Culture / People

Introducing ‘UNITY!’ issue cover star, Olivia Petronella Palermo

Introducing ‘UNIT!’ issue cover star, Olivia Petronella Palermo

Few things mean more to Olivia Petronella Palermo than a morning cappuccino or her Grandmother’s Hermès scarf. Her area code may be Parisian, but she secretly dreams of vanishing to a ranch filled with rescue animals, fruit trees, and a wildflower garden.

 

The first thing you should know about me is ... I’m chronically five minutes late, but worth the wait.

I’m currently living in … Paris

My favourite thing about it is ... Having an evening with friends, wine, and beautiful view of the city.

But if I could be anywhere, I’d be … At home in Los Angeles with my family, enjoying the sunshine – something Paris unfortunately lacks this time of year.

My star sign is … Gemini.

It suits me because … It suits me perfectly because I am multidimensional. People usually associate Gemini’s with being two-faced, but I think it really has more to do with complexity.

My friends would describe me as … Funny, spontaneous, considerate, loyal, and maybe slightly chaotic at times.

I am my most myself when … Whenever I am in nature, whether it be surrounded by trees or resting by the sea. It’s very grounding to me.

I like to start my day by … Having a cappuccino.

And finish it with ... Drinking a tea – preferably with ginger and lemon.

I would describe my personal style as … Comfortable, colourful, and ever-changing.

The most special piece in my wardrobe is … My Grandmother’s Hermès scarf.

The best advice I’ve been given is … Mind over matter. The person who knows me best is … My Mum! She can read right through me. All these years, and I still don’t understand how she does it. It’s like she can see into my brain and understand (almost) everything.

Working with Cartier for this cover feels like … I’m stepping into a world that feels timeless.

A song that fortifies me would be … Power by Al Green. One of my favourite songs of all time.

An album I’ve had on repeat is … Anything by Lana Del Rey.

A comfort film I love to rewatch is … Ponyo by Hayao Miyazaki.

A special moment in my career so far has been … Shooting a Mother’s Day campaign with my Mum. Getting to shoot a campaign is already an amazing experience, and having my Mum there felt extra special. It was a day neither of us will forget.

A dream I’m still yet to realise is … I secretly dream of disappearing to a ranch with rescue animals, fruit trees, and a messy flower garden.

When I get a week off, I’m headed to … The south of France.! It’s the perfect getaway from Paris and I love to go visit my family living there.

The future looks … Bright! Who’s to say where I’ll be in five more years, but I can’t wait for what’s in store.

 

 


Experience the UNITY! issue in its entirety this November, available on newsstands from Monday 17 November 2025, and through our online shopFind a stockist near you.

 

PHOTOGRAPHY Olivia Frølich @ Link Details

FASHION Hannah Cooper

MODEL Olivia Petronella Palermo @ NEXT Paris

HAIR Phillip Fohlin @ Link Details

MAKEUP Kamila Vay

PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANTS Jacob Carbuhn

DIGITAL OPERATOR Martin Simonic

LIGHTING Jacob Carbuhn

STYLIST’S ASSISTANT Hayley Clutterbuck

CASTING DIRECTOR Neill Seeto @ IMA Casting

 

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Feature image (left): ACNE STUDIOS bodysuit; BALENCIAGA shoes; CARTIER bracelets and rings. Feature image (right): CHRISTIAN DIOR dress; CARTIER bracelets and rings. 

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