Charli XCX has become a prominent figure in both the music and fashion industries, with her unique sense of personal style becoming just as recognizable as her music. Through her collaborations with producer Sophie Xeon, who sadly passed away in 2021, she has crafted a signature synthed-out auto-tuned sound that has garnered widespread critical acclaim. Her sexy, grungy, club-rat style has become innately associated with the hyperpop genre, influencing other artists such as Slayyyter, Rico Nasty, Kim Petras, The Dare, Rebecca Black, and Dorian Electra to adopt similar style codes including leather, metal hardware, wraparound sunglasses, and stone-wash denim.
While Charli XCX is often seen sporting leather and low-waisted jeans, other hyperpop stars like Kim Petras and Rico Nasty have put their own unique spins on the aesthetic. Petras, for example, has been spotted wearing stone-wash denim microshorts over fishnet tights paired with a leather bustier, while Rico Nasty has embraced a leather bandeau held together by a gold bull ring with a leather garter belt. Statement accessories play a crucial role in completing the hyperpop look, with Charli often seen sporting black wraparound shades and pointy-toe heels that complement her eclectic wardrobe. Similarly, The Dare, known for producing “Guess” from the extended cut of Brat, is recognized for his signature black necktie.
As Charli XCX continues to dominate the music scene with her unique sound and style, her influence extends beyond just the hyperpop genre. Her appearances at events like the Met Gala and fashion weeks have solidified her status as a fashion icon, with fans and fellow artists looking to her for inspiration on how to rebrand their own careers with a fresh sound and look. While her collaborations with Sophie Xeon were instrumental in shaping her current sound, Charli’s personal style plays a significant role in defining her artistic identity and overall image.
The fusion of fashion and music has become a defining characteristic of the hyperpop genre, with artists like Charli XCX using their personal style to enhance their creative expression. In a world where image and branding are often as important as the music itself, embracing a unique and innovative aesthetic can help artists stand out and connect with audiences in a meaningful way. By experimenting with different textures, silhouettes, and accessories, hyperpop stars can create a visual identity that complements their music and reinforces their overall artistic vision.
The incorporation of leather, metal hardware, wraparound sunglasses, and stone-wash denim into the hyperpop aesthetic reflects a rebellious and edgy attitude that resonates with the genre’s themes of individuality and self-expression. Whether it’s Charli XCX’s grungy club-rat style or Kim Petras’ bold fashion choices, hyperpop artists are pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion norms and paving the way for a new era of experimental and boundary-pushing style. As fans continue to embrace the genre’s unique blend of music and fashion, hyperpop stars have the opportunity to use their personal style as a tool for self-expression and artistic exploration.
