Emma Chamberlain Shuns ‘Style It Girl’ Label, Citing Exclusivity Issues
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Emma Chamberlain recently made headlines as she rejected the notion of being the sought-after “It girl” in the fashion world. The 23-year-old YouTuber and entrepreneur expressed her disdain for the label, despite being thrust into the spotlight after appearing in Charli XCX’s music video “360” in May 2024 alongside stars like Chloë Sevigny and Julia Fox.
In an interview with Byrdie published on March 18, Chamberlain voiced her concerns about the term ‘It girl’, stating that she finds it somewhat toxic. She elaborated, “To me, it’s a little exclusionary. I’m not saying I don’t like the concept of an It girl or the actual It girls, but there is something a little exclusionary about it to me that I don’t like. We’re adults! There being It girls makes the internet feel like high school to me.”
Chamberlain further explained that she feels confined by the label, particularly when she is exploring her own identity and style. She highlighted how comments on her appearance can drastically change based on her outfit choices, illustrating the fickleness of public perception. She stated, “[People will call me] an It girl or this hot girl, then if I wear an outfit that’s very much me in the sense that it’s comfortable and maybe a bit less sexy, then it’s like, ‘Emma turned ugly. She’s no longer an It girl.'”
The content creator emphasised the impact of external expectations on her self-expression, revealing the pressure to meet certain standards set by her followers. She acknowledged the disappointment often felt by fans when she deviates from their preconceived notions of her image, but affirmed her commitment to staying true to herself regardless of public opinion.
During the interview, Chamberlain reflected on her journey to stardom since gaining fame on YouTube at the age of 16. She addressed the evolution of her personal brand and the feedback she has received from her audience. She dismissed any notion of reverting to her past self, asserting that she embraces her growth and transformation over the years.
The conversation also touched upon Chamberlain’s recent drastic hair transformation, as she debuted a chic bleached blonde pixie cut with baby bangs at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party on March 2. While discussing her bold new look with Tan France on the red carpet, she shared her excitement for the change and the convenience of having short hair. Chamberlain expressed her satisfaction with the low-maintenance style, explaining, “It’s so much easier to have short hair. I wake up and my hair is just done.”
In conclusion, Emma Chamberlain’s rejection of the “Style It Girl” persona demonstrates her commitment to authenticity and individuality in the face of societal expectations. By challenging traditional labels and embracing her personal growth, she sets an empowering example for her followers and peers in the fashion industry.