilfiger has a strong connection to American culture, while you represent a new generation of global fans. How do you think these two worlds can be brought together?

It doesn’t have to be separate. Fashion is the bridge that can bring people and cultures together. I can take the classic American style that Tommy represents and interpret it through my own experience as a Korean artiste. When people from different places add their own perspective, the style becomes something new.

Young people today are shaping fashion in new ways. What do you think your generation wants from a fashion brand?

Authenticity is important. It’s about freedom of expression: clothes that allow us to show the world who we are and what we can be. The most exciting brands are perhaps the ones that give people the freedom to create their own style.

You have fans around the world. What do you think people in different countries have in common when it comes to fashion?

Our cultures may be different, but I think young people everywhere want to feel confident in what they wear. They also use fashion to show off their personalities. This is why fashion is so universal. It gives us a way to communicate without using words. That’s one of the reasons I think fashion can connect people so easily.

Photography Mok Jung Wook
Editorial Director Jumius Wong
Creative Direction Jenine Oh
Styling Lim Jin
Project Executive Second Li
Executive Producer Lee Kyung Kim / BL Creative House
Casting Director Choi Mira
Hair Jo Dami / Kitts
Makeup Cho Eun Bee / Kitts
Set Design Jeon Min Kyu / Re:kindle
Production BL Creative House
Production Assistants Lee Jin Kyung, Park Mi Jeong
Cover Star Jang Won Young
Fashion Tommy Hilfiger, Tommy Jeans