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CONTENTS
The Spring Style Issue
102 A LASTING LEGACY Following in the footsteps of her mother, the late Nina Griscom , Lily Baker Hottensen models spring looks for our annual photo shoot in the Dior Suite at the iconic St. Regis Hotel New York. produced & Written by Brooke Kelly Murray, Photographed by Julie Skarratt
114 THE SIGNATURE REDS OF MAISON VALENTINO Assouline’s Valentino Rosso is a sweeping celebration of the Italian Maison’s relationship with the color red —s panning the eras of Valentino Garavani to the current creative director. by Jared Brill
120 QUEST STYLE Some of the greatest fashion moments from our favorite arbiters of chic. by Elizabeth Meigher
126 DESIGNER REVELATIONS In her 70-year career as a fashion journalist, Marylou Luther has interviewed nearly everyone in the fashion world. Rizzoli’s new book, Be-Spoke: Revelations from the World’s Most Important Fashion Designers, features some of the witty quotes she collected. by Brooke Kelly Murray
questmag.com
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PHOTOGRAPHER-AT-LARGE
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HI LARY GEARY
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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KATE GUBELMANN
TONY HALL
ALEX HITZ
ROBERT JANJIGIAN
RICHARD JOHNSON
KAREN KLOPP
JAMES MACGUIRE
HAVEN PELL
CHUCK PFEIFER
DAISY PRINCE
LIZ SMITH (R.I.P.)
TAKI THEODORACOPULOS
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HARRY BENSON
CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY
BILLY FARRELL
MARY HILLIARD
CRISTINA MACAYA
CUTTY MCGILL
PATRICK MCMULLAN
NICK MELE
ANNIE WATT
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All rights reserved. Vol. 37, No 2.
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I WRITE TO you while winging my way south, via JetBlue in Seat 3C, from New York to Palm Beach. I can happily report that Manhattan’s streets look cleaner (aka: “safer”) and the restaurants, hotels, clubs and boutiques are overflowing with enthusiastic dinners, returning guests, loyal members and motivated $hopper$. In the face of surreal global politics and confused capital markets, this is indeed welcomed news. Yet, Caesar’s “Ides of March” still await us, dear readers; let us not become complacent until the Fat Man from Beijing sings his aria in Moscow.
With the lion of March now upon us, Quest is again publishing our Spring Style Issue, brimming with fancy frocks and affordable accessories. Our classically chic duo of Senior Editor Brooke Kelly Murray and Photographer-atLarge Julie Skarratt have brought us Lily Baker Hottensen, the stunning progeny of renowned surgeon Dr. Dan Baker and the late Nina Griscom, with whom then-supermodel Ms. Skarratt once posed at snappy events for the fashion rags and broadsheets. Using the sumptuous St. Regis Hotel as background for this cover story is equally cunning, as the original structure sprang from the vision (and pocketbook) of Colonel John Jacob Astor IV.
Not to be missed inside these pages is Contributor Jamie MacGuire’s incisive profile of New York’s legendary mayor, The Hon. Jimmy Walker - one of our beloved town’s most controversial and colorful politicos who held court at City Hall during the last Gilded Age. Just beyond this entertaining piece is a riveting interview that our keen Contributor Jayne Chase has conducted with prolific author Deborah Goodrich Royce on her new murder mystery titled Reef Road - centered around the very same Reef Road that our Palm Beach readers will geographically recognize as residing in the wildly popular (and populated!) North End.
I close with an emotional ying-yang of some sorrowful news, plus a promising announcement. We regretfully report that Quest’s founder, the indomitable Heather Cohane, passed away peacefully last week at her home in the South of France. Godspeeed, dear Heather; you were a canny and delightfully sharp-witted publisher who beat the odds in creating the journal which we are now gratefully reading. And from deep loss comes great gain, as we proudly share that joining Quest’s bevy of savvy contributors is Richard Johnson - the fabled columnist of New York’s most established tabloids. Richard’s deft prose dominated PAGE SIX for over a dozen years. He will be covering the ever expanding Palm Beach scene from his regular table at Swifty’s in the palatial Colony Hotel (conjure up Walter Winchell penning said column from his private perch at El Morocco!). Richard welcomes all readers’ inquiries and scoops via richardjohnson@ questmag.com. ...woke messages to the contrary. Onward strides Quest into March, with a decidedly quickened pace! ◆
Chris
MeigherON THE COVER: Lily Baker Hottensen wearing a gown by Oscar de la Renta and jewelry by Graff in the Dior Suite at The St. Regis Hotel New York. Photographed by Julie Skarratt.
David Patrick Columbia NEW YORK SO CIAL DIARY
WAITING FOR SPRINGTIME: Leave it to the girls. Came upon Bianca Jagger ’s new hairdo. Very sophisticated and “older.” From her persona of international celebrity she has transformed the message and looks like a matured society dowager, a la Jayne
Wrightsman
I don’t know the lady and only know her as a publicly recognizable figure. What this new coiffure signifies to this observer is like a lot of things in our lives these days: a major change.
La Jagger has long had a natural attraction for
rock/fashion/culture fans. She came to the fore internationally via her relationship and marriage to Mick . Fifty years later she can still attract the press. That ability is one of the great talents of this Cyber Age of ours.
But the new hairstyle
transports and transforms her into an entirely different image contrary to the au courant wrinkless youth style that she naturally possessed. Although famous, she has always been a “presence” rather than a personality in our culture. If she were an
actress, this new hairdo would be as if she were in a new film accepting her “maturity,” at least in the matter of public images. And a very strong and attractive one.
This is usually the quietest time of the year in New York because of the weather. And the light. Many who could have been here have been away in the softer, sunnier climes, viz. Palm Beach and assorted Floridian beaches. And who can blame them if they can afford it? Although Florida isn’t the only choice. My friend Yanna
Avis , the chanteuse when she’s in town, sent me photos of herself staying at a hotel in Cambodia!
The photos were different shots of the hotel’s interior. Yanna looked great. I have no idea why she went there.
I rarely think about Cambodia and when I have for decades now, it’s been in terms of its horrific treatment by its own people a half century ago. But this hotel looked like it was located in a smart
looking quiet and lovely countryside in a land transformed by peace. Meanwhile back in ole Manhattan quiet season. On a Thursday night, Gale Hayman and Dr. Richard Bockman hosted dinner at La Goulue. The restaurant was packed and rife with conversation; you’re in a crowd. Gale, as you may know is an international beauty consultant with products to match
her work. Back when Bianca Jagger was married to Mick, Gail was married to a Beverly Hills fashion retailer and created the fragrance Giorgio—an enormous blockbuster in its day. Fragrances remain very important in her current business.
Work, work, work; all they do in New York is work! I didn’t think of it at the time this past week but I had the pleasure of being surrounded by all of these engaging, talented women, including Ms. Jagger, who came to New York with their dreams, to make their
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
SOCIETY OF MEMORIAL SLOAN KETTERING'S LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK
way in the world pursuing the subjects of personal interest, and all were enormously successful in the pursuits of their ambition.
It also made me think of the social Women of the first half of the 20th century. New York women with the unadorned ambition, entirely self-created personalities, like movie stars, but social stars like Babe Paley and CZ Guest . Artists really; social artists who always looked GOOD.
Then there was also Jackie Rogers, the fashion designer who died on the last week in January,
peacefully at Lenox Hill Hospital. Jackie was still working in her mid-90s, or thereabouts; and up until two weeks before, she continued her business here and in Palm Beach. She was fashionable like the above mentioned Mrs. Paley and Mrs. Guest but it was an entirely different feature story of ambition coming to New York.
She had style going all the way back to the beginning of her long life. Born in Boston in 1932 or thereabouts, she had natural beauty and a personality to go along with it. That took her to the most styl -
ish places of her time – to New York, Paris, Rome, Hollywood where she was a FAMOUS fashion model, sometimes actress and ultimately a designer.
It was a big personality, outspoken by nature, ambitious, a “tough cookie” to some, a chance-taker, an adventurer, explorer and a don’t-mess-with-me attitude in her pursuits. And a hard-worker to boot.
Her relationships were as active as her work. Her success with Chanel , who was very “taken” with her, was merely a stop along the way for the dynamic and ambitious personality. By
the 1970s, she was in New York with her own design business. Andre Leon Talley once said in evaluating her work: “Jackie makes wonderful, minimalistic clothes. I think her satin clip dresses stand up to the best and the most acknowledged of that school of design.”
I met her about 20 years ago when she was interested in writing a memoir. She was looking for a collaborator (ghost) although I soon learned she’d had several already. We discussed the project but I realized that she herself was not 100% certain that she
wanted to go there even though she had been pursuing it.
That’s a problem a lot of collaborators don’t want to and/or can’t deal with. The ideal in telling one’s story is to “let it all hang out.” She’d seen it all and had a lot to tell and to say about it, but at the end of the day, when I met her—well past her beauty prime— she loved her dogs, had a comfortable apartment on Park Avenue, and was devoted to keeping up with her dreams and ambitions. Letting it all hang out was not her style. She’d lived a long time; it was a good one, and she’d seen it all!
To change the story, Prince Harry. A couple
of weeks ago I got a letter from a woman, a reader:
Thank you so much for your good and real and decent reporting on Prince Harry. I’ve been a guest at Highgrove once, had a nice talk with Camilla and a guest twice at Windsor Castle at the invitation of Prince Charles. I’ve also been a psychotherapist in England working with all classes of people. I know how important it is to have somebody as important as Harry to talk about therapy, struggles of mourning, and fame. The racist press was so much worse than I
already knew. The attacks continue by the press, including pseudo intellectuals of the New Yorker. Thank you again and I hope you’ve encouraged people to read the book and hear his voice. Sincerely…
Most opinions I hear about Prince Harry and his wife are very negative as if Harry and wife are obliged to make personal private decisions that are agreeable to the general public – that being us. It’s actually funny, except it’s also none of our business any more than Harry and Meghan making judgments
about us personally.
