Alexa Chung teams up with M&S for 'archive' collection

TV presenter Alexa Chung is teaming up with Marks & Spencer to design a fashion line inspired by the high street giant's extensive archives.

The 31-piece womenswear collection is called Archive by Alexa and will launch in selected stores and online in April.

Chung and the M&S design team said they have been trawling through the retailer's fashion archive, based in Leeds, to bring back and update classic pieces.

M&S said the clothes will have "modern fabrications and an updated colour palette" but still retain "a heritage sensibility".

Chung looks through the vast M&S archives for inspiration. Credit: M&S

Chung was first linked with the retailer last year when she wore a Seventies-inspired M&S suede skirt which became a sell-out.

She said: "I have always had an affection for Marks & Spencer. I am thrilled to be part of this special and unique project.

"There was something very touching about looking back through the British fashion and social history for which M&S is synonymous."

This Seventies-inspired suede skirt was a sell-out when Chung wore it last year. Credit: M&S

M&S executive director of general merchandise and incoming chief executive Steve Rowe said: "Using our expertise and classic designs and Alexa's unique eye and approach to style, our collaboration was born".

The collection is the first of a new series called M&S &, which will feature exclusive collections with "designers, brands and fashion icons".

Last month M&S said chief executive Marc Bolland is to bow out in April after a six-year battle to turn around the high street retailer.