Archive for the ‘Peter Som’ Category
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
Can I tell you…about
Miami Art Basel. Ever since it’s launch in 2002, this four day convergence has gained quite a reputation for being the most important art fair in the country and one that throws the best parties! This past December, I took the plunge and joined hundreds of New Yorkers on their pilgrimage to South Beach. This year MAB’s organizers pulled out all the stops with art on the beach, over the top parties, lavish dinners and live performances by emerging artists. There was so much to see and do that it was overwhelming, but that’s part of the fun. At the airport taxi line, I bumped into my girlfriend Teresa Herrera who, like me, also came to take it all in for the first time. We were Basel Virgins!
I stayed with my BFF
Peter Som who was conveniently booked at the Shoreclub, a hop and skip away from the Convention Center. Location is everything especially for a huge fair like this.
Walking through the Convention Center was daunting with over 250 prestigious galleries from 33 countries and over 2,000 artists showing everything from paintings, fine art photography, sculpture, drawings, installations and videos. Even Sylvester Stallone exhibited his work. Who knew he was an ‘artist’?!
I enjoyed the other satellite fairs like Pulse, Art Asia and Scope over at the Wynwood district, where you could find new artists and perhaps some affordable pieces.
We did our share of shin-digging too. There was the Francois Nars’ party at the Standard where we bumped into
Lorenzo Martone showing off his tattoos to his friends. As we were leaving, Francois and Naomi Campbell were just arriving fashionably very late for their own event. We rushed over to Nadia Swarovski’s rooftop cocktail at the W then downstairs for another party by the pool where I bumped into
Teresa Herrera with Filipino Art Collector Marcel Krespo and the boys from
Cool Hunting Josh Rubin and Evan Orenstein. We caught a live performance by Santigold at the Raleigh right after David Zwirner Gallery’s intimate dinner.
We tagged along with LACMA curator and our girlfriend Christine Y. Kim and her associates to see some of the leading private collections in Miami – among them the Margulies Collection, the Rubell Family Collection, the de la Cruz Collection, the Mora Collection, the Scholl Collection, and the Dacra Collection. During the fair, they open their homes and warehouses to guests of the show. I especially love seeing art in homes, especially art of this caliber. There’s an aspirational aspect to it that I’m sure you can relate to.
After four days we had art coming out of our ears and had had enough of the big extravaganzas. We were aching for something low key. Fortunately, our dear friend and super talented Interior Designer
D.B. Kim was celebrating his birthday party in South Beach.
The party was held in stylist Ron Laxamana’s quaint apartment compound that faintly evokes the set of 90′s TV hit Melrose Place. It was a fun intimate affair and a perfect way to end a rather hectic and art-filled week. I’ll be back…same time next year!
Tags: fashion insider, rafe new york, Rafe Totengco
Posted in Christine Y. Kim, Cool Hunting, D.B. Kim, Lorenzo Martone, Miami Art Basel 2009, Peter Som, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Teresa Herrera | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
Can I tell you …about my favorite Christmas party? Every year I get inundated with invites to celebrate the holidays. Which one to go to and can I go to all of them? Such a dilemma! It had been such a dour year (recession hello!) that I was looking forward to lifting my spirits and ending the year with some yuletide cheer. Unfortunately, I can’t make it to every party but there are a few on the top of my list. One of them is Chandelier Creative’s Holiday Bash. Their first party last year was so much fun. I met a lot of new people, almost bid on some art and had copious amounts of champagne. So when I got their grandiose invite this year I put it in my outlook calendar marked urgent.
Richard Christiansen, Chandelier’s creative director and Anthony Keegan, Commonwealth Utilities’ designer (dressed as Rudolph) certainly know how to throw an extravaganza with flowing drinks (served up by studly Santa’s helpers), a full gospel choir (singing disco and R&B classics) and a silent art auction to benefit the New Museum on the Bowery. They were determined to up the ante for their second annual event and that’s exactly what they did.
The Noho loft where their offices are was filled with balloons, a towering Christmas tree, a hot dog and popcorn stand as well as the requisite open bar. The crowd was equally fabulous as one might expect from this boutique design firm. Designers Francisco Costa and Peter Som, Gossip Girl’s Amanda Setton, fashion editors Stefano Tonchi and Marcus Teo, models Jessica White and Julie Henderson sipped champagne, nibbled on hot dogs and got their photos taken with a hunky Santa (a trainer in Richard’s gym).