The problem, the challenge for Prince Harry, it would seem, is making a life for oneself that is selfsatisfying. It’s the same for most of us. You see the Royal experience not through your imagination but through his eyes, the real story. Right there at the very center. Where he’s not the center – except in his own life, like the rest of us—He IS. It’s really a good book about a family and what it’s like and what it does to its members. Its issues are universal; as are all families; different and the same, good, bad, high, low, and fascinating because you can relate even when you can’t. Like families.
He’s a thinker and he is naturally challenged. It’s interesting, this trip he takes us on in his memoir. And if you read the book, as I did in spurts of free time, you will be looking forward to it when you are away from it. When you finish you will have a much clearer picture of what it is like to be a member of the British Royal Family, one of the very few such families left in a world where a little over a century ago, royal families had presided over much of the world for several centuries.
Meanwhile, in America, we had our own version of royalty: Hollywood and its movie stars. Their reigns,
unlike those of the House of Windsor , were shorter comparatively, and ultimately all tied to “popular demand.” But their rise to glory made them all worth the admission (per ticket) to see and even to relate to personally.
In the late 1940s - early 50s, the three leading hostesses in Hollywood were Cobina Wright , a social columnist for the Hearst Newspapers who held court in a large white mansion; Yolanda Saylor , a Venetian dynamo who charmingly murdered
the English language with her bon mots and was married to Jay Saylor , a decorator to the stars; and then the queen of them all, Lady Mendl , Elsie de Wolfe , renowned interior designer and wife of an English diplomat, Sir Charles Mendl . Her much coveted invitation to a dinner was THE stamp of approval and proof that you had arrived socially in Hollywood.
These ladies ruled with a velvet glove and vied for prominence in that social firmament.
Elsie was by far the most sophisticated and soignee, and internationally famous. Devout Francophiles, Elsie and Sir Charles had been living for years at her beloved Villa Trianon , the only private home adjacent to the gardens of Versailles. During World War II when the Germans were about to descend upon Paris, the Duchess of Windsor sent her Rolls Royce to spirit Elsie and Charles out of France via Spain to New York.
Why Elsie, a native New Yorker then in her mid80s, would move to Beverly Hills, a town she had no previous experience in, remains a mystery. Undaunt -
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Having left her FFF, (fine French furniture) behind, she discovered a young L. A. designer Tony Duquette , and became his mentor. Together they made her new house into a showplace with his unique tromphe l’oeil furniture pieces and her signature touches – such as green and white striped ceilings, shiny black floors, mirrored gardens, etcetera.
Arlene Dahl, then a young working actress in New York , had been brought out to Hollywood to make a screen test for Jack Warner , who had noticed her in a Broadway musical. She met actor Richard
Greene on the Warner studio where he was making the film The Border Incident, and he invited her to a dinner party that he and his wife actress Patricia Medina were giving. He told her that he’d ask another dinner guest, Sir Charles Mendl , to send his car for her.
Greene described Mendl to her as a charming and distinguished diplomat, a grandfatherly older man with “an eye for beauty.” At the dinner, Arlene was seated next to Sir Charles and they hit it off immediately. Halfway through dinner he said, “You must meet Elsie, she would love you.”
At the time, Arlene, hailing from Minnesota, had no idea that Lady Mendl was the famous decorator
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Elsie DeWolfe. Shortly thereafter, Sir Charles sent his car and driver to pick her up at The Vine Lodge where she was staying while doing her screen test, to take her to their house for the luncheon.
On arrival, Elsie greeted her in the grand living room, seated on an emerald green loveseat with her two toy poodles, Gin and Tonic, with their fur tinted the same shade of blue as Elsie’s.
“Call me Mother,” Elsie said to Arlene, extending her hand to greet her. As Arlene’s own mother had died when she was 15, this
greeting was both poignant and prophetic to her.
That same afternoon at the luncheon, Elsie invited Arlene to attend a black tie party the following week that the Mendls were giving for the legendary Cole Porter
“It was with wild anticipation” Arlene recalled, “that I nervously fingered the invitation that had just been delivered. The elegant crème-colored envelope was addressed to me
inscribed ‘by hand’ in the upper right hand corner. I ran to my desk to find a letter opener so as not to tear this precious object. As I slipped the pristine greenbordered card out of its lined envelope, I noticed an embossed green fox emblem at the top of the invitation. It read: What to wear : Cole Porter , Black tie .”
“I had packed in such a hurry when I left New York for Hollywood and
my screen test that I’d forgotten to include anything suitable for a formal dinner.
“I’d have to buy a new gown even though my resources were extremely slim. I’d just received my first $500 weekly paycheck, which covered my rent and food.
“Would there be enough left to cover a proper gown? I’d just have to chance it. I grabbed the keys to my studio rental car and headed south to Bullocks Wilshire, which I was told was the best shop in town, and located on ‘The Miracle Mile’; and that was
exactly what I needed… a miracle!
“The designer shop was on the third floor and as I was looking over the gowns on display, I was approached by an elegantly dressed woman who asked if she could help me. I told her I’d been invited to Sir Charles and Elsie Mendl’s black tie dinner and was looking for something appropriate. She seemed suitably impressed and came back from the stock room with a beautiful ivory satin gown with a matching stole.”
“She quickly ushered me into the ‘star’ dressing room to try on this special creation.
“As I admired myself in the three way mirror, the saleswoman remarked, ‘It’s a gorgeous gown on you. You’re sure to be the ‘star’ attraction of the evening.’
“How prophetic,” I thought to myself. “I knew I just had to have it but when I saw the price tag, I was floored! $495.00! Just five dollars less than my paycheck! How could I spend my entire paycheck of the gown of my dreams?
“I confided my dilemma to the nice lady who turned
out to be the buyer for the designer department. She said she understood, and offered to open a charge account for me so that I wouldn’t have to pay the entire sum until the end of the month—a solution that I could accommodate.
“Finally, the moment of truth— June 12th— arrived. I felt like a debutante as I dressed for my first Hollywood black tie party given by the famous Lady and Sir Charles Mendl.
Arlene’s memory of the evening: “Wouldn’t you
know that the zipper on my beautiful gown got stuck between my waist and shoulder blades and no matter how hard I pulled and tugged it wouldn’t budge. At that same moment, I was being called for by Russell Arms , one of the actors under contract to Warner’s.
Russell was tall and handsome and had been especially helpful in preparing me for my screen test, so I had invited him to escort me to this very special night, and he graciously accepted.
But could I ask him to zip me up when we’d just met last week and this was our first date?
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As I was checking my hair and make-up in the hall mirror, the doorbell rang and Russell appeared looking very much the leading man. He made fast work of my zipper and we were off. I felt like Cinderella going to the ball. Russell was my Prince Charming and Elsie was my fairy Godmother.
We were surrounded by Hollywood royalty, the biggest names in Hollywood. Sir Charles introduced me as “the next big Hollywood star,” which embarrassed me considerably as I gazed into the eyes of Clark Gable , Joan Fontaine , Fred Astaire , Reginald Gardner and his beautiful wife, Nadia . Suddenly standing before me was Joan Crawford
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I couldn’t breathe. I managed to stammer, ‘oh Miss Crawford, you are my mother’s favorite actress!’
Her face fell visibly.
‘And mine too!’ I quickly added.
But it was too late. She shot me a drop dead look and turned to her escort, Gregg Bautzer who thought it was amusing, and moved on.
Crawford, then in her 40s, was famous for creating feuds in the press with new, young stars. As it turned out, she would vindictively continue a nasty campaign about me for the next decade.
Holding court in the elegant drawing room, Elsie motioned to me to come sit by her side, I noticed that the needlepoint pillows next to her had quotations embroidered in
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MORSELIFE LITERARY SOCIETY'S BREAKFAST AT THE COLONY PALM BEACH
white ‘Never Explain, Never Complain,’ and ‘Don’t worry, It never happens,’ ‘Anon.’
I wondered who ‘Anon’ was.
Russell escorted me in to dinner. I noticed that there were clusters of white roses down the center of the long narrow tables joined together with sprigs of green ivy on a white damask tablecloth interrupted only by three tall silver candelabras. The crystal stemware and silver service plates under elegant white china made me think of a Minnesota winter. It was breathtaking.
I looked for my place card, hoping I’d be seated alongside
my escort so I’d have someone familiar to talk to. At each place setting there were green ivy leaves on which our names were inscribed in white ink. I passed Fred Astaire, Joan Fontaine, Arthur Rubinstein and then I saw my card. Looking to my right was not Russell’s name but Clark Gable’s!
What in the world would I have to say to either Clark Gable or Arthur Rubenstein? Or they to me? My chair was pulled out by Mr. Gable who
smiled revealing ravishing dimples. He motioned for me to sit. I felt faint.
“Will you be in California for long?” Mr. Rubinstein asked.
“Not really,” I said, “I’m here for six weeks to make a screen test for Warner Brothers.”
“Well, if I know Jack (Warner) he’ll keep a beautiful girl like you around for much longer than that.”
I was about to thank Mr. Rubinstein for the compliment when wine glasses were
tapped. Sir Charles rose to welcome everyone and to toast the guest of honor, Cole Porter, who was still deep in conversation with Lady Mendl.
