Insider's Picks: Alexa Chung
Unanimous cries of jubilation filled our office the day we got word that our latest Insider’s Picks would come courtesy of Alexa Chung. The British model-turned-TV presenter has a thoughtful, attentive, and individualistic way of putting herself together and we’re hugely fond of her personal style. In other words: we couldn't wait to pick her brain about what she’s coveting for fall!
But before we get to said Picks, we want to take a moment and properly introduce Chung to you, dear readers. The 25-year-old stunner is part of the Brit It Girl pack—she’s pals with Daisy Lowe, the Sisters Geldof, Agyness Deyn, et cetera—and a total workhorse. She’s a frequent on-camera presence in the UK, reporting on the latest music (a bit like a MTV VJ or E! host, but better) and hosting loads of pop culture-focused television shows. If you’ve never had the privilege of watching her on Popworld, we advise you to check out the existing YouTube.com clips to witness her simultaneously angelic and fearless disposition. She holds her own while interviewing the likes of Paul McCartney, Gwen Stefani, and Christian Lacroix and has a wit that’s as sharp as her fashion sense.
We imagine it's the combination of her courageous nature and a career spent interviewing major tastemakers that forged Chung’s clever taste. The young stylesetter mixes colors, price points, and vintage with a finesse that is unparalleled by the bulk of her fellow British trendsetters (and believe us, there are a lot of them). She brought that same smart sensibility to her Insider’s Picks and we anticipate that you’ll enjoy these amazing seasonal selections as much as we do!—Jessica Amento
1. Chanel Beret with Embroidered Blazer Badge ($755, 800.550.0005)
Chung is an accessory maestro and a huge fan of haute couture masters like Lagerfeld, so we weren't surprised she picked this chapeau for the story. Chung told us that Lagerfeld is "one of the most intelligent people ever," and we think her choice of this gray beret is equally brilliant. This cashmere cap was a staple in Chanel's fall show, but we just adore the fact that it’s snuggly and chic.
2. Lomography Diana+ Camera ($50)
Chung has a natural penchant for taking pictures and is particularly fond of anything that gives a retro quality to her photographs. Now that Polaroid’s instant cameras are sadly extinct, Chung has moved on to the Lomography Diana+ Camera. The device is an authentic reproduction of the original snapshot camera, and it's the perfect companion to have for capturing brilliant lo-fi images of your best fall outfits.
3. The Great Frog Evil Skull Ring ($250)
Though Chung is still searching for her holy grail of jewelry—a chunky silver wolf ring ("If anyone knows where I can get one, please let me know!!")—this silver skull is currently satisfying her ring needs. It's a relevant addition to any jewelry collection and perfectly in keeping with this season's goth trend.
4. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
($21)
Having tried and tested a plethora of black eyeliners, we trust Chung's selection of this gel version by Bobbi Brown. The water-resistant formula makes it easy to apply and the enduring color will stay fresh all day—or night...
5. Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh ($15)
Few things are more attractive than a lady who is well-dressed and well-read, so extra kudos to Chung for her recommendation of this classic novel. She is also fond of the poetry in Birthday Letters ($14) by Ted Hughes.
6. Mulberry Elkington Tote ($895, 888.685.6856)
Chung's enthusiasm for "looking like a boy dressed as a girl" is reinforced through her choice of this bag. We think it looks a bit like a briefcase and would be an excellent contrast with one of Michael Kors' Mad Men-inspired fall ensembles.
7. 3.1 Phillip Lim Belted Crewneck Sweatshirt Dress with Cocoon Skirt ($525, 212.334.1160)
In her explanation about this cozy cardi, Chung shared that she desires to "become hugely wealthy and only wear Lim." We agree! Since few bank accounts are bottomless, we are thankful she restrained her appetite for Lim by honing in on this single exceptional garment.
8. Jonathan Kelsey for Mulberry Ankle Boots ($900)
The hunt for the perfect fall boots grows increasingly difficult each year. Luckily, Chung did the work for us this season! She stumbled across these patent-cropped beauties stating that "being slutty never looked this good," and praising them for their sturdy heel and shiny leather. We would be hard-pressed to find a more magnificent shoe.
Photograph of Alexa by David Titlow
But before we get to said Picks, we want to take a moment and properly introduce Chung to you, dear readers. The 25-year-old stunner is part of the Brit It Girl pack—she’s pals with Daisy Lowe, the Sisters Geldof, Agyness Deyn, et cetera—and a total workhorse. She’s a frequent on-camera presence in the UK, reporting on the latest music (a bit like a MTV VJ or E! host, but better) and hosting loads of pop culture-focused television shows. If you’ve never had the privilege of watching her on Popworld, we advise you to check out the existing YouTube.com clips to witness her simultaneously angelic and fearless disposition. She holds her own while interviewing the likes of Paul McCartney, Gwen Stefani, and Christian Lacroix and has a wit that’s as sharp as her fashion sense.