Last year I missed out on the art and there were some amazing pieces. So this year I was hoping to get something from the auction. Limited edition prints and original artwork from contemporary artists, fashion and art photographers like Stewart Shining, Ian Wright, Lorenzo Martone, Douglas Friedman and Shun Kawakami filled the wall. As soon as we perused the silent auction, Peter and I made our choices. Peter eyed an Arthur Elgort portrait of 70’s model Lisa Taylor while a couple of pieces caught my attention; a print by Lorenzo Martone and another by Ian Wright.
We hovered by the wall monitoring our bids while mingling with friends. Hunky Santa provided a welcome distraction and a great photo op. Fashion photographer Chiun-Kai Shih (we call him Chunky) was so besotted that he kept snapping away at Santa. And who could blame him? Santa claimed someone stole most of his costume…yeah, right! Fortunately, Chunky takes his camera with him wherever he goes and was happy to share these delicious photos with me.
As the hour drew near the bidding got a little heated as people kept upping their bids on their favorite pieces. I was determined to win this time but Lorenzo’s print was getting dangerously close to slipping out of my hands. At the very last minute, as my competitor walked away I penciled my last offer and won! Phew, that was a close call. Peter got his Elgort print as well. In life, timing is everything! The auction raised almost $15K for the museum.
Lorenzo was thrilled I won his piece and told me that he only made one print of this image so I have a one of one! I also won the Ian Wright print. That’s what I call a win-win situation and a great way to end 2009. I just love a happy ending!
Posted in Anthony Keegan, Chandelier Creative, Chiun-Kai Shih, Lorenzo Martone, Peter Som, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Richard Christiansen | 9 Comments »
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
Can I tell you…about
Fashion’s Night Out? We’ve all heard the line, “when the going gets tough, the tough go shopping” and up until recently lived by that motto. But as the economy crashed, the ‘tough’ stopped shopping resulting in a devastating domino effect that forced businesses to close leaving legions of people unemployed. As sales plummeted, retailers went into a panic, slashing prices left and right training consumers to only shop on sale. For anybody in the fashion industry, this was HELL on Earth! The situation needed fixing!
Posted in Fashion's Night Out, Five Points NY, Padma Lakshmi, Peter Som, Rafe bags, Rafe blog, rafe new york, Rafe Totengco | 4 Comments »
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
Can I tell you…about Fashion’s Night Out? We’ve all heard the line, “when the going gets tough, the tough go shopping” and up until recently lived by that motto. But as the economy crashed, the ‘tough’ stopped shopping resulting in a devastating domino effect that forced businesses to close leaving legions of people unemployed. As sales plummeted, retailers went into a panic, slashing prices left and right training consumers to only shop on sale. For anybody in the fashion industry, this was HELL on Earth! The situation needed fixing!
Anna Wintour to the rescue! Vogue, along with the City of New York and Council of Fashion Designers of America masterminded Fashion’s Night Out, “ a global initiative to promote retail, restore consumer confidence, and celebrate fashion”. Last September 10, after much anticipation and hoopla, hundreds of stores across the five boroughs ( and overseas) stayed open late for one big shoppathon hoping to lure back customers to shop.
Designers were asked to do personal appearances, come up with special items and even show off their hidden talents just for the evening. Everything from designer aprons (
Peter Som), printed canvas totes ( Proenza Schouler) ,singing ( Isaac Mizrahi and Oscar de la Renta), manning the cash register (Pharrell Williams), bartending ( Olsen twins) to catwalk lessons ( Alexander Wang).
Besides all the VIP appearances and activities, there was a limited-edition
FNO T-shirt with 40% of the sales’ proceeds donated to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center.
First stop was Bergdorf Goodman.
Padma Lakshmi the host of Top Chef was hosting a cookoff and had designers Peter Som, Cynthia Rowley, Naeem Khan, Gilles Mendel and Lela Rose submit their favorite recipes and had the restaurant pass them out to partygoers to try. My favorite, and not because he’s my BFF was Peter Som’s panko fried oysters with blood orange gastrique and tartar sauce. The restaurant was packed like sardines, I could barely breathe!
Everywhere else in the store was just as jampacked. Bumped into 70’s supermodel Pat Cleveland and her gorgeous daughter Ana van Ravenstein while I was on my way out.