Mr. Gable wanted to know what part of the country I was from and when I told him Minnesota, he asked if I liked to fish. (Minnesota has 10,000 lakes.) I filled him in on my background of hunting and fishing with my father which began at a very early age. We were in the middle of a conversation when hot plates were set in front of us.
A large silver platter was passed with tiny baby
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lamb chops dressed in fancy white paper pants, surrounded by carrots, string beans and fluffy white mashed potatoes. As I helped myself to this delicious concoction I took a deep breath.
The wonderful aroma promised a delicious dinner. Suddenly, Joan Crawford rose from the table tapping her crystal wineglass (which had just been filled with the finest red Bordeaux) to toast our host and hostess. As she was about to toast the guest of honor, she (seemingly) lost control of her wineglass tossing its entire contents across the narrow table,
and down the bodice of my white satin gown.
I was speechless as I watched the red drops cover my bosom then trickle down past my waist to my skirt. There was a hush in the room. Suddenly, Joan Fontaine jumped to her feet shouting:
You bitch, you did that on purpose!’
Having said that, she rushed to my side, lifted me out of my chair and ushered me upstairs to Elsie’s inner sanctum. Joan remembered
having seen me enter with a white satin stole. She called down to the butler’s pantry and asked John to bring my wrap up to Lady Mendl’s bedroom.
While we were waiting, she demanded, ‘Dry your tears so that bitch won’t have the satisfaction of seeing you cry.’ Adding, ‘Besides, a red nose is never becoming.’
The stole appeared and Joan wrapped it across my chest covering the stains and tied it in the back. She then
handed me her compact and told me to powder my nose. Needless to say, Joan Fontaine became my friend for life.
As we descended the stairs, we saw Cole Porter at the piano playing You’re the Top . Halfway through the song, he looked at me and motioning to the piano bench, said ‘come sing with me.’
Talk about dreams coming true, although I could never have imagined anything like this back in Minneapolis.
Suddenly, dinner at Elsie’s’ took on a rosy glow, which all but erased the earlier disaster…” ◆
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International Red Cross Ball
Save the Date
Saturday, March 18, 2023 ■ The Breakers ■ Palm Beach, FL
Please join us for the highly anticipated return of the 62nd International Red Cross Ball as we proudly celebrate the work of the Red Cross and our historic partnership with the U.S. Armed Forces.
General USA, Ret. Richard “Dick” Cody
Keynote Speaker
Chairmen
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schumacher
Co-Chairmen
Mrs. Robert T. Butler
Ambassador David Fischer and Mrs. Jennifer Fischer
Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Fischer
Ambassador Chairmen
Retired Brig. Gen. Peter Dawkins and Ambassador Mary Ourisman-Dawkins
Ambassador Lana Marks and Dr. Neville Marks
Honorary Chairmen
Ms. Veronica Atkins
Ms. Michele Kang
Mrs. Hildegarde Mahoney
Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter
Ms. Suzanne Niedland
For more information, contact Eric Roby at (561) 851-3439 | SouthFloridaRSVP@redcross.org or Lily Holt Dillon at (561) 308-3919 | lilyholtinc@gmail.com
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DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
BOYS' CLUB OF NEW YORK'S PALM BEACH LUNCHEON
IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY
HALSTON WAS relaxed in his own environment… his design studio and showroom in the Olympic Towers on Fifth Avenue, where he is shown here laughing with his good friend, Liza Minnelli, the Academy Award winning actress and daughter of Judy Garland. Halston knew his image was of a glamorous fashion designer and he loved it. He had become the American designer who could rival the European couturiers in elegance, style, and— most importantly—design.
Always starkly minimalist in design, the striking silver Elsa Peretti plate was the only object on the sleek and starkly empty desk. And through the floor-to-ceiling glass wall is a historic, breathtaking view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral all the way to the Twin Towers.
Very generous and easy to work with, I would like to have said goodbye. The last time I saw Halston he was sitting with his brother in the Isle of Capri restaurant, three blocks up from Bloomingdale’s on Third Avenue. Knowing he was very ill, I didn’t go over to say hello, and I’m sorry I didn’t. ◆
GSTAAD I shall miss Paul Johnson’s annual summer visits to Gstaad, where we walked for hours on mountain trails and I had the opportunity to take in some of his best bons mots. He knew everything and could tell a story like no one. The times Lady Carla was with us—she is Italian and never draws a breath—Paul would not slow down for her to catch up, but every five min -
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utes or so he’d bellow, “Is that so?” and then bash on. My Alexandra particularly liked him and asked me time and again why I didn’t have more friends like Paul.
The answer is obvious: There are not many Paul Johnsons around. There is one, however, who is a polymath like the departed, and even has red hair. Long ago I took him to lunch
and brought a couple of beauties with me. They were young, very cute, and not too shifty upstairs. After a while they asked Simon Heffer what he did in life. “I make a decent living posing as a body double for Fergie,” was his answer. The duchess was in the news back then, something to do with toe sucking, I believe. The cutie-pies thought it wonderful, the body-double
part, that is. And they fell for it, notwithstanding the dangling participle. What separates British greats from their counterparts across the ocean is a sense of humor. It could be the diet—all those hamburgers—but the moment an American knows a lot they take themselves extremely seriously and turn into terrific bores.
One such man was the Washington columnist Walter Lippmann, a double Pulitzer Prize winner, the founder of The New Republic, and an adviser to presidents, who joined Gianni Agnelli and little ole me for lunch at a chic French restaurant in the Bagel. The year was 1965, and Lippmann was
Wolfie and Ludwig, Carlyle and great books, and all those wonderful blackand-white movies with plots that didn’t run through the fraud Freud. Simon is politically to my left, but that’s his only weakness. (Sono Fascista, ma non troppo.)
Otherwise the weather has been spectacular, sunny, and veddy veddy cold. The snow is even better and there’s lots of it, and after a hard day’s cross-country skiing, I’ve been hitting the books at night. Back in 2005 Nick Foulkes came on board Bushido and interviewed me about something. And never once mentioned that he had just published the most enchant
Looking for Trouble . Here are a few of her exploits that she mentions: tea with Hitler after a Nuremberg rally; interviewing Mussolini in Rome and alone; flinging off high heels under fire in Madrid during the civil war; hanging out with Churchill; and being on the front line when the gallant Finns resisted the Russians. She also resisted Taki, who badgered her nonstop over whether she had had an affair with Papa Hemingway in Spain. Virginia: “Not even close. I liked him, but no.” Me: “You’re talking to Taki, come on, Ginny, Hemingway was irresistible, brave, a great writer, of course you did
against escalation in Vietnam, but the greatest Greek writer since Homer was 28, gung ho as hell, and wanted to bomb the hell out of the dirty commies in black pajamas. When I said so, Lippmann became apoplectic. No one had publicly argued with him before, at least no one as unqualified as I was. Already exophthalmic, his eyeballs literally popped out, and I thought he would explode. When he died nine years later, Gianni blamed it on the lunch.
Simon Heffer has forgotten more than Lippmann ever knew, but will happily tell cutie-pies that he’s a Fergie body double. I love what he likes: Valerie Hobson, Noel Coward, Franz,
ing of books, Dancing Into Battle social history of the Battle of Waterloo, charmingly detailed and a perfect background to June 18, as we get to know who is sleeping with whom and who will no longer do that in future due to his death in battle. Plus some great bits on how simply awful the Duchess of Richmond was, and what a snob was Wellington, his father having been a music teacher. The proximity of the ballroom to the battlefield has a strange but marvelous effect on the reader.
One hundred and twenty-five years after that battle, a beauty by the name of Virginia Cowles, a trailblazing war correspondent, wrote a book called
as charming as you be so goddamn stupid?” Me: “Because I know Papa, no one got away.” Virginia: “Get out, now.” Her book is unputdownable. I’m also reading about Edda Ciano by Caroline Moorehead, and even a novel by my friend Bartle Bull, We’ll Meet Again , set in Egypt and Yugoslavia during World War II. Bartle’s father was a Brit general who died of his wounds, and his son is also a writer. He knows Africa and writes like a dream about warfare and romantic hurt. I only read history nowadays, but I made a fortunate exception in this case. u
For more Taki, visit takimag.com.
JIMMY WALKER: THE MAYOR WHO LOVED NEW YORK
LED BY MAYOR Eric Adams, who himself loves the city’s nightlife and hopes to steer our town back into the spotlight, New York needs a feel-good story about the city’s heyday in the Roaring Twenties. Jimmy Walker personified Gotham in its brash, rambunctious, turbulent, and gloriously late-night partying prime. Walker helped make New York the American international city.
The first half of the 20th Century saw the rise of America to the forefront of world powers. New York City became a world capital. Jimmy Walker (1881-1946) came of age in this period and personified it.
America’s industrial revolution had transformed New York City from a major port and trading center to the country’s capital of banking and finance. This period also saw the transition from the Protestant domination of Tammany Hall by the likes of Boss Tweed to an insurgent Irish political leadership, of which the Walkers were a prime example.
Jimmy Walker proved uniquely suited to his role as Mayor. He was handsome, highly intelligent, incurably witty, punctiliously dressed in a wardrobe of over 40 bespoke suits, and happily careless about old school customs, morals, and the law.
He was called “the late Mayor,” arriving 90 minutes late for his wedding and two hours late for his swearing in.
