Kamal Ghorui
A teenage influencer styling herself as a “socialist socialite” has sparked debate online, blending left-wing politics with a taste for high-end fashion in New York City.18-year-old Ella Devi is a Sri Lankan-American content creator who has gained attention for backing NYC mayor Zohran Mamdani while showcasing a wardrobe filled with luxury vintage pieces. She first went viral during her campaigning for Mamdani, earning the nickname “hot girl for Zohran”.Her growing online presence includes more than 34,600 followers on TikTok, where she regularly shares outfit videos alongside her political views. In one recent post, she described abolishing ICE as a “moderate position”, while another featured her explaining why someone cannot be a Republican and dress like Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.
Devi has also begun to receive wider recognition, recently being named in Her Campus’ 22 Under 22 Awards, which highlights students “who ‘are shaping the world on their own terms’”. She also drew attention on X after commenting on Sydney Sweeney and her fashion choices in the latest season of Euphoria.Despite her progressive messaging, much of the discussion around Devi has focused on her lifestyle. She frequently appears in vintage designer clothing from brands such as Chanel, Miu Miu, Tom Ford and Valentino, with some items reportedly worth thousands of dollars.Her posts recently drew criticism on a popular New York influencer discussion forum on Reddit, where users questioned the contrast between her politics and personal style. One user wrote: “She’s been hating MAGA Barbie Sydney Sweeney which I don’t give a f**k, but to act like she’s the best dressed in NYC just because her wardrobe is vintage is laughable.”“Not with that big a** Chanel bag,” they added.“Socialist socialite lmao,” one user wrote, while another said: “How does one call themselves a socialist though while simultaneously being deeply invested in status and exclusivity. The tone of her tweets is very pretentious.”Further comments included: “Don’t care for Sweeny but this is corny,” and “It’s the most absurd identity and not in a quite tongue in cheek way.”“Calling yourself a socialist while wearing a T-shirt with an enormous YSL logo is crazy work,” another user added.However, not all reactions were critical. Some users defended Devi, particularly her political stance.One user said: “I love her other takes, she’s super antiracist and feminist in an industry that really needs it.”Devi also responded to the criticism on X, saying, “my name is ella devi and i approve this message.”
