Podcast Summary: The Run-Through with Vogue
Episode: Styling Charli XCX’s Brat Universe with Chris Horan
Release Date: February 4, 2025

Introduction

In this captivating episode of The Run-Through with Vogue, host Jose Cria de Sota sits down with the visionary stylist Chris Horan to delve into the creative journey behind Charli XCX’s groundbreaking Brat Universe. Recorded amidst the backdrop of the devastating LA fires, the conversation not only highlights Chris's professional achievements but also underscores his and his partner Pete's community-driven efforts during a time of crisis.

Guest Introduction: Chris Horan

Chris Horan, renowned for his transformative styling of Charli XCX, brings a wealth of experience from his early days in the fashion industry. As Jose introduces him, Chris shares a glimpse into his current situation:

Chris Horan [01:16]: “I'm good, all things considered. So I'm safe and Pete is safe and we're staying at a friend's house up north. So we're good, I think. Yeah, we're really grateful.”

Community Activism Amid Crisis

The discussion begins with Chris and Pete’s proactive role in aiding communities affected by the LA fires. Chris emphasizes the power of collaboration:

Chris Horan [01:47]: “We all kind of joined efforts and that has actually turned into this huge, massive thing where like the Palladium and Milk studios and people have offered to give space...”

He further elaborates on Pete’s focus on supporting displaced black and brown families, highlighting the positive impact of their collective efforts during challenging times.

Transition into Styling: From Disney to Charli XCX

Chris narrates his unconventional entry into the styling world, contrasting it with the more traditional paths of magazine editing or design:

Chris Horan [04:55]: “Mine is the worst story, I think, because mine is so not normal. I feel like I'm a good story, though...”

He recounts his initial stint as an assistant to a family friend stylist and his subsequent work with Disney stars, which laid the foundation for his career. This early experience with clients like Debby Ryan and Rowan Blanchard fostered his confidence and established his reputation.

Building Relationships and Expanding Influence

Chris underscores the significance of relationships in the fashion industry, describing how word-of-mouth and personal connections propelled his career beyond Disney into high-profile projects with Charli XCX and others:

Chris Horan [10:37]: “It's a lot about relationships is the biggest thing. And I think in general, like, relationships help you get new clients, but also relationships...”

He highlights key moments where styling Rowan Blanchard led to opportunities with other influential figures like Barbie Ferreira and Chelsea Peretti, ultimately culminating in his collaboration with Charli XCX.

Crafting the Brat Universe: Aesthetic and Brand Collaborations

The core of the conversation revolves around the creation and evolution of the Brat Universe. Jose references a Vogue Runway industry poll that named Charli XCX the best-dressed performer, attributing much of this acclaim to Chris’s styling prowess:

Jose Cria de Sota [13:43]: "...Chris styling Charlie sort of was able to fold in so many brands that we love into the Brat universe..."

Chris explains the organic growth of the Brat aesthetic, emphasizing the integration of diverse brands like Rodarte into performances and music videos:

Chris Horan [14:52]: “We were going to just do one outfit per show. And so in my mind... we kind of were like, okay, we'll, like, ask the people... and it just snowballed...”

He credits established relationships and the momentum built over the years for the seamless incorporation of various fashion labels into Charli’s unique style narrative.

Iconic Moments: Halloween Costume and SNL Performance

Halloween Costume: Jose shares excitement about her Charli XCX Halloween costume, designed with Chris’s guidance:

Jose Cria de Sota [19:48]: “So, like, what was that transition? ...I had to wear two, what should I do?... you literally told me like, you were like, girl, first of all, like, you just need a wine stained tank top, literally, and some black tights.”

Chris praises the simplicity and recognizability of the costume, making it a viral favorite:

Chris Horan [20:02]: “I think it was it was so easy to make costumes... it really helped us with our numbers.”

SNL Performance: The conversation shifts to Charli’s SNL performance, where she wore a Gucci handbag—a choice that sparked discussions about practicality and sponsorships. Jose inquires about the decision-making process behind this unexpected accessory.

Chris Horan [22:16]: “Originally, like, I thought it would have been, like, really, like, bitchy and funny for her to have, like, a fur stole...”

Chris clarifies that the handbag was a personal choice rather than a sponsored item:

Chris Horan [23:18]: “It's my personal one. Like, this is why I think it's so funny, because there's like... no, it wasn't.”

