Alexa Chung's Heat Wave Style Really Is All That

by Hannah Almassi

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.

Alexa Tip #1: Don't Forget Your Coat

Photo:

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.

Alexa Tip #2: Try the New Shirtdress

Photo:

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.

Alexa Tip #4: A Boho Blouse Does Work With Sneakers

Photo:

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.

Alexa Tip #5: Less Is ALWAYS More

Photo:

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.

Alexa Tip #6: Swap Out Your City Accessories for Beach Essentials

Photo:

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.

Alexa Tip #7: When in Doubt, Wear a Retro-Look Tee

Photo:

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.