Mar 13, 2019

ForbesWomen I cover leveraging failures into success & everything in between. Share to facebook Courtesy of Westward Leaning. Olivia Palermo has partnered with Westward Leaning on a sunglass capsule collection with proceeds of sales going back to Dress For Success . The collaboration features 13 sunglasses comprised of 4 entirely new frame shapes designed by Palermo, making this her most involved partnership to date with the brand. This collaboration has also been Westward Leaning's first time introducing new shapes into the brands existing portfolio from an outside party. Many of the frames include never before used metals, biodegradable plant-based acetates, and custom two-tone color combinations, the latter of which were important for the foundation of her creative vision. "We have never used most of these materials before: the colorways, lenses, and acetates; the metal finishes and manufacturing techniques were sourced and developed, respectively, to meet the design wishes of Olivia and her vision. This is the next-level version of what we have done as a company to date when it comes to producing universally-flattering, truly special sunglasses for our customers," said Robert Denning, Westward Leaning Co-Founder. Olivia Palermo in The Seaspray frame. Courtesy of Westward Leaning Inspired and named for some of the Palermo's favorite global destinations, (The Bristol Hotel in Paris, the Mayfair neighborhood in London, North Moore Street in Tribeca, and Seaspray Avenue in Palm Beach). Not only are these sunglasses the ultimate accessory for Spring/Summer 2019, but 10% of the net profits from this collaboration will be donated to Dress For Success, an organization Palermo is closely aligned with and whose mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence. "Sunglasses are a big part of your outward appearance as they're something you wear every day and act almost as a type of armor. The best thing about sunglasses is that there is something for everyone to help them feel their best when taking on the day. Feeling your best instills confidence and I took all of this into consideration when designing the collection with Westward Leaning and our partnership with Dress for Success," explained Palermo on why sunglasses are the perfect accessory to design with Westward Leaning. Oliva Palermo in WLxOP. Courtesy of Westward Leaning. As an international style authority and fashion entrepreneur, Palermo understands first-hand the impact that style and one’s wardrobe can have on self-confidence, especially as it relates to the professional world. The Westward Leaning x Olivia Palermo donation will not only provide additional resources for women in need to obtain professional attire, but will also help fund the network of support and development tools that the Dress for Success organization offers. Palermo initially started working with Dress For Success as she wanted to give back to a non-profit that she was passionate about. "I am able to work hands on with women from all walks of life to help empower them through fashion and mentorship. When it came time to choose a cause to give back to with this collaboration, Westward Leaning and myself shared the same brand values that aligned with Dress For Success," said Palermo. Palermo has been rocking the sunglasses from the collection all fashion month, but the line just became available today for the public. Westward Leaning was founded to establish a brand that incorporated social issues in an authentic manner; sunglasses were chosen as the medium because according to founder, Robert Denning, “they are probably the only fashion product that is truly universal and non-gender specific.” Olivia Palermo wearing wearing WLxOP at fashion week. Courtesy of Westward Leaning