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The Spring Style Issue
98 PRETTY AT THE POINCIANA For our annual Spring fashion shoot, we captured Samantha Angelo, founder of The Eye Travels, against the stunning backdrop of The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach. Produced & Written by Elizabeth Meigher, Photographed by Nick Mele
110 A MATTER OF STYLE Striking the balance between originality and appropriate attire—and the faces that define it. by
Hilary Geary Ross
116 RALPH LAUREN The iconic designer becomes the first in fashion history to receive one of the nation’s highest honors: the Presidential Medal of Freedom. by Elizabeth Meigher
122 CATALOG COMEBACK: THE REVIVAL OF J.CREW After a seven-year hiatus, the J.Crew catalog returns, blending nostalgia with a fresh vision. by Brooke Kelly Murray
126 HAUTE DOGS Assouline’s new book, Chic Dogs, captures the timeless companionship between people and their beloved pooches.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DAVID PATRICK C O LUMBIA
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
ELIZABETH MEIGHER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
TYKISCHA JACOBS
MANAGING EDITOR
BROOKE KELLY MURRAY
DESIGN EDITOR
JAYNE CHASE
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
ROBERT BENDER
PHOTOGRAPHER-AT-LARGE
JULIE SKARRATT
SOCIETY EDITOR
HI LARY GEARY
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
HARRY BENSON
KATE GUBELMANN
TONY HALL
ALEX HITZ
ROBERT JANJIGIAN
RICHARD JOHNSON
KAREN KLOPP
JAMES MACGUIRE
HAVEN PELL
CHUCK PFEIFER
JANIE PIERREPONT
LIZ SMITH (R.I.P.)
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MARY HILLIARD
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PATRICK MCMULLAN
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© QUEST MEDIA, LLC 2025. All rights reserved. Vol. 39, No 3.
Q uest—New York From The Inside is published monthly, 12 times a year. Yearly subscription rate: $96.00. Quest, 420 Madison Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10017. 646.840.3404 fax 646.840.3408. Postmaster: Send address changes to:
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AS A WIDE swathe of the Country experiences March’s winter “lion” - with a polar vortex near crippling the bread-belt of America - our Nation’s warmer soul is breathing easier and indeed less anxiously. Politics aside, our leadership void is no longer vacant and our mission has reawakened the global order - much for the better. Despite its countless foibles and fragilities, the American “experiment in Liberty” remains a beacon to the World - an example worth emulating, even to those nay-sayers still drowning in contempt and criticism. As a “people”, we are far more effective when lending a kind hand and refraining from pointing accusatory fingers. The Nation’s future may lie beyond our collective vision, yet it remains within our control. It is the duty of our own hands to bind up the wounds among us - with our friends, families and fellow countrymen, alike.
Ushering in our Spring Fashion number is Quest’s dynamic duo of Editorial Director, Elizabeth Meigher, and the talented eye of photographer Nick Mele. In the cover story ahead, this team has visually captured the reimagined energy of The Royal Poinciana Plaza, John Volk’s ingenious retail campus that’s become the bastion of luxury purveyors in Palm Beach proper. And kudos here to The Royal’s indefatigable and hands-on manager, Lori Berg, whose leadership has raised the bar for high-end shopping, comfortable dining and unparalleled luxury experiences. Speaking of stylish savants, Quest’s heralded Society Editor, Hilary Geary Ross, has deftly penned a historical perspective of style distinctions from her revered perch as a beloved doyenne of Southampton, Palm Beach and Washington D.C. From Mark Birley’s original Annabel’s to Robin Birley’s 5 Hertford St ... Albert Hadley to Mario Buatta ... Coco Chanel to Ralph Lauren ... our sweet scribe Hilary has innately identified (see pages 110115) the most tasteful personalities, design maestros, and posh settings from the past five decades!
Further on we salute yet another renowned house of timeless American fashion, J.Crew, whose classic catalog defined the
casual look, becoming a staple of our reader’s lives while at school and college. Forty-plus years later and still going strong, J.Crew is poised to reconnect their enviable heritage with generations past and present - all still searching for the perfect roll-neck sweater and baggy pair of cords.
