Addison Rae Is the New Princess of Pop

Addison Rae Is the New Princess of Pop

By Kamryn Reed — April 25, 2025

Since her start as a TikTok influencer, Addison Rae has developed into a diverse artist,  recently adopting a daring new character. Her entry into the “cool girl” era is characterized by an intersection of modern aesthetics and nostalgic early 2000s pop culture, exhibiting an assured and unapologetic style that shows her development as an artist.

Recent singles such as “Diet Pepsi” and “Aquamarine,” which have been praised for their professional production and appealing hooks, represent an important turning point in Rae's musical career. Rae has embraced more sophisticated influences, blending dance-pop and deep house into her songs, deviating from the bubblegum-pop sound of her debut. This change not only demonstrates her adaptability but also a bolder, more refined approach to creating her art.  

By incorporating modern production techniques and borrowing inspiration from early 2000s pop icons like Britney Spears, Rae's music successfully strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernism. Her sensual voice and emotive melodies create a sound that is both familiar and unique, mirroring Lana Del Rey's sorrowful charm. The blend of contemporary style and vintage elements highlights Rae's capacity to reinvent herself while honoring the past.

Rae made an unforgettable impression at the 2024 VMAs with her showgirl-inspired attire, which included sheer fabric and a feathered bra that exuded confidence and glamour. This vivid ensemble not only demonstrated her developing sense of style but also represented an honest embracing of her new look. 

Rae frequently sports low-rise jeans, baby tees, and miniskirts, naturally channeling Y2K vibes. Her “High Fashion” music video further solidified this aesthetic by merging retro and elegant imagery from the Tumblr era. 

With her look and music becoming more confident and courageous, Rae's rebranding demonstrates a renewed self-assurance. By presenting herself as a pop icon with a unique artistic vision, Rae has embraced her music career, moving beyond TikTok. Her wish to be regarded as a versatile artist who isn't scared to take chances and reinvent herself is demonstrated by her metamorphosis.

Rae’s ability to find a balance between current trends and nostalgic references is seen through her successful rebranding. She has maintained her relevance while creating a unique identity as an artist by adopting a more sophisticated sound and bolder wardrobe choices. 

Keep reading Square Magazine to stay up to date on all things fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, and be sure to follow Square Magazine on Instagram and Tik Tok for exclusive content. 

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