If it feels like Sabrina Carpenter is always making waves in the fashion world, it’s because she is. This pop sensation, known for her hits like “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” isn’t just turning heads with her music. Her style has become a conversation starter, thanks to the genius behind her looks: stylist Ron Hartleben. A trusted name in the industry, Hartleben has crafted some of Carpenter’s most memorable outfits.
(Photo: Instagram) Sabrina on stage
From Retro Glam to Modern Chic
Hartleben’s journey with Carpenter began in 2022. He has since styled her for several music videos, each one more iconic than the last.
“With Sabrina specifically, she usually has a really strong point of view,” Hartleben shared.
“We’re trying to build characters and make identifiable silhouettes or wardrobe staples.”
For the “Espresso” music video, Hartleben transported viewers back to a retro, beachy summer vibe. Carpenter donned pinup-style swimsuits, vibrant headscarves, and oval-shaped sunglasses.
“We wanted to reference the ’50s and ’60s, that era of old-school swimming suits and Marilyn Monroe,” he explained, “but also modernize it and make it a little more contemporary.”
One standout piece was Carpenter’s black mesh halter swimsuit by Norma Kamali. Hartleben described it as “a great staple piece” that perfectly blended past and present. Another memorable look was a textured two-piece by Viktor & Rolf, which Hartleben noted as a “more modern and fashion-forward take on a vintage bathing suit.”
Hartleben accessorized these custom creations with touches that felt both nostalgic and fresh.
“Maybe the colors were updated or we accessorized it in a way that was still Old Hollywood but believable for today,” he said.
Building Trust and Crafting Confidence
The cornerstone of Hartleben’s collaboration with Carpenter is trust.
“It’s more so [Carpenter] trusting me to know what’s going to make [her] look the best and feel the most confident,” Hartleben revealed.
This trust allows him to create outfits that Carpenter not only looks good in but feels great wearing.
(Photo: Instagram) Sabrina's swimsuit during “Espresso” shoot
“You want the person to feel comfortable. No matter if it’s a string bikini or a burlap sack,” he emphasized. “If they feel comfortable and if they feel confident in it, then that will exude in the video or the photo.”
For the “Please Please Please” music video, released on June 6, Hartleben shifted gears. This time, the looks were edgier and more visually striking. Carpenter wore fur coats, bold pops of color, and sexy silhouettes. As a result, she reflected the song’s more intense narrative. One particular outfit stood out: a cherry red corseted dress by Dilara.
“I think that’s going to be a timeless image that lasts in her career,” Hartleben said. “It’s the outfit that has the most screen time. I think [it] makes the most sense for where she is in her career now.”
Collaboration and Creativity
Working closely with music video directors, Hartleben ensures each outfit serves a narrative purpose. For the “Espresso” video, he collaborated with director Bardia Zeinali to create a cohesive visual story.
“There [are] two scenes where [Carpenter] is picking Barry [Keoghan] up from prison,” Hartleben explained, “and it was intentional for the faux fur jackets to be the same but just [in] opposite colors.”
(Photo: YouTube) Sabrina's fur coat in "Please Please Please"
This attention to detail helps reinforce the story and character dynamics within the videos.
Hartleben’s creative process involves understanding the characters Carpenter portrays. He dives deep into each music video’s narrative to craft looks that resonate. This meticulous approach is also evident in every project they undertake. From glamorous red carpet events to amazing music videos, Hartleben’s styling elevates Carpenter’s presence, making her a true fashion icon.
