New York Socialite Shines Her Light on a New Social Project
It happens on the subway, the sidewalk, and online: a second glance at a stylish somebody. Pair that figure with a fashionable pair of footwear and you’ve got yourself a case of the double-take. What makes me zoom-in? When a person surprises you with their outfit choice—those who take risks and explore new fashion territory. Enter: Olivia Palermo in Pikolinos. Decked out in beautiful, authentic pieces and standing proudly alongside members of an African tribe, Palermo’s photographed stance certainly made me look twice. In fact, it made me take a look through the Spanish brand’s 2013 campaign including an exceptional look book and of course, the special collection of shoes and bags.
Johannes Huebl for Pikolinos
Where’s the script? There is none. No, this is not an episode of The City. Yes, this is an episode of the social star’s reality. The impeccable, dare I say iconic, Olivia Palermo has successfully navigated her way on-set to shooting on-location. She’s no stranger to the camera, yet these images made me see her in a new light. Her bright smile reflecting those of the Massai tribesmen and women was a refreshing take-five from her popular elegant pose. Of course, Palermo’s style is unrivaled: classically-chic with a perfectly approved seal of carefully selected accessories. Who better to star as the campaign’s new “protagonist” for this year’s Massai Project?
1,600 women hand embroider the leather for the Pikolinos sandals
Now in its third year, the Massai Project was launched by Pikolinos to provide a mode of sustained employment for women in the Massai Mara of Kenya and Tanzania. The brand has maintained a special relationship with the project as it reaches new audiences. Hundreds of women benefit from the artisanal work in handcrafting and embroidering the line of sandals, children have increased access to education, and men learn about the opportunity to improve their family’s well-being when a woman works outside of the home. Olivia herself is another beneficiary; she was able to stitch soles alongside the female artisans and experience the African Savannah alongside the souls of the endangered Massai tribe.
Olivia Palermo learning alongside Massai Mara women
Another special relationship is that of the ambassador and the campaign’s photographer who aptly captured an intimate glance at the oftentimes exposed personality. The relatable star makes you picture a reality where “another world is possible” while the talented cameraman uses technology as a medium to illustrate global evolvement—photography with a purpose as opposed to paparazzi with flashbulbs. International actors like Palermo, her partner (photographer Johannes Huebl), and the partner NGO
Amani Watermelon
The current climate consists of talks about using technology to harness new energy sources. I’m elated to see this brand aid in harnessing arguably the most important source of energy on our planet: human nature. The most valuable component of sustainability to me is social inclusion. Can you picture yourself smiling brightly alongside the Massai? Pikolinos’ Massai Project is both inclusive and exclusive! Become a part of the production and follow @MassaiProject or take center-stage in Chelsea at the brand’s new pop-up store on Tuesday, April 16th. I can’t wait to get dressed with other #passionistas and join Olivia in NYC for the chance to shop shoes, make bracelets, and learn more about this amazing group of people lighting up the world!