We imagine it's the combination of her courageous nature and a career spent interviewing major tastemakers that forged Chung’s clever taste. The young stylesetter mixes colors, price points, and vintage with a finesse that is unparalleled by the bulk of her fellow British trendsetters (and believe us, there are a lot of them). She brought that same smart sensibility to her Insider’s Picks and we anticipate that you’ll enjoy these amazing seasonal selections as much as we do!—Jessica Amento
1. Chanel Beret with Embroidered Blazer Badge ($755, 800.550.0005)
Chung is an accessory maestro and a huge fan of haute couture masters like Lagerfeld, so we weren't surprised she picked this chapeau for the story. Chung told us that Lagerfeld is "one of the most intelligent people ever," and we think her choice of this gray beret is equally brilliant. This cashmere cap was a staple in Chanel's fall show, but we just adore the fact that it’s snuggly and chic.
2. Lomography Diana+ Camera ($50)
Chung has a natural penchant for taking pictures and is particularly fond of anything that gives a retro quality to her photographs. Now that Polaroid’s instant cameras are sadly extinct, Chung has moved on to the Lomography Diana+ Camera. The device is an authentic reproduction of the original snapshot camera, and it's the perfect companion to have for capturing brilliant lo-fi images of your best fall outfits.
3. The Great Frog Evil Skull Ring ($250)
Though Chung is still searching for her holy grail of jewelry—a chunky silver wolf ring ("If anyone knows where I can get one, please let me know!!")—this silver skull is currently satisfying her ring needs. It's a relevant addition to any jewelry collection and perfectly in keeping with this season's goth trend.
4. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Having tried and tested a plethora of black eyeliners, we trust Chung's selection of this gel version by Bobbi Brown. The water-resistant formula makes it easy to apply and the enduring color will stay fresh all day—or night...
5. Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh ($15)
Few things are more attractive than a lady who is well-dressed and well-read, so extra kudos to Chung for her recommendation of this classic novel. She is also fond of the poetry in Birthday Letters ($14) by Ted Hughes.
6. Mulberry Elkington Tote ($895, 888.685.6856)
Chung's enthusiasm for "looking like a boy dressed as a girl" is reinforced through her choice of this bag. We think it looks a bit like a briefcase and would be an excellent contrast with one of Michael Kors' Mad Men-inspired fall ensembles.
7. 3.1 Phillip Lim Belted Crewneck Sweatshirt Dress with Cocoon Skirt ($525, 212.334.1160)
In her explanation about this cozy cardi, Chung shared that she desires to "become hugely wealthy and only wear Lim." We agree! Since few bank accounts are bottomless, we are thankful she restrained her appetite for Lim by honing in on this single exceptional garment.
8. Jonathan Kelsey for Mulberry Ankle Boots ($900)
The hunt for the perfect fall boots grows increasingly difficult each year. Luckily, Chung did the work for us this season! She stumbled across these patent-cropped beauties stating that "being slutty never looked this good," and praising them for their sturdy heel and shiny leather. We would be hard-pressed to find a more magnificent shoe.
Photograph of Alexa by David Titlow
Alexa's style is definately not going out of style.. love it! Alexa's style is definately not going out of style.. love it! Hey readers, could you help me by registering on this website and voting for my picture? It's on Page 4 and the Third picture on top! It would help so much. http://www.shopwoodlandmall.com/btsphotocontest/voting
<3 Linda
Posted by: Linda Sue | 2008-09-01 20:14:43
Alexa's style is definately not going out of style.. love it! Hey readers, could you help me by registering on this website and voting for my picture? It's on Page 4 and the Third picture on top! It would help so much. http://www.shopwoodlandmall.com/btsphotocontest/voting
<3 Linda
Posted by: | 2008-09-01 20:13:11
mmmm iheart lomos...this post just convinced me to get one for my trip to england!! visit my blog sweettalkonthespot.wordpress.com
Posted by: mikka | 2008-09-01 16:29:43
http://www.badalijewelry.com/fantasy-wolf.htm#rings there is a wolf ring i found and its not too bad in price. you can get it with or without gemstones in the eyes and it has a indian/rocker feel to it. please enjoy :) Oh, and if you are ever at the renesance festival (atleast here in NC) you will probably find a hand crafted one easily. Happy Hunting!
Posted by: Michelle Curry | 2008-09-01 11:41:15
LOVE Alexa! I'd kill for that beret...
Posted by: C | 2008-08-30 22:52:30
Love love love her! She always is dressed head to toe.
Posted by: Liza | 2008-08-30 19:43:38
Another wolf ring for Alexa: http://supermarkethq.com/product/wolf-ring-silver Cheap too, at 80 bucks. Check out mah blog at: http://jpeterso.wordpress.com/ And oh, side note-- I'm a different JP than the one up there.
Posted by: JP | 2008-08-30 02:33:27
beret - such an investment piece. streetstylepdx.blogspot.com
Posted by: natalia grozina | 2008-08-29 21:59:54
The beret is fabulous. I also love the cardigan and ring.
