Testosterone girls, Estrogen boys! Korean fashion trend is redefining gender style
If you thought MBTI was the ultimate personality test, think again! Korean Gen Z has discovered something way more intriguing - classifying people based on hormones rather than psychology.
The "Teto-Egen" trend is absolutely exploding across Korean social media, with everyone from celebrities like actress Han Ga-in to your average college student jumping on this bandwagon.
So what exactly are we talking about here? "Teto-nam" (testosterone boys) are your classic alpha males - direct, sporty, with natural leadership vibes. Meanwhile, "Egen-nyeo" (estrogen girls) are the soft, emotional, and nurturing types who prefer following rather than leading.
But here's where it gets interesting - "Teto-nyeo" (testosterone girls) are the bold, tomboyish women who take charge, while "Egen-nam" (estrogen boys) are the sensitive, fashion-conscious guys who prioritize emotions over machismo.
Why This Trend Is Bigger Than MBTI Ever Was
The numbers don't lie - this trend has become so mainstream that even Korean AI companies are using it to test their chatbots' understanding of local culture. What started as a simple online personality quiz has evolved into a complete lifestyle and fashion guide, with different styling tips for each "hormone type".
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Indonesia: Unsold Sofas Prices May Surprise You (Prices May Surprise You)
Sofas | Search Ads
Search Now
Undo
Unlike MBTI's 16 complex categories, the hormone classification offers just four easy-to-understand types that instantly tell you someone's vibe. A 25-year-old office worker who identifies as "Teto-nyeo" explained, "It perfectly matches my tough personality image". Another 30-year-old added that it helps understand others better, especially in dating scenarios.
The trend has become so sophisticated that it now includes hybrid types like "Ete-nam" (estrogen-testosterone boys) and "Tege-nam" (testosterone-estrogen boys) for those who don't fit neatly into the original four categories.
Fashion Gets the Hormone Treatment Too
The trend has spawned an entire fashion subculture, with style guides specifically tailored to each hormone type. "Egen-nyeo" fashion focuses on soft, feminine pieces - think flowy dresses, pastel colors, and delicate accessories that emphasize a petite frame. Celebrities like Park Ji-won and Jang Won-young have become style icons for this category with their sweet, innocent looks.
On the flip side, "Teto-nyeo" style embraces edgy, tomboyish elements - band t-shirts, chunky sneakers, and oversized fits that project confidence and independence.
The interesting twist? Many influencers are mixing both styles, creating hybrid looks that blend feminine softness with masculine edge.
The Backlash and Concerns
Not everyone's buying into the hormone hype. Seoul National University psychology professor Kwak Geum-ju warns that this classification system could narrow people's thinking by reinforcing gender stereotypes. Critics argue that dividing personalities based on "male" and "female" hormones potentially strengthens outdated gender role expectations rather than breaking them down.
The concern is that while the trend appears progressive by celebrating "masculine women" and "feminine men," it still operates within a binary framework that could limit how people express their authentic selves. Some worry it might pressure individuals to fit into specific hormone-based boxes rather than embracing the full spectrum of human personality.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
38 minutes ago
- Time of India
Princess Diana's 'super healthy' breakfast revealed by her former chef and it's a current social media favourite
Image credits: Getty Images Years after her tragic death, Princess Diana lives on in the hearts of her many followers and fans. The Princess who died at the young age of 36, was known for her fit physique, glowing beauty and trend-setting fashion choices. Thus, her personality has remained one of interest for people to date. Almost 30 years after her demise, her former chef has revealed what the Princess ate every day for breakfast. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, former royal cook Darren McGrady said that Diana began her day by eating a nutritious meal of overnight oats after discovering them on a trip to Switzerland in the 1990s. He shared that she ate it 'every day' or on 'most mornings' at Kensington Palace. Appreciating the nutritional breakfast, he said it was 'healthy and packed with protein and nutrients', which is the reason why modern-day celebrities and influencers are gaga over it. From Gwyneth Paltrow to Victoria Beckham, various A-listers have shared their affinity for the meal over the last couple of years. Darren began the video by explaining that the princess was 'looking the best she ever did' during the days he cooked overnight oats and other meals for her. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 21st Century Skills Start with Confident Communication Planet Spark Learn More Undo He also shared his recipe in the caption of the clip, which included blueberries and walnuts as ingredients. 'She was now eating healthy - her go-to breakfast was something called overnight oats,' he said. 'Now today, overnight oats are popular. Everybody is eating them, but they date back to 2012.' 'That's when you couldn't go on social media without seeing a recipe for overnight oats. But Princess Diana was eating overnight oats almost 20 years earlier, in 1993.' Diana, as per the chef, found the dish in Switzerland, where they were called 'bircher muesli' and were invented by a Swiss nutritionist who thought they were 'really, really good and all the ingredients were super, super healthy.' He joked that the princess stole the recipe and returned to Britain, where she asked him to make them for breakfast 'every day'. According to the expert, while the breakfast can be eaten hot, its cold version places the dish on 'another level' and makes it taste 'amazing.' What is Princess Diana's recipe for overnight oats? Image credits: YouTube/Darren McGrady Darren moved on to share the recipe for the oats. 'Start off by steeping the oats- that means adding liquid to them. I use rolled oats.' He advised against using quick oats or any other type of oats, as rolled oats are the best. To steep the oats, he added a freshly squeezed jug of orange juice to them. 'Cover them [the oats] with plastic and then put them in the refrigerator and leave them overnight... overnight oats.' After pulling out the overnight oats, he mixed them together and added a pot of yogurt and a drop of honey to them. Lastly, he added half a honey crisp apple, juice of one lemon, a cup of fresh blueberries and 1/2 a cup of walnuts. 'This is the classic traditional dish that Princess Diana had for breakfast every morning,' he claimed. 'I have to admit when I was making this for Princess Diana every morning at Kensington Palace, it was so good, I actually used to double the recipe so that the chef got it too,' he joked.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
