Netflix’s Queen of Tears has been met with rave reviews from among general audiences and critics alike for its ability to weave deep emotion through a typically tired South Korean romance trope. But beyond its narrative, the show has also earned much adoration among fashion enthusiasts for its spectacular feature of sartorial splendour, emphasised by its choice of luxury jewellery and timepieces. Whether from Cartier to Bvlgari, here is a look back at some of the most stunning gems and watches featured in Queen of Tears.
With large ensemble casts adorned in high jewellery collections, extravagant couture, and opulent timepieces, Korean dramas have long served as ground zero for the proliferation of fashion trends. Playing to the symbiotic relationship cultivated by brands and costuming departments, dramas provide fashion inspiration for viewers, shaping the climate of aesthetics as we know it in the modern age.
One such drama that has served looks, as well as this purpose is Queen of Tears, starring hallyu heartthrob Kim Soo Hyun and leading lady Kim Ji-Won. One of the top shows of 2024, Queen of Tears is more than just a heartwarming love story; it is a feast for the senses, and a veritable buffet of high-fashion looks, jewellery, and watches that style mavens are certain to enjoy.
Queen of Tears: A quick recap
For the uninitiated, Queen of Tears centres on the failing marriage of working-class lawyer Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo Hyun) and third-generation chaebol heiress Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won). Written by Park Ji-eun, whose previous works include the critically acclaimed My Love From the Star (2013) and Crash Landing On You (2019), the 16-episode series depicts the crises faced by the couple in their marriage, taking an in-depth look at the differences that threaten to tear them apart.
The series opens on Hyun-woo, who has decided to get a divorce after enduring three challenging years of marriage. In spite of their clashing morals and personalities, the couple clearly love one another, mirroring the depth and nuance of many estranged couples in the modern world.
As the story unfolds across episodes, viewers are treated to different perspectives that shed light on the duo’s individual motives, needs, desires, and traits, all the while subverting expectations and turning the notion of villains and heroes on its head. We learn more about Hae-in, the events in her life that have shaped her spiny personality, and why she wears a stern facade. And while Hyun-woo is initially depicted as a hapless spouse hopelessly out-of-place amidst high society, we are shown his personal failings, as well as where he has contributed to the decline of his marriage. Through the spectacular characterisations of the two main leads, viewers are presented with a vulnerable and honest portrait of married life and all the maladies it can present.
Where Queen of Tears is concerned, life is not merely black and white; it is a technicolour landscape that keeps the viewer wanting for more.
Beyond aesthetics: The role of costuming and jewellery in shows
Beyond the necessity of keeping the cast and characters clothed, costumes in television provide subtle insights into who these characters are. Through the clever use of materials, colours, styles, and silhouettes, costume designers weave intriguing narratives for their characters, allowing viewers to empathise with them and their storylines as needed.
In the case of shows that depict opulence and wealth, the costumers’ department is a veritable playground for luxury brands, providing the perfect opportunity for product placement. Given that the global influencer market was worth USD 21.1 billion in 2023, the merits of product placement are especially lucrative, especially for brands seeking to market their products to a wider audience. Subliminal marketing and the perceived endorsement of celebrities all add value to a brand and its products, leading fans to associate them with the upper echelons of society.
Enter Queen of Tears, a critically successful K-drama that centres on the lavish lives of its characters. In the wake of other similar Korean productions like Crash Landing On You, The Heirs, Business Proposal, and more, Queen of Tears provides yet another an aspirational glimpse into the lives of the super wealthy. From the sleek blazers and ruffled maximalist blouses of Hae-in to the refined suits and polished streetwear of Hyun-woo, the wardrobe department of Queen of Tears has presented a masterclass in quiet luxury, leaving fans of fashion longing for more.
Beyond the amazing outfits put together by the wardrobe department, we found ourselves similarly charmed by the glittering array of bijouterie and timepieces. If you’ve personally been inspired by the outfits and accessories, take a closer look at our list of the best jewellery and watches that have been featured on Queen of Tears.
All the jewellery and watches we loved in Queen of Tears
Chanel CC long pearl necklace
In the first episode of Queen of Tears, Hae-in dazzled in a chic Chanel ensemble incorporating a black tweed jacket. While stylish on its own, the blazer provided the perfect backdrop upon which the accompanying Chanel CC long pearl necklace could truly shine. Composed of metal and glass pearls, this extravagant necklace perfectly befits Hae-in’s role as a chaebol heiress, marking her position of importance and highlighting her wealth.
DAMIANI D.SIDE Earrings
An elegant and minimalistic masterpiece in pink gold, onyx, and diamonds, these drop earrings by Italian luxury jewellery brand Damiani retail at EUR 3,980 (approx. USD 4,318), While the design worn by Hae-in is currently not available on Damiani’s website, a different variation featuring diamond studs for a lighter and less visually heavy look serves as an adequate replacement. Pairing her earrings with an oversized graphic blazer from Alexander McQueen, Hae-in served a striking look that recalls all the hallmarks of a modern career woman.
