It seems everyone's fascination with MTV goes into a natural decline as we grow out of our teens, but it seemed like the influx of filler programs like "My Super Sweet 16" and "Next" was the last nail in the coffin--that is, until the network made the smart move to take on fast-talking fashion darling Alexa Chung as their newest host. In the midst of our constant fawning over Alexa's witty quips, covetable closet, and too-cool-it-hurts persona, we thought it was high time to reminisce about all those other inspiring lady VJs who paved the way. Whether it's the inimitable Downtown Julie Brown or the too-quirky Kennedy, here are those other mic-wielding women who've personified the coolest girls of their eras from the tip of the sharp tongues to the bottoms of their vintage boots.
1981: Martha Quinn, The Girl Next Door
Crowned the "Best-Ever MTV VJ" by music bible Rolling Stone, Martha held court with the greatest '80s rockers, David Lee Roth included. Her two-toned hair and sweet-sexy floral frocks seem to make her the style-predecessor or a certain Ms. Chung.
Image from MTV; Image from Chris Carroll.
1981: Nina Blackwood, The Wild Child
With her trademark tresses and rock roots, Nina captured the spirit of the '80s as one of the original five MTV VJs.
Image from 7Together; Image from NYDaily News.
1988: Julie Brown, The Downtown Diva
The original British transplant to MTV, Julie Brown's exuberance shone through in her ballsy interviews and over-the-top fashion. The girl could rock anything the '80s spit out (we're talking BIG hats!), and for that, she deserves the highest of sartorial snaps.
Image from MTV; Image from Late Night With Jimmy Fallon.
1989: Cindy Crawford, The SuperHost
Never without that trademark mole and leather jacket, Cindy Crawford may have had some rocky onscreen moments, but she managed to work it out and navigate MTV's historic House of Style throughout its first--and possibly finest--six years.
Image from That Fire & Ice; Image from WWD.
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