Retro Beach Vibes: Sabrina Carpenter's 'Espresso' Hits The Summer Scene
As Coachella anticipation reaches its peak this weekend, all eyes are on Sabrina Carpenter, set to grace the stage with her performance. Yet, amidst the whirlwind preparations for the iconic music festival, the pop sensation still managed to drop a fresh single and accompanying music video today. Entitled “Espresso,” Carpenter’s latest track is an infectious blend of groove and melody, poised to become a summer anthem. Its sound evokes the carefree ambiance of a day spent soaking up the sun by the shore, with Carpenter crooning, “I can’t relate to desperation, my give-a-fucks are on vacation.”
Sabrina Carpenter wears a custom Carol Ai Studio look and Aquazzura shoes
For Carpenter, “Espresso” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a celebration of self-assurance and femininity. “The song is kind of about seeing femininity as your superpower, and embracing the confidence of being that bitch,” she shares with Vogue. With its laid-back vibe, it was only fitting that Carpenter opted for a retro beach aesthetic for the music video. “Since the day I heard the song, I saw a beach atmosphere—and more specifically this kind of old school [and] modern environment,” she explains. “The playfulness that I like to use throughout all of my videos was essential. I also just wanted a pool car, to be frank.”
Sabrina Carpenter wears a Marni dress and Brooke Callahan necklace
Sabrina Carpenter Brings Vintage Glamour to ‘Espresso’ Music Video
Styled by Ronnie Hart, who is no stranger to Carpenter’s glamorous looks, the fashion choices in the video pay homage to classic summer style. Carpenter effortlessly struts around the beach and aboard a boat in an array of retro bathing suits and dresses, exuding vintage charm. “I wanted to pull from old and new, I wanted it to feel fresh but timeless,” Carpenter notes. “Lots of colors and cool contrasts.” The video’s color scheme, reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s aesthetic, complements the vibrant outfits perfectly, adding to the overall allure.
Sabrina Carpenter wears a dress by Frankies Bikinis and Oscar de la Renta earrings
While Carpenter is accustomed to dazzling in glitzy ensembles, her latest video sees her embracing a more nostalgic approach, drawing inspiration from swimwear of the 1950s and 1960s. Highlights include a custom Carol Ai Studio bathing suit adorned with a gold sequin starfish, a sheer black Norma Kamali dress reminiscent of a retro sweetheart-neckline swimsuit, and a sleek brown Viktor & Rolf couture suit—a departure from Carpenter’s usual style, but one that she embraces wholeheartedly.
Sabrina Carpenter wears Viktor & Rolfe couture and Jennifer Fisher jewelry
Adding a touch of beachside glamour, Carpenter dons a beaded Retrofête set in one scene, offering a chic twist on traditional macrame. With a title like “Espresso,” it’s no surprise that Carpenter’s fashion choices pack a caffeinated punch, injecting a dose of energy and excitement into the summer season.
As fans eagerly await her Coachella performance, Carpenter teases what’s in store: “New song, main stage, at sunset,” she hints. “I am a very lucky girl!”
Catch the vibrant visuals of “Espresso” in the music video here: