Alexa Chung rocks a vibrant red ensemble by Jacquemus on a cover of the December 2023 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Spain, captured by photographer Josh Shinner.
The London-based cover story, directed by Claudia Laukamp, features Chung in an array of designer outfits, including pieces by Stella McCartney, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, Richard Quinn, Wolford, AMI Alexandre Mattiussi, Victoria Beckham and Loewe. Halley Brisker’s expertise in hair styling adds an extra layer of finesse to Chung’s look, complemented by Wendy Rowe’s skilled make-up artistry. The entire production was directed by Beatriz Martínez Velasco.
Alexa Chung shared her journey and insights in an intimate interview. Born in Winchester, England, in 1983, Chung has become a beloved figure in the fashion world, known for her wit and unique sense of style.
Celebrating her 40th birthday, Chung humorously reflects on aging: “Age itself doesn’t bother me much, believe it or not, because I really think I’m 22…26 at the most.” Her British humor is a trademark that often lightens the mood in conversations about the fast pace of life. “It’s nice to be able to celebrate, don’t you think? Life goes by so fast.”
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Chung’s career spans more than 15 years and has been marked by versatility and change. From modeling and hosting music shows to writing and launching her eponymous fashion brand, she believes in adapting: “If something doesn’t work for me, I change course. And, well, be nice to the people you work with. That helps them keep calling you,” she says with a laugh.
Her fashion journey began in the English countryside, where she developed a keen eye for style. “I was obsessed with certain pieces, maybe because I had a different sensibility, or who knows. I liked a particular pair of riding boots, and I wore ballet tights in a precise way,” she recalls.
Chung’s move to London marked the beginning of her rise in the fashion world. But being labeled an “IT girl” eventually began to feel reductive. “It was very strange to be called an [IT] object when in my head I was a music journalist and TV presenter who had worked hard to get there. It felt like my work was being diminished and I was just being recognized for a look… But yeah, what the hell, that’s great too,” she says, embracing the duality of her identity.
In 2017, Chung ventured into design with her brand, Alexachung, which offers affordable, style-inspired collections. “It was a really fun time where I learned a lot from my team. They were very patient with me, it was like getting a fashion degree and a business master’s at the same time because there wasn’t a single day where I didn’t learn something new,” she said. Despite the brand’s closure in 2022, Chung sees it as a significant accomplishment, especially in how they handled the closure responsibly.
Chung is also open about her struggle with endometriosis, a condition she has opened up about on Instagram. “At first, it was very hard because I didn’t feel capable of being a voice for something like this. Am I sick enough to be the person talking about this when there are women who have lost their uterus? It’s an invisible and silenced disease that I found out myself by having it, and it’s good to know that you have to ask for help because it can be devastating,” she explains.
Looking ahead, Chung plans to return to television and continue writing. She also wants to re-enter the design world and apply her experience to something more mature.
Chung’s influence goes beyond fashion. She admires figures like Miuccia Prada and other women who have sustained their fashion careers over time. Her definition of “cool” has evolved: “In terms of style, I think we live in a post-cool era. Being cool means knowing yourself and being comfortable with who you are. That makes you immediately interesting.”
As for her legacy, Chung hopes to be remembered for her authenticity. “Beyond her beauty, I’ve been thinking a lot these months about how much Birkin has inspired me to always be myself, because I’ve seen that she’s always been herself. So if I can do that with someone, that would be fantastic. I hope that in a few years I will be remembered for being true to myself, for being real.”
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