Sleigh Bells’ Alexis Krauss On Nail Art, Studs, & More
With two albums under their collective belt, the duo behind Sleigh Bells — Alexis Krauss and Derek Miller — has drummed up interest in more than just their genre-bending style of hardcore pop.
Since the band's sophomore effort dropped in February, frontwoman and pop chanteuse Alexis Krauss’ singular style and energetic live performances have been turning heads, including that of Mugler creative director Nicola Formichetti. From varsity jackets to acid-wash jeans, Krauss’ look has the sort of rock-legend savvy that proves, once again, that music and fashion make the best bedfellows. Ahead of tomorrow night's sold-out Sleigh Bells show at 9:30 Club, we got a chance to chat her up about her personal style, shopping hotspots, and nail art obsession — read on for the full scoop.
Photo: Courtesy of Sleigh Bells/Patrick Odell
You’re heading to D.C. on Tuesday – anything special you plan to do while you’re in town?
"I’m super excited to play the 9:30 Club. I always find myself sort of talking it up. I honestly think one of the top five shows we’ve ever played was with CSS at the 9:30 Club. It’s one of those venues that is so all-inclusive, you know? You get a great meal and great hospitality, so a lot of times we just end up staying at the venue. It’s unfortunate — other than my eighth-grade field trip, I don’t know D.C. that well. I need to spend some real, authentic time there."
How does your music influence your sense of style?
"I like to switch things up for every record. I have never been the type to be too over the top or avant garde; I don’t really like to think that much about what I’m wearing. I want to wear things that are practical, but make a statement."
Who are your music-world fashion icons?
"I’ve been referencing a lot of Lita Ford lately. She has this really '80s, trashy, over-the-top style. I don’t necessarily think it’s all the most tasteful stuff, but I definitely pull elements from her look. Also, Mary Weiss from the Shangri-Las always looked really tough and badass, yet sweet and feminine. In terms of modern icons, Santigold has a great way of looking theatrical without getting too costume-y."
Photo: Courtesy of Sleigh Bells/Patrick Odell
You’re heading to D.C. on Tuesday – anything special you plan to do while you’re in town?
"I’m super excited to play the 9:30 Club. I always find myself sort of talking it up. I honestly think one of the top five shows we’ve ever played was with CSS at the 9:30 Club. It’s one of those venues that is so all-inclusive, you know? You get a great meal and great hospitality, so a lot of times we just end up staying at the venue. It’s unfortunate — other than my eighth-grade field trip, I don’t know D.C. that well. I need to spend some real, authentic time there."
How does your music influence your sense of style?
"I like to switch things up for every record. I have never been the type to be too over the top or avant garde; I don’t really like to think that much about what I’m wearing. I want to wear things that are practical, but make a statement."
Who are your music-world fashion icons?
"I’ve been referencing a lot of Lita Ford lately. She has this really '80s, trashy, over-the-top style. I don’t necessarily think it’s all the most tasteful stuff, but I definitely pull elements from her look. Also, Mary Weiss from the Shangri-Las always looked really tough and badass, yet sweet and feminine. In terms of modern icons, Santigold has a great way of looking theatrical without getting too costume-y."
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