From TikTok Sensation to High Fashion Icon: The Unstoppable Rise of Addison Rae

Who is Addison Rae?

When a 19-year-old Louisiana State University student started posting dance videos on TikTok in 2019, few could have predicted she’d become one of entertainment’s most versatile rising stars.

But Addison Rae isn’t your typical social media success story.

From Dance Videos to Digital Phenomenon

Before the record deals and Netflix films, Rae was filming quick dance videos between university classes.

As the world turned to TikTok during lockdown, her authentic charm resonated with many across the globe.

There is no carefully crafted persona here, just genuine enthusiasm that made millions feel like they were watching a friend.

Her ability to blend high-energy dance with an effortless, approachable personality turned her into one of TikTok’s most-followed creators, amassing over 88 million followers.

But her appeal goes beyond viral dances. Rae understood how to cultivate a brand, leveraging her social media fame into a multi-dimensional career spanning music, film, and fashion.

@addisonre i had to do it before my mom did…. goodnight dc @besperon ? WAP?feat. Megan Thee Stallion? – Cardi B

Breaking into Hollywood

Rae’s transition to traditional entertainment began with a splash. Landing the lead role in Netflix’s He’s All That (2021) – a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 teen classic She’s All That – Rae proved she could carry a feature film.

While reviews were mixed, her natural screen presence caught Hollywood’s attention, leading to a major signing with WME talent agency.

She also appeared in Eli Roth’s slasher Thanksgiving (2023).

Rae’s crossover potential became clear. She wasn’t just yet another TikTok star; she was a performer with staying power.

The Music Evolution

2024 marked a defining year in Rae’s musical journey. Her August release Diet Pepsi set the tone, showcasing her pop sensibilities while maintaining her signature authenticity.

The follow-up single Aquamarine demonstrated her artistic growth, with both tracks generating significant buzz across streaming platforms.

Rae’s music leans into nostalgic yet fresh pop production, reminiscent of early 2000s icons while maintaining a modern, hyper-online edge.

Her latest single, High Fashion, dropped on Valentine’s Day via Columbia Records, representing another bold step forward.

The track seamlessly blends infectious pop hooks with subtle cultural commentary, exploring the interplay between celebrity and consumer culture.

Lyrically playful yet introspective, High Fashion captures Rae’s understanding of her own public image—both as a social media darling and an evolving artist.

Directed by Mitch Ryan, the music video offers a visually striking celebration of fashion’s intoxicating allure.

Filmed in Rae’s home state of Louisiana, including New Orleans’ famed Cafe Du Monde, the video fuses glamour with cultural nods.

One striking scene sees Rae rolling around in powdered sugar, a playful nod to both New Orleans’ signature beignets and the song’s lyrical double entendre.

Her wardrobe choices reinforce the song’s theme, ranging from a dazzling gold sequin-fringe gown to a jewel-encrusted bra top.

One standout moment sees her in a blue minidress paired with sparkling red shoes, evoking The Wizard of Oz’s Dorothy.

Musically, High Fashion balances ethereal synths with Rae’s breathy falsetto, before dropping into a confident, addictive hook.

The track reinforces the idea that fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about power, confidence, and self-expression.

The Addison Rae Effect: Why She’s So Popular

So, what makes Addison Rae such a phenomenon?

At its core, her appeal is a mix of relatability and aspiration. She manages to embody the “girl next door” charm while seamlessly stepping into high-profile fashion campaigns, film roles, and music ventures.

Unlike traditional celebrities whose rise often feels distant, Rae’s journey has played out in real-time on social media, making fans feel invested in her success.

Moreover, she’s part of a new wave of entertainers who intuitively understand the digital landscape.

Bridging Digital and Traditional Media

What makes Rae fascinating is her ability to move fluidly between platforms.

She’s part of what industry experts call “New Hollywood”. Artists who understand both traditional and digital media landscapes.

One day she’s filming content for her millions of TikTok followers, the next she’s in a Saint Laurent campaign alongside Chloë Sevigny and Charlotte Gainsbourg.

The Business of Being Addison Rae

The numbers tell a story of strategic brilliance. Rae’s Miss Claire Sullivan VMAs look generated nearly £1 million in media impact value in just seven days.

When she appears at Madison Square Garden for Charli XCX’s show, social media erupts.

But it’s her authenticity that keeps audiences engaged—whether she’s on a movie set, in a recording studio, or posting to TikTok.

What’s Next for Addison Rae?

Looking ahead, with rumours of an album on the horizon, Rae’s multi-faceted career continues to expand.

She’s proved that digital natives can successfully cross over into traditional entertainment while maintaining their authentic appeal.

Whether she’s acting, singing, or creating content, Addison Rae’s genuine enthusiasm remains her secret weapon.

And Hollywood is taking notes.