Unless you’re extremely naive, most internet users will have seen by now the “Brat Summer” movement, which was brought to light by the release of Charli XCX’s latest album, Brat.
Released on June 7th, the album’s cover featured the word “brat” written in lowercase sans-serif font that sounds like it was typed by someone born in the ’90s on a Nokia 360, against an alternative slime green background, suggesting nostalgia, notoriety and non-conformity.
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The album (which sees Charli reflect on friendships, falling outs, rave reviews, insecurities, comparisons, innocence and girl power in her mid-twenties) has received mixed reactions, with many praising the hedonism, fun, freedom and inclusivity of the album – encouraging partying, exploration, sexuality and not giving a damn – while others bemoan the harmful effects of a trend that is seen as glorifying sex, drugs and rock and roll.
But in an “era” of clean-girl-like trends that promote a shiny, shiny “aesthetic,” it turns out to be exactly what a lot of people were looking for: It presents a grungy counter-movement with an emphasis on messy reality.
Since its inception, “Brat Summer” has permeated music, fashion and beauty, becoming a lifestyle for an entire fanbase. But what exactly is Brat Summer Beauty?
What is Brat girl?
As for the official definition of a brat girl, Charli XCX explains it: “Girls who are a little bit messy, who love to party, and who say silly things sometimes. They’re honest, blunt, and a little bit quirky. That’s a brat girl.” Not to be confused with the Bratz dolls of the 2000s, though, this falls somewhere between glam, grunge, and grime.
What are Brat’s summer must-haves?
While speaking with BBC Sound’s Nick Grimshaw, Charlie talked about her brat summer essentials. “It can be a kind of quiet luxury,” she said. Nick remarked, “I’ve seen you on a speedboat. That’s very brat-like.” But then she continued, “It can also be very vulgar. Just a pack of cigarettes and a Bic lighter. No bra, a strappy white top. That’s pretty much all you need.”
But alongside the fashion essentials, we’ve noticed certain themes emerging when putting together summer beauty looks, and we’ve rounded them up below.