Posted by: Amber | 2008-08-29 18:49:10
I was just at the Vegas tradeshows and Species by the Thousands at Pool was a few booths away from me. They have wolf rings made out of reclaimed materials. http://www.speciesbythethousands.com/
Posted by: Brianna | 2008-08-29 16:33:37
Love her so much, she always seems really intelligent and funny. And she dresses so well.
Posted by: Anna | 2008-08-29 16:32:07
Yay! I think Alexa is adorable and I was so excited when I saw her name on this post. Sometimes she can come off as a tad too try-hard, but mostly I love the things she puts together. Her style is just the right mix of classy with a little edge. Thanks for posting this, I might just have to add it to my list of favorite WWWD posts! Great job!
Posted by: bella vita | 2008-08-29 13:43:58
amazing!
Posted by: melissa | 2008-08-29 13:27:51
Chunky wolf ring? Found it! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_5&listing_id=14209583 http://www.erika-obscura.blogspot.com
Posted by: erika | 2008-08-29 13:13:31
Great picks! I loooooove alexa! I was really looking forward to this!
Posted by: Ana | 2008-08-29 13:06:40
LOVE Alexa, she rocks. I know The Great Frog, it's a wicked shop in Carnaby London. The skull ring is wicked, I heard Johnny Depp and Keith Richards have one from there. English rock style ROCKS. More on ALEXA pleaseeeeeee x
Posted by: Rocking NYC Sty | 2008-08-29 12:46:35
my fashion blog: ... *fashionchalet.blogspot.com* ...Great picks. I really like her style. <3
Posted by: Fashion Chalet | 2008-08-29 12:13:17
I love the look she is sporting in her picture! unlike the skull ring, that is something i would wear...
Posted by: Daisy | 2008-08-29 11:07:23
Looks like Raybay woke up on the wrong side of the bed.... lovely story! i need that camera in my life....
Posted by: LovesGemma | 2008-08-29 10:52:02
Pretty girl, I agree, and her style isn't ENTIRELY cringeworthy, but come on. A skull ring that looks like it came out of one of those trinket-for-a-quarter machines they have for children? For 110 dollars? Um, no. Also: "Black eyeliner is kind of my signature look"? "I love its Britishness"? "For....girls who pretend to be tough"? OMG, shut up already.
Posted by: Raybay | 2008-08-29 10:45:41
LOVE her style. her blazer is from topshop for the person who asked.
Posted by: ar | 2008-08-29 10:38:26
I love Alexa a little just for the Brideshead shout-out...
Posted by: K | 2008-08-29 09:51:17
I love how she is well put together. i love the beret, her blouse and the blazer..
Posted by: Lo | 2008-08-29 09:47:37
great post, love her style.
Posted by: fashi0nlover | 2008-08-29 09:46:06
She could probably get a wolf ring from Jacey Withers as they take custom orders... Jacey Withers makes amazing jewelry, really cute but with an edge, and often uses wolves. Check out the Wear Wolves collection at jaceywithers.com
Posted by: JP | 2008-08-29 09:31:31
Alexa Chung is always amazingly and simply dressed and I love that one of her picks was a book and it wasn't all about clothes although I do love what she's picked out.
Posted by: Camilla | 2008-08-29 09:24:18
I love the Topshop blazer she is wearing and the skull ring she picked out! < 3
Posted by: Amy | 2008-08-29 08:27:46
Who made her blazer and where can I get it, it's gorrrgeous.
Posted by: Alice | 2008-08-29 08:27:21
She has a great sense of style. I love that she chose a simple but chic grey chashmere philip lim cardigan. I also love the bobbi brown eye liner. I wear it all the time!
Posted by: tina | 2008-08-29 07:47:49
LOVE the Chanel beret and the camera!
Posted by: stephanie | 2008-08-29 06:43:42
She's beautifully put-together! Love that she chose a man's bag.
Posted by: Dell | 2008-08-29 05:51:48
yay this is the best wwd post in a while!fashion icon and more!love alexa chungs style, at last a post just about her!
Posted by: jacqui | 2008-08-29 05:09:43
yes! this is one of the best wwwd ever...how great does she look in that photo! and all her picks are perfect
Posted by: | 2008-08-29 04:31:13
her blazer and jeans are from Topshop, top from H&M xx
Posted by: Jessica | 2008-08-29 04:19:31
I love her outfit in that pictuer (especially that blazer <3 perhaps WhoWhatWear can tell us the designer of it?...) but the only things I really like in her lists are the beret and camera...the cardigan's alright but it wouldn't top my list.
Posted by: Lucy | 2008-08-29 04:15:11
Oh! I have that blouse she's wearing....I just got a ton of ideas how to style it. Thanks Alexa! Love to have that camera!
Posted by: lala | 2008-08-29 02:37:05
now this girl is chic and cute, a tricky combination. i really love most of her picks.
Posted by: sarah | 2008-08-29 01:27:57
i love that beret
Posted by: diana | 2008-08-29 01:14:40
i like her style. it's classy
Posted by: lianna | 2008-08-29 00:57:05