Are We About To Have A Lorde Summer?

Move over Charli xcx, the chaotic party girl era that dominated last summer is over (despite Charli’s iconic Malahide gig this week).

With Lorde’s new album Virgin set to be released on June 27, here is everything you need to know about the ways of Lorde and her distinct moody aesthetic that will shape this summer’s vibe.

Last summer was for the feral girls – yesterday’s eyeliner, messy club nights, boiler room sets and lime green everything. But this summer, it’s time to slow it down, hit pause on the raging dance pop and lean into something more melodramatic.

Lorde Summer is about late-night drives with the windows down, reading tarot cards in your childhood bedroom, swimming under the full moon and gazing at whimsical sunsets. This should all be done to the emotion- packed sound of Lorde’s raw lyricism, teary eyes optional.

It’s about reconnecting your feelings and allowing yourself to recharge creatively and discover new passions. Welcome to Lorde Summer.

 

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No summers day is complete without the perfect playlist. For Lorde fans the soundtrack will revolve around the much-anticipated release of Lorde’s new album, promised to be as raw and spiritual as her previous offerings.

The first single from the album, ‘What Was That’, described by Lorde as her “rebirth”, reflects on the intensity of her relationship and a painful breakup, a perfect listen for any readers dealing with a heartbreak this summer. ‘Man Of The Year’ is a strong exploration of gender identity that resonates for those navigating their own journey of self-discovery.

Before we immerse ourselves into Virgin, it feels right to throw it back to the beginning of Lorde’s career with Pure Heroine, an album released when she was only sixteen.

Its moody electronic sound and stripped back tracks are representative of the Tumblr girl era and deserve a place on your Lorde Summer playlist. Fan favourites like ‘Ribs’, ‘Buzzcut Season’ and ‘400 lux’ are the ideal soundtrack for a summer of moonlit walks and pondering.

 

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Entirely different, yet equally as loved as Pure Heroine is Lorde’s second album Melodrama. As the name suggests this album is emotion laden, full of angst and raw vulnerability. For those dealing with heartbreak, loneliness or feeling lost in life, Melodrama will speak to your soul.

‘Liability’ and ‘Writer in The Dark’ are best listened to during a particularly dramatic crying session, while ‘Green Light’ and ‘Homemade Dynamite’ suit a tipsy journey home after a messy night out.

Solar Power is arguably Lorde’s most summer coded album with its warm, calm acoustic sound. Despite receiving criticism for not aligning with Lorde’s signature electric pop style, Solar Power is the ideal album to listen to on those sunny days where you want to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Standout songs include ‘Mood Ring’, ‘The Path’ and ‘Secrets from a Girl (Who’s Seen it All)’. Best listened to in a flowy summer dress, barefoot on a sandy beach, cocktail in hand, moments away from existential crisis.

 

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To further curate your perfect Lorde Summer playlist, consider including tracks from other artists that fit the moody rawness that Lorde radiates. Phoebe Bridgers and her sad girl pop are great options for those interested in a good cry.

Clairo’s indie bedroom pop with its relatable intimate lyrics, perfect for those who want to listen to lyrics that sound like heartfelt journal entries, emotional and raw. Lorde fanatics may also appreciate Lana Del Ray’s mysterious Tumblr girl vibe, chaotic yet effortlessly romantic.

So now we have our Lorde Summer playlist down, it’s time to consider our uniform of the season. Last year we had neon crop tops and sunglasses, but this year is more about dressing in a way that speaks to your inner child, not aimlessly following trends.

 

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Flowy dresses and boho pants that are suitable for both early morning beach walks and late-night overthinking sessions are ideal.

Of course, a mood ring is the essential accessory of the summer, for those who don’t like to share their feelings, get yourself a ring that will do it for you (even if it doesn’t actually work). This is the summer of thrifting, vintage jewellery, oversized layers and wearing whatever feels right.

Getting the look is only the beginning – Lorde Summer is a mindset. It’s wearing your heart on your sleeve, allowing yourself to wallow in melancholy every now and then and being your raw unapologetic self. This is the season to rewind to your teen angst era and fill your days with whimsical energy.

Lorde Summer isn’t just a look, or a carefully curated playlist, it’s about becoming emotionally vulnerable and being your melodramatic self.

Words by Amy O’Connor