Sadly, I end my letter with a somber note of farewell to my youngest brother Roger, who died most suddenly last week at the age of 67 while scuba diving at his winter home on St Croix VI. Roger was the definition of a decent, stand-up gent with a sharing soul, wicked wit and poster boy smile. He provided strength when things went wrong, and wisdom in times of uncertainty. And his life - which he lived vigorously - was one of family, purpose and fulfillment. His loss leaves our entire clan with a large and empty hole, and brother Tim and me without our Adirondack wingman. Godspeed, dear brother ... your stewards we shall be, until we meet again on the other side. ◆
ON THE COVER: Samantha Angelo wearing Carolina Herrera in the Assouline boutique at The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach. Photographed by Nick Mele.
Lauren, 1977; Society Editor Hilary Geary Ross; Lori Berg at The Royal Poinciana Plaza; behind the scenes with Samantha Angelo posing for Nick Mele for the March cover shoot at The Royal in front of a Braman Bentley convertible; Mark Birley at home in London, 1974; Last Voyage - Roger and Chris in Whitecap J.Crew’s February 2007 catalog.
Chris Meigher
David Patrick Columbia NEW YORK SO CIAL DIARY
THESE DAYS , what I call the winter months season has seemed quieter this year. It certainly hasn’t been a wild winter, knock-wood. The traffic with less lanes and more bicycles isn’t a celebration but at least there wasn’t the snowstorms that turn it into a menace in the getting-around. None of that. But it’s felt quieter.
The heavy traffic seems to disappear faster by the time the clock gets to 6 p.m. By 8, they’ve all gone home.
Or even before all this, they went South, to Florida. Or some where else warm and sunny by the sea.
Meanwhile back here in little ole Manhattan, it’s been generally mild weather, not much moisture for
this particular season. But as quiet as it seems to this kid, when I look at my calendar of events and invitations, it’s typical, all kinds of things-New York.
For example: The first new art exhibit of 2025, was Obsession and Evidence , the work of Machine Dazzle which debuted January 1st at the Gallery
AP Space in Chelsea and ran for two weeks. His work, however, is in progress and on the rise. There is a full page of him on Google and I quote:
“Machine Dazzle is the stage name of Matthew Flower, an American costume designer, set designer, performance artist and drag queen, known for his exces -
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sive and fantastical camp, surrealist, queer and maximalist approach.”
I first learned of him through Barbara Tober who has been a big supporter of his work. His “work” is his life, literally. He’s an artist out of the school of Andy Warhol . Another generation, of course, but emotionally and artistically Warholian. School of Art and Public Presence. It’s rough, 21st century proletarian in presentation. But it’s authentic too. It’s a production also. To be around it is to be “in” it. Belonging. And of course full of nature.
I’ve seen very little of it so I can’t judge to explain. But Mr. Machine’s “Art” is very serious as a profes -
sional production, a sense that provokes curiosity. The exhibition explored themes of transformation, environmental impact, and material culture through a collection of sculptures and AI-generated images.
Obsession and Evidence presented sculptures crafted from recycled materials, reimagining discarded objects as fossilized artifacts.
The pieces highlight the role of waste in modern life and its unintended integration into the natural world. Complementing the sculptures are AI-generated visuals that depict artificial materials as organic forms, encouraging us
to reconsider the relationship between the synthetic and the natural.
The opening day of the exhibition included a parade down 25th Street led by Machine Dazzle himself, featuring huge bundles of balloons and masks that were installed in the gallery.
Whatever it says, Mr. Dazzle’s work was born to be noticed. Again, like Warhol, it’s of its time. Our friend Barbara Tober hosted a lunch for 80 guests the day of the opening. Barbara is one devoted to her interests which are mainly seri -
ously philanthropic and including The Arts.
Monday morning in Washington, President Trump gave a full pardon to over 1,500 political prisoners who were involved in the January 6th riot.