Next up was Henri Bendels. The store was a zoo with shoppers everywhere. It was cool to see some cute girls wearing
Rafe bags! After hobnobbing with my buyers and some customers we made our way downtown to the Meatpacking district to Stella McCartney. Vogue editor Tonne Goodman and actress Kate Hudson were hosting the party.
Right outside the store they were making fresh pizzas and let me tell you…the mob descended on those pies like piranhas each time they entered the store so much so that the pies never made it past a few steps from the door.
The scene was hilarious. “Nothing comes between me and my pizza”, remarked one very hungry fashionista. On a marathon evening like tonight, we all need our sustenance! But Kate was either running very late or we were just restless.
On our way further downtown we passed by Bleecker Street to see what Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren were up to. Between the two of them, they have practically turned this once quiet street into an outdoor mall.
You can always count on Marc to do something fun. They were inviting customers to line up and get their photos taken in a special Marc Jacobs set simulating a fashion shoot. Passed by Ralph to get a glimpse of Nacho Figueras but he had already left.
Eventually we ended up on Crosby Street to go to Opening Ceremony but that was a madhouse. So we decided to turn back and head towards the Bowery to Patricia Fields. Ugh, same situation.
At this point, we were just hungry and exhausted. Thank God
Five Points (one of my favorite restaurants) is in the neighborhood.
So did the ‘tough’ go shopping? For everybody’s sake, I certainly hope so but it’s tough to say. I do know a lot of T shirts were sold!
Posted in Fashion's Night Out, Five Points NY, Padma Lakshmi, Peter Som, Rafe bags, Rafe blog, rafe new york, Rafe Totengco | 3 Comments »
Tuesday, September 8th, 2009
Can I tell you…about David Straube and Jim Kloiber’s rooftop party. Every year since I’ve known David and Jim they throw a fabulous sunset cocktail party to celebrate the summer. It’s a much anticipated event and one I don’t like to miss.
I went with my PIC(partner in crime), fashion designer Peter Som and we met up with Jim Larkin and Aidan Kemp.
Who can resist a rooftop party with spectucular views of the city from every vantage point. Their rooftop is perfect because it spans the entire length of the apartment building so it can fit a large crowd quite comfortably and they’ve renovated it so it feels like you’re on the chic Above 60 Thompson rooftop bar lounge.
They always manage to draw in a great mix of friends; editors, stylists, publicists, art directors, writers, designers,event planners and random cuties. You can be sure to run into several people you know which always makes for a good time.
There wasn’t a required dress code but since the guest list are comprised of people who are sartorially inclined, within the first hour the “theme” was pretty obvious. We were mad for plaid! And by that I mean madras plaids or ginghams. From shorts to shirts, this pattern kept turning up as guest upon guest ascended up on the roof.
At one point, Sam Spector asked Prabal Gurung, “Did I miss the memo?” Shai Tertner on the other hand loved the pattern mix. “I feel like I’m part of the ‘in’ crowd”, he teased.
The second theme was the solid navy polo shirt…Ralph, Lacoste or Abercrombie. I mean, really are they any others worth wearing?
As the sun set and the drinks flowed, things got a little out of hand…quelle surprise! Chris Constable got hold of one guest’s ginormous black and white hat and before you knew it, people were trying it on and striking campy poses.
Eventually Chris grabbed Tenten Wu’s stilleto and started vogueing.
Then he got up on one of the deck chairs in effort to mimic Jennifer Beals…much to everybody’s amusement. And when David tried to offer him a hand to get down, Chris mistook it as an invitation to dance. At this point, everybody was in tears laughing so hard. I love Chris’ joie de vivre!
As the evening wore on, some of us were getting a little peckish, so when Bruce Pask mentioned that he felt like getting a burger, we all got excited. It was all so spur of the moment but we dashed out and headed to the East Village. Bruce took us to Black Iron Burger; a tiny pub known for its selection of micro brews and its signature Black Iron Burger.
The menu is straight to point: burgers, a couple of salads, sandwiches and fried green pickled tomatoes. Several beers later, burgers and fries consumed and appetites sated, we rolled out unto the street and called it a night.
I love summer nights like this. A great party with friends, a last minute dinner, and lots of laughter. What’s not to love?! Soon enough, the season will be over and it will all seem like a mid summer night’s dream.
