‘More often than not I am barefoot’: Why musician Kita Alexander has ditched her shoes

Kita Alexander is a musician based in Byron Bay. Ahead, she talks about how her life by the beach influences her fashion choices.

I’d describe my style as comfort first, fashion second. The oldest thing in my wardrobe is some Dr. Martens lace-up boots I’ve had since I was 13. The most recent addition is a pair of Levi’s, which I sized up in because I love a low-rise jean. I even have a song on my new album called Low Rise Jeans.

On a first date I’d wear jeans, a fitted top and kitten heels. On a plane, I wear my “sewer rat” travel attire of black baggy jeans and a black oversized hoodie that I can wrap myself up in. For the red carpet, I like Velani. It’s rare that I will prioritise pain for a fashion moment, but I will allow myself to be uncomfortable on the red carpet in a corset or high heels.

The three essential items in my wardrobe are Henne jeans, a St. Agni singlet and my brown Adidas “Tokyo” sneakers. If I could have only one label in my wardrobe it would be St. Agni – well-made, timeless and fashion-forward pieces.

My go-to jewellery is a gold necklace my husband had made for me. It’s a gold chain with angel wings and dog tag with my kids’ and sister’s birthdates. I also love Dinosaur Designs’ pieces. If I wear fragrance, it’s essential oils; I like grounded, musky scents and ylang-ylang.

The shoes I wear most are Spell “Warrior” lace-up sandals, and Havaianas thongs. But I live in Byron, and more often than not I’m barefoot.

My favourite outfit when I was teenager was a short Maurie & Eve dress in a colourful bird print. My mum complained that she could see my undies, but you try being six-foot-one and finding a dress that fits. You just have to rock it. I wore that dress with high heels and a high ponytail.

My first fashion moment was when I walked the runway and sang at the David Jones/Qantas fashion show last year. I wore a sheer maroon look with my own Johnny Reb biker boots.

My worst fashion mistakes happened in the early days of my career. There were some promo album shoots where I wished I’d brushed my hair.

On my wish list is a re-issued Louis Vuitton x Murakami bag. I love that they’re back. I’m trying to bring a bit more colour into my wardrobe.

My favourite fashion icons are Dua Lipa for her fun street style, Bella Hadid for her jeans and singlets – she makes me wish I was a cowgirl – and I love Olivia Dean’s classy, elevated style. I would never wear something like Lady Gaga’s meat dress.

On a typical working day, you’ll find me in the studio wearing jeans, a singlet and a Spell faux-fur coat. Sundays are for pancakes and heading to the beach with the kids in a Fae bikini and linen robe.

Kita Alexander is the face of Spell’s “Of Poets and Romantics” collection.

Get the best of Sunday Life magazine delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up for our newsletter.

Is New York still the most fashionable city in the US? These four insiders share their best haunts.

CEO Justin Kestelman shares his day on a plate.

As the owner of one of Australia’s most exclusive boutiques, the 77-year-old rubbed shoulders with some of the world’s top designers.

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

Remove items from your saved list to add more.