Alexa Chung's Universe: Her Top-Selling Madewell Partnership, Influential Style Icons, and Easiest Fashion Opinions

      Immerse yourself in the realm of the most stylish creatives in the fashion world with Who What Wear US's new series, My World, where readers can explore how leading stylists, designers, and influencers established their careers, their favorite hidden gem restaurants and hotels, cherished lesser-known albums and fashion discoveries, the etiquette principles they follow, and much more.

      The year was 2007 when images of a then relatively unknown British figure began appearing in online blogs and magazine pages. She was seen at the Glastonbury Music Festival dressed in a leather motorcycle jacket, striped t-shirt, denim shorts, and fitted over-the-knee boots. She seemingly emerged from nowhere and quickly captured the cultural moment in a way characteristic of the mid-2000s. Her name was Alexa Chung, and her ineffable charm was as challenging to define as it was impactful.

      For many, the first "style icon" to leave an impression was Alexa Chung herself. Long before the era of social media algorithms or Pinterest boards, there existed a website called Tumblr.com, where users would search for and gather fashion and cultural inspiration, with Chung reigning as its ultimate queen.

      Fast forward to today, and Chung is the epitome of a multi-talented creative, effortlessly navigating various artistic endeavors while defying any single category. She is a published author; her coffee table book, It, featuring her personal writings, drawings, and photographs, was released in 2014, and she regularly contributes to the Financial Times. Additionally, she models, having recently walked for Chloé and Miu Miu, and when not on the runway, she's found seated in the front row at their shows. Moreover, she has her own design line, having led her namesake ready-to-wear label from 2017 to 2022, and she is currently working with Madewell on her third capsule collection.

      In the following sections, Chung elaborates on her career journey that earned her the title of It-girl, the ongoing success of her collaboration with Madewell, her favorite spots to unwind at home in London, and more. Discover Chung's world.

      You’ve held various roles over the years, from design and business projects to being a published author. If you had to choose one focus, what would it be?

      I would love to be a creative director, as that role integrates everything. While I enjoy design, I also love art direction and considering how people wear the clothes in their everyday lives. Storytelling is very important to me, so I find all of that enjoyable. You handle the website copy, strategize with influencers, manage gifting, and work on design, styling, and campaign imagery—it's truly at the forefront.

      You recently launched the third installment of your Madewell collaboration. What influenced your mood board for this collection?

      I aimed for this collection to be more personal, celebrating my wardrobe and style. One standout image on my mood board was of Fran Lebowitz, an iconic figure in New York. The photo captures her on a white sofa at an Oscars party, embodying the atmosphere I wanted to evoke—an upscale holiday gathering. While she wears a tuxedo in the image, I created a tuxedo jumpsuit as my version, which I adore for its balance of casual and dressy.

      What’s currently on your shopping list?

      Right now, I’m enamored with almond-toe mini heels, reminiscent of an '80s style. They pair well with thick socks, making even a denim and sweatshirt combination feel polished. An unexpected colored sock with those '80s shoes would create such a cute look.

      What do you think is the most quintessentially British aspect of your wardrobe?

      I possess more outerwear and coats than anything else. In fact, space has become a real issue for me! I have a rolling rack solely for my coats because I adore outerwear. I believe that’s a true sign of being British, as I’m determined to weather any climate while still embracing the outdoors. I’ll always opt to walk to the tube instead of taking a cab.

      Over the years, you’ve donned many iconic looks. Is there a particular one you reminisce about? What’s the story behind it?

      The Loewe silk dress featuring a trompe l'oeil trench coat printed on it stands out in my memory. I insist on owning it, and after borrowing it for the 2023 British Vogue Forces for Change party, the courier returned to collect it the next morning, much like Cinderella. I frequently think about that dress and would wear it all the time if it were mine.

      While many see you as a style icon, who do you consider to be your own style icons?

      Fran Lebowitz is a major influence for her consistency with her look. I admire the Parisian brand Husbands and its designer Nicolas Gabard, who is incredibly stylish. I also have a fondness for Mrs. Prada, always keeping