Show business impresario George Jessel remembered, “Jimmy Walker and I have been a team as after-dinner speakers at a thousand different affairs. One night, we were returning from a day long series of speeches in the Bronx bone-tired when Walker remembered we had one more engagement at the Biltmore Hotel. We hurried to the Cascade Room, and Jimmy took the podium. The only problem was we couldn’t remember what the occasion or who the group sponsoring it was. ‘Gentlemen,’ Jimmy began in his all-purpose routine, ‘In this kaleidoscopic era that we live in, this great melting pot where all walks of life men come closer together, it is needless for me to tell you what the people of Polish birth have meant to the progress of the City of New York. I can take you back to the great General Thaddeus Kosciuszko in 1776…’
“There was no reaction from the audience; they were definitely not Polish. Undaunted, Walker continued, ‘And the simple Italian ditch digger, imbued with the spirit of the great Giuseppe Garibaldi, has been more helpful to Greater New York than anyone I can think of.’
“Again, no recognition. Walker continued with his praise of ethnic New Yorkers until he finally ran out of countries. At last, he had a memory flash and brightened, ‘If only the streets of New York were as clean as those of Copenhagen, the great capital of Denmark…’
“I’d rather be a lamppost in New York City than the Mayor of Chicago.”—Jimmy Walker
“The Danish-American New Yorkers cheered Walker for the first time, and he continued describing the virtues of their country. From then on Jimmy had their votes in his pocket.”
Jimmy Walker’s one liners were the stuff of legend. A few examples:
“No girl was ever ruined by a book.”
“A reformer is a guy who rides through a sewer in a glass-bottomed boat.”
“Counting time is not as important as making time count.”
“Three things a man must do alone: Be born, die, and testify.”
When Fiorello LaGuardia ran for Mayor in 1929, he criticized Walker’s decision that year to raise his own salary from $25,000 to $40,000. Walker immediately rejoined, “That’s cheap! Think what it would cost if I worked full time.”
Jimmy Walker was born on June 19, 1881. He was the son of the Irish-born carpenter and West Village lumberyard owner, William H. Walker (1842-1916), who in due course became active in politics as a Democratic assemblyman and alderman. Walker was gregarious from an early age (his pastor at St. Joseph’s Church called him “Little Jimmy Talker”) but an indifferent stu-
dent at the Catholic schools he attended. He dropped out of college but graduated from New York Law School in 1904. Even then, however, he resisted his father’s wish that he become a lawyer and politician and instead followed his dream of becoming a song writer and entertainer. He is best known for writing the lyrics to the 1906 hit, “Will You Love Me in December as You Do in May?” Eventually, Walker acceded to his father’s will, entered politics in 1909, and passed the New York bar exam in 1912.
Jimmy Walker represented his home district in the State Assembly from 1910-1914. He was then elected to the New York Senate from District 12 and served from 1915-1925. He was Minority Leader from 1920-1922 and again in 1925. He was Temporary President for the State Senate from 1923-1924. He loved his jobs and served his constituents well.
Jimmy Walker’s burning ambition was to become Mayor of New York, but to do so he would have to defeat the incumbent mayor, John Francis Hylan. Walker was vulnerable to attacks on possible corruption. Rumors also circulated about his friendships with crooked businessmen, known gangsters and glamorous chorus girls.
While these very traits made him a beloved personality to working class voters, questions about Walker’s conduct made more middle-class citizens uncomfortable.
Fortunately for Jimmy Walker, Governor Alfred E. Smith rode to his rescue. Together they backed social welfare legislation, legalization of boxing, and the repeal of blue laws banning Sunday baseball games. They also opposed Prohibition and condemned the Ku Klux Klan. All of this and his charismatic personality helped Walker defeat Hylan in the Democratic primary and triumph over Frank Waterman in the general election to become the 97th mayor of New York.
Walker’s early years as mayor saw the city prosper. He started many new public works projects and created a Department of Sanitation. He unified the city’s hospitals, upgraded parks and playgrounds, and led the fight to expand the city’s subway system. He also built new highways and docks for superliners in the pre-commercial aviation era. All of these achievements were popular with the electorate, and in 1929 Jimmy Walker was re-elected by an overwhelming margin over Republican Fiorello La Guardia.
Walker’s nights often ended at dawn, and his days seldom begn until noon or later. He often referred to his assistant, Charles F. Kerrigan, in jest as “The Day Mayor.”
A night out with Jimmy Walker would often include a political speech at the Harry Perry Club, the Grand Street Boys’ Association or the People’s Regular Democratic Club, a Broadway
Opening, meals at restaurants like Reisenwerer’s, Delmonico’s, Churchill’s, Jack’s or Monquin’s, and would usually end up at the glamorous Central Park Casino, where Eddy Duchin led the orchestra and Jimmy Walker dispensed patronage from an upstairs room into the wee hours.
Irving Berlin wrote a lyric that captured Mayor Walker’s huge popularity at this time:
Who told Broadway not to be gay?
Who gets his picture taken three times a day?
Jimmy!
We’re glad to show That we all know That Jimmy’s doing fine.
Can’t you hear those old New Yorkers hollering
Gimme- Gimme- Gimme Jimmy for mine!
With the onset of the Great Depression, investigations into Walker’s administration multiplied. The most serious of these was led by the puritanical, old-line WASP Judge Samuel Seabury, who was not susceptible to Jimmy Walker’s Irish charm, nor his penchant for Blarney on the witness stand.
Meanwhile, New York Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt was now running for president and felt the need to do something about Walker and New York City’s national reputation as a symbol of corruption. After presiding over hearings himself and se-
curing the Democratic nomination, Roosevelt decided to remove Walker from office. Rather than be removed, Walker resigned on September 1, 1932, and soon left on a grand tour of Europe with Betty Compton, whom he married the following year.
Jimmy Walker returned to New York in 1935. He remained a popular toastmaster at banquets and became the president of Majestic Records. When an interviewer asked him if he would use his new position to put out a new recording of his early hit, “Will You Love Me in December as You Do in May?” Walker answered, “I’ve been hired to plug the company, not sabotage it.”
In 1946, Jimmy Walker’s health worsened. He fell into a coma, was given the Last Rites, and moved from his East End Avenue apartment to Doctors Hospital. He died there on November 18th of a cerebral hemorrhage. He was 65.
Thousands attended Jimmy Walker’s wake at Campbell’s funeral home and a full house assisted at the solemn high requiem mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral before his burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Westchester. Disconsolate at the news of his old friend’s death, saloonkeeper extraordinaire Toots Shor closed his establishment early and began to drink. At four o’clock in the morning, he tearfully made his way to Campbell’s to look upon his departed friend. “Jimmy, Jimmy,” he burst out, “When you walked into the room you brightened up the joint.”
Indeed, he did, and all of New York as well. ◆
Fresh Finds QUEST
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAYOUR ANNUAL Spring Style Issue filled with our favorite fashion gets us in the mood to shop. Each year, March marks the turn of the season, so we’ve gathered colorful apparel and accessories fit for the warming weather.
Accessorize with Asprey’s Woodland Clover Charm with diamonds mounted in textured 18ct yellow gold. $2,250 at asprey.com.
Carolina Herrera’s Floral Print Princess Gown with Pockets. $5,490 at carolinaherrera.com.
Originally designed for Coco Chanel, Verdura’s cuffs are as bold and stylish today as they were in the 1930s. The Maltese Cross Cuff in black jade, ruby, sapphire, pearl, diamond, and 18k gold is available for $57,500 at Greenleaf & Crosby’s Palm Beach boutique on Worth Avenue.
Featuring clean lines and classic silhouette of a pointy toe pump, INEZ’s Alta heels in Tan Patent are further refined by a plush proprietary insole. $248 at inez.com.
One-of-a-kind Ardmore
Parrot Novelty Box. Hand sculpted and hand painted original artisan creation. Custom Ardmore ceramic art crafted in South Africa. 6” height x 3.5” diameter. $850 at shop.jennifergarrigues.com.
Brunello Cucinelli suit ($4,350), polo sweater ($1,050), pocket square ($240), suede longwing brogue derby ($1,195). Available at Brunello Cucinelli’s Madison Avenue boutique. Call 212.813.0900 or visit shop.brunellocucinelli.com.
Spring is a truly beautiful season at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. Plan a trip with your buddies, or a romantic getaway with your significant other, with great savings on rooms and villas. Enjoy amazing golf, thrilling sports, new restaurants, white-sand beaches, and the unmatched hospitality you can only find at Casa. Rooms starting at $399 per night. Valid for travel between March 21, 2023 and June 21, 2023. Visit casadecampo.com.do.
Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual
Datejust 41, Oystersteel. Price upon request at rolex.com.
Paolo Martorano
Bespoke represents a new tradition in fine tailoring — combining the highest standards of the artisanal tradition with an eye for contemporary style. For more information, call 212.363.0135 or visit paolostyle.com.
Ralph Lauren Home’s Brennan Clock in Saddle was designed in partnership with the venerable Chelsea Clock company. $1,195 at ralphlauren.com.
Sail into style this spring with Stubbs & Wootton’s Craft slippers! Featuring a flax linen upper and a navy grosgrain trim, these slippers are intricately embroidered to resemble a classic runabout boat. $575 for men and women at stubbsandwootton.com.
Rolls-Royce Spectre: The world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé is an emblem of artisanship in harmony with electric technology. Commission a unique icon by realising your vision with Bespoke. Visit BramanRolls-RoycePalmBeach.com.
Fresh Finds
A beautiful 18ct yellow gold Ottoman ring by Elizabeth Gage, featuring a stunning cushion-shaped faceted rubellite (15.23cts), surrounded by graduated gold beads. $33,540 at elizabeth-gage.com.
Inspired by the textured mats traditionally used to press olive oil, Lola’s Fiscolo Hat is handstitched into a coil that gradually eases out to its final shape. $225 at lolahats.com.
Part of Aqua Allegoria, Guerlain’s Intense Collection, Rosa Rossa Forte - Eau de Parfum features a velvety rose scent bathed in golden light. $175 at guerlain.com.
