What is ‘Brat summer’? Charli XCX trend taking internet by storm

What is ‘Brat summer’? Charli XCX trend taking internet by storm

As a movie buff with a deep appreciation for music and pop culture, I’ve been keeping my pulse on the latest trends and movements that have taken the world by storm. And let me tell you, Brat summer has been an unforgettable experience so far.


It’s July 2024. Lime green is everywhere. Brat summer has arrived.

Released on 7th June, Brat is the name of the sixth studio album by British singer Charli XCX.

As a dedicated music enthusiast and avid follower of the electronic scene, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing countless performances and listening to a vast array of genres throughout my life. And let me tell you, this new record out of London has truly left me in awe. With its infectious electropop beats and club-ready anthems that pay homage to the iconic London rave scene, I’ve found myself playing it on repeat since its release.

After being introduced, Brat has become a viral sensation on the internet, pushing aside the bright and Barbie-like trend from last year. Younger generations, specifically those under 35, have embraced this new grungy and earthy vibe, declaring it as their “Brat summer.”

But what exactly is a Brat summer? We’re here to fill you in.

What is ‘Brat’ summer?

With its simple, vibrant lime green cover, the Brat movement embraces a rebellious attitude, shunning societal norms and the “clean girl” image for a more uninhibited, wild party spirit.

Brat thrives on the unordered and accepts flaws. It’s a matter of acknowledging and loving every aspect of yourself, regardless of others’ opinions.

In a recent TikTok, Charli XCX herself explained the Brat way of life.

Brat – this summer. 15 songs. 41:23 minutes long. on repeat.

— Charli (@charli_xcx) February 28, 2024

 

She described herself as the girl who enjoys a good time, can be a tad messy and unfiltered at times, and has moments of vulnerability where she may lose control. Yet, she remains authentic and candid, with a tendency to act impulsively.

“But it’s brat. You’re brat. That’s brat.”

As a cinema enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Charli described Brat summer as having the potential to be quite lavish, but also capable of being raw and gritty. Essentially, it could be just a pack of cigarettes, a Bic lighter, and a strappy white top – no bra required.

Picture this scenario at 3 am: You’re lost in the rhythm of a dance party, surrounded by the worn-out bricks of an old East London warehouse. The journey leading you here is hazy in your mind, and the thought of when it’s time to depart feels just as elusive.

Surrounded by hundreds of perspiring, clammy bodies with minimal breathing room, the music’s volume overwhelms you to the point of feeling nauseous.

You’re pondering between asking for another beverage or taking a puff on a cigarette. Your best friend is returning your cheerful grin from across the table. This is the most wonderful night of our lives.

That’s the energy we’re looking for here.

Who is taking part in Brat summer?

Everyone, no matter their fame or status, is welcome to join in on the Brat summer craze. Notably, many celebrities from various backgrounds have jumped on the bandwagon since the album’s release.

An early example of a celebrity experiencing a “Brat phase” was actor Kyle MacLachlan, who is now 65 years old. Known for his parts in Twin Peaks and Dune, MacLachlan has been publicly expressing his affection for Brat on social media lately.

In June, Kyle, the actor, updated his Instagram profile picture to a vibrant green circle bearing only his name. This change was influenced by the cover art of an album. Subsequently, he posted a TikTok video of him listening to a track from the same album. Additionally, he was spotted with Charli XCX herself following her performance at the Boiler Room in Ibiza.

i met mr. brat!

— Charli (@charli_xcx) July 13, 2024

 

Julia Fox, known for her role in Uncut Gems, is arguably the most influential “Brat” celebrity, serving as a major source of inspiration for the it-girl scene during the summer, often mentioned in Charli’s album opener track “360” (“I’m everywhere, I’m just like Julia”).

On social media, Fox has gained significant popularity. She’s recognized not just for her acting abilities and fashion influence, but also for her roles as an author and podcast host. Additionally, her memes, including the widely-shared “I actually did it myself… yeah…,” have gone viral.

She is, indeed, everywhere.

Even presidential candidate Kamala Harris has been embracing her Brat summer.

This week, after Joe Biden withdrew from the presidential contest, Charli XCX expressed her backing for Harris. On social media platform X, she wrote, “Kamala has a fiery and rebellious spirit – just like ‘Brat’!”

Shortly after posting, Kamala Harris’s X campaign account updated its banner with a simple, green background and the phrase ‘Kamala HQ’ inscribed on it.

kamala IS brat

— Charli (@charli_xcx) July 22, 2024

If even the possible future president can have a Brat summer – you sure can.

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2024-07-24 13:34