Alexa Chung's Heat Wave Style Really Is All That

Alexa's back—in Blighty that is. Miss Chung has relocated to the big smoke from NYC and is on the cusp of launching her highly anticipated eponymous clothing line.

But it's not all work and no fun, as the 33-year-old found time to drop in on the ever-colourful Chelsea Flower Show, just as London's glorious heat wave kicked into gear.

Perhaps not wanting to compete with the kaleidoscopic display of flowers she knew she'd no doubt be posing in front of, Alexa chose a subdued, monochromatic look that effortlessly contrasted with her floral surroundings, and she adopted a light duster coat to balance out a thigh-high midi.

Of course, having spent several summers combatting Manhattan's sweltering summers, Chung knows a thing or two about breezing through a heat wave in style. From her loose-fitting nightshirt-style dresses that can be easily smartened-up in a flash via chic sandals to the way she uses light layers to prepare for an inevitable stripping session come midday, here's how our favourite Brit icon gets her hot-weather style in check.

Keep reading to see and shop Alexa Chung's summer vibes.

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Alexa Tip #1: Don't Forget Your Coat
(Image credit: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)

Style Notes: This may sound like an odd instruction for a heat wave, but you'll be glad of a lightweight cover-up when the sun threatens to scorch your shoulders or if you find yourself in an over-zealously air-conditioned space.

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Alexa Tip #2: Try the New Shirtdress
(Image credit: Ignat/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images)

Style Notes: Covered-up but cheeky, boyish but still feminine, totally breezy to wear but still smart… This one shirtdress has a lot going for it. As Alexa often does, she grounds the high-summer components with black accessories.

A photo posted by on

With a snug tee in check, Alexa's added the one thing all denim addicts will agree is happening right now: the jean belt. Also, we like her Longchamp clutch bag.

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Alexa Tip #4: A Boho Blouse Does Work With Sneakers
(Image credit: Startraks/Rex/Shutterstock)

Style Notes: Proving that vintage Levi cut-offs can be worn a million-and-one ways, Alexa's boho blouse–and-trainers combination isn't one we'd automatically think of, but it works.

Related: Alexa Chung's Wardrobe Is the Inspiration You Need for 2021

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Alexa Tip #5: Less Is ALWAYS More
(Image credit: Stratraks Photo/Rex/Shutterstock)

Style Notes: Who needs more than an LBD and red lipstick when it looks this good? Alexa offsets the sass with some customised Superga sneakers and celebrity-ready shades from Gucci.

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Alexa Tip #6: Swap Out Your City Accessories for Beach Essentials
(Image credit: Alo Ceballos/Getty Images)

Style Notes: Who wants to tote around a heavy leather handbag or wear hot closed-toe shoes in this heat? Alexa Chung has it covered with this fabric tote and espadrille action. Also, strong shirt game via a past-season number from Shrimps.

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Alexa Tip #7: When in Doubt, Wear a Retro-Look Tee
(Image credit: Alo Ceballos/Getty Images)

Style Notes: With her Alexa Chung for AG skirt nodding to the '60s, it's no wonder the icon paired it up with a vintage-style tee from The Deep End Club.

A photo posted by on

Style Notes: There's almost nothing so retro and American as a ringer tee—so kudos to Alexa for wearing hers with equally vintage-looking ankle-swinger jeans and hanging out on the stoop.

Keep scrolling to shop Alexa's style…

Related: The One Jumper Alexa Chung Says She's "In a Relationship" With

Hannah Almassi
Editor in Chief

Hannah Almassi is the editor in chief of Who What Wear UK. Hannah has been part of the the Who What Wear brand since 2015, when she was headhunted to launch the UK sister site and social channels, implement a localised content strategy and build out the editorial team. She joined following a seven-year tenure at Grazia magazine, where she led front-of-book news, fashion features and shopping specials as fashion news and features editor. With experience in both print and digital across fashion and beauty, Hannah has over 16 years in the field as a journalist, editor, content strategist and brand consultant. Hannah has interviewed industry heavyweights such as designers including Marc Jacobs and Jonathan Anderson through to arbiters of taste including Katie Grand and Anna Dello Russo. A skilled moderator and lecturer specialising in the shift to digital media and e-commerce, Hannah’s opinion and work has been sought by the likes of CNBC, BBC, The Sunday Times Style, The Times, The Telegraph and MatchesFashion.com, among many others. Hannah is often called upon for her take on trends, becoming known as a person with their finger of the pulse of what’s happening in the fashion space for stylish Brits.

Hannah currently resides in Eastbourne with her photographer husband, incredibly busy son and highly Instagrammable cat.