Get Yoon Ena’s Preppy Style in Nine Puzzles: A Guide

In the South Korean mystery thriller Nine Puzzles, director Yoon Jong-bin aimed for a lack of realism to shine through in an engaging way. The plot, which revolves around a serial murder mystery resurfacing after a decade, may sound dark, but the overall tone feels more like a novel. It’s almost like something straight out of a comic book.

To bring this unique vision to life, meticulous attention was given to the artistic direction and overall aesthetic of the series. In particular, the fashion choices for the main characters, Yoon Ena and Kim Hansaem, played by Kim Dami and Son Sukku, were carefully curated. Hansaem, a determined detective still chasing the cold case from ten years ago, has a defining moment every time he takes off his hat or beanie—it’s a sign that things are about to get serious. Ena, on the other hand, embodies eccentricity with her impeccable style. From murder suspect to criminal profiler, her wardrobe consists of preppy pieces, tailored outfits, and bold accessories.

“Ena wears a necktie very often—a crucial part of her outfit—and loves to play with colors. It’s a bit cartoonish in a way,” Kim explains to Vogue Singapore. Ena’s closet is filled with an array of neckties, from leather to uniquely patterned ones. Throughout the series, she rocks various outerwear pieces like jackets, bombers, and plaid coats, but it’s her ability to coordinate colors flawlessly that truly sets her apart. Mixing soft blues with burgundy or bright reds, Ena’s use of red hues adds suspense to the storyline. Even her iconic crimson luggage becomes a pivotal plot point in the midst of the mystery-filled narrative.