Tags: Aidan Kemp, Black Iron Burger, Bruce Pask, Chris Constable, Jim Kloiber, Jim Larkin, Peter Som, Prabal Gurung, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Sam Spector, Shair Tertner
Posted in Aidan Kemp, Black Iron Burger, Bruce Pask, Chris Constable, Jim Kloiber, Jim Larkin, Peter Som, Prabal Gurung, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Sam Spector, Shair Tertner | 8 Comments »
Tuesday, September 8th, 2009
Can I tell you…about David Straube and Jim Kloiber’s rooftop party. Every year since I’ve known David and Jim they throw a fabulous sunset cocktail party to celebrate the summer. It’s a much anticipated event and one I don’t like to miss.I went with my PIC(partner in crime), fashion designer Peter Som and we met up with Jim Larkin and Aidan Kemp.
Who can resist a rooftop party with spectucular views of the city from every vantage point. Their rooftop is perfect because it spans the entire length of the apartment building so it can fit a large crowd quite comfortably and they’ve renovated it so it feels like you’re on the chic Above 60 Thompson rooftop bar lounge.They always manage to draw in a great mix of friends; editors, stylists, publicists, art directors, writers, designers,event planners and random cuties. You can be sure to run into several people you know which always makes for a good time.There wasn’t a required dress code but since the guest list are comprised of people who are sartorially inclined, within the first hour the “theme” was pretty obvious. We were mad for plaid! And by that I mean madras plaids or ginghams. From shorts to shirts, this pattern kept turning up as guest upon guest ascended up on the roof.At one point, Sam Spector asked Prabal Gurung, “Did I miss the memo?” Shai Tertner on the other hand loved the pattern mix. “I feel like I’m part of the ‘in’ crowd”, he teased.The second theme was the solid navy polo shirt…Ralph, Lacoste or Abercrombie. I mean, really are they any others worth wearing?
As the sun set and the drinks flowed, things got a little out of hand…quelle surprise! Chris Constable got hold of one guest’s ginormous black and white hat and before you knew it, people were trying it on and striking campy poses.Eventually Chris grabbed Tenten Wu’s stilleto and started vogueing.Then he got up on one of the deck chairs in effort to mimic Jennifer Beals…much to everybody’s amusement. And when David tried to offer him a hand to get down, Chris mistook it as an invitation to dance. At this point, everybody was in tears laughing so hard. I love Chris’ joie de vivre!As the evening wore on, some of us were getting a little peckish, so when Bruce Pask mentioned that he felt like getting a burger, we all got excited. It was all so spur of the moment but we dashed out and headed to the East Village. Bruce took us to Black Iron Burger; a tiny pub known for its selection of micro brews and its signature Black Iron Burger. The menu is straight to point: burgers, a couple of salads, sandwiches and fried green pickled tomatoes. Several beers later, burgers and fries consumed and appetites sated, we rolled out unto the street and called it a night.I love summer nights like this. A great party with friends, a last minute dinner, and lots of laughter. What’s not to love?! Soon enough, the season will be over and it will all seem like a mid summer night’s dream.
Posted in Aidan Kemp, Black Iron Burger, Bruce Pask, Chris Constable, Jim Kloiber, Jim Larkin, Peter Som, Prabal Gurung, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Sam Spector, Shair Tertner | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 19th, 2009
Can I tell you…about Thursdays in the city. New York’s best social events are always held on Thursdays, always has been, always will be. I don’t know why but it is. So a few months ago, on a crisp Spring Thursday, my friends designer Peter Som, writer Rima Suqi and I decided we’d party hop.
First stop was Shinique Smith’s opening at Yvon Lambert’s gallery in Chelsea. I met Shinique a few years ago through my girlfriend and museum curator Christine Y. Kim and we instantly hit it off. She’s funny, warm, thoughtful and a prolific artist. Her work has been steadily gaining momentum and was recently among the chosen few at the Rubell Family Collection show entitled “30 Americans” in their gallery in Miami.
Shinique’s mixed media style referencing pop and urban street culture through collage and painting has made her a rising star in the Art World. This show was entitled,“Ten Times Myself”. I was blown away by the show…her pieces were exuberant, powerful and energetic. Her work blurs the lines between sculpture and painting seamlessly.
