In January 2026, Nicola Peltz, the actress and wife of Brooklyn Beckham, ignited a fierce online debate following her striking style transformation. Her latest fashion choices, which prominently feature monochrome black outfits and a noticeably broader smile, have led some to accuse her of “mocking” her mother-in-law, Victoria Beckham. This shift comes amidst ongoing tensions within the Beckham family, particularly since Nicola and Brooklyn’s lavish wedding in 2022.
The backlash began when Nicola shared New Year’s posts showcasing her new look that many observers feel mirrors Victoria Beckham’s trademark style, characterized by all-black ensembles, oversized sunglasses, and sleek hair. Critics have noted that the timing of this transformation may not be coincidental, considering the well-documented rift between the families that has unfolded in recent years.
The origins of this familial discord are often traced back to what has been dubbed the “wedding dress fiasco.” Nicola opted for a custom gown from Valentino rather than a design from Victoria’s fashion line, reportedly due to timing issues. Tensions escalated further during the wedding reception, where a glowing tribute from Marc Anthony to Victoria reportedly left Nicola in tears.
As the scrutiny of Nicola’s style continues, fashion insiders have begun to describe her new aesthetic as a “copycat Victoria look.” Observers suggest this transformation goes beyond mere clothing choices; it reflects a potential desire to occupy a space in Brooklyn’s life previously held by Victoria.
“Those close to both sides are surprised by Nicola’s new looks,” a source revealed. “They feel she is sending a message that she is now the primary woman in Brooklyn’s life, especially since he has distanced himself from his parents.”
While some view this shift as deliberate provocation, others suggest it may stem from personal motivations. Experts in fashion psychology argue that alterations in appearance can serve as coping mechanisms during periods of public scrutiny. One expert noted that changes in style can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, potentially providing Nicola with a psychological boost as tensions with the Beckham family escalate.
The backdrop of this unfolding drama highlights a significant rift between Brooklyn Beckham and his parents, Sir David and Victoria Beckham. Reports indicate that Brooklyn is currently experiencing a “slow-burning estrangement” from his family. This situation intensified recently when Brooklyn issued a formal legal notice demanding that his parents stop tagging him on social media and refrain from contacting him directly. This legal action reportedly stemmed from Victoria’s “like” on a video of Brooklyn cooking, which he interpreted as a breach of his boundaries.
The friction between Brooklyn and his family, which began with the wedding dress controversy, has now evolved into a complete lack of communication. Brooklyn has chosen to align himself with Nicola’s lifestyle in the United States, often missing significant family events, including his father’s 50th birthday celebration and a knighthood ceremony in London that Victoria and David attended in November 2025.
As the Beckham family’s public silence deepens, Nicola’s new “Posh” aesthetic has become a visual representation of the ongoing family divide. Whether this transformation serves as a peace offering or an ultimate sartorial snub remains to be seen, leaving fans and observers speculating about the future of this high-profile family.
