The story behind OP's red carpet looks for the annual, celebratory event.
fashion — Jun 11
Earlier this week, the CFDA took steps to combat intolerance through several key initiatives and mentorship programs to promote greater inclusivity in the fashion industry. This announcement comes on the heels of the CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund's Common Thread initiative doling out over $2 million in grants to over 44 retailers, factories, and designers. It's this spirit of reform, resilience, and unity that makes the non-profit a shining light for many. And this past Monday would have marked this year's CFDA Fashion Awards—aka the unofficial 'Oscars' of fashion—where designers are honored for their ingenuity and creativity. To remember the occasion, Olivia reflects on special snaps and stories from fashion's big night. "This is always an evening I look forward to from the red carpet to the heartfelt speeches," she shares, "We all are hopeful for the moment where we can dress up and get together again to celebrate style and talent!"
2019 (in vintage Valentino Haute Couture): I always feel like my most glamorous self whenever I'm in one of Mr. Valentino's creations, but getting to accompany the man himself to last year's ceremony was truly a dream. He selected the archival Spring 2013 Haute Couture piece from I wore for the evening, and we amped up the effect with silvery hair by Marty Harper and great makeup by Daniel Martin. While I can't dish on what we were chatting about on the carpet, he had me in giggles long after we took our seats.
2017 (in Banana Republic x Olivia Palermo): It's a dream come true being able to wear a design of your own on a red carpet. Attending with Banana Republic's Michael Anderson was fabulous, and teasing out a piece from my upcoming collection was an incredible career moment. Seeing everyone's faces light up with excitement when told I was wearing the collaboration was exhilarating, and I couldn't wait for shoppers to soon wear the pieces with personal flair.
2016 (in Carolina Herrera and Schutz): This was the first year where the ceremony had moved from Lincoln Center, and it was so fun that my bright pink Herrera skirt from the Spring 2016 RTW collection matched the carpet. Johannes was my date that night, and we embraced a retro approach to eveningwear. The element that tied it all together? My simple, ankle strap heels from Schutz. They were olive suede with black detailing, and those hues gave an impactful contrast to the bright dress.
2014 (in Ann Taylor): Attending with the talented Lisa Axelson, then creative director of Ann Taylor, was inspiring, as she really showed me the direction of American fashion. This furry knit and fringed skirt set took cues from the flapper styles of the '20s but with a modern twist. Lacy Redway put together an intricate braid hairstyle and Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks completed the glam with bold, lined lids. Then, I kept the accessories equally as festive with feather-trimmed heels, and a Lulu Guinness iconic lips clutch.
2013 (in Dennis Basso): Dennis has been a dear friend for years—he always has such a fun front row during fashion week—and I was thrilled he asked me to be his date in 2013. I adore the quiet sophistication of this dress with its subtly embellished fringe detailing and elegantly gilded bodice. The choker was a last-minute addition, but when I threw it on, it made the dress come to life.
2009 (in David Meister): This was the first year I attended, and I was so excited! David was the most impeccable designer date and picked me up at home while making sure I had just the right amount of sparkle to make an impact on and off the red carpet. I loved the satin, bustier-style dress, and it was truly a memorable evening.