Fashion Group International feted the fashion elite at last week’s annual “Night of Stars” gala. With a remarkable list of members since it was officially organized in 1930 after an informal luncheon two years prior, members have included icons and legends like Hollywood’s Edith Head, Eleanor Roosevelt, Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein.
Today, the organization attracts a constellation of powerful fashion phenoms. With a mission that includes encouraging men and women to seek career opportunities in fashion and related industries, they provide activities and programs which encourage interpersonal contacts to further the professional, social and personal development of members.
The annual gala awards lived up to its ambitions as Vogue's Anna Wintour, Harper's Bazaar's Glenda Bailey, W's Stefano Tonchi, Calvin Klein, Derek Lam, Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Amanda Brooks, Leighton Meester (in creamyGiambattista Valli), Michael Kors, Vanessa Traina (in Balenciaga), Evelyn Lauder, Pat McGrath and Grace Coddington rubbed shoulders with Kate Bosworth, Jennifer Connelly and Richard Gere.
The ceremonies go to promote The Fashion Group Foundation which promotes educational programs devoted to fashion and to the study of fashion related businesses through the creation and awarding of scholarships; establishment of internship programs; provision of career counseling services. Doling out awards to a short list of remarkable individuals over the years, 2010 saw Pierre Cardin receiving the “Legend” award from Ms. Berenson, herself a mythic character of style.
Barney’s own Simon Doonan carried the event with his spritely quips and this year injecting witticisms that proferred Jersey Shore namesakes upon all of the awardees’including Balenciega’s Nicolas ghesquière dubbed the “Prince of Paramus.”
Ms. Wintour and her lovely daughter Bee made a touching presentation to Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. Mayor Bloomberg recognized the work of Evelyn Lauder on behalf of women as she received a much deserved standing ovation.
Having run the red carpet for years when this event was held at the uptown Cipriani, it was my pleasure to be on the attending end of things with board member Louise Evins and see my friend Simone Delfino handing the duties just fine!
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