Alexa Chung Goes Behind the Scenes on 'Next in Fashion' and Her Creative Process
The fashion and media influencer sat down with us to talk about her start in the industry, her newest collection, the ever-changing landscape of fashion.
Photography by Guen Fiore Photography
Styling by Marianthi Hatzikidi
Alexa Chung is instantly recognizable, if not for her impeccable sense of style, then surely for her sense of infectious humor and wit. In fact, the British fashion personality has been a household name for quite some time after living in the public eye for over 10 years, from her time as a model, which launched her career, to her switch to hosting her highly popular MTV show, It's On with Alexa Chung. Without skipping a beat, Chung is still constantly on our radar. Between her fashion ventures and her new Netflix show Next in Fashion, the young media-mogul-turned-designer is everywhere. L'Officiel had the pleasure of interviewing the TV and internet sensation to talk the new show, all things fashion, and her newest collection for her namesake brand Alexa Chung.
What was your first encounter with fashion?
I was scouted at the age of 15 by a modeling agency. It was my first contact with the fashion industry. Before that, I used to do fashion magazines and TV shows in my room with my neighbor.
From your first front row until now, have you seen fashion change?
Absolutely. Fashion has diversified and has become aware of societal issues. The notion of sustainability was really motivated by consumers. And I think the advent of social media a decade ago really changed the experience of the show forever.
Could you sum up your Alexa Chung Spring 2020 collection in a few words?
It is Easter on acid. I don't know where this idea came from. I think it's by looking too much at Mad Men and the pastel colors that Betty wears.
Is your approach to style and design based on instinct?
Certainly, by the desire to dress as I feel and to express my personality through clothing.
Who is the Alexa Chung woman?
She could be anyone. I do not design my fashion with a muse in mind. What I'm drawing is becoming more and more personal, so maybe the Alexa Chung woman is Alexa Chung.
You are presenting a new series on Netflix called Next in Fashion, in which you are looking for the new designer of tomorrow. How did you challenge the candidates?
Each week there was a different challenge designed to test their versatility as a designer as well as their ability to collaborate. In my experience, a large part of the execution of a creative vision consists in being able to communicate an idea clearly, but to also to take into account the opinions of others. They were therefore asked to design one or two looks according to different themes such as red carpet or activewear.
A young but impressive group of designers participated in this show. Were you impressed by their talent?
Absolutely. I think the producers did a great job of finding talented people in quality fashion schools, so there is real legitimacy in this competition.
Is it difficult to choose a single winner (who receives $250,000 and has the opportunity to offer their collection on Net-a-Porter)?
Yes, it was really difficult because the two finalists were both designers with whom we had established links and both deserved to win this money to develop their work. But, they were also totally different stylistically. In the end, the decision was based on the strength of their latest collection in a commercial spirit.
Are you eager to reach a global audience via Netflix with the broadcast of Next in Fashion?
I think so. It's always nice to be in a foreign country and to be heard. Hopefully people will love me, and if not, I will put on a big hat and hide under it.
How was the co-presentation with Tan France, the fashion expert in Queer Eye? Have you watched his show before?
Yes, I'm a fan of Queer Eye. One day, Tan France arrived at a party I was at and I screamed when I saw him because to me he is so famous! I think he enjoyed my company because he had arrived alone, so he didn't mind being in the company of a fan as bizarre as I was. That's how we met.
Who have you met who has changed your life?
Karl Lagerfeld. Meeting with him brought me some legitimacy in the fashion world when I was a TV presenter. And my first investor, who encouraged me to create my own brand.
What music could be the soundtrack of your life these days?
Probably classical music. I try to be calm and elegant.
When was the last time you were blown away?
When I first met Tan France in London. Before that, it was with Bruce Willis in New York.
What do you want to do next?
I'm very happy right now, so I would like to maintain this balance between my work and my personal life. And I really want a boring sweater, a black turtleneck cashmere. That's all that comes to mind.
Hair George Northwood
Makeup Florrie White
Photo Assistant Francesco Zinno
Styling Assistant Gabriela Cambero
