Olivia Palermo Can’t Live Without These Leather Pants

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Back in June, Olivia Palermo gave us a sneak peek at her capsule collection for Banana Republic when she arrived at the CFDA Awards in a ruffled off-the-shoulder midi dress. Now, the wait is over: As of today, Palermo’s full 70-piece lineup is shoppable both online and in stores. Described by the style star as “military meets bohemian” and priced from $48 (for a skinny scarf) to $998 (for a snake-effect leather trench), the range is a spot-on representation of Palermo’s own personal style: equal parts preppy and romantic, and definitely high-low.

Below, Palermo discusses her longtime love of leather pants (don’t worry, there’s a pair in her collection), the fancy flats she thinks are worth the splurge, and why she’d love to see her Banana Republic line on guys as well as girls.

What was your overall goal in designing these clothes?

This collection is about taking “lifer” pieces, as I like to call them — things you can really build your closet around, since Banana Republic is really known for their classic pieces — and then bringing in great colors and playing off of different materials. While designing it, I was thinking not just about what my girlfriends would want to wear, but also my guy friends; the military coat, for example, and a lot of the cropped jackets and trousers would be great for guys.

What’s the last thing you bought for yourself?

Lots of Moncler; I’m fully obsessed with Moncler. I’ve also been really into Givenchy’s shoes lately. I bought these ones [gestures down at her glittery brogues] for more fun days, but I also got two plain leather pairs, just because I know I’m going to wear them into the ground. They’re both practical and chic.

I know you’re also a big fan of leather pants. Who makes your favorite pair, and how would you recommend styling them? I know a lot of people find them sort of intimidating...

Probably Paige. They’re the best: You can wear them with a silk top, with a chiffon blouse, or with a chunky knit sweater. I like going for something more oversized on top so the look’s a bit slouchy. But you can also wear them with a T-shirt and just throw on a blazer or a military jacket.

What’s on your shopping list for fall?

I don’t really know yet, to be honest! I think it’s nice, when you go shopping, not to have one specific thing you’re looking for. It’s always fun to get something when you least expect it, when it catches your eye. When you keep your eyes open [while shopping], you can be much more inspired.