Dia Momo Chandelier Earrings
While they may not be the most expensive pieces in Hae-in’s collection, these Chandelier earrings from Dia Momo are no less extravagant and beautiful. Retailing at KRW 1,890,000 (approx. USD 1,390), these earrings are made of 14k white gold, and feature high-quality cubic zirconia as opposed to diamonds. Paired with an all-black ensemble, these earrings inspired awe and wonder from Hyun-woo, prompting him to remark on his wife’s beauty.
Valentino Garavani Vlogo Earrings
She is avoiding the eye-contact with the husband. Hae In ah, I know you’re going to soften with him. And Hyun Woo ah, don’t let her be sulking so long. Make up faster please. Lol these two. 😂 #QueenOfTears #QueenOfTearsEp7 pic.twitter.com/L6OtcyxlPQ
— Tash Kim | #QueenOfTears (@tash_kim_) March 30, 2024
Paired with a tweed blazer and mini skirt co-ordinated set by Valentino, these earrings, which are worth USD 470, added understated elegance to Hae-in’s chic workday outfit. A vivid blue blouse, also by Valentino, provided the perfect pop of colour that accentuated the heiress’ exquisite complexion.
Ballon Bleu de Cartier Watch
Episode five of Queen of Tears proffered a nod to high horology, showcasing Hae-in with a Ballon Bleu de Cartier, one of the most beautiful watches featured in the show. Paired with a pared-down ensemble that screams ‘stealth wealth’, the watch, which retails at USD 15,500, is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement housed within a rose gold 750/1000 case. Its fluted crown is set with a sapphire cabochon, whilst a matte, silvered stamped sunray dial set with 21 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 0.19 carats tells the time — but in style. A blue alligator strap lends a masculine modernity to the look, perfectly befitting Hae-in’s personality and serious work ethic.
Bvlgari’s Divas’ Dream earrings
The live-in girlfriend of the Hong family patriarch, Moh Seul-hee (portrayed by Lee Mi-sook), evoked sophistication and charm with a pair of Divas’ Dream earrings from Bvlgari. While the earrings could be a subtle nod to her conniving nature and reputation as perceived by the Hong family, they are also indicative of her unique and elegant style. Made of 18k rose gold, the drop earrings, which retail at USD 3,050, feature gleaming mother-of-pearl inserts along with brilliant-cut diamonds, capturing the magnificence of the Caracalla Baths and the sensuality of its fan-shaped mosaics.
Bvlgari Serpenti Viper Bracelet
Over the course of the series, Hae-in wore several sparkling pieces from Bvlgari’s Serpenti collection, the sinuous steel lending a sleek and austere coldness to her personality as it is perceived by the audience. Worth USD 11,200, the 18k gold bracelet is adorned in pavé diamonds on its head and tail, the perfect addition to Hae-in’s fiery red ensemble.
Bvlgari Serpenti Viper necklace
Worn alongside a matching necklace and earrings, this elegant necklace further elevated Hae-in’s well-considered outfit, drawing the eye to the pleasing silhouette of her collarbones. Retailing at USD 24,500, the bracelet is crafted of 18k gold and adorned in pavé diamonds on its head and tail, an alluringly minimalist take on the subtle sensuality of the viper for which it was named.
Bvlgari Serpenti Viper earrings
To complete her crimson ensemble, Hae-in adorned herself with Bvlgari’s Serpenti Viper earrings in 18k gold. While the earrings are available with fewer inset diamonds for a slightly toned-down aesthetic, Hae-in’s selection which retails at USD 10,900 makes no show at false modesty, incorporating full segments inlaid with pavé diamonds.
Bvlgari Serpenti Viper wedding bands in 18k white gold
At their wedding, Hyun Woo and Hae-in exchange Bvlgari Serpenti viper wedding bands in 18k white gold, sealing their love and promising their lives to one another. While Hyun Woo’s ring adopts all the hallmarks of the Serpenti collection with undulating edges reminiscent of snakeskin, it otherwise lacks the adornment of Hae-in’s, which is fully set with pavé diamonds. While the former ring retails at a modest USD 1450, the latter is worth a breathtaking USD 7,700.
Bvlgari Serpenti earrings in 18k white gold
In the very first episode of Queen of Tears, viewers were introduced to the exquisite fashion sense of Hae-in, whose outfits seemed determined to outdo the very next one. One of the most extravagant pieces of jewellery worn on set, these Bvlgari Serpenti earrings pay homage to the transformative nature of the mythical snake that ‘sheds its skin to embrace change and renew its power’ — an apt selection that reflects Hae-in’s role within her workplace. Crafted of 18k white gold and set with 5.11 carats of diamonds, these extraordinary earrings were the perfect showstopper, leaving little doubt as to who was truly in charge. Its price is available upon request.
Bvlgari Serpenti necklace in 18k white gold
Much like the matching Serpenti earrings, this beautiful Serpenti necklace in 18k gold is set with 8.31 carats of pavé diamonds. While its price is only available upon request, a good assumption is that it would be worth tens of thousands, considering its exquisite craftsmanship and quality materials. Hae-in paired this necklace with a fitted white blazer in the fifth episode, lending an ethereal quality to the outfit while maintaining her polish and sophistication.
