Alexa Chung shows us how to wear black to a summer party

Who? What? Wear? Alexa Chung at the Serpentine Summer Party in a black Chanel frock

It was the 19th of July 2018. The weather was good. Spirits were high. And most of the guests, as far as I could see, wore black. I love black in summer, especially on a roasting hot day when everyone else is in their summeriest clothes. Black in summer gets a bad rap. It's your little sister's teenage goth phase. Or the person who dresses like they're going to a funeral when it's actually a wedding. In fact, black can fit right in under the sun.

Alexa Chung, of course, does it right. She wore the most gorgeous lace, almost gothic-style (but definitely not Goth) Chanel dress to the Serpentine Summer Party looking dressy but ready to party. The Serpentine Summer Party is an annual fundraising event for the Serpentine Galleries in Kensington Gallery. Hosted by Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld, it's basically the UK's Met Ball. Tickets cost around €4000 bought by art-lovers, socialites, scenesters and celebs (maybe). Rich people.

Alexa Chung

I love the look. The strapless top with its V detail at the neckline is modern and fresh, her neck accessory - complemented by her belt - stops it from looking too bare (who needs a necklace?). The 'Rosie Perez in typically '90s movies' round earrings work so well here, too, lifting it from serious black-tie gúna to something you'd wear dancing to a Daft Punk DJ set.

Alexa Chung is the queen of 'Personal Style', so she makes everything she wears work for her. This outfit is Chanel - but because of her impeccable styling, it's also Alexa Chung. She has the gift of style - but it can be learned. You just need to discover what works best for you. Finding your style isn't the wild wild country you think it might be, though. You're allowed to take inspiration. Alexa does; she has openly admitted taking style cues from Jane Birken and Mick Jagger (do think outside the box).

If this dress inspires you, I've found one that nods to it in the ASOS sale.

AX Paris Strapless Lace Dress €38.71 was €55

Do you like Alexa's Serpentine style? Are you inspired by her style in general? How close are you to developing your own personal style?