Art openings always draw in an eclectic crowd and it’s great for people watching. As we were heading out, we bumped into fashion editor Emil Wilbekin wearing his Rafe satchel. I love an unexpected Rafe sighting!
Next up, we headed all the way downtown to Crosby Street, on the edge of Soho and Chinatown to the Super chic design store/gallery De Vera. On this insider street address, you’ll find Derek Lam, Jil Sander, Ted Muehling and Opening Ceremony. It’s a destination but it’s worth the trek. Federico de Vera is a good friend and an insanely talented jewelry designer, curator and collector of objets d’art.
His store is like a mini museum of the most exotic artifacts from around the world and he has impeccable taste. His store is filled with exquisite examples of deities and Philippine saints, vintage Venetian glass, Japanese and Chinese lacquerware, and updated Georgian and Victorian jewelry.
Federico’s own jewelry designs are to die for. The guest list was an impressive mix of architects, artists, interior designers, editors and fashion designers.
Can you imagine my excitement when Pierre Hardy walked in? If you don’t know who Pierre is, you should! Can I tell you…he’s major! On top of designing his own collection of shoes for men and women, he also designs Balenciaga’s women’s shoes and Hermes’ fine jewelry and women’s shoes. He’s a designer’s designer.
I told him I had several of his shoes and he was so gracious about it. Listen, when somebody adores you like I do him, how can you not be thrilled?! When I meet people who are so effusive about their love for my designs, I’m always flattered and humbled at the same time.
All those cocktails leave me hungry and it’s impossible to eat at these events…as much as I try to nibble. So Peter and I dashed to the Lobster Shack up the street for a proper meal while Rima stayed to mingle some more. That was a fun night. Note to self: Thursday Socials are always great!
Tags: Federico De Vera, Peter Som, Pierre Hardy, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Rima Suqi, Shinique Smith, Ten Times Myself, Yvon Lambert
Posted in Federico De Vera, Peter Som, Pierre Hardy, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Rima Suqi, Shinique Smith, Ten Times Myself, Yvon Lambert | 7 Comments »
Wednesday, August 19th, 2009
Can I tell you…about Thursdays in the city. New York’s best social events are always held on Thursdays, always has been, always will be. I don’t know why but it is. So a few months ago, on a crisp Spring Thursday, my friends designer Peter Som, writer Rima Suqi and I decided we’d party hop.First stop was Shinique Smith’s opening at Yvon Lambert’s gallery in Chelsea. I met Shinique a few years ago through my girlfriend and museum curator Christine Y. Kim and we instantly hit it off. She’s funny, warm, thoughtful and a prolific artist. Her work has been steadily gaining momentum and was recently among the chosen few at the Rubell Family Collection show entitled “30 Americans” in their gallery in Miami.Shinique’s mixed media style referencing pop and urban street culture through collage and painting has made her a rising star in the Art World. This show was entitled,“Ten Times Myself”. I was blown away by the show…her pieces were exuberant, powerful and energetic. Her work blurs the lines between sculpture and painting seamlessly.Art openings always draw in an eclectic crowd and it’s great for people watching. As we were heading out, we bumped into fashion editor Emil Wilbekin wearing his Rafe satchel. I love an unexpected Rafe sighting!Next up, we headed all the way downtown to Crosby Street, on the edge of Soho and Chinatown to the Super chic design store/gallery De Vera. On this insider street address, you’ll find Derek Lam, Jil Sander, Ted Muehling and Opening Ceremony. It’s a destination but it’s worth the trek. Federico de Vera is a good friend and an insanely talented jewelry designer, curator and collector of objets d’art.His store is like a mini museum of the most exotic artifacts from around the world and he has impeccable taste. His store is filled with exquisite examples of deities and Philippine saints, vintage Venetian glass, Japanese and Chinese lacquerware, and updated Georgian and Victorian jewelry.Federico’s own jewelry designs are to die for. The guest list was an impressive mix of architects, artists, interior designers, editors and fashion designers.Can you imagine my excitement when Pierre Hardy walked in? If you don’t know who Pierre is, you should! Can I tell you…he’s major! On top of designing his own collection of shoes for men and women, he also designs Balenciaga’s women’s shoes and Hermes’ fine jewelry and women’s shoes. He’s a designer’s designer.I told him I had several of his shoes and he was so gracious about it. Listen, when somebody adores you like I do him, how can you not be thrilled?! When I meet people who are so effusive about their love for my designs, I’m always flattered and humbled at the same time.All those cocktails leave me hungry and it’s impossible to eat at these events…as much as I try to nibble. So Peter and I dashed to the Lobster Shack up the street for a proper meal while Rima stayed to mingle some more. That was a fun night. Note to self: Thursday Socials are always great!
