Why 'Brat Girl Summer' is the Empowerment Movement Every Young Woman Needs Right Now!
Photo Illustration by Lozafina x DALL-E
Charli XCX has set the tone for Summer 2024 with her album "Brat," even though Taylor Swift edged her out of the top chart spot. To be a brat girl, as her sixth album states, is to be a cult classic, not a mass-media hit.
The term "brat girl summer" has been trending, and it's not what you might think. Inspired by Charli XCX's album "Brat" and artists like Sabrina Carpenter, this movement encourages girls to unapologetically be themselves, embracing their individuality with confidence and attitude. Charli reclaims the term "brat," turning it into a symbol of empowerment. The mantra is to "have attitude, but not an attitude problem" and to "let their freak flag fly without ever feeling the need to apologize for it."
The brat campaign has exceeded expectations, with brands from Duolingo to corporate giants jumping on the viral trend. Charli's style, defined by either boyish and baggy or streamlined and simple looks, has become iconic. It's effortless, always from YSL or The Row, embodying the essence of brat.
Charli's public persona is one of unapologetic sass and confidence, but those who know her describe her as the nicest, politest British person. This duality breeds the best creativity, as she lets everyone do their job.
So how does one embrace the "Brat Girl" Identity?
To explore this idea further, we've brought in some experts to weigh in on the positives and negatives of embracing the "brat girl" identity and the overall trend. Is this movement ultimately empowering young girls, helping them build confidence, self-esteem, and their voice?
Let’s start with Promise Lloyd, a 22-year-old Omaha college student approaching her final semester, photographed above.
“I have a combo that I built over the years that has made me unapologetically myself,” Lloyd said. “It starts with the hair (which always constantly changes); then we gotta shave and tint the brows, and finally, to top off the natural look, lashes, and gloss. Muah a look!”
Promise is such a vibe - and expresses exactly what the “brat girl” movement is all about.
“Accessorize. Accessorize. ACCESSORIZE,” Michelle Vega, a 22-year-old recent college grad chimed in! “I feel like adding accessories can do the most to elevate an outfit; rings, shades, glitter. If I’m not jingle-and-jangling when I’m out, I’m not doing it right!”
Yes, Vega! That’s what we’re talking about. Look at those photos above. She’s such a vibe.
“At the end of the day, if you look good, you feel good,” she added. “So, line your lips and gloss up. Or don’t. Everybody has their thing, but confidence looks good on everyone."
Let’s learn more positives from more amazing brats!
Empowerment and Confidence: The "brat girl" movement encourages young girls to embrace their true selves without fear of judgment. This can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence, as they learn to value their individuality and stand up for themselves.
“I am a loving carefree person. I admire adventure and always want to have fun,” said Yaretzy Soto Garcia, 17. “Style is also a huge thing for me. I tolerate no negativity.”
Dancing in the rain is the epitome of brat girl vibes—fearless, fun, and fabulously unbothered by anyone’s opinion. Way to go, Yaretzy! We see you in those photos above!
Self-Expression: By taking back the term "brat," girls are given a platform to express their uniqueness. This self-expression can be a powerful tool for personal growth and creativity.
Katelyn Fryzek
“I feel empowered when I am wearing a cute outfit and I am listening to upbeat music,” said Katelyn Fryzek, 17. For me, a cute outfit usually means lots of jewelry and my Converse. It just makes me feel like myself and gives me a way to express who I am. I also would say music is a huge confidence booster because it is such a big part of who I am. I am constantly listening to music. It just immediately uplifts my mood and energizes me to take on the world.”
Breaking Stereotypes: The movement challenges traditional gender norms and stereotypes, promoting a more inclusive and diverse understanding of what it means to be a girl. This shift is resonating with many young women who are finding new ways to express their confidence and individuality.
For example, take Valeria Gutiérrez Soto, a 16-year-old high school volleyball player, photographed above said:
"What makes me is volleyball. 'You can do it. Pray to God and you’ll be fine. Have the confidence and don’t drag yourself down.' That’s what I tell myself before I step on the court,” Gutiérrez Soto said. “I try to be positive to play well. When I wear my volleyball uniform, I feel cool and like I’m in the spotlight, even though my teammates are wearing the same uniform. But I still feel cool!"
Well, you can’t be a brat without identifying the negatives.
There is a risk that the term "brat" could be misinterpreted or taken to an extreme, leading to negative behaviors or attitudes.
Young girls need to understand the difference between confidence and rudeness. Confidence is about believing in yourself and your abilities, speaking up for what you believe in, and standing your ground with grace and respect, Sahory Martinez, 18, said.
Rudeness, on the other hand, disregards the feelings and perspectives of others, often leading to unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.
Martinez, photographed below, believes by embracing confidence with kindness and empathy, young girls can empower themselves and those around them, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.
“I live not to exist but to experience,” Martinez, explained. “I tell myself this because I believe that there are times when we forget to fully live our lives and condense ourselves. It helps bring out my confidence and reminds me that I shouldn't be afraid of anything new.”
Ah, the cultural impact of the "Brat Girl Summer" campaign is taking shape and inspiring a generation to be bold, outspoken, and unapologetically themselves - and that’s worth celebrating!