Charli xcx’s ‘music, fashion, film’ signals a shift: strawberries, self-pleasure, and chrome hearts
Charli XCX is recalibrating her aesthetic, moving beyond the neon-drenched raves of ‘Brat’ to a decidedly more decadent and self-aware visual world. Her latest single, “Wink Wink,” and its accompanying music video, directed by Aidan Zamiri, is a deliberate departure – a celebration of sensual indulgence and subversive style.
A palette of pleasure
The video unfolds like a fever dream, swapping Aperol Spritzes for strawberries and cream, and dawn-busting parties for private moments of self-discovery. XCX, embodying a newfound confidence, navigates a domestic landscape that subtly shifts into the provocative, culminating in a candid moment of enjoying a Kindle and indulging in a private pleasure. This isn’t rebellion; it’s a reclamation of desire.
Fashion as a confession
Chris Horan’s styling mirrors this shift, prioritizing a tongue-in-cheek, horny sensibility. The visual echoes a particular east London aesthetic, nodding to A.P.C. – a brand suggested by Rostam, a clear acknowledgement of her own evolving style. Instead of showcasing high Fashion, the collection focuses on the texture and the feeling, exemplified by a custom turquoise leather racer jacket from Chrome Hearts, complete with sterling silver crossball snaps and tonal cross detailing. The jacket, previously worn in her “Rock Music” video, is a testament to the enduring power of tactile design.
A cast of curated characters
Natasha Zinko’s pieces – ruched blouses, hot pants, and draped fabrics – consistently populate XCX’s visuals. Horan sourced her latest Drop1 2027 collection, a testament to the designer’s ability to clothe characters with an undeniable, almost cinematic, quality. A standout is a wilted rose-print mini-dress, paired with a N.Z. white corseted blouse and hot pink bra, showcasing Zinko’s signature warped silhouettes and unexpected fabric combinations. The video itself is layered with references – from a 2018 Pop 2 performance to archival footage from “party 4 u,” creating a meta-narrative that’s both playful and intensely personal.
Details matter
Beyond the overarching aesthetic, the specifics are crucial. The custom Chrome Hearts jacket, the Fleur de Mal rose-pink bra, the meticulously arranged laundry – each element contributes to the video’s carefully constructed atmosphere. It’s a portrait of a woman in control of her desires, unafraid to embrace her sensuality, and utterly unapologetic about it. This is Charli XCX at her most compelling – a masterclass in controlled chaos and deliciously subversive style.
A ysl ambassador’s vision
The video’s front row boasts a who’s who of the industry: Carine Roitfeld, Debra Shaw, Anthony Vaccarello (recently appointed as YSL beauty ambassador), and Lucien Pagès. It’s a scene steeped in history and influence, reflecting XCX’s growing presence on the global stage. The shift signals not just a change in visual direction, but a strategic repositioning, one that’s both alluring and undeniably intelligent.