Who knew; Alexa Chung, arguably the UK's biggest fashion export, is a fan of good old Marks & Spencer.

The 32-year-old ELLE cover girl has curated a 31-piece collection named Archive by Alexa, which will hit stores in April.

As the name suggests, she's trawled the storied brand's archive of clothes, images and adverts to cherry-pick her favourite pieces from years gone by.

“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,” said Chung.

What's more, the collaboration is the first in the new 'M&S &' series, which will see the stalwart high street store team up with a “sequence of unique, exclusive collections in collaboration with some of today’s most exciting designers, brands and fashion icons.”

The partnership may seem a little unexpected, but it's worth noting that Alexa does have history with the brand. Last year she caused a £199 suede midi skirt to sell out after being pictured in it - so it's little wonder M&S was keen to get her on board.

The model and presenter is no stranger to fashion collaborations, having previously worked with US brands AG Jeans and Madewell on hugely-popular collections.

Chung joins M&S's impressive stable of fashion talent, which already includes models Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and David Gandy.

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We're seriously hoping the pink frilled shirt she's wearing in above shots is part of the collection. Sharpen those elbows, ladies, it's going to be a scrum.