Alexander McQueen’s Acetate Cat-Eye Sunglasses w/ Logo Detail. $375 at alexandermcqueen.com.
Out East, a pioneering, female-founded wine company, announces the launch of a limited edition rosé Champagne in partnership with leading contemporary artist Ashley Longshore. The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach is celebrating the launch with a show of Longshore’s works specifically inspired by The Colony and coinciding with the hotel’s 75th anniversary season.
J.McLaughlin’s Vesta Double Breasted Blazer ($288), Carter Pant ($198), and Allie Tee ($78). Visit jmclaughlin.com.
Chanel’s Cotton Tweed & GoldTone Metal Multicolor purse is the perfect bag for spring. Price upon request at chanel.com.
Stylest Sculpting Square Neck Tank in Printed Navy ($198) with Quick Drying Navy Lace Sarong ($128). Visit stylest.com.
Graff high jewelry necklace, featuring an extraordinary and rare 50 carat D Flawless oval diamond center stone, accompanied by 100 carats of pear shape, emerald cut, oval, round and baguette cut diamonds (150 carats). Price upon request at graff.com.
Barton & Gray Mariners Club is proud to launch its first overnight Catamaran Cruising program, visiting unforgettable locations from Maine to the Caribbean! Each charter is uniquely curated for members by the dedicated B&G Concierge Team. Visit bartonandgray.com for details.
Call 212.772.1122 or visit LindaHorn.com
Crepini Egg Wraps are all natural, gluten-free, zero carbs, Keto friendly, dairy-free, 30 calories per wrap, light and delicious. Enjoy warm or cold, $95.95 for six packs of 14 wraps. Visit crepini. com to try dozens of recipes.
BRAZILIAN-BRITISH ACCENTS
BY ROBERT JANJIGIANSINCE ITS founding in 1781, London-headquartered Asprey has been producing fine jewelry, leather, silver, crystal, china, gifts, handbags, and myriad bespoke luxury goods for a discerning clientele on both sides of the Atlantic.
The company’s latest collection, Giants of the Amazon, is a Homeware line created with the celebrated Brazilian jewelry designer Silvia Furmanovich in collaboration
with Asprey’s expert silversmiths. “Silvia Furmanovich and her workshops have mastered the art of wood marquetry,” explains John Rigas, chairman of Asprey. “The concept of reclaiming fallen wood from the Amazon Forest to create such beautiful surfaces is among the rarest forms of artistic expression and for uniqueness alone it fits into the world of Asprey.”
Asprey has a long tradition of working with unique and
specialist artisans, seeking out international talents who are experts in their respective fields. This collection was born from a shared interest in sustainable craft, intricate artistry, and rare technique resulting in an exclusive range of items constructed from native Brazilian wood from the rainforest and decorated with intricate handcut marquetry. The marquetry technique has been seen before at Asprey, but not in this manner. The range of boxes, frames, and poche trays, $1,000 to about $20,000, can be called individual works of art, blending Brazilian and British traditional craftsmanship with a sustainable aspect.
The theme and designs of the Giants of the Amazon collection were chosen by Asprey’s in-house designers and focus on four key flora and fauna motifs: butterflies,
birds, and flowers that are the largest of their species living or growing in the Amazon. They are the Giant Waterlily, Blue Morpho Butterfly, Kapok Tree, and Hyacinth Macaw. The sophisticated offerings are made from bark and branches salvaged from the Amazon’s rainforest floor or non-native woods left over from the local furniture industry. The wood elements are washed and soaked in water and minerals, enhancing their natural color and allowing for a variety of bold yet earthy hues in a fully sustainable production process. The marquetry details are created by Brazilian artisans through a lengthy process of assembling and placing the hand-cut wood veneers, finished with silver hinges and edges crafted by the skilled silversmiths in Asprey’s London workshops. ◆
TIPS FOR CURATING AN EFFORTLESS SPRING WARDROBE
BY JANIE MCGRAW PIERREPONTSPRING HAS SPRUNG! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and the temperatures are rising, which means it’s time to swap out those puffer coats and turtlenecks for spring attire. My personal style is constantly evolving and when living in New York City, you definitely have to be creative when curating a wardrobe. Whether it is due to tight quarters, lack of storage space, or shared closet with your significant other, it can be difficult to organize your clothes for each season.
I strive to keep my wardrobe as minimal as possible with timeless pieces. Quality over quantity! There are some great staple pieces for spring that I always find myself wearing every year.
The first is a blazer. It can be oversized or fitted, but a blazer is a great transition piece from winter to spring. It’s the perfect garment for daytime and nighttime, and can always mix with a basic T-shirt, blouse, slacks, or jeans. In addition to a blazer, I really love a matching set. It takes the stress out of getting dressed, and the monochromatic look is so chic! A few of my favorite brands for a quality blazer or matching set include Veronica Beard, Smythe, Ralph Lauren, Maria Orden, Mango, and Zara.
Another classic for a spring wardrobe is a good pair of flats. By flats, I mean ballets, mules, or loafers. They’re easy to dress up or down, and there are so many different options out there. I love wearing them casually with a pair of jeans. Margaux is a great brand that offers a variety of mules and flats for any occasion. I also love French Sole, M. Gemi, Alexandre Birman, Porte, and Paire.
Lastly, I have been loving the effortlessly chic knitted sweaters from La Ligne. These statement sweaters are an everyday essential and perfect for your spring wardrobe. They are an investment piece but will truly never go out of style.
The key is to carefully select quality items that you don’t have to end up swapping out because they transition seamlessly. It’s important to invest in versatile pieces that you know will last all four seasons in your closet and are easy to mix and match with. It is always fun to lean in to a few trends here and there, but overall try and keep your closet cohesive. Otherwise clothes will go unworn.
TRADING IN THE PAPER DOLLS FOR THE PAPER DRESS
BY ALEXANDER HANKINTHE 1960S was an exciting time for fashion. Geometric prints, vibrant colors, and style influenced by Beatnik and Mod cultures... the era saw a burst of creativity! As the United States put the war behind it, a new generation entered the spotlight. During this time, a lot of experimentation with new, affordable materials in the world of fashion took place. In addition to traditional textiles, new fabrics like Gore-Tex and polyester were popping up. In this wave of creation, the paper dress was also introduced. The garment is the focal point of “Generation Paper: A Fashion Phenom of the 1960s,” opening on March 18th at the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD). Originating from Phoenix Art Museum and primarily drawn from works in the museum’s comprehensive fashion-design collection, “Generation Paper” explores how the iconic silhouettes and styles of 1960s fashion became daring demonstrations of the durability and design potential of the era’s innovative paperlike materials. “The fashion-design collection at Phoenix Art Museum is home to a rare—and an enviable—selection of paper garments from the 1960s. These garments, including many gifted by longtime museum supporter Kelly Ellman, are in incredible condition and, in some cases, were donated in sealed packaging, never-before opened by the original owner. As a result, audiences get to experience them in pristine form,” said Helen Jean, Phoenix Art Museum’s Jacquie Dorrance Curator of Fashion Design and curator of the exhibition.
“We’re excited to present ‘Generation Paper’ at MAD! The exhibition features more than 80 rare fashion garments and accessories crafted from innovative paper-like materials,” said Michele Cohen, Chair of MAD’s Board of Trustees. “The bold,
graphic designs rendered in the iconic silhouettes and styles of 1960s fashion embody the optimism of the era.” Originally conceived as a promotional gimmick by the Scott Paper Company, the idea was to use “Dura Wave,” a new paper-based fabric. Little did they know the concept would instantly catch fire. The main drivers behind the paper dress craze were ease and affordability. “Before there was fast fashion, there was paper fashion, which ironically was meant to be a demonstration of paper’s potential to behave like woven fabric,” said Elissa Auther, MAD’s Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and William and Mildred Lasdon Chief Curator. “Women who ordered the patterns and confidently wore paper dresses—as many did!— beautifully ushered in a new wave of cutting-edge material innovation.” In addition to new materials, this paper dress movement presented the concept of partnerships, marking some of the earliest instances of brands collaborating on clothing designs.
Examples of this include garments that mimicked kitchen countertops from appliance manufacturer Viking; a knitted paper mini dress by Mars of Ashville; and Campbell’s Soup’s “Souper Dress,” featuring a soup-can motif that became so popular at the time thanks to of Andy Warhol. These are just some of the highlights that include not just dresses, but also bikinis, caftans, and other fashion garments that were able to showcase the range of the manufacturer’s versatility. “This delightful, historic exhibition gives new meaning to the concept of ‘leaving a paper trail,’” said Barbara Tober, Chairman Emerita of MAD. “Don’t miss it!” u
Unknown, Dress, 1960s. Opposite page: Hallmark, “Floresence”
Romper, circa 1967; “Candy Wrappers,” Caftan, 1960s (inset).
BREEZY BEACH GETAWAY
RETHINK PINK
hue is the perfect way to enliven your look, either with just a hint of the playful shade—a loosely worn sweater, a button-down beneath a blazer—or by opting for a peony pink belted shirt dress or gingham cropped trousers, paired with a relaxed button down, a fitted Polo, or a white denim jacket.
The low-key charm of Vero Beach makes it the perfect destination for an easygoing weekend (or weeklong) getaway among the live oaks of one of Florida’s most sought after hideaways. Envision the kind of place where celebrities stroll the public boardwalk and no one makes a fuss. A locale for all ages, the quietly sophisticated coastal hamlet offered the ideal mix of old world charm and modern day luxe to form the backdrop of J.McLaughlin’s March Style guide. Think breezy button-downs, and relaxed shades of blue and white denim for those hoping to enjoy the chilled out, surf-side vibe, while belted shirt dresses, refined linen, and crisp neutrals felt modern and fresh for afternoon strolls among landscaped gardens and architecture.
