How would you define the look of ‘Brat summer’ – the phrase inspired by Charli XCX after dropping this year’s most re-playable record ? It's not easy to define in clear terms. That’s because it’s less of a look and more of a general vibe. Motorcycle jackets and nothing underneath.
Tiny shades (or huge ones!). Tramp stamps. Maybe a Von Dutch cap pulled down low.
Sweat and poppers and jock straps and Marlboro reds and traipsing through Dalston at 2AM dressed like you’ve just walked off the set of Furiosa . Charli XCX herself defined Brat summer as “a pack of cigs, a Bic lighter and a strappy white top with no bra.” Essentially: hedonism, fun and an Aperol spritz to-go.
Or, as she drawls herself in “ 360 ”: “ That city sewer slut's the vibe / Internationally recognised. ” A perfect storm of himbos, hotness and health kicks have given short shorts eternal life. We break down the science But Brat summer didn't just randomly show-up, and it didn't just arrive solely thanks to XCX's Brat .
We were already sort of hurtling that way. This summer feels like what last summer was supposed to feel like, post-post-lockdown. Pop music has never sounded better.
Nightlife is having an unexpected renaissance (is it just me, or is everyone a DJ again?). And the cleaner, preppier looks that defined the colder months have been replaced by all manner of slutty little items: short shorts, leopard print, glitter, low-rise jeans and vests that make your arms pop. It's the Ro.
