As summer 2024 winds down, one phrase has been echoing across social media, fashion scenes, and party playlists: Brat Summer. Originating from British pop star Charli XCX’s hit album “Brat”, released on June 7, this viral trend has redefined the season with its unapologetic, chaotic, yet infectious energy. So, what exactly does Brat Summer mean? Let’s delve into this phenomenon that has captivated Gen Z and beyond.
The Genesis of Brat Summer
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Charli XCX’s album “Brat” has become more than just a collection of energetic dance-pop tracks; it’s an emblem of a lifestyle. The album immediately caught fans ' attention with its minimalistic cover art featuring the word "brat" in a low-resolution font against a striking lime green background. The signature shade — which Charli humorously noted took 65 shades to finalize — epitomizes the Brat Summer vibe. Officially debuting at #3 on the Billboard charts, the album set the stage for a trend that would ripple far beyond the music industry.
Aesthetic and Attitude
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Brat Summer is all about embracing imperfections, partying hard, and embodying a carefree, rebellious attitude. Characterized by smudged eyeliner, grungy street style, and plenty of Y2K inspiration, it starkly contrasts the polished “clean girl” trend of past summers. For Charli XCX, being a brat means acknowledging one’s flaws, indulging in pleasures, and shunning societal norms. In her own words, it’s being “a little messy, a little volatile, and very honest.”
Fashion-wise, neon green — or “brat green” — has become the season's color. Whether it's slime green merch or strappy white tanks without bras, this look is about uninhibited expression. Staples of the brat wardrobe include combat boots, cheeky bags, and strappy tops, often paired with a laid-back, throwback vibe reminiscent of early 2000s fashion.
Viral Culture and Community
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The Brat Summer trend quickly overtook TikTok, with over 41.2K posts under the hashtag #bratsummer. Fans have embraced chaotic TikTok dances, bold fashion statements, and the pegged-down ethos of not caring. One of the most viral moments came when TikTok creator Kelley Heyer’s dance to "Apple," a track from the album, blew up on the platform. Even Charli XCX got in on the action, performing Heyer's routine, much to the delight of her loyal fans.
Bottom Line
Brat Summer is s a lifestyle philosophy about living in the moment, rejecting societal expectations, and celebrating authenticity. Whether it's showing up at a concert in a hand-bedazzled cigarette case or staying out clubbing all night long, Brat Summer is a call to embrace the messy, unpredictable sides of life.
It’s a trend that fuses the chaotic energy of British pop, the raw aesthetics of grunge and Y2K, and the unabashed joy of living life on your own terms. So, if you find yourself smudging your eyeliner and slipping into slime green attire, you’re not just following a trend; you’re living a Brat Summer.