KORLOFF Eclat Earrings M.
Imagined in pink gold and inlaid with 64 glittering diamonds, KORLOFF’s Eclat earrings take inspiration from the unique architecture and graphic lines of the Louvre. An exceptional depiction of the French maison’s Art Deco influences, the earrings are worth EUR 8,535 (approx. USD 9,272). Completing a feminine ensemble that includes a rainbow tweed dress from Soonil and a Mini Lady Dior bag in cherry red patent cannage calfskin, these earrings were a tasteful addition to Hae-in’s expansive jewellery collection.
Chaumet Joséphine Duo Éternel Earrings
Yet another piece of jewellery featured during Hyun Woo and Hae-in’s wedding, these Josephine Duo Eternal Earrings from Chaumet added a hint of sparkle without detracting from the bride’s beautiful outfit. Inspired by the love of Napoleon and his bride, Joséphine, the earrings are crafted to evoke the imagery of lovers intertwined and united by love. Realised in 18k white gold and set with 82 brilliant-cut G VS + diamonds for 2.27 carats, the earrings are worth an incredible USD 22,800.
KORLOFF Ékla M. Earrings
Among one of our top picks in this list of jewellery and watches in Queen of Tears, these extravagant earrings from French design maison KORLOFF are made of 18k white gold with 192 diamonds totalling 2.5 carats. The embodiment of luxury, they retail at EUR 24,680 (approx. USD 26,775), stealing the show alongside a black rhinestone-embellished dress from Balmain as part of Hae-in’s glitzy episode 2 ensemble.
Tasaki Danger Fang diamond necklace
Worn by Cheon Da-hye (portrayed by Lee Joo-bin), Hae-in’s sister-in-law and wife of her younger brother Soo-cheol, the Tasaki Danger Fang diamond necklace provides a cheeky contrast to the other elegant pieces featured on the show. Produced by luxury Japanese brand Tasaki, the Danger Fang diamond necklace marries yellow gold with Akoya pearls and pavé diamonds. As per the site, prices are available upon request.
Mido Baroncelli Moonphase Chronograph Watch
While it makes sense that actor Kim Soo Hyun, who is a Mido brand ambassador, might have a few timepieces from the brand in his collection of watches, the same cannot be said of his character, Baek Hyun-woo. As the son-in-law of the prestigious and wealthy Hong family, Hyun-woo no doubt enjoys a certain level of financial freedom; however, his choices for fashion and timepieces reflect his humble upbringing in a working-class family.
Worth approximately USD 2,946.96, Hyon-woo’s Mido Baroncelli Moonphase Chronograph watch features several complications, including a chronograph, moonphase, and calendar. A Swiss automatic mechanical movement powers it from within a sturdy stainless-steel case, coated in sophisticated rose gold. An anthracite dial lends masculinity and quiet strength to the design, while a black rubber strap ensures versatility. Among the first watches to feature in Queen of Tears, this Mido offering exudes quiet luxury and class.
Mido Multifort TV Big Date Watch
Over several scenes, Hyon-woo appears to wear a Mido Multifort TV Big Date watch, an unconventional timepiece reminiscent of ’90s television sets. With rounded corners that smooth out the edges of its iconic square silhouette, the watch marries nostalgia with modernity, proffering a chic edge that well befits Hyon-woo’s personality. Retailing at about USD 1,306, the watch strikes a distinctive figure with a stainless-steel strap and case that holds a gradating blue dial reminiscent of the deepest ocean. Bearing an unconventional design and shape, this exquisite timepiece is certainly one of our favourite watches that were featured on Queen of Tears.
Mido Baroncelli Chronometer
Hyon-woo has also been spotted wearing a Mido Baroncelli Chronometer, which retails at about USD 1,322. A contemporary timepiece that reflects Hyon-woo’s sleek stealth-wealth aesthetics, Mido’s Baroncelli Chronometer sports a round stainless-steel case coated with rose gold and leather alligator-look straps. Within its case and sapphire crystal, the timepiece houses a Mido Automatic Chronometer ETA movement, with power reserve of up to 80 hours.
Watch Queen of Tears on Netflix here.
(Main and featured images: Queen of Tears/Instagram)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Is Queen of Tears worth watching?
Queen of Tears is a romantic Korean drama that incorporates numerous romantic tropes that fans of the genre will enjoy, from Riches to Rags, Anguished Declarations of Love, and Obnoxious In-Laws alike. It is certainly worth watching if you are a fan of heart-rending romantic dramas that marry angst with a happy ending.
– Where can I watch Queen of Tears Kdrama?
Queen of Tears is available to stream on Netflix.
This story first appeared here.
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Emmelyn curates and creates content in Kuala Lumpur, where she's spent the past decade building a portfolio comprising copy and video spanning both print and digital platforms. Endlessly fascinated with cookbooks, interior design, aesthetics, and video games, she is also an ardent foodie - a lemon tart, lychee martini, and coffee enthusiast. Her favourite animal is the common wombat. She's written one award winning cookbook.
