We all know fashion is cyclical, and the latest trend making a comeback is none other than indie sleaze. Information that probably won’t come as much of a surprise, given the warning signs have been around for a while now. Charli XCX’s Brat Girl Summer was one of the first indicators—the no bra, white tank top and smudged eyeliner uniform is almost identical to that of the grunge aesthetic of indie sleaze.
For further confirmation, you need only to look at Cara Delevingne’s latest outfit. The model-turned-actress attended the Ocean With David Attenborough World Premiere at The Royal Festival Hall in London on Tuesday, May 6, wearing an ensemble that was peak indie sleaze. Specifically, a totally transparent silver mesh maxi dress that featured a dangerously plunging neckline, with Cara opting to go braless.
Perhaps the most indie sleaze aspect of her look was the fact her lacy black thong was on full display, clearly seen through the see-through fabric.
Cara layered a long black blazer over the top of the risqué design, adding dark green velvet platform heels on her feet. She accessorized with a quirky statement necklace that depicted a bird in flight with three crystal pendants suspended from its wings.
Cara and Charli aren’t the only celebrities repping the indie sleaze look in 2025. Olivia Rodrigo has crafted a distinct grunge wardrobe both on and off stage that aligns perfectly with her pop punk music.
Similarly, Addison Rae is embracing a “messy girl” undone vibe as she takes to Instagram to post filtered selfies wearing wired headphones in aid of promoting her soon-to-be-released album. As much as fashion played a large role in the initial indie sleaze movement, it was intrinsically linked to music, so it’s no wonder many artists are tapping into the revival.
Outside of music, all around icon Julia Fox is another A-lister giving indie sleaze new meaning in 2025, along with models of the moment Lila Moss and Amelia Gray. But the most surprising celeb backer is Timothée Chalamet.
The press tour for his latest film, A Complete Unknown, in which Timmy portrays a 19-year-old Bob Dylan, saw him don skinny jeans, leather suits, full tracksuits and most significantly, an Alexander McQueen skull scarf earlier this year.
Worn in the early ’00s by everyone from the Olsen twins and Lindsay Lohan to Nicole Richie and Lily Allen, there is perhaps no better visual signifier of indie sleaze than the skull scarf that first appeared in McQueen’s spring/summer 2003 collection.
Whether you’ll be following suit on the fashion front or not, consider this your green light to embrace a bit of messiness.
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