Chili Flake Fashion: Kaia Gerber and the Revival of Bold Statements in Celebrity Style

Kaia Gerber Shines in 'The Shards' with Bold Chili Flake Fashion, Embracing a Nostalgic Aesthetic and Set Trends that Resonate Beyond the Runway

In the world of entertainment, where fashion and celebrity culture intertwine, a new wave of iconic moments is unfolding, spearheaded by producer Ryan Murphy. He continues to infuse our television screens with a blend of alluring narratives and striking aesthetics, showcasing the likes of stars such as Teyana Taylor, Kim Kardashian, and Sarah Pidgeon. Now entering the spotlight is Kaia Gerber, the model and actress who bears a striking resemblance to her supermodel mother, Cindy Crawford. Gerber has recently joined Murphy's nostalgic '80s thriller, "The Shards," bringing a fresh sense of style to the production.

Spotted on set in a bold chili flake red ensemble, Gerber's look serves as a stylish ode to the recent fashion runway trends. On October 29, as she commenced her second week filming, her monochrome maroon outfit—a short-sleeve T-shirt paired with matching straight-leg trousers—captured the essence of the vibrant color dominating the Fall 2025 collections. Her trousers not only displayed an elegant leather-like sheen but also hinted at its coated denim blend, perfectly tailored to highlight her model figure. Completing the outfit were low-profile cowboy boots and a coordination-focused top-flap messenger bag, embodying the polished yet relaxed spirit of the decade.

The specific pieces adorning Gerber may remain shrouded in mystery, but their stylings echo themes from the most recent runway shows. Fashion features editor Emma Childs of Marie Claire even coined the term "chili flake" to describe this delightful hue. It strikes a perfect balance between burgundy and maroon, evoking a warm, peppery vibe that has taken the fashion world by storm. Designers like Khaite and Christopher John Rogers showcased this rich tone in striking blouses, while powerful parkas from Louis Vuitton and fabulous leather trench coats from Gabriela Hearst further captivated the spotlight. The color was so versatile it found its way into various garments, from foundation layers to chic hosiery, creating a cohesive palette across numerous collections and ensuring that chili flake remains a must-have shade.

Faux fur is also experiencing a renaissance, and it's not just Gerber embracing this trend. The likes of Blake Lively, Selena Gomez, and Anne Hathaway have donned similar styles, illustrating that the fascination with this fabric isn't fleeting. As we peer into Spring 2026 fashion presentations, the longevity of the chili flake aesthetic is evident, with prominent names like Chanel, Lacoste, and Balmain capitalizing on the trend's wide appeal. This suggests that our beloved chili flake color will be a staple, transcending the seasons and paving the way for a harmonious wardrobe throughout the year.

As we welcome this new fashion direction, it’s time to reassess our staples. T-shirts, an integral part of every wardrobe, are timely and practical for all seasons. This year, swap out your iconic white versions for burgundy or shades of chili flake. These subtle yet rich tones will add depth and warmth to your collection. Additionally, when it comes to footwear, consider low-profile cowboy boots that resonate with the high-fashion caliber seen on Gerber. Brands like Tecovas offer an array of chic options that will carry you through the chili flake fall and beyond, merging comfort with style seamlessly.

Accessories also play a pivotal role in modern fashion statements. B-Low the Belt is a favorite of Taylor Swift, and Gerber may soon find herself enchanted by this accessory brand as she enhances her looks with its offerings. For those in search of a stylish yet functional bag, Madewell presents an under-$300 suede messenger bag that checks off multiple trend boxes while remaining practical for everyday use. These pieces signify more than just fashion; they represent a cultural shift and a refreshing connection between celebrity influence and everyday style.

Underpinning this exploration of celebrity fashion is Meguire Hennes, a fashion staff writer at Marie Claire. With an ability to dissect the latest celebrity looks—from red carpet glamour to Instagram moments—Hennes ensures readers remain on the cutting edge of fashion and celebrity culture. Her background in fashion studies coupled with her freelancing experiences across multiple esteemed platforms allows her to provide insightful analysis and commentary on the ever-evolving landscape of A-listers and their stylistic choices. As she moves through her career, Hennes consistently brings a unique perspective to the ongoing dialogue about style and star power.

As we navigate through the latest trends shaped by celebrities like Kaia Gerber, it's crucial to recognize the impact of their influence over fashion narratives. With Ryan Murphy's projects serving as creative templates, the fusion of style and storytelling emerges as a central theme in contemporary entertainment. The chili flake trend encapsulates the spirit of this era, signifying warmth, richness, and the ongoing dialogue between past and present fashion. This excitement not only drives the industry but also inspires fans and fashion enthusiasts alike to seek out their stylish interpretations of celebrity looks.

In conclusion, the intersection of celebrity and fashion is evolving, filled with vibrant colors and transformative styles. The likes of Kaia Gerber represent a fresh chapter in this ongoing tale, showcasing how trends manifest in both runway shows and everyday wardrobes. As we embrace these trends and iconic looks inspired by celebrities, we not only celebrate their artistry but also cultivate a richer fashion narrative that continues to inspire both the industry and its admirers.