Alexa Chung's recent French-girl ensemble has demonstrated that this "outdated" shoe trend is making a comeback.
As an advocate for uniform dressing, I can't help but appreciate it when someone wholeheartedly embraces a well-defined wardrobe. This is exactly why I admire Alexa Chung and her distinctive style. Straddling the line between a tomboyish vibe and an ultra-feminine flair, the model, author, and fashion icon remains true to her favorite silhouettes and authentic pieces that she has refined over time. Each public appearance she makes offers a captivating glimpse into how she styles or reinvents items she has owned for years.
Recently, for an evening at Cadet, a local wine bar in Newington Green, celebrating the festive season with Reformation, she perfectly blended classic styles with unexpected elements to craft a fresh look. The 42-year-old donned a champagne-hued slip dress adorned with French lace, complemented by a boxy grey coat reminiscent of something from a grandfather's closet. She further enhanced her outfit with a vintage-inspired diamond necklace and a celebrity-favored olive cardigan—Reformation's Clara style, now available at a 30% discount—that she artfully tied around her waist.
The popular Clara cardigan is currently on sale. (Originally £198, now £138.60)
The outfit exuded a Parisian essence, seamlessly merging boudoir essentials with classic masculine tailoring, in a way that aligns perfectly with her style philosophy. Yet, where it veered from conventional French fashion was in her choice of shoes: gold peep-toe heels. While the metallic footwear is certainly suitable for the festive atmosphere of December, it contrasts sharply with the typical attire seen in Le Marais or Montmartre, where you'd more likely find locals in timeless options like Chanel slingbacks or sexy, bohemian choices such as studded leather boots from Chloe or heeled knee-high styles by Saint Laurent.
To me, gold heels evoke memories of the indie sleaze era that Chung emerged from; they can appear somewhat tacky and are prone to looking outdated at times. Nevertheless, since this is an Alexa ensemble, I’ve come to expect this mix of contrasting elements. Personally, I find that she masterfully navigates the tension between pieces that don't traditionally align, making the outfit all the more intriguing. One takeaway from this look is that peep-toes are a shoe trend that is set to endure through 2026.
I observed this trend emerging last summer during Addison Rae’s promotion for her debut self-titled album. The pop sensation incorporated peep-toe Christian Louboutins into her stage outfits, rekindling interest in that style. Nowadays, you'll spot everyone from Victoria Beckham (the original high fashion songstress) to Margot Robbie and Hailey Bieber sporting these shoes.
These endorsements show that, regardless of color, this previously overlooked style is definitely making a comeback. As the saying goes, what goes around comes around, and understanding that your investment has lasting appeal is invaluable. Below, you'll find the exact pieces from Alexa Chung’s outfit along with a curated selection of the best peep-toe heels to carry with you into the new year.
Shop Alexa Chung's Reformation Outfit:
**Reformation**
Serafina Silk Dress
Truly the most exquisite fabric and finish.
**Reformation**
Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
An essential layering piece for winter.
Shop Chic Peep-Toe Heels:
**MANGO**
Satin High-Heeled Sandal
An essential element for a well-curated wardrobe.
**M&S**
Tortoise Shell Patent Peep Toe Heel Sandals
While everyone discusses animal prints like zebra and dalmatian, don't overlook the enduring appeal of tortoise shell.
**Mango**
Heeled Mule in Chocolate Satin
These will enhance any outfit featuring jeans.
**Reformation**
Clementine Heeled Mule Sandal
The square-toe design adds a sleek touch.
The fashion enthusiast's go-to peep-toe option, featuring Tory Burch.
**SAINT LAURENT**
Babylone Embellished Gathered Leather Mules
A sharply designed heel.
**MANOLO BLAHNIK**
Pirua 70 Suede Mules
This enchanting pair from Manolo Blahnik features refined ruching for added elegance.
**AMINA MUADDI**
Lupita Leopard-Print Suede Mules
Embrace your inner Carmela Soprano.
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Alexa Chung's recent French-girl ensemble has demonstrated that this "outdated" shoe trend is making a comeback.
The English style of wearing them.