Sometimes you see someone from afar and you feel intimated. They are too pretty, too polished, too cool…and it unnerves you. At least it does to me, because I still feel like a little freckled face child most of the time who happens to play dress up for a living. But sometimes this incredible thing happens – you get to meet the person, to chat with them, to see them break into such a real and infectious smile that you are reminded that we are all just people. (Kinda like the moment I told Iman she had something in her teeth). In this moment, the magic fairy dust you saw around the person doesn’t disappear – it glows even brighter – because they’re now real. This was the case with Olivia Palermo. I didn’t know anything about this NY native whose style sensibility has put her on the zeitgeist of all fashionistas, and whose doe-eyed face and very well accessorized frame is seated front row at every “it” show. Turns out, she’s an absolute gem. Soft spoken and kind, as beautiful as you imagine, with ballerina limbs and a shyness about her that unveils the aura that I often associate with the fashion set. Beyond that, the chick is a badass, with a business savvy and intelligence that’s as refreshing as it is inspiring; she has an eponymous global brand where campaigns, a lucrative e-commerce website, and capsules collections are all part of her de rigueur. If you already love her, then this TIG Talk will make you love her more. And if you aren’t familiar with her, then ladies and gentlemen – you’re welcome.
- My nickname is: O.P.
- The first thing I do when I wake up is: Make the bed.
- I can’t live without: My husband and my iPhone.
- If I had one week to escape: I would either go skiing in Courcheval or a beach somewhere without seeing many people.
- If I only had $10 in my pocket: I would go get a manicure (that’s an easy one!).
- Everything tastes better with a little: Rainbow Sprinkles (I love sprinkles!).
Photos via: Phil Taylor, Johannes Huebl, Zimbio