Posted in Federico De Vera, Peter Som, Pierre Hardy, Rafe blog, Rafe Totengco, Rima Suqi, Shinique Smith, Ten Times Myself, Yvon Lambert | 1 Comment »
Thursday, July 16th, 2009
Can I tell you…about the after party at the High Line. Following the CFDA Awards, me and my posse headed downtown to attend one of the hottest parties that was happening that evening. Friends of the High Line and Calvin Klein were hosting the event.
Upon entry, we were greeted by the longest bar ever; bathed in purple light and flanked with model/ bartenders it was a sight for sore eyes. For once, there was no waiting for drinks much to everybody’s delight. You asked for it, you got it…subito!
The space was packed with an incredible cross section of New York’s movers and shakers, fashionistas and celebrities. I met the iconic anti-model and artist Tony Ward,(yes, he dated Madonna briefly) who was surprisingly very friendly and totally into having his photo taken with me. Can I tell you…that totally made my night.
Swarovski Award winners Alexander Wang and Justin Giunta joined Edward Norton, Tom Sachs, Diane von Furstenberg, Zoe Saldana, Debbie Harry, Lake Bell, Taylor Lautner,Bradley Cooper, Gerard Butler and Lisa Marie to inaugurate the space.
Almost everybody from the CFDA Awards were here so it was a bit of dejavu but by this time of the evening, we were all getting ever so slightly intoxicated and having way too much fun.
Photographers David Xavier Prutting and Neil Rasmus were mingling with the crowd and taking tons of photos. At this kind of an event, nobody is camera shy and these boys know everybody!
Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Meredith Mellilng Burke, Jason Wu, Philip Lim, Richard Chai, Alejandro Ingelmo, Robert Geller, Erin Fetherston, Francisco Costa and Italo Zucchelli were all sipping cocktails and strolling through the park. It was such a magical evening, I was on a high!
At one point in the evening we were getting hungry again and my friend, Peter Som even offered to whip something up from his apartment since he lives nearby. I think that was the vodka talking but if you didn’t know already, Peter not only cooks a great meal but he can bake a mean pie!
This was my second party at the High Line hosted by Calvin Klein and it was just as fabulous. It was also a fundraiser and open to the pubic. Proceeds from the ticket sales will go towards supporting the maintenance and operations of the park.
I can’t wait to see the park during the day. I’ve heard it’s absolutley gorgeous! That’s next on my list after I get back from Hong Kong. I had a flight to catch the next day. Stay tuned!
Tags: David Xavier Prutting, High Line Park, Neil Rasmus, Peter Som, Rafe Totengco, Tony Ward
Posted in David Xavier Prutting, High Line Park, Neil Rasmus, Peter Som, Rafe Totengco, Tony Ward | 5 Comments »
Thursday, July 16th, 2009
Can I tell you…about the after party at the High Line. Following the CFDA Awards, me and my posse headed downtown to attend one of the hottest parties that was happening that evening. Friends of the High Line and Calvin Klein were hosting the event.Upon entry, we were greeted by the longest bar ever; bathed in purple light and flanked with model/ bartenders it was a sight for sore eyes. For once, there was no waiting for drinks much to everybody’s delight. You asked for it, you got it…subito!The space was packed with an incredible cross section of New York’s movers and shakers, fashionistas and celebrities. I met the iconic anti-model and artist Tony Ward,(yes, he dated Madonna briefly) who was surprisingly very friendly and totally into having his photo taken with me. Can I tell you…that totally made my night.Swarovski Award winners Alexander Wang and Justin Giunta joined Edward Norton, Tom Sachs, Diane von Furstenberg, Zoe Saldana, Debbie Harry, Lake Bell, Taylor Lautner,Bradley Cooper, Gerard Butler and Lisa Marie to inaugurate the space.Almost everybody from the CFDA Awards were here so it was a bit of dejavu but by this time of the evening, we were all getting ever so slightly intoxicated and having way too much fun.Photographers David Xavier Prutting and Neil Rasmus were mingling with the crowd and taking tons of photos. At this kind of an event, nobody is camera shy and these boys know everybody!Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Meredith Mellilng Burke, Jason Wu, Philip Lim, Richard Chai, Alejandro Ingelmo, Robert Geller, Erin Fetherston, Francisco Costa and Italo Zucchelli were all sipping cocktails and strolling through the park. It was such a magical evening, I was on a high!At one point in the evening we were getting hungry again and my friend, Peter Som even offered to whip something up from his apartment since he lives nearby. I think that was the vodka talking but if you didn’t know already, Peter not only cooks a great meal but he can bake a mean pie!This was my second party at the High Line hosted by Calvin Klein and it was just as fabulous. It was also a fundraiser and open to the pubic. Proceeds from the ticket sales will go towards supporting the maintenance and operations of the park.
