Charli xcx’s ‘wink’ drops a summer of sticky secrets and leather

Charli XCX is serving a deliciously decadent dose of hedonism with her latest single, ‘Wink,’ a visual that throws aside the carefully curated aesthetics of ‘SS26’ for a gloriously messy, sun-drenched exploration of desire and domesticity.

Strawberry cream & shadow play

Forget Aperol Spritzes and midnight raves; Aidan Zamiri’s direction for ‘Wink’ revels in the languid pleasures of strawberries and cream, self-pleasure, and a healthy dose of unapologetic indulgence. The song itself, featuring lines like “Here’s the truth and I gotta be honest, I’m not a bad girl anymore, I promise,” sets the stage for a slow burn of sensual rebellion.

Chrome hearts & a.p.c. – a sartorial shift

Stylist Chris Horan has delivered a look that’s both deeply rooted in her established aesthetic and surprisingly subversive. We see Charli sporting a custom turquoise leather racer jacket from Chrome Hearts – a closer inspection reveals sterling silver crossball snaps, zippered cuffs, and tonal cross patches. It’s a statement piece, juxtaposed with a deliberately undone feel. Interestingly, she’s traded the usual A.P.C. for a nod to her London scene, citing Rostam’s critique – “My friend Rostam told me I dressed like a slut, so now I shop at A.P.C.” – a wonderfully blunt admission of influence.

A zinko-fueled palette of pleasure

The supporting cast of designers, including Natasha Zinko and August Barron, contribute to this atmosphere of tactile indulgence. Zinko’s ruched blouses and hot pants – a signature Charli silhouette – are layered with wilted rose-print mini-dresses and a ‘Shrunken Blouska’ in teal velvet, creating a visually rich and undeniably alluring tableau. Horan’s Instagram Stories showcase a carefully curated collection of pieces spanning her discography – a ruffled lilac crop top, polka-dot silk scarves, and even merch from her Brat era.

A runway of rebellion

The ‘SS26’ visual established a powerful guest list, with Carine Roitfeld, Debra Shaw, and Anthony Vaccarello in the front row. ‘Wink’ leans into a more self-referential vibe, a knowing wink to the Fashion industry itself. It’s a celebration of the slightly silly, the undeniably sexy, and a testament to Charli’s ability to maintain a playful edge even amidst high-profile collaborations. This isn’t just a music video; it’s a carefully constructed mood – and a potent reminder of Charli XCX’s unapologetic embrace of pleasure.