Your guide to 'brat' summer:
1. Become an 'it girl'
2. Reclaim fashion for self-expression
3. Connect with your chosen family
Charli XCX told the world that "kamala IS brat"
The entire future was rewritten and the world changed over night. Nothing was ever the same. But it's only been a few hours so i guess i have to prove it or something…
Gen Z is navigating a complex world, facing pressures previous generations couldn't have imagined. The constant barrage of perfectly curated online lives can feel suffocating, leading to anxiety, self-doubt, and a constant need for validation. But amidst the noise, a new wave of self-expression is emerging, one that embraces imperfection and throws out the rulebook: Brattitude.
Charli XCX's BRAT album, a veritable anthem for the "It Girl" era, perfectly encapsulates this energy. More than just a collection of catchy tunes, BRAT is a love letter to internet meme culture and the unapologetic spirit of self-expression that defines Gen Z. As Charli sings in "360," "I don't f-ing care what you think," perfectly capturing the essence of this movement.
But how does this translate to better mental health for Gen Z?
Photo: @chrishoran20 via Instagram
Ditching the "Good Girl" Act
For too long, young women especially have been conditioned to be agreeable, polite, and put everyone else's needs before their own. "Brattitude" encourages them to break free from these restrictive norms and embrace their authentic selves, even the messy, "imperfect" parts. It's about setting boundaries, saying "no" without guilt, and prioritizing their well-being. And what better way to express this newfound freedom than through fashion? Dressing "bratty" – think micro-skirts, band tees, and a healthy dose of Y2K – is about more than just aesthetics; it's a powerful statement of self-expression and a celebration of female friendship. It's about reclaiming traditionally "girly" aesthetics and subverting them, creating a new kind of female empowerment. The girls, gays, and theys "bratposting" their outfits for themselves and their chosen families online is a testament to this new age of self-love and acceptance.
Photo: @juliafox via Instagram
Turning Vulnerability into Power
As Charli explores in "Sympathy is a knife," "Brattitude" isn't about suppressing emotions; it's about expressing them authentically, without apology. This raw honesty can be incredibly empowering, allowing Gen Z to connect with others and build genuine relationships. And who embodies this better than Julia Fox? A former dominatrix turned hyper-socialite, Fox, who Charli herself references in her song singing "Im so Julia," embodies the "don't give a f" energy while simultaneously being incredibly open and vulnerable about her life and struggles. This raw honesty is what makes "Brattitude" so powerful and appealing.
Finding Strength in Community
"Brattitude" isn't about solitary rebellion; it's about finding your tribe and embracing shared experiences. As Charli sings in "I might say something stupid," it's about navigating the ups and downs of life with your "ride or die" besties by your side. This sense of belonging and community is crucial for mental well-being, offering a safe space to be vulnerable and supported.
Photo: The Australian
This potent mix of authenticity and defiance has even reached the political sphere. Even Vice President Kamala Harris, known for her powerful speeches and advocacy for equity, has been swept up in the "Brattitude" wave. With Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race, all eyes are on 'Momala' Harris and her campaign. Her now-iconic "coconut tree" quote, initially met with criticism, has been reclaimed by Gen Z on platforms like TikTok, transforming it into a symbol of authenticity and resilience for people of color and queer folks.
The "coconut tree" meme, much like Charli XCX's lyrics "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree," highlights how "Brattitude" is about owning your heritage and using your voice, even when it's uncomfortable. It's about challenging the status quo and demanding better for yourself and your community.
Photo: TND/AAP
In a world that often feels overwhelming, "Brattitude" offers Gen Z a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of life. It's a reminder that it's okay to be loud, to be bold, and to be unapologetically yourself. And maybe, just maybe, that's exactly what Gen Z needs to not just survive, but thrive.
Brat culture is here to stay.
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