Charli xcx’s ‘wink’ drops a voluptuous vision of domestic rebellion
Charli XCX isn’t just delivering a new single; she’s unleashing a carefully curated visual statement with ‘Wink,’ a track and accompanying video dripping with a decadent, slightly subversive sensuality.
Strawberry cream and smut: a shift in charli’s aesthetic
The visuals, directed by frequent collaborator Aidan Zamiri, move decisively away from the Aperol Spritz-fueled frenzy of ‘SS26.’ This time, it’s all about plush velvet, lingering glances, and a deliciously defiant embrace of pleasure. ‘Here’s the truth and I gotta be honest, I’m not a bad girl anymore, I promise,’ she sings, and the video mirrors that declaration with a series of increasingly intimate moments – a shift away from the manic energy of her previous work.
Chrome hearts and zinko’s twisted luxury
Styling, led by Chris Horan, plays a crucial role, mirroring the sonic shift. There’s a knowing nod to A.P.C., a brand favored by a particular London aesthetic, but the wardrobe itself feels deliberately off-kilter. We see her sporting a custom turquoise leather racer jacket from Chrome Hearts, a piece boasting a sterling silver crossball snap closure and zippered cuffs – details that speak to an unapologetic embrace of tactile luxury. And the trousers? Boot-cut Chrome Hearts flerknee leg design, a subtly rebellious touch.
A riot of textural detail
But the real star of the visual landscape is Natasha Zinko. Her pieces – ruched blouses, hot pants, and a wilted rose-print mini-dress – are the backbone of the narrative. Zinko, known for her warped takes on classic staples, sent Horan her Drop1 2027 collection, resulting in a carefully considered selection that perfectly embodies Charli’s current aesthetic. We’re talking about a layered, almost overwhelming, richness of texture and form – a deliberate contrast to the lean, minimalist lines of her past. One standout: a shrunken, ruched teal velvety blouse (dubbed the ‘Shrunken Blouska’ by Zinko) paired with black pants and strappy khaki heels.
A star-studded backdrop
The video doesn’t just focus on Charli; it’s layered with references. Behind her, fragments of past performances – ‘party 4 u,’ ‘Pop 2’ – mingle with merchandise, creating a meta-narrative that acknowledges her evolution. The front row of the staged runway show is a testament to her influence, featuring luminaries like Carine Roitfeld, Debra Shaw, and Anthony Vaccarello, alongside industry titans Lucien Pagès and Michel Gauber. The presence of indie designers Benjamin Barron and Bror August Vestbø of August Barron further solidifies her position at the intersection of high Fashion and underground cool.
A calculated rebellion
Ultimately, ‘Wink’ isn’t just a single; it's a declaration. It’s a rejection of expectations, a celebration of self-indulgence, and a potent reminder that sometimes, the most subversive act is simply embracing your desires. And as Charli herself might say, “I’m not a bad girl anymore.”