Earlier in the day before he was sworn in at the Capitol, he told a big crowd at Capitol One Arena that he was looking forward to going to the Oval Office because he “will be signing pardons for a lot of people, a lot of people.”
That included the January 6th prisoners. I’ll personally never forget the J6 one where again I happened to be watching that on the telly where it was live . It looked like the public was being
Machine Dazzle
NORTON MUSEUM OF ART’S GALA IN WEST PALM BEACH
Brad Comisar and Talbott Maxey
Robert Kraft, Jane Wolf and Mark Wolf
Bret and Amy Baier
Beth Rudin DeWoody and Maynard Monrow Kelly Klein, Aerin Lauder and Helen Elizabeth Lee
Sebastian Clarke and Katherine van Dell
Jessie Washburn Harris and Steve Harris
roped into something.
The building was closed to the public yet the building staffers were outside holding the entrance doors open and waving their arms inviting the public inside. I thought that was odd. The “public” they were inviting just happened to have attended some kind of rally with President Trump speaking.
The Point. President Trump was inaugurated for his second term in the White House. You could say I’m a fan of his; I’ve been following him since he was a very young man starting out in the world we call New
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
York. But he’s interesting to me particularly since I have heard so many stories about his privately helping people, what I would call a natural philanthropy.
So on that morning I decided to watch the proceedings of Mr. Trump becoming our President once again. In all my years, I’ve only read about that particular official public moment, although I understood the historical importance of the actual act.
So I watched. I didn’t get
the name of this great room in the Capitol but it looked like it could hold a couple hundred, maybe more. At the center of one side was a stage where you could imagine the senators or congressmen gathered for meetings.
I was interested personally, just seeing the inside of our nation’s Capitol that I even wished I could have attended. It was the scene, a gathering but a specific historical gathering in this historical building. It
was a natural feeling of patriotism.
Although I took for granted it being a formal gathering to affirm an office. It was also a public scene of activity.
Just people watching their comings and goings, all in the name of the final act of confirming the man in the office which fit our President quite comfortably. He was going through the routine and taking the job.
But for us spectators, it was an interesting environment (history) with a lot of familiar or maybe famous faces among the unidentified, and in a very real way
President Donald Trump
ASPEN SNOW BALL
Brooke Burke Charvet and Thomas Pierce
Chandler Wentz and McKinley Guidry
Julie Walsh, John Avador, Justin Saliman and Emily Hall
Kelley and Gavin Brodin
Frankie Batista, Akane Gifore and Thomas Pierce
Elle Wenzell and Spencer Arnold
Alexa and Keni Silva
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
compelling. Because things have not looked like they were getting better (from worse) for quite sometime. I was curious to see how Donald Trump would affect that now.
I will think optimistically at least to start, because that is necessary. Except watching the inaugural day’s event (with all the people moving through), the President was just as naturally in charge. That’s what he does in life anyway, BUT he’s worked his way up in this world, our world, his world. He handles his authority like a host who cares.
My interest in yesterday’s trip into this world left me
with a kind of optimism, with this matter looking toward a brighter day. I don’t know Donald Trump but mainly from what I know and what I’ve seen of him, he’s lived his amazing very active life following his interests.
Doing your best is what he requires for himself, as well as for others (who work for him). Yesterday’s event for this spectator felt like being in a place where good news actually happens.
Peterson and her new book which she produced with Jesse Kornbluth, a book for young children. Friends and neighbors gathered to celebrate her latest project, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 classic, The Secret Garden.
Meanwhile, there was a book launch party for Paige
It looks like a winner for your child, your grandchild, your aunt or uncle, your mother or father. Even you, if you’ve never read the original copy published more than a century ago, will be touched by it.
The hostesses for the
party were friends –and longtime California neighbors, Gretchen Kimball and Connie Wiley , hosted a book party for Paige at a private residence in her hometown of Belvedere, California.
The original Secret Garden was 80,000 words. Paige and Jesse abridged it to 35,000 words while Paige’s vivid, heartening drawings are as unforgettable as the classic story that they illustrate.