I can’t wait to see the park during the day. I’ve heard it’s absolutley gorgeous! That’s next on my list after I get back from Hong Kong. I had a flight to catch the next day. Stay tuned!
Posted in David Xavier Prutting, High Line Park, Neil Rasmus, Peter Som, Rafe Totengco, Tony Ward | No Comments »
Monday, June 29th, 2009
Can I tell you …about the CFDA Awards. It’s the most anticipated event in the fashion industry. It’s always a great party and I love seeing what and who everybody is wearing. The star gazing isn’t bad either since Hollywood celebrities like to show their support to the designers who dress them for their share of red carpet events. 
This year my date was my friend, the fabulous designer Tracy Reese. She wore my crystal beaded Sasha minaudiere with her floral printed dress with a full skirt and lots of crinoline. She looked like the Belle of the Ball. 
Diane von Furstenburg (president of the CFDA) and Steven Kolb (executive director) had promised us a fun and hopefully short evening from years past. First was the change in venue and just in time for the opening of the newly renovated Alice Tully Hall at the Lincoln Center. 
At the entrance we were greeted by a row of cute boys all armed with umbrellas. It was raining all afternoon and they weren’t taking any chances with the red carpet. There is nothing worse than soggy fashionista.
Then there was the tableau-vivant of 60 models on the steps of the amphitheatre, all dressed in looks from the Womenswear Designer of the Year nominees: Rodarte, Marc Jacobs and Narciso Rodriguez. It was live fashion and a reminder that you are attending a major fashion event.
Inside was when the real fun began. I was so excited to see actress Mamie Gummer ( Meryl Streep’s daughter) wearing my gold python minaudiere and Peter Som’s dress. Big shout out to Peter for making that happen. 
Ran into Roopal Patel in an emerald green dress and hot pink accessories. That girl knows how to wear color and she stood apart from the sea of black dresses. 
Rachel Roy looked like a goddess in a Venus shoulder white brocade dress of her design.
Spotted Behnaz Sarapfour and actress Michelle Trachtenberg sipping champagne in a corner. 
My friend menswear designer and nominee Robert Geller and his gorgeous wife Ana Elaria were enjoying the moment. It was their first time at the Awards. 
Tracy caught up with her old friend Marc Jacobs for a bit while I mingled. They used to be classmates in Parsons.
Tracey Ullman was the host of the evening wearing vintage Claire McCardell which won her a round of applause. She kept the mood light and tried her best to make everybody laugh. Can I tell you, in this economy we all need a good laugh. Sometimes she succeeded and sometimes there was a deathly silence in the auditorium. Jaded fashion people are the hardest to please I swear.
Other presenters were Justin Timberlake who is looking better with age, Blake Lively looked hot in hot pink and Diane Kruger in Jason Wu.
So here are the winners: Fashion Icon: Michelle Obama (obvi!), Lifetime Achievement : Anna Sui (hello!) Marc Jacobs: International Award (of course!), Proenza Schouler: Accessories (huh?), Kate and Laura Mulleavy: womenswear (love!), a tie between Calvin Klein’s Italo Zucchelli and Band of Outsider’s Scott Sternberg for menswear (surprise!), Ralph Lauren: Most Popular Vote (duh!), Justin Guinta, Tim Hamilton and Alexander Wang.
After the awards was the buffet dinner, more drinks and hobknobbing. I’m so glad I took my camera. This party was one big photo op and everybody is happy to strike a pose. What’s the point of dressing up otherwise, right? But this wasn’t end of the evening. The night was young and so were we!
