Learn the secrets behind creating authentic Brat-style content that goes viral. From design principles to social media strategy.
π― Step-by-Stepπ₯ Viral Tipsπ¨ Design Secretsπ± Social Strategy
1Understanding the Brat Aesthetic
The Brat aesthetic, popularized by Charli XCX's groundbreaking album, represents a bold, anti-design movement that embraces rawness and authenticity. It's characterized by:
brat
Key Elements:
Iconic lime green background (#8ACE00)
Bold, lowercase typography
Arial Black or similar sans-serif fonts
High contrast for readability
Deliberately simple, anti-polished look
Authentic, DIY aesthetic
Pro Tip
The beauty of Brat style lies in its simplicity. Don't over-complicate your designs. The most viral Brat content often uses the most basic elements.
High contrast between text and background ensures your message is readable and impactful.
high contrast
low contrast
2. Hierarchy Through Size
Use font size to create visual hierarchy. Most important words should be largest.
3. Negative Space Usage
Don't fill every pixel. Strategic use of empty space makes your message more powerful.
Common Mistake
Avoid using too many colors or effects in one design. Brat style is about bold simplicity, not rainbow chaos.
3Color Psychology & Palette
Colors in Brat style aren't just aesthetic choicesβthey convey emotion and energy:
Original Brat
#8ACE00
The iconic Brat green. Use for authentic recreations.
Hot Pink
#FF69B4
Perfect for bold, feminine energy statements.
Black + Green
#000000
High contrast combo for maximum impact.
Gold Rush
#FFD700
For luxury and achievement themes.
Power Red
#DC143C
Ideal for political or urgent messages.
Purple Rain
#9370DB
Creative and mystical vibes.
Color Selection Strategy
Choose colors based on your message's emotion: Green for authentic/natural, Pink for playful/feminine, Black for serious/dramatic, Red for urgent/political.
4Typography Mastery
Typography in Brat style is about bold simplicity and authentic expression:
Font Hierarchy
arial black
Best Font Choices:
Arial Black - The official Brat font
Helvetica Bold - Clean alternative
Impact - For maximum boldness
Verdana Bold - Web-safe option
Text Transformation Rules
// Brat Style Text Rules:
1. lowercase = authentic brat energy β
2. UPPERCASE = shouty energy (use sparingly)
3. Capitalize = formal (avoid for true brat aesthetic)
4. Mixed case = chaotic energy (trendy but less authentic)
// Examples:
β "very mindful" // Perfect brat lowercase
β "VOTE NOW" // Acceptable for urgent messages
β "Very Mindful" // Too formal, not brat
β "vErY mInDfUl" // Too chaotic, hard to read
Letter Spacing & Line Height
Proper spacing enhances readability and visual impact:
s p a c e d o u t
squished together
5Visual Effects & Enhancements
While Brat style is minimalist, strategic effects can enhance your message:
Drop Shadows
subtle shadow
When to Use:
Light text on light backgrounds
To add depth without complexity
For readability on busy backgrounds
Text Outlines
outlined text
Best Practices:
Use contrasting outline colors
Keep stroke width minimal (1-3px)
Perfect for complex backgrounds
Effect Overload Warning
Avoid using multiple effects simultaneously. Choose one effect that best serves your message's purpose.
6Creating Viral Content
Understanding what makes Brat content go viral is key to social media success:
Viral Content Patterns
π³οΈ Political Commentary
"kamala IS brat" became viral by connecting politics with pop culture in an unexpected way.
π΅ Song Lyrics
Direct Charli XCX quotes resonate with fans and feel authentic to the source material.
π¬ Relatable Phrases
"very mindful, very demure" works because it captures a universal feeling in Brat style.
β¨ Self-Empowerment
Messages about confidence and authenticity align perfectly with Brat's core values.
Timing Your Posts
Optimal Posting Strategy
Best Times: 6-9 PM EST on weekdays, 12-3 PM on weekends Platform Peak Hours: TikTok (6-10 PM), Instagram (11 AM-1 PM, 7-9 PM), Twitter (9 AM-10 AM, 7-9 PM) Trending Moments: Jump on current events, memes, or cultural moments quickly
Each social media platform requires tailored approaches for maximum impact:
Instagram Strategy
perfect square format
Instagram Best Practices:
Format: 1080x1080px squares
Stories: 1080x1920px vertical
Timing: Post 11 AM-1 PM, 7-9 PM
Captions: Keep short, use emojis
Hashtags: Mix trending + niche tags
TikTok Strategy
vertical content
9:16 ratio
TikTok Best Practices:
Format: 1080x1920px vertical
Duration: 15-30 seconds ideal
Music: Use trending Charli XCX tracks
Text: Large, readable fonts
Trends: Jump on current challenges
Twitter/X Strategy
Twitter Success Formula
Image: 1200x675px horizontal works best Text: Keep under 240 characters for engagement Timing: Tweet during breaking news or trending topics Engagement: Reply to popular accounts with Brat responses
π― Interactive Practice
Try creating different Brat styles with these quick examples:
7Platform-Specific Strategies
Each social media platform requires tailored approaches for maximum impact:
Instagram Strategy
Instagram Best Practices:
TikTok Strategy
TikTok Best Practices:
Twitter/X Strategy
Twitter Success Formula
Image: 1200x675px horizontal works best
Text: Keep under 240 characters for engagement
Timing: Tweet during breaking news or trending topics
Engagement: Reply to popular accounts with Brat responses