The story of this book is that it is also about longtime neighbors Gretchen and Paige. Gretchen and Paige’s mothers were very close friends. Gretchen is also an active philanthropist, and was impressed by ventur-
The Secret Garden
BOYS’ CLUB OF NEW YORK’S LUNCHEON AT THE COLONY PALM BEACH
Karen Klopp and Carol McNierney
Gabrielle Bacon, Mary Kathryn Navab and Nathalie Kaplan
Michael Smith and Kristina O’Neill
Muffy Miller and Alexia Hamm Ryan
Sofia and Silvia Tcherassi
Ritchey Howe and Dawn Barnard
Mai Hallingby Harrison and Hillie Mahoney
ing these classics for young people and children. So the venture of Paige and Jesse was blessed by a very close neighbor who shared their objectives: for children and young people.
And the winner is ... Paige and Jesse , s version of the children’s classic has been singled out for acclaim by the noted publisher and podcaster Zibby Owens ( Totally Booked with Zibby ). The Secret Garden was nominated for a Zibby Award in two categories: “Best Book for the Parent,” and “Best Book for the Dreamer.”
On Monday, January 27th, the Central Park
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
Conservancy’s Playground Partners kicked off their 2025 fundraising with their annual Winter Luncheon. Playground Partners, a program of the Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy, is dedicated to raising funds to maintain the quality and cleanliness of Central Park’s 21 playgrounds. The event was sold out, and generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Harry Winston, Inc., Premier Sponsor Jimmy Choo, and Prime
Sponsor Orveda, raising $400,000 for the Park’s beloved play spaces.
Joined by special guest Tina Fey , in conversation with Jenna Bush Hager , guests were treated to an engaging and funny conversation about navigating motherhood and raising children in New York City, with Central Park’s playgrounds as the “backdrop to their childhood, ” as Tina put it.
They each shared their fond memories of Central
Park and its importance to life in the City – a place to play, relax, and, in the case of Tina Fey, even brainstorm on walks with Lorne Michaels . “The work of the Women’s Committee and Playground Partners is at the heart of the Central Park Conservancy ’s critical mission to keep the Park accessible and enjoyable for all,” said Tracey Huff, Women’s Committee President.
Meanwhile, on a beautiful cold, but not very, Friday in New York at Doubles, Marc Rosen , Margo Langenberg , and Elizabeth Kabler hosted a birthday lunch for Susan
Central Park
PATRICK
MCMULLAN; GETTY IMAGES
Tina Fey and Jenna Bush Hager
Katherine Gage Boulud, Megan Stackhous and Whitney Rouse Teach
Stephanie Stamas, Kate Lauprete and Melanie McLennan
Amy Tarr and Aileen Bruner
Janelle Currin, Gillian Hearst and Leni Cummins
CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY’S WINTER LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK
Tracey Huff and Katherine Birch
Shirin Christoffersen and Gigi Stone Woods
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
Gutfreund . With 10 at the table, the Doubles buffet is famous for its tantalizing choices, along with a round table of desserts. Also at the table were Saundra Whitney , Anthony Buhl , Kathy Sloane , Huanji Yan , Cornelia Bregman , Margo Langenberg , Ralph Rucci , and yours truly.
Conversation was active, as it always is at Susan’s famous dinners. Then there was another visit to the Doubles buffet for the dessert which was baked especially for the birthday girl. And we all sang the song while the birthday girl considered blowing out the candles (making wishes?). And with dessert finished, it was mid-afternoon in New York, and time for the guests to bid good-bye after a perfect birthday
luncheon.
Meanwhile, on a Friday night, pianist Teodor Doré and his ensemble presented a chamber concert at the Chelsea loft of fellow pianist (and friend), Jonathan DePeri .
The concert was inspired by themes of exile, displacement, and longing for homeland. The Crimean-born Doré is now an exile, as are his accompanists: soprano Anastasiya Roytman from Ukraine, violinist Taisiya Losmakova from Belarus, and Grammy-nominated cellist Sergey Antonov who is from Russia.
