How hard did age hit you? We ask, because by now you’ve seen or participated in social media’s #10YearChallenge, the latest viral internet craze asking users to compare photos of themselves from 2008/2009 and 2018/2019 (your choice), and for some there was a drastic change. But for Olivia Culpo, former Miss Universe star, it’s her style that really had the ultimate glow-up.
“I used to wear SO much large accessories, like huge statement necklaces that just makes the outfit look so overwhelming,” she told ELLE.com at the launch of her Express x Olivia Culpo collection. “Now, I tend to stuck to clean lines and silhouettes—that’s always been my thing. I love the architecture of things and the way things fit my body, so I like accessories I can use to create a nice shape.”
Culpo pushes her chair back from massive white table where we’re sitting to show off her outfit of the day: a white boyfriend blazer with black stripes layered on top of a cropped black mock-neck shirt (with a utility belt to create a slimmer fit) and high-waisted leather shorts, all from her 32-piece collection with the beloved retailer.
Comprised of transitional pieces dipped in a mix of bold and safe colors, the Olivia Culpo x Express collection ranges from $35 to $138, offering up tracksuits, jumpsuits, dresses, and loungewear created for women to “feel happy and empowered.”
Courtesy of Express
Courtesy of Express
Courtesy of Express
“I really wanted to create this collection for the woman who is savvy and does it all. The line was inspired by the everyday girl who is confident and can take these pieces and wear it many different ways,” she continued. “I designed this collection based on my style, but I’m also thinking about the average, everyday girl and what she looks like and wants to wear. I don’t wear a ton of pink, but I created a pink sequin dress, which is so left-field for me but there’s a woman out there that may love that. That’s why working with Express was so interesting because they know what their consumer wants, I know what I like and what my followers, so it’s the perfect marriage.”
Culpo turns her attention to the “GRL PWR” graphic t-shirt from the collection hanging on a rack behind her, a shirt inspired by the organization GRL PWR. “Girl power to me means women building each other up, accepting each other for who we are, and trying our hardest to come together to grow as a whole,” says the designer. Acceptance and “honoring myself more” are Culpo’s top priority for the new year.
“I want to continue on this journey of self-love, loving yourself so much that you’re able to be the best version of yourself for everybody that you encounter,” Culpo explains. “When you’re hurting inside or you’re not loving yourself enough, you’re unable to give your best version of yourself to anyone. The whole journey of life, to me, is about learning how to love yourself more so you can be the best version for yourself and everyone else who’s on this same journey.”
Check out some standout looks from the Olivia Culpo x Express collection below.
