I am a little obsessed with Alexa Chung. Well, I should clarify that I am a little obsessed with her style. I know basically nothing about her except that she’s British, used to be a model, wrote a poorly reviewed book, and is half-Chinese. Her hapa background is partly why, a hapa myself, I am so attracted to her. Alexa is a little different which we can all appreciate. Her minimal, downtown style is refreshing in a sea of wacky to the point of absurdity fashionistas. Her focus on simple but cool pieces is really inspiring. Especially when you’re on a budget.
MANGO long sleeve blouse / Uniqlo trench coat / Uniqlo stretch jeans / Shoulder bag / Charlotte Russe panama hat / Reneeze Mid-calf Rider Boots
Let’s break this down. The focus here for Alexa is on her printed blouse and the trench coat. The super skinny black jeans and simple black boots are also a cornerstone of the minimal, downtown, slightly grungy look. Skinny black jeans are lifesavers, by the way. When I throw on a pair it makes everything else I am wearing look magically urban and cool. My ratty t-shirt is somehow transformed into an edgy, rocker tee and I imagine that no one notices the mustard stains. They are magic and everyone should own a pair. But I digress!
Since a good trench coat is actually pretty expensive, I put most of the money towards the trench. Other items which are worth splurging on would be the blouse and the boots. Good black boots will last you for years and rarely go out of style. The blouse too, I would recommend throwing a bit more money at. Sure, you could buy a cheap blouse from Forever 21 but spending a bit more on better fabric will improve the overall look. Said magic jeans almost look better when they are a little cheap; it goes with the whole “I woke up like this” look. Scrimp on other parts of the outfit, like a small black bag and a trendy hat and you’re all set!
Design for the rest of us 