I’ve been obsessed with Audrey Hepburn ever since I saw her in “Breakfast in Tiffany’s” a few years ago. Her poise, grace and modesty make her the epitome of chic. She definitely was a muse for Chanel, Givenchy and other designers of her time. I have since bought all of her films, and I never tire of watching her on the screen. I would love to be so elegant and graceful. I never thought I would find a modern muse who could channel Audrey Hepburn with the same ease and class. Then I started watching The City, on MTV, and Olivia Palermo came onto the screen.
She dresses and lives like a real modern-day princess. Maybe she’s copying them, or maybe she’s simply one of them (minus the title of “princess”)?!
At 26, Palermo has already become something of a fashion icon. She seems born for the business — armed with a skill set for styling that goes beyond the basics, way beyond. For Palermo, it’s all nuance and instinct. She knows designers, and has her favorites: Tibi, Marchesa, Ellie Tahari and Giambattista Valli. But she’s also partial to Zara and Topshop for killer, low-cost finds. It’s that kind of fashion strategy that’s made her a favorite of mine and definitely one to watch.
In spring we must replace our LBD with its white variant. Forget black, this dress will make you look elegant, sophisticated, chic and fresh at the same time! The LWD breaths youth and pure innocence. Palermo brings in the glamour with nice jewelry and a pop of red or pink in the clutch or the heels.
When asked, “What are the biggest trends for this Spring?” Palermo said: ”Lots and lots of colour. I couldn’t be happier! I always say it’s extremely important when getting dressed to always have a bit of colour, even in the winter. So this season colour is back. It was here last spring with colour blocking, and it’s a great way to get ready.”
Olivia mentions that Neon is also going to be a huge trend this season, but most of us would be unsure of how to incorporate it into our every day outfits. She says:
“Start with an accessory whether it’s a bangle or a pair of shoes. Obviously you see the tribal shoes have a bit of color. They’re great for slacks or just for everyday. And then you have the little purse- the neon purse, the change purse if you want to be hands free, that’s quite nice. And then the sandal is perfect for the summer with a strip of metallic. You saw metallics, they are always around.”
Whilst everyone is obsessing about candy colours and neons this Spring: sand, beige, camel and nudes don’t have to be boring. Once again Olivia shows us how to wear neutral, soothing shades from head to toe: layering is the secret to make this look interesting. Neutrals also are a great way to show off your accessories or a surprising bright pink lipstick… 
The maxi skirt is the best way to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. Olivia is wearing this trans-seasonal piece a lot lately. She has them in all shapes: ankle length to show off her sandals, or a floor-sweeping version for a super elegant silhouette. To create a casual look Olivia keeps it basic on the top with a white jersey tee and a black leather jacket, or a warm turtleneck knit. For a more chic version of the maxi skirt she pairs it with a fur vest and high-heel leopard print ankle booties. To add more shape she accentuates the waist with a leather belt.
She can afford the finest in fashion, but Olivia Palermo speaks frequently about her love of mixing high and low-end products.
“I love mixing low cost pieces with some things that are higher end,” she said citing that she pairs clothes from Topshop with shoes from luxury brand Jimmy Choo.
She also enjoys incorporating foreign names into her wardrobe. “I love supporting younger, London-based designers like Matthew Williamson and Markus Lupfer,” she says. “I’ll wear them, as well as some bigger names from time to time, but it’s that [high/low] mix that is important.”
I hope she continues to inspire us throughout the spring and summer season. She is definitely one to watch!
