Why Is Everyone Talking About Charlie XCX? The Singer Who Popularized 'Brat Style'

They say, "If nobody’s talking about you, you’re nobody." After more than a decade in the spotlight, Charlie XCX is finally grabbing everyone’s attention in 2024. Since the release of her latest album, Brat, the British singer has become one of the most talked-about it-girls in the music scene, and rightfully so. With over 20 million monthly listeners on Spotify, only artists with a similar track record can gather such notable personalities as Julia Fox, Emma Chamberlain, and Chloë Sevigny in a single music video, such as for her song 360.

Her talent and charismatic personality have won her many fans, but in the past year, she has also captivated fashion brands. Major labels like Loewe and Mugler have recognized her eclectic and daring style, inviting her to join their front rows and events. Let’s explore some key elements of her unique style.

One rarely sees Charlie in traditional "lady-like" outfits. Whenever required to adhere to a formal dress code, she cleverly incorporates her aesthetic. For instance, if she needs to wear something overly romantic, she might pair that look with one of her signature sunglasses, like sporty cycling glasses, to reflect her identity.

In an era where Y2K fashion is making a comeback, Charlie stands out as an inspiration for those wanting to embrace this trend. A style trick she frequently uses is exposing her midriff through crop tops or low-waisted pants, perfectly embodying this nostalgic aesthetic.

If sneakers feel too casual and heels too formal, Charlie suggests pairing a dress with boots. Like fellow artist Rosalía, she often chooses high boots to complement long dresses, a combination that’s gaining popularity among celebrities and influencers in 2024.

Baggy denim shorts, often termed jorts, have resurfaced on contemporary streets. However, before they became trendy, Charlie XCX was already flaunting this style. As they can be tricky to wear, she smartly combines them with heels, making the look sophisticated enough for any time of day.

While her fans often don green to support the promotion of Brat, Charlie’s color palette leans more towards blacks and grays. These shades define her preferred style, showcasing her love for chic, understated elegance.

Charlie is known for her deconstructed clothing, featuring unfinished seams, asymmetrical pockets, and a variety of different fabrics within a single piece. Her originality shines through in her choice of clothing that often seems avant-garde; from a corduroy jacket with denim pockets to jeans adorned with straps or patchwork materials, she continuously challenges conventional fashion norms.

It’s undeniable that Charlie fuses glamorous elements with high-fashion flair and touches of pop culture. On the red carpet, she never goes unnoticed, often opting for eye-catching dresses complete with daring cut-outs, sheer fabrics, or intricate laser-cut designs. Elevating her look even further, she pairs these outfits with bold hairstyles, achieving her signature aesthetic.