Upgrade your game on and off the court this March dressed in J.McLaughlin’s latest line of performance wear (polos,
shorts, skorts...), available in an array of bold colors and floral or geometric patterns. And play to win—as well as for a good cause—with a new line of pickleball paddles, created in collaboration with Play For P.I.N.K., an organization that devotes 100% of funds raised to breast cancer research. The limited-edition paddles are available in two retro preppy designs, and donate 15% of proceeds directly to Play For P.I.N.K. Equipped with this gear you’re sure to distract your opponent and reign King or Queen of the sport. u
Above, left to right: the Mack Jacket in Dark Navy ($298), Rodrick Sweater ($178); Rori Pant ($178), Leopold Linen Belt ($118), Gramercy Classic Fit Linen Shirt ($148), Phoenix Sunglasses ($128); Scotto Denim Shirt ($168), Oliver Paisley Shorts ($148), Sheldon Canvas Tote ($198). Left: limited edition Play For P.I.N.K pickleball paddles ($110). Opposite page: women’s Riviera top ($178), white Jaycie Jeans ($178), Maribel Raffia Hat ($128); men’s Jett Classic Fit Shirt ($148), Lukas Pants in Bay Isle ($178).
Spring for head-to-toe pink in J.McLaughlin’s Makenna dress ($238), paired with the Elizabeth Raffia belt ($98), Bartleby Sunglasses ($120), and Krissa Suede Heels ($120). Inset: Ivy Pants in an array of brightly colored gingham ($168). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: mother and daughter Jan McCoy and Tracey Elliott wear (from left) Men’s Gramercy Shirt in Coral ($148), Ivy Gingham Pants ($168), Royalton Wicker Bag ($298); Pamela Dress in Deep Navy ($268), Adima Sandals ($198). Hitting the links in the Court Cap Sleeve Performance Polo in Winter Navy ($148) and Brianna floral skort ($168). Nude hues for him and her: floral Sabina Dress ($218), Finley Leather Belt ($118) and Canyon Leather Bag ($278); men’s Lisbon Linen Blend Blazer ($498), Leopold Linen Belt ($118), Gramercy Classic Fit Linen Shirt ($158), and Taylor Pant ($178). An assortment of wicker and leather bags including the Romina ($148) and the Melody ($128) Wicker Crossbody Bags.
THE CROSSROADS OF ART & MOTORCARS
THE WORLDS of fine art and fine motorcars became one during a private Sunday brunch event hosted by Bentley Palm Beach. This past January, the doors of the exquisite showroom located at 2801 Okeechobee Boulevard were opened for guests to enjoy a curated buffet provided by Sandy James Fine Foods, and browse works of art—both automotive and otherwise— over two hours.
The distinguished luxury vehicles, produced by the Bentley Motors facility in Crewe, UK, are often compared to works of art. The elongated swooping fender lines, high-quality craftsmanship, and literal billions of bespoke combinations owners may elect mean each and every Bentley is a venerable self-portrait of its driver.
Five local artists’ works were on display, as well as historic selections from the Fine Arts Conservancy restoration lab. As Club Braman invitees tickled their tastebuds with bagels and
lox, mini honey-chicken waffles, lobster rolls, and top round roast beef sliders, their eyes took in masterworks produced by Mehri Danielpour, DUAIV, Carol Calicchio, Peter Hansen, and Melissa DelPrete.
The soft soundtrack throughout the event came courtesy of pianist Mark Bornfield, and the requisite brunch bubbles available through the open bar included Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne, CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2020, and Tolaini “Vallenuova” Chianti Classico 2019, curated by Master Sommelier Virginia Philip.
Bronze sculptures, abstract and impressionist paintings, and photorealistic landscapes were all on display throughout the showroom, juxtaposed with Bentaygas, Continental GTs, and Flying Spurs of all colors. Attendees could meet with the artists themselves to discuss their personal history and inspirations, as well as choose which new Bentley would look best
in their driveway. Between the wine, delectable bites, gorgeous artwork, and peerless motorcars, guests were treated to an inimitable experience that undoubtedly set the tone for rest of the coming year.
The Bentley Showroom Sunday Art Brunch and similar events are regularly hosted for Club Braman members. Club Braman is a private group comprised of clients from all Braman Motorcars brands: Bentley Palm Beach, Rolls-Royce Motorcars Palm Beach, Porsche West Palm Beach, Braman BMW West Palm Beach, Braman BMW Jupiter, and Braman MINI of Palm Beach. u
To learn more about Club Braman’s exclusive events and how to becomes a member, visit BramanBentleyPalmBeach.com.
A LOVE LETTER TO PALM BEACH
BY JAYNE CHASEPALM BEACH resident and author Deborah Goodrich Royce’s third novel, Reef Road, captures the true essence of island’s lifestyle, neighborhoods, and surroundings that make it one of the most desirable places to live. During the pandemic, Royce was able to explore every inch of the area on foot and bicycle as she began researching and writing her novel. Now available in bookstores and on Amazon books, Reef Road is a page-turning, plot-driven thriller not to be missed. I recently sat down with the author to discuss her love of Palm Beach and why she chose to set the scene of her new book here.
Jayne Chase: What compelled you to “set the scene” of Reef Road in Palm Beach?
Deborah Goodrich Royce: Well, I was here researching and writing in the spring of 2020. We were all grounded where we were and I was grounded here. It just felt like a compelling place for a thriller and I think most people are always intrigued by what goes on beneath the surface and even more so in a place like Palm Beach, which is particularly beautiful, glamourous, and coveted. It’s why people like to watch soap operas they want to see the lives of beautiful people having the same problems as the rest of us. I was also influenced by Body Heat, the film noir featuring the late Bill Hurt and Kathleen Turner, which I re-watched. It was filmed in Lantana, just south of Palm Beach. The steamy, seedy underbelly of that setting invoked a certain feeling. I also like to write about real places. I’m one of those readers who jumps in my chair when someone is describing a place I know, like The Russian Tea Room in New York, for example. I jump because I’ve been there and know what it looks like. Same with a place like Palm Beach.
JC: I’m the same way. It ransports the reader there immediately.
DGR: Exactly. For me as a writer, it’s everything. Some novelists successfully write about fictious places or fictionalize real places, but I like writing about real places I know.
JC: What did you learn about Palm Beach while writing the book that you didn’t know before?
DGR: I learned a number of things. My writer character was a bit obsessive so I went down some research rabbit holes. I learned of a crazy murder story about the people who live in the “Ham & Cheese” house on South Ocean Blvd and why they call it that, originating from the layers of coquina stone and red brick. I also came to better understand the segments
and neighborhoods of Palm Beach. It’s not a monolith. If you think Rodeo Drive and Worth Avenue, you have a whole picture of wealth and opulence, yet not all of Beverly Hills is that and neither is Palm Beach. I think people like to dig into that a little bit! And finally, I learned that the North End is more residential and filled with families raising their children, so when I began writing, I chose that neighborhood for my young mother. I picked a particular pre-school in West Palm Beach where her children attended, included trips to Amici market, croissants at Blue Provence, and vegetable drinks Celis market; all real places that are touchpoints in daily life here.
JC: We all love living in Palm Beach. Can you tell us what you love about it?
DGR: My book is a real love letter to Palm Beach. My husband and I started in Delray, which we love, but we kept gravitating toward Palm Beach. To me, it is the perfect “indoor-outdoor” lifestyle with all the restaurants and vias, and I’m able to walk almost everywhere. It feels European and the convenience of being able to walk almost everywhere really appeals to me. It isn’t really a village but a perfect blend and satisfies many aspects of life. It is a very magical setting and I hope my love for it comes through!
JC: So, what’s next? Do you have a fourth book planned?
DGR: Yes. In my next book I’m exploring memory. There will be many twists in this new plot surrounding a woman’s memory as she receives a letter from a man she can’t remember at all. Is it her memory that is flawed, is he someone she knew in her past, or is there something mysterious going? What does he want with her?
JC: Wow! It sounds so good - hurry up and write! Your fans, including all of us at Quest, will be waiting! ◆
1
ANNIVERSARY GALA
The Kravis Center of Performing Arts will host its 20th anniversary gala featuring Sarah McLachlan in West Palm Beach at 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit kravis.org.
2
SHOP THE DAY AWAY
Cancer Alliance of Help & Hope will hold its annual Shop the Day Away event at The Breakers in Palm Beach. Laura Moore Tanne, Michelle King Robson, and Jacqui Michel, chairwomen. For more information, call 561.748.7227.
3
ISLAND PRESERVATION
The Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach will host its annual dinner dance at Bradley Park at 7 p.m., by invitation only. Marking its 41st year this season, the Preservation Foundation’s dinner dance brings together Palm Beach society to celebrate the island’s iconic architecture and natural beauty. The upcoming event has added excitement as we recall the glamour of the 1920s with design impresario Ken Fulk and welcome a new Golden
Age of Palm Beach. For more information, call 561.832.0731, ext. 107, or email lclyman@ palmbeachpreservation.org.
6
LEADERSHIP DINNER
The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will hold its Leadership
Celebration Dinner at The Breakers in Palm Beach, by invitation only. As part of The Dana-Farber Campaign, the organization is inviting the Palm Beach community to help it defy cancer and raise $60 million to ensure that the momentum accelerates in every way. The evening will celebrate reaching this goal and recognize leadership donors of $50K or more in total giving since October 1, 2017, the start of the campaign. For more information, visit dana-farber.org.
