‘Charming’ Charlie Barker Is the UK’s Coolest Orange-Haired Export
Charlie Barker is a model keeping the UK’s famous punk aesthetic alive with her flaming hair and DGAF attitude. Here, Bex Gunther interviews Charlie and shoots her in the streets and underpasses of NYC.
Imagine that you can only dye your hair one color and it will stay that way for the rest of your life… which color do you dye it and why?
Damn what kinda question this!!! I want to be a rainbow!!! I guess orange is my faveee
Chocolate or Gummies?
Gummies
Why don’t you show your beautiful artwork to your followers on Instagram and Tumblr? Is there a specific reason?
I don’t do enough of it!! And I’m kinda funny about things being absolutely finished before I show them.
Are you currently working on any art projects?
A series of mini Charlie style portraits and an ongoing personalization of jackets and clothing.
New York pizza or English breakfast?
I’ve never been a fan of English breakfast…..
What’s the most annoying thing about being British and traveling/living in the States?
[Not having access to Britain’s free] NHS healthcare lol
What’s the best thing about being British and being in the States?
I get an insight to both countries, it’s pretty cool.
Sum up your recent trip to Cape Cod in 5 words….
Crazy, scenic, American, friendly, satisfying.
What is it about New York that is so captivating?
I think I feel drawn to it because of the energy. I’m the kind of person who reflects the energy around me, so when I’m there I’m super happy and love life.
Do you have any advice for young women who are struggling to find out who they are and love themselves that way?
Be yourself in every situation, if you like something then don’t feel embarrassed to put it out there. More importantly, overcome your insecurities and fall in love with yourself, you’ll find it impossible for anyone to knock your confidence.
What was the best advice you’ve ever received?
Nothing lasts forever. It sounds dark but it got me through so much. I used it in this context: If I was in a bad situation I’d think, “It’s ok, it won’t last forever.”
The 5 most important things to you in life, CURRENTLY:
1. Friends!!!!
2. Vacation memories
3. Hello Kitty
4. Friends
5. Spotify
What do you think about love and loving?
I got so much love to give.
The best nickname you’ve ever received?
Never really had one that stuck but cute pet names are very welcome.
Favorite bands/musicians?
Alison Mosshart all day.
What do you think you’ll be doing when you’re 90 years old?
I want to be one of those active OAPs* the ones who have a pink wash over their grey hair n wear bright clothes. I’ll probably read a lot… basically a matured version of me now, ha!
* (for the Americans who don’t understand the slang, OAP means Old Age Pensioner) (and for the Americans who don’t understand what Old Age Pensioner means, it’s basically anyone who’s retired)
Lastly, when are you coming back to NYC?
3 weeks count down!!!!
Leather shorts: vintage | Jacket and shoes: model’s own
Suit: Öhlin-d | Shirt: | Skirt: Nasir Mazhar
Denim jacket and pants: Öhlin-d | Striped shirt: Lazy Oafs
Lace pants: Felder Felder
Photos by Bex Gunther
