•The Look
Claiming her VIP spot in the front row at New York Fashion Week 2012, Olivia Palermo wore a masculine beige blazer and simple brown tee cinched with neutral belt. On the bottom she stuck with the sophisticated theme and donned a black maxi skirt that showed just the right amount of leg. She finished off the look with some well placed and on-trend accessories: a high heel with a flash of python and a compact leather clutch. With these basic pieces she created a killer ensemble that can easily be replicated on a budget.
•Structured Blazer
Trust Topshop to make a basic blazer worth coveting. Shrug this neutral jacket over almost any look to give it a little bit of lightness and structure. The same blazer, for just $130, is available in a multitude of colors if you feel like mixing it up, but pick beige for classic and seasonless appeal.
•Bleeker Tee
We’re guessing you already own a few essential cotton t-shirts. And if you don’t, well, uh, consider this your motivation. This is one piece – like a white button-up blouse, or a simple black pant – that can literally be worn every single day and never look the same. With a blazer layered over it, Olivia looks smart and clean. Add a statement necklace and suddenly she’s ready for cocktails. Exchange the blazer for a moto jacket and she’s going out dancing. Anyway. . . you get the picture. And for $19.95, with every cut and color under the sun, GAP is the place to go.
•Pieces Emmi Belt
For a look like Olivia’s, a light colored belt like this one from online emporium Asos can seamlessly define one’s waist and create some feminine shape. And for only $15.52, why not? Wear it with a darker outfit, over a black cardigan for example, and the belt will create a contrasting, retro-inspired look: think Old Hollywood glamour in the vein of Marilyn Monroe.
•Midtown Maxi Skirt
A long black skirt is not only perfect for the moodier feeling of fall, it also creates a lengthening and slimming effect. A super-high slit up the middle adds some serious drama – imagine strutting down the street in this number. From It-girl outfitter Nasty Gal, for $148, this is an investment well worth making. Don’t forget to pair it with that signature Olivia attitude.
•Deniseo Platform Pumps
These Marc Fisher sling backs (on sale now for $65.99!) are made sexy with snakeskin embellishment. Because of its black and grey palette, this is a statement shoe that can be worn with almost any outfit. Choose a python print shoe to give your look a serious kick.
•Studded Leather Clutch Bag
The clutch is the bag of the season: it should be worn both day and night. This khaki style from Topshop ($76) is studded, lending a bit of edge to the otherwise staid color. It also has a detachable crossbody strap, so that when – ahem – clutching your clutch ties up your hands, you can sling it over your shoulder. It’s almost like having two bags in one.
•Hair and Beauty
As far as we’re concerned, it’s Olivia’s perfect barrel-curled hair that really makes her look – we swear we’ve never seen a strand out of place. Loose waves like hers are best achieved the old fashioned way: with curlers and a blow-dryer. But fear not, her bare-faced beauty look isn’t nearly as time consuming and only requires brown mascara (try Almay One Coat in black brown), some bronzer for contouring (Revlon Bronzer), and a rosebud tint for the lips.