13
MAJOR DONOR DINNER
The Promise Fund of Florida will host its Major Donor Dinner and Award Celebration at Club Colette in Palm Beach, by invitation. For more information, visit promisefundofflorida.org.
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OPERA GUILD
The Palm Beach Opera Guild will hold its 21st Annual Luncheon and Opera Interlude with unique boutique shopping and an auction at The Four Seasons in Palm Beach. For more
On March 3rd, the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach will host its annual dinner dance at Bradley Park at 7 p.m. For more information, call 561.832.0731, ext. 107, or email lclyman@palmbeachpreservation.org.
information, call 561.835.7569 or visit pboperaguild.org.
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FELLOWSHIP DINNER
Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians and Jews will host its annual Fellowship Dinner and 30th Anniversary Celebration at The Breakers at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 561.833.6150.
SAINT PATRICK DINNER
The Society of the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick will hold its Anniversary Dinner celebrating the 239th year of the organization at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. There will be a cocktail reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. For more information, call 212.269.1770 or email jackie@friendlysonsnyc.com.
17
GEM AWARDS
The GEM Awards, presented
by Jewelers of America, is one of the jewelry industry’s most celebrated awards galas,
honoring the achievements of individuals and companies whose work raises the visibility of fine jewelry and watches. This year’s edition will take place at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit gemawards. jewelers.org.
18
RED CROSS BALL
American Red Cross will hold its 62nd International Red Cross Ball at The Breakers in Palm Beach to celebrate the work of the organization and its historic partnership with the U.S. Armed Forces. American Red Cross is known for alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies. For information regarding tickets or sponsorships, contact Eric Roby at 561.851.3439 or SouthFloridaRSVP@redcross. org or Lily Holt Dillon at 561. 308.3919 or lilyholtinc@gmail.com.
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MORSELIFE GOLF
Morselife Health will host its annual Golf Classic at the Ocean Course at The Breakers in Palm Beach. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit mlevents.org.
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WHITE HOT NIGHT
Hôpital Albert Schweitzer Haiti (HAS) will host its “White Hot Night” gala at The Sailfish Club in Palm Beach, by invitation. For more information, visit hashaiti.org.
APRIL 1
WATCHES & WONDERS
Watches and Wonders Geneva Foundation will hold its 2023 convention in Switzerland. Watches and Wonders promotes watchmaking excellence throughout the world. The event will feature in-person watch and jewelery exhibitions. Participating brands include Cartier, Chanel, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Laurent Ferrier, Patek Philippe, Piaget, TAG Heuer, and more. For more information, visit watchesandwonders.com.
2
MEMORIAL POLO
Hôpital Albert Schweitzer
Haiti (HAS) will host its 2nd annual Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial Polo at Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington at 4 p.m. For more information, visit hashaiti.org.
On March 18th, American Red Cross will host its 62nd International Red Cross Ball at The Breakers in Palm Beach. For more information, contact Eric Roby at 561.851.3439 or SouthFloridaRSVP@redcross.org, or Lily Holt Dillon at 561.308.3919 or lilyholtinc@gmail.com.
A LASTING LEGACY
PRODUCED, MURRAYPHOTOGRAPHED BY JULIE SKARRATT
HAIR & MAKEUP BY JOHN EDINGTON
FASHION SENSE has always come easy to Lily Baker Hottensen. In fact, it’s in her bloodlines. Lily is the only child of the late Nina Griscom, a model who was known as a style icon having been dubbed a generational “best dressed”, and labeled as New York Society’s “It Girl” in the mid-1980s. Following in her footsteps, Lily posed in spring looks for our annual photo shoot, which took place this year at the iconic St. Regis Hotel New York in the heart of Midtown. Conceived by Colonel John Jacob Astor IV in 1904, the hotel is known for its rich history, luxury, and upscale culinary options, including the famed King Cole Bar, home to the original Bloody Mary. As evidenced in these photos, the timeless glamour of Astor’s vision still defines the hotel today.
Fittingly, our home base was the stylish Dior Suite, designed in collaboration with Christian Dior and inspired by the dreamy Parisian atelier—the perfect backdrop for a fashion shoot. The suite features a living room with iconic watercolor renderings of Dior dresses by celebrated fashion illustrator Bil Donovan and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Central Park; a dining room decorated with an expansive map of Paris and a large table that seats 10; and a master bedroom with a dressing room and marble bathroom. Flip through the following pages for spring style inspiration! ◆
Lily stands before the watercolor Dior renderings by celebrated fashion illustrator Bil Donovan in the living room of the Dior Suite. She dons Oscar de la Renta’s yellow Strapless Bow Draped Moire Faille Gown ($9,290) and holds Asprey’s 1781 Pochette in yellow ostrich ($8,750). She also wears Graff’s White Emerald Cut Diamond Promise Ring Set with White Tapared Baguette Diamond Shoulders (11.81 Carats) in platinum on her left hand; Graff’s Yellow Cushion Diamond Promise Ring with White Pear Shape Diamond Shoulders (8.04 carats) in Platinum and Yellow Gold on her right hand; and Graff’s Emerald Cut Diamond Choker (100.47 carats) in white gold around her neck. Opposite page: Crossing the street in Oscar de la Renta’s Passionflower Midi Dress ($2,190). She holds Asprey’s 1781 Pochette in green ostrich ($8,750). For jewelry, she wears Spotlight Earrings by Wempe Statements in rose gold with brilliant cut diamonds, 9.1 carats ($30,675); Spotlight Bangle by Wempe Statements in 18k rose gold with brilliant-cut diamonds, 5.75 carats ($35,575) on her right wrist; and Wempe’s Jaeger-Le Coultre Rendez-Vous 34mm watch in rose gold ($32,600) paired with Everloving Moonriver Bracelet by Wempe Classics in 18k rose gold with 36 sapphires ($13,275).
Shopping on Fifth Avenue wearing Ralph Lauren Collection’s Silk Coat ($3,290), Sleeveless Wool Sweater Vest ($590), Silk Short ($890), and Cotton Shirt ($690), and holding the RL Top Handle bag ($1,800). Shoes by Manolo Blahnik.
For jewelry, she wears Tidedrops Hoop Earrings ($1,335), Tidedrops Necklace ($4,065), and Tidedrops Bracelet ($1,895), all by Wempe Casuals, featuring 18k yellow gold with cultured Akoya pearls. Inset: Striking a pose in front of Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar.
In the living room of the Dior Suite in Ralph Lauren Collection’s Metallic Organza Dress ($5,990) and Belt ($795). For jewelry, she wears Wempe’s BY KIM Lucky Sun Necklace in 18k rose gold ($6,565); Electrify Earrings by Wempe Casuals in 18k rose gold with brilliant-cut diamonds ($10,195); and Everloving Multisize Ring by Wempe Classics in 18k rose gold with brilliant-cut diamonds. On her left wrist, she wears Wempe’s Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle watch in 18k rose gold ($28,500). On her right wrist, she wears two Uptown Bangles by Wempe Statements (prices vary).
Getting ready and decked in diamonds. Lily in the bedroom of the Dior Suite wearing Graff’s White Diamond Emerald Cut Threads Necklace with white diamond pave and baguette diamonds (21.47 carats) in white gold; Graff’s 5 Row White Baguette And Emerald Cut Diamond Earrings (17.38 Carats) in white gold; Graff’s White Diamond Pear Shape Double Row Line Bracelet (19.59 carats) in white gold; Graff’s Yellow Cushion Diamond Promise Ring with White Pear Shape Diamond Shoulders (8.04 Carats) in platinum and yellow gold; and Graff’s White Emerald Cut Diamond Promise Ring set with white tapared baguette diamond shoulders (11.81 Carats) in platinum.
On the hotel’s famed marble staircase wearing Alexander McQueen’s Dropped Shoulder Peplum Military Jacket in Military Green ($3,390), Slashed Pencil Skirt in black ($4,790), and Platform Knee-high Boots in black ($1,890). She also wears Uptown Hoop Earrings by Wempe Statements ($44,375) and Uptown Necklace by Wempe Statements ($85,170), both in 18k white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds. On her left wrist, she wears Wempe’s Cartier Santos watch in medium in 18k white gold ($40,400) paired with Uptown Ring by Wempe Statements ($13,145) in 18k white gold with brilliant cut diamonds. On her right wrist, she wears Uptown Bracelet by Wempe Statements ($10,195) paired with Uptown Ring by Wempe Statements ($13,145), both in 18k white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds.
In the living room of the Dior Suite wearing Johanna Ortiz’s Woven Jacquard dress in Jungle Emerald ($1,450) and shoes by Valentino. For jewelry, she wears Wempe’s BY KIM Sensual Cosmos “Kintsugi” Pendant ($8,265), BY KIM Puntino 5-row Necklace ($17,375), BY KIM Sensual Cocoon Earrings ($6,675), BY KIM Sensual Cocoon Bracelet ($35,975), and BY KIM Sensual Cacoon Rings (prices vary), all in 18k rose gold with brilliant-cut diamonds. She also sports Wempe’s Chopard Happy Sport watch on her left wrist. Inset: The hotel’s King Cole Bar.
Lily in the Dior Suite’s dining room wearing Oscar de la Renta’s Sequin
Embroidered Faille Gown ($19,990), heels by Prada, and Graff’s White Pear and Marquise Diamond Earrings (15.26 carats) in white gold.
