Keep it Real: Authenticity is Key

One of the reasons Brat Summer spread faster than shave ice on a hot day was Charli XCX's raw authenticity. She didn’t worry about looking perfect—she just showed up as her unfiltered, unapologetic self. And guess what? Her fans loved it. In today’s world, people crave that realness. They can smell fake a mile away. So, if you want to connect with your customers, drop the corporate talk and just stay pono—true to who you are and what you stand for. Show the messy side, the hustle, the grind—people respect that.

Build Your ‘Ohana Online

Charli didn’t just create a campaign; she nurtured a community. She got her fans involved in the journey by letting them co-create content. Whether it was through TikTok challenges or sharing their own "Brat Summer" moments, it felt personal and interactive. That’s something any small business can learn from. You don’t need a million-dollar budget to get your audience engaged. Ask for their stories, highlight their experiences, and let them be part of your journey. Social media is all about creating a two-way street, not just shouting into the void.

Let Influencers Help You Out

Brat Summer tapped into the influencer scene big time. From TikTok creators to celebs like Daisy Edgar-Jones, Charli got people talking about her album. Even if you’re running a local bakery or a surf shop, there are micro-influencers right in your community who can boost your brand. Get creative, find the voices that fit your vibe, and let them amplify your story.

Nostalgia Sells, So Look to Your Roots

One killer part of Charli's campaign was the way it tapped into a vibe that reminded people of 2000s rebelliousness and carefree energy. That kind of nostalgia, combined with today’s trends, struck a major chord. If you’re trying to stand out, take a look at your own story. Maybe it’s the local flavors, ohana, or the throwback to old-school island traditions. Don’t be afraid to mix what’s trending now with the deep cultural roots that make your brand special.

Cross Generations Like a Pro

What was genius about Brat Summer was how it appealed to multiple generations. The Gen Z crowd loved the chaos and rebellion, while millennials connected with the early 2000s throwback. As a small business, if you can bridge the gap between different customer bases, you’ve got a winning strategy. Try offering products or experiences that speak to younger audiences while also bringing in elements that older generations can appreciate.

Simplicity is Golden

You don’t need flashy, over-the-top visuals to make an impact. Brat Summer’s lime-green color and simple designs cut through the noise. Whether you’re reworking your logo, updating your website, or printing new menus, keep it simple. People love clear, bold branding. It’s easier to remember and share. Plus, it makes your life easier, too. No need to stress all over trying to be fancy. Sometimes the simplest look is the most effective.

Give the Control to Your Audience

One of the biggest takeaways from Brat Summer is this: let your customers tell the story. Charli XCX didn’t try to control the narrative; she let her fans take the wheel. You can do the same. When your customers share your business online, they become your biggest advocates. You just have to give them the tools—whether that’s with hashtag campaigns, contests, or simply encouraging reviews.What Now? Brat Autumn?

Focus on being real, building community, keeping things simple, and letting your customers be the heart of your business.

So what’s next? Charli’s fans are already wondering if there’s a Brat Fall coming. But the real question for you, as a business owner, is what’s your next move? The lesson from Brat Summer is that the best marketing isn’t top-down; it’s about creating a movement where your customers are the ones driving the bus.

Even though Brat Summer has wrapped up, the essence of its strategy is something you can carry forward. Focus on being real, building community, keeping things simple, and letting your customers be the heart of your business. That’s the way to ride the wave to success in 2025 and beyond.

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