Olivia Culpo Interview
Image: Getty

Ever since she burst onto the fashion scene just over a decade ago, Olivia Culpo has enjoyed a reign as one of the most influential influencers on the planet. With a casual 5.1 million Instagram followers who fawn over her every sartorial move, Culpo is a New York Fashion Week front row fixture known for her unapologetically glamorous red carpet style. Culpo was recently in London to fête the launch of Michael Kors latest collaboration with the activewear brand ellesse. A capsule collection that focuses on bold colours, culty accessories, and athleisure-inspired silhouettes, it was a natural fit for Culpo, who looks as chic in a skin-hugging gown as she does off-duty in a monochrome tracksuit.

Here, she spills her style secrets with Grazia, including her recent Euphoria-inspired Coachella wardrobe, and her must-have skincare products.

Can you describe your style? How has it evolved over time? 

My personal style can best be described as timeless with a fashion-forward approach, and over time I find myself gravitating towards sleek silhouettes and bold, bright hues. Typically, I rely on mainstay pieces in my wardrobe that are my go-to, everyday essentials, but I always like to stay ahead of the curve, and stay up-to-date on what’s happening within fashion.

What was your approach to dressing up as we moved out of lockdown, has your style changed at all? 

During the past few years amidst the pandemic, I was wearing more sweats and athleisure pieces. But since then, I’ve been able to find new ways to stay inspired in terms of my approach to style and fashion as a whole. During Coachella this year, my stylist and I collaborated to create a series of looks that were inspired by Euphoria — which was pure joy.

What trends are you loving for summer 2022?  

In terms of trends this season, I think bold uses of colours are having a major comeback and have been translated into fresh, modernized silhouettes, like free-flowing dresses that feature unique design details like cut-outs as well as louche suiting that offers a more relaxed take on traditional styles seen in the past.

Olivia Culpo Interview
Image: Courtesy of Michael Kors

Tell us about the Michael Kors x ellesse collection, what was your first impression of the collaboration? 

The first thing that caught my eye with the Michael Kors x ellesse collection was the usage of bright colour combinations. The collection also exudes a cool yet effortless feel, and I love a stylish tracksuit.

What are some of your favourite pieces and how do you style them? 

While traveling in London, I decided to pair the track pants with a white cropped T-shirt and a cross-body bag in a complimentary hue to add a stylish element to the look. To offset the sportiness of the look, I slipped on a classic pair of heels to keep it casual but still a little more dressed up.

The internet is obsessed with your skincare routine, are there any new products you’re loving?  

I am constantly trying new products to incorporate into my skincare routine, but currently I love Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads, Sunday Riley CEO Serum, Clarins Double Eye Serum, Caudalie Face Mist, and anything from Dr. Barbara Sturm.

What is the one piece of styling advice you’d give to someone looking to revamp their look in 2022?  

I would advise someone to take more risks. At times, I find myself buying variations of the same things I own, and I have to reframe the way I approach personal style since I want to be able to evolve as well as experiment with fashion in a fun, playful way.