In the living room of the Dior Suite wearing Oscar de la Renta’s Strapless Floral Cutout Ball Gown ($11,990). For jewelry, she wears Graff’s Multi-Shaped White Diamond Double Flower Carissa Earrings (16.92 carats) in platinum and white gold; Graff’s White Pear Shape Diamond Cross Over Line Necklace (34.66 carats) in Platinum and white gold; Graff’s White Diamond Pear Shape Double Row Line Bracelet (19.59 carats) in white gold; and Graff’s White Emerald Cut Diamond Promise Ring set with white tapared baguette diamond shoulders (11.81 Carats) in platinum.
THE SIGNATURE REDS OF MAISON VALENTINO
BY JARED BRILLGIVEN THE MANY ways fashion houses constantly reinvent themselves, it becomes difficult to carry any particular association for too long. Perhaps one designer overcoming that trend is Valentino, whose bold and symbolic use of red has characterized its runway shows for decades. This signature use of red is the focus of Assouline’s newest release, Valentino Rosso, which explores the bold visual imagery of the fashion house.
Its usage dates back to the founder, Valentino Garavani, whose 1990 trip to see the opera Carmen in Barcelona would prove decisive to the future of the maison. “All the costumes on stage were red,” he said at the time. “The women in the box seats mostly wore red dresses and stood out like geraniums on the balcony, and the chairs and curtains were red I understood that there was no better color after black and after white.”
Now, the current creative director of Valentino, Pier Paolo Piccioli, has continued to embrace this signature style of the house he has managed since 2008. “I love the signature red of Valentino,” said Piccioli, “but I do like it not just as a symbol of power and glamour, but as something personal and romantic. Giving red new perception it’s a good thing.” To Valentino, red is more than just a color, it is a good luck charm. It is a reminder of the vitality and the allure that defined his childhood in Lombardy, Italy.
This allure, all unique to Valentino, has shaped how the maison uses red in unexpected ways. The brand is known for its use of bright, bold reds that are not typically seen in traditional fashion. Its usage spans a wide range of different materials and fabrics. The brand has incorporated red into everything from silk and satin to leather and denim, infusing a sense of versatility and flexibility around the color red. The brand is known for using red in everything from classic, timeless pieces, to more modern, avant-garde designs-making it more appealing to a wider range of customers. The house makes the bold sophistication of its signature red as accessible as it can be without sacrificing the luxurious design the
atelier is known for. Its power is obvious and flashy. “Red is a physical stimulant” color, adds consultant Katie Smith. “It’s invigorating, intimidating, and it’s never boring.”
For Valentino, red is more than just a motif or a popular selling product. For co-founder Giancarlo Giammetti, it is far more personal.
“Most of our statements came to be because we are romantic,” he said. “We don’t like to throw away things we like or that bring good luck.” With the book’s countless examples of Valentino’s striking and varied reds, one of the maxims of its creation becomes self-evident: Being yourself is the coolest thing you can do. ◆
Quest STYLE
“Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.”
BY ELIZABETH MEIGHER HENRY CLARKE —Cecil Beaton, PhotographerClockwise from top left: Guests stand beside a white Rolls-Royce convertible courtesy car at Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes, France, photographed by Slim Aarons, 1976; Queen Elizabeth II dressed in country attire at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, 1988; Marella Agnelli hopping into her Fiat convertible (her husband was Fiat chairman Gianni Agnelli), 1963; C.Z. Guest photographed by Cecil Beaton dressed in Mainbocher with her dogs at Templeton, her home on the North Shore of Long Island, New York; Cher at home, 1967, photographed by Arnaud de Rosnay for Vogue. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Alain Delon and Jane Fonda on the French Riviera, 1963; Mickey Hargitay and Jayne Mansfield eating spaghetti in Rome, 1960; George Peppard, Audrey Hepburn, and Paticia Neal in Breakfast at Tiffany’s , 1961; Bunny and Paul Mellon at Oak Spring Farm in Upperville, Virginia, 1963; Frank Sinatra surrounded by fans in the 1940s.
DESIGNER REVELATIONS
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAYDURING HER 70-year career as a style journalist, Marylou Luther interviewed nearly everyone in the fashion world—from old-timers like Christian Dior for the Chicago Tribune in 1957, and Coco Chanel, who she visited at her Rue Cambon atelier. She’s also met with present day standouts such as Tom Ford. In Rizzoli’s new book, Be-Spoke: Revelations from the World’s Most Important Fashion Designers, Luther mines dozens of quotes from these industry leaders alongside illustrations by Ruben Toledo. Here are a handful of our favorites. ◆
Hubert de Givenchy >
“My relationship with Audrey Hepburn began as a case of mistaken identity. I thought I was about to be introduced to Katharine Hepburn so my first words to Audrey were ‘But you are not Katharine Hepburn.’ She responded with ‘No, I’m very sorry. I am Miss Audrey Hepburn.’ You could say it was an accidental love story that has lasted for years.”
< Yves Saint Laurent
“I invented the modern woman. I invented her past. I offered her a future, and that will remain after my death. I wish I had invented blue jeans. They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, simplicity— all I hope for in my clothes. Without a doubt my favorite design is le smoking, also known as the tuxedo. In l966 I showed it with a transparent blouse and men’s trousers. And since then, the tuxedo has been featured every year in my collections. When they ask me about elegance, I say, isn’t elegance forgetting about what one is wearing?”
Oscar de la Renta
“When I told people I had apprenticed under Balenciaga, they would ask what I did there. It was very simple, I told them. I picked up pins on the floor. And when they asked what was the most surprising thing that happened when I went to Paris to design haute couture for Balmain, I told them of my total surprise when I walked into the atelier and there were no sewing machines.”
“I think there’s something incredibly sexy about a woman wearing her boyfriend’s T-shirt and underwear. Or a T-shirt and her Calvins.”
Calvin KleinGabrielle “Coco” Chanel
“Fashion fades. Only style remains the same. Only those with no memory insist on their originality. Yves Saint Laurent has excellent taste. The more he copies me, the better taste he displays.”
Bill Blass
“To think fashion should take one direction is all wrong. We’ve existed for two decades on looks from two designers: Chanel and Balenciaga. There should be several acceptable ways of dressing. Maybe the new look is no look. Or, it’s chic to be square again. Americans do this very well. Designing must be more specific, more individual, yet identifiable as yours. The frank pursuit of celebrities by designers has degenerated into a glorified swap meet— your publicity for my free dress.”
THE YOUNG & THE GUEST LIST YGL
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAYALICE + OLIVIA CELEBRATES GALENTINE’S DAY IN PALM BEACH
IN LATE January, Alice + Olivia hosted a Galentine’s Day party at its boutique at The Royal Poinciana Plaza. The “B.Y.O.B.F” (bring your own best friend) event featured love potions, BFF bracelets, botox, and sweets. A percentage of proceeds benefited the Selfless Love Foundation, an organization that leverages resources to improve the child welfare system. The evening was hosted by Stacey Bendet, the brand’s creative director, as well as Bettina
Clockwise from top left: Nicole and Courtney Fischer; Pamela Tick; Stacey Bendet; Gigi Pelkey and Kimberley Cozzens; Dara Goldstein and Ashley Lauren.YGL
LOVESHACKFANCY’S FALL/WINTER 2023 SHOW IN NEW YORK
DURING New York Fashion Week, LoveShackFancy debuted its FW23 collection at The Plaza. The brand has long been known for embracing unabashed femininity tailored to a younger clientele. Fittingly, the venue was decorated with roses and balloons in shades of pink. The theme of the new collection was evolution, and incorporated looks representing maturity, including pants and blazers.
Kate Bartlett and Luca Mornet Rocky Barnes and Danielle Bernstein Sophie Sumner Rebecca Hessel Cohen with her daughtersLAST MONTH, The Winter Show hosted its annual Young Collectors Night at Park Avenue Armory. Each year, the show is the country’s leading art, antiques, and design fair that benefits the East Side House Settlement, a charity serving the Bronx and Northern Manhattan. The event was attended by over 500 guests, and featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and music by DJ Claire Marie . u
YOUNG COLLECTORS NIGHT AT THE WINTER SHOW IN NEW YORK Claire Marie Rutledge Elizabeth Kurpis Monica Lorenzo, Paula Sanders, and Laura Day WebbDIRECT ACCESS
BY ROBERT JANJIGIANDURING THE pandemic, an influx of businesses and people escaping COVID-19 hot spots changed the tenor of life in the ever-tranquil and notoriously deep-pocketed enclave of Palm Beach.
The resort destination has always attracted restrauranteurs and retailers from New York and other places around the globe, but the recent “boom” in local business and the crowds clamoring for jaw droppingly priced homes, apartments, even hotel rooms, has prompted many savvy types, especially those who have a style focus to bring a taste of the fashion capitals to town—for fun and profit, of course.
Two spots are especially involved in this direct-from-the-catwalk practice; the vibrantly reinvented Royal Poinciana Plaza and The Colony Hotel, a true place to see and be seen for the considerably more youthful social and fashion-forward cognoscenti.
No need to slog through the ordeal of fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan or Paris. Shows are being staged for Palm Beach audiences, usually outdoor during gloriously pleasant winter days and evenings, and through residencies and pop-up’s established for some well-known providers of ready-to-wear, menswear, and couture, and spotlights on some new names on the scene as well as in-vogue vintage finds from the L.A. mecca Decades.
Thus, you’re bound to see a Michael Kors or Johanna Ortiz runway show at the fashionably minded Colony Hotel, a Kiton or Veronica Beard show at “The Royal” (as the tony shopping plaza is referred to by locals). You can also peruse the complete range of Dolce & Gabbana’s offerings during the Italian firm’s residency at The Colony—complete with a D&G pasta entrée on the menu at the hotel’s Swifty’s restaurant. ◆