Photo: Donna Alberico

As Adele's 25 blared from the speakers and Gayle sang along—"Send My Love (To Your New Lover)" and "Water Under the Bridge" were particular favorites—Oprah struck a slightly precarious pose atop a small mountain of colorful blouses and sweaters heaped in a rolling cart. Though she once favored TV-friendly brights, these days she's heading into neutral territory, like the blush leather jacket and khaki trousers creative director Adam Glassman chose for this month's cover. "I love it!" said Oprah of her outfit. "This is my new uniform."

Photo: Donna Alberico

The prop-styling team, led by set designer Todd Wiggins from Mary Howard Studio, built a little scaffold to support their creation.

Photo: Donna Alberico

Between shots, hairstylist Nicole Mangrum touches up what she calls Oprah's happy curls.

Photo: Gregor Halenda

One Pant, Two Looks

A great pair of khakis can anchor an office look or set the stage for nighttime glam.
Day: Jacket, $710; JilSanderNavy.com. Watch, $550; Movado.com. Top, $228; ElieTahari.com. Heels, $119; NineWest.com.

Photo: Gregor Halenda

Evening: Necklace, $88; LydellNYC.com. Top, Alice + Olivia, $385; AliceandOlivia.com. Bag, $450; ToryBurch.com. Flats, $395; FrancesValentine.com.