He further defends the authenticity of the accessory, stressing the balance between functionality and style:

Chris Horan [25:27]: “I think a lot of times people are like, do you want people's endorsements to impede on their art… but there's a push and pull here.”

Embracing Accessibility and Pop Culture Influence

Chris discusses the accessibility of the Brat aesthetic, noting how its simplicity allows fans to easily emulate Charli’s style:

Chris Horan [18:25]: “No, we set out to be like... it's really like down casual... it kind of knew that it was a lot more accessible just because that's what we were playing.”

He appreciates witnessing fans recreate the looks, reinforcing the realness and relatability of Charli’s style:

Chris Horan [19:31]: “Nothing more exciting than seeing people creating outfits inspired by Charli.”

Logistics of High-Profile Styling

Jose expresses curiosity about the logistics behind managing multiple wardrobe changes for events like the Grammys. Chris provides an insider’s view of the backstage chaos:

Chris Horan [33:40]: “We're in one. The next one over is like, JLo. So you're seeing all the same glam teams...”

He humorously describes the cramped and hectic environment stylists navigate to ensure seamless outfit transitions:

Chris Horan [34:50]: “I'm only know this from doing this last night with Charlie... it's like, everyone's in the same space, and everyone's going to these little sections.”

Balancing Personal Style with Professional Demands

When asked about his own red carpet choices, Chris shares his approach to balancing comfort and style:

Chris Horan [38:22]: “The only decision I made was like, I don't want to wear a full suit because I'm going to be, like, running or, like, crouching.”

He opts for practical yet festive pieces that allow him to move freely while maintaining a polished appearance:

Chris Horan [38:34]: “I was like, it feels festive.”

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Jose and Chris reflect on the success of Charli XCX’s Brat Universe and the collective efforts that made it a cultural phenomenon. Chris’s dedication to authenticity, community, and creative collaboration emerges as the cornerstone of his styling philosophy.

Jose Cria de Sota [38:57]: “We all had a great night because of her.”

Chris concludes with pride, acknowledging Charli’s artistic triumphs:

Chris Horan [38:57]: “Three time Grammy winner, Charlie, period.”

Key Takeaways

• Community Engagement: Chris and Pete’s active role in supporting communities during crises exemplifies the positive influence of fashion professionals beyond styling.

• Relationship Building: Success in the fashion industry heavily relies on building and maintaining strong relationships, which can lead to unexpected opportunities.

• Authentic Aesthetic: The Brat Universe thrives on its accessible and relatable style, allowing fans to effortlessly emulate Charli XCX’s looks.

• Balancing Art and Commerce: Navigating endorsements and brand collaborations requires a delicate balance to maintain artistic integrity while supporting financial needs.

• Behind-the-Scenes Logistics: High-profile events involve intricate logistical planning to manage multiple wardrobe changes efficiently.

Notable Quotes

• Chris Horan [01:47]: “We all kind of joined efforts and that has actually turned into this huge, massive thing...”

• Chris Horan [04:55]: “Mine is the worst story, I think, because mine is so not normal. I feel like I'm a good story, though...”

• Chris Horan [10:37]: “It's a lot about relationships is the biggest thing. And I think in general, like, relationships help you get new clients...”

• Jose Cria de Sota [13:43]: "...Chris styling Charlie sort of was able to fold in so many brands that we love into the Brat universe..."

• Chris Horan [14:52]: “We were going to just do one outfit per show... and it just snowballed...”

• Chris Horan [18:25]: “No, we set out to be like... it's really like down casual...”

• Chris Horan [22:16]: “Originally, like, I thought it would have been, like, really, like, bitchy and funny for her to have, like, a fur stole...”

• Chris Horan [25:27]: “I think a lot of times people are like, do you want people's endorsements to impede on their art…”

• Chris Horan [33:40]: “We're in one. The next one over is like, JLo...”

• Chris Horan [38:34]: “I was like, it feels festive.”

• Chris Horan [38:57]: “Three time Grammy winner, Charlie, period.”

This episode offers an insightful exploration of the intricate blend of creativity, strategy, and community spirit that defines Chris Horan’s approach to styling Charli XCX. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes workings of high-profile styling, this conversation provides valuable perspectives and inspiration.