These zodiac signs are true lovers of literature
I portray zodiac signs enjoying their favorite genres in a cozy, book-filled haven. Warm light and comfortable seating create a sense of peaceful joy. Some people love to read books. They enjoy getting lost in the stories and learning new things. But did you know that your zodiac sign might have something to do with how much you love reading? Let's find out which zodiac signs are most likely to love reading books. Geminis are curious people. They love learning new things and exploring different ideas. They are always looking for something interesting to read. Virgos are very smart and love to learn. They enjoy reading books that teach them new things. They like to dive deep into a subject and learn as much as they can about it. Libras love beautiful things. They enjoy reading books that explore human relationships and the beauty of the world. They often have a collection of classic novels and poetry. Scorpios are drawn to mysteries and thrillers. They enjoy reading books that explore the darker side of life and delve into the human mind. They love a good psychological thriller. Capricorns are hardworking and disciplined. They value knowledge and are always looking to learn something new. They enjoy reading self-help books, business guides, and biographies. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: Unsold Sofas at Bargain Prices (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo Aquarians are independent and like to think outside the box. They enjoy reading books that explore new ideas and experiences. They are drawn to science fiction, fantasy, and books about social justice and activism. While these are just some examples, it's important to remember that everyone is different. Even if your zodiac sign isn't on this list, you might still love reading books! So, if you're looking for a new book to read, why not take a cue from the stars? You might discover your next favorite book based on your zodiac sign! Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Tips to grow lilies in your home garden that steal the spotlight
Lilies aren't just flowers, they're elegance on a stem. Whether you're dreaming of a fragrant garden corner or adding drama to your patio pots, lilies are the showstoppers you need. But these stunning blooms don't just appear with a wave of a trowel. They need the right timing, soil, care, and a little know-how. Don't worry, we've got you covered with everything from bulb basics to bloom-boosting tricks. Here's a few tips on how to grow lilies that will make your neighbours stare (in a good way). Grow lilies in your garden with these simple tips Choose the right type of lily Lilies come in many varieties, and each brings a different mood to your garden. Oriental lilies are known for their sweet fragrance and large blooms, while Asiatic lilies offer vibrant colours and earlier flowering. If you like a wild look, tiger lilies add a bold, speckled flair. Choose the type based on your garden's vibe and how much scent you're okay with, some lilies can perfume an entire room. Plant at the right time Lilies need a cold period to develop strong blooms, so timing your planting is crucial. For most regions in India, the best time to plant is between October and December, before the winter chill sets in. If you're in a warmer climate, early spring works too, just make sure the soil isn't too warm or soggy. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These Are The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo Get the depth and spacing right When planting lily bulbs, the general rule is to plant them about three times deeper than their height, usually 6 to 8 inches deep. Space them about 8 to 12 inches apart to give each bulb enough room to grow without competing for nutrients. This spacing also improves airflow, reducing the risk of fungal issues. Prepare the perfect soil Lilies thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. If your garden soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in compost and sand to improve drainage. Good drainage is key, soggy soil leads to rotting bulbs. For potted lilies, use a lightweight potting mix in deep containers with proper drainage holes. Pick a sunny spot Most lilies love sunlight and need at least 6 hours of it each day. While they enjoy full sun, a bit of afternoon shade can protect them from harsh heat, especially in peak summer. If your garden gets less light, opt for varieties like Martagon lilies that tolerate partial shade. Water wisely Water lilies deeply but infrequently. Let the top couple of inches of soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering can rot the bulbs, so avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool during summer. Feed them during growth Lilies aren't heavy feeders, but they do appreciate a little boost. Use a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season, especially in spring and early summer. Avoid fertilisers high in nitrogen, they'll encourage leaves at the expense of blooms. Stake tall varieties Some lilies grow tall and elegant, but they can be a bit top-heavy, especially during windy days or after rain. Stake taller varieties early to prevent them from bending or snapping. Use soft ties to avoid damaging the stems. Deadhead to keep them blooming After the flowers fade, remove the spent blooms to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. Leave the green stems and leaves, they continue to photosynthesise and help the bulb recharge for next year. Only cut back once the foliage turns yellow or brown. Keep pests in check Lilies are relatively low-maintenance but can fall prey to red lily beetles, aphids, or slugs. Regularly inspect your plants, and if pests show up, treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Companion planting with marigolds or garlic can also help deter unwanted visitors. Lilies are one of the most rewarding flowers to grow. With just a bit of planning and care, they'll return year after year with tall stems and stunning blooms. Whether you're working with garden beds or balcony pots, these tips will help you create a space that blooms with grace and smells incredible too. Also read| How to grow cherry tomatoes from seeds (even if you've never gardened before)