Everybody was headed to the After Parties. Peter, Roopal, Elana and I weren’t going to miss the Highline Party hosted by Calvin Klein. Their parties are always so much fun! I’ll tell you all about it but that’s another blog. Stay tuned.
Tags: CFDA Awards 2009, Mamie Gummer, Peter Som, Rafe minaudiere, Rafe Totengco, Robert Geller, Roopal Patel, Tracy Reese
Posted in CFDA Awards 2009, Mamie Gummer, Peter Som, Rafe minaudiere, Rafe Totengco, Robert Geller, Roopal Patel, Tracy Reese | 7 Comments »
Monday, June 29th, 2009
Can I tell you …about the CFDA Awards. It’s the most anticipated event in the fashion industry. It’s always a great party and I love seeing what and who everybody is wearing. The star gazing isn’t bad either since Hollywood celebrities like to show their support to the designers who dress them for their share of red carpet events. This year my date was my friend, the fabulous designer Tracy Reese. She wore my crystal beaded Sasha minaudiere with her floral printed dress with a full skirt and lots of crinoline. She looked like the Belle of the Ball.
Diane von Furstenburg (president of the CFDA) and Steven Kolb (executive director) had promised us a fun and hopefully short evening from years past. First was the change in venue and just in time for the opening of the newly renovated Alice Tully Hall at the Lincoln Center.
At the entrance we were greeted by a row of cute boys all armed with umbrellas. It was raining all afternoon and they weren’t taking any chances with the red carpet. There is nothing worse than soggy fashionista.
Then there was the tableau-vivant of 60 models on the steps of the amphitheatre, all dressed in looks from the Womenswear Designer of the Year nominees: Rodarte, Marc Jacobs and Narciso Rodriguez. It was live fashion and a reminder that you are attending a major fashion event.
Inside was when the real fun began. I was so excited to see actress Mamie Gummer ( Meryl Streep’s daughter) wearing my gold python minaudiere and Peter Som’s dress. Big shout out to Peter for making that happen. Ran into Roopal Patel in an emerald green dress and hot pink accessories. That girl knows how to wear color and she stood apart from the sea of black dresses. Rachel Roy looked like a goddess in a Venus shoulder white brocade dress of her design. Spotted Behnaz Sarapfour and actress Michelle Trachtenberg sipping champagne in a corner. My friend menswear designer and nominee Robert Geller and his gorgeous wife Ana Elaria were enjoying the moment. It was their first time at the Awards. Tracy caught up with her old friend Marc Jacobs for a bit while I mingled. They used to be classmates in Parsons.
Tracey Ullman was the host of the evening wearing vintage Claire McCardell which won her a round of applause. She kept the mood light and tried her best to make everybody laugh. Can I tell you, in this economy we all need a good laugh. Sometimes she succeeded and sometimes there was a deathly silence in the auditorium. Jaded fashion people are the hardest to please I swear. Other presenters were Justin Timberlake who is looking better with age, Blake Lively looked hot in hot pink and Diane Kruger in Jason Wu.
So here are the winners: Fashion Icon: Michelle Obama (obvi!), Lifetime Achievement : Anna Sui (hello!) Marc Jacobs: International Award (of course!), Proenza Schouler: Accessories (huh?), Kate and Laura Mulleavy: womenswear (love!), a tie between Calvin Klein’s Italo Zucchelli and Band of Outsider’s Scott Sternberg for menswear (surprise!), Ralph Lauren: Most Popular Vote (duh!), Justin Guinta, Tim Hamilton and Alexander Wang.
After the awards was the buffet dinner, more drinks and hobknobbing. I’m so glad I took my camera. This party was one big photo op and everybody is happy to strike a pose. What’s the point of dressing up otherwise, right? But this wasn’t end of the evening. The night was young and so were we!Everybody was headed to the After Parties. Peter, Roopal, Elana and I weren’t going to miss the Highline Party hosted by Calvin Klein. Their parties are always so much fun! I’ll tell you all about it but that’s another blog. Stay tuned.
Posted in CFDA Awards 2009, Mamie Gummer, Peter Som, Rafe minaudiere, Rafe Totengco, Robert Geller, Roopal Patel, Tracy Reese | No Comments »
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