It was spectacular with standing-room-only for the more than 80 guests who filled the double height music room and balcony. Doré per-
Teodor Doré
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formed Sergei Rachmaninoff , as well as his own compositions. A highlight of the evening was his new orchestration of Suite in D Minor , made with the approval and encouragement of Rachmaninoff’s great-granddaughter, Alexandra Conus Rachmaninoff
“It is a big responsibility to touch this heritage.” said Doré, “But music unites us.” Doré’s artistic journey mirrors Sergei Rachmaninoff’s story of exile, both artists uprooted from their homelands by political turmoil. It served as a preview of his sold-out Carnegie Hall debut which occurred last night.
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
On a Tuesday, February 4th. Cold in New York with temps in the low 40s (a bit higher in the day with lots of sunshine). But the city was very quiet and by nightfall, the traffic was very light for a Manhattan weeknight. This time (winter) usually quiets down the city. A lot of New Yorkers who can, travel to Miami and Palm Beach for a few days or even for the season. And not surprisingly the social scene – which still operating – has fewer event occur-
ring right now.
For example, philanthropist and founder of ACE Programs for the Homeless Henry Buhl celebrated his 95th birthday at the Pierre surrounded by 150 of his nearest and dearest.
Henry, as he is known, is a very rich man who when he decides to throw a party, can pull out all the stops, and this event was another example of his natural generosity.
The event transformed the gala ballroom into a snowy wonderland — complete with winter foxes
white peacocks and flocked trees filled with owls assorted birds and hanging crystals. Tables were decorated with gilded branches pale roses sweet peas and phalaenopsis orchids.
As guests arrived, they were welcomed with signature cocktails — “the Buhl Mule” and “Oh Henry!” — alongside chilled Grande Dame Champagne, icecold Chopin vodka, and Petrossian caviar presented in a stunning four-foot-high ice sculpture.
Following cocktails, guests moved to the ballroom to enjoy a dinner featuring sautéed branzi -
CANCER ALLIANCE’S “TRAVEL THE DAY AWAY” IN PALM BEACH
Henry Buhl
CAPEHART
Teresa Chope and Jacqui Michel
Jody Morrison and Susan Cushing
Philo Rosenfeld and Annie Cardelus Jone
Sheila Buchbinder and Barbara Zand
Arlette Gordon
Nancy Stone and Kristina Gustafson
Jo Bailes
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
no and braised short ribs. The birthday cake designed by Ron Israe l paid tribute to Henry’s beloved SoHo.
The highlight of the evening was a captivating performance by the legendary Gloria Gaynor , who had everyone on their feet dancing. As the night drew to a close and the music mellowed, attendees left with a memorable gift: a replica of a cast hand inspired by Auguste Rodin , sourced from Henry’s personal art collection.
Henry was one of the first New Yorkers I came to know when I moved back here after 15 years in Hollywood. His mother was very well known socially in the world
(besides L.A.). I first heard of Henry when I lived out there because his mother, an heiress in her own right, had a famous mansion in Bel Air and entertained grandly when she wasn’t traveling.
Henry was born into a wealthy family in Detroit where his grandfather in the earlier part of the 20th century played an important role in the development of the automobile industry. In his young adult life he pursued a financial career which took him to Europe where he was very successfully involved in the development of selling mutual funds to Europeans.
After a number of years abroad where he also
married and had a family of a son and two daughters, he resigned from the business and moved to New York where he created a career for himself as photographer. Being a businessman, his photograph business grew. When I met him (to interview about his businesses), he had also moved downtown to SoHo after purchasing a large manufacturing loft that he transformed –over the years – into a magnificent apartment where he lived for the next three decades, after which he put on the market for $19 million and moved into a much smaller two-bedroom apartment.
I really knew nothing
about him upon meeting except that he’d acquired this large loft. What struck me however, was his response to his new neighborhood. At that time – in the early 1990s – SoHo was established but remained an area that had a lot of homeless people including not a few ex-cons who were getting by on next to nothing with few employment opportunities and no money and living on the street.
Henry’s response to the unemployed in his new neighborhood was to find work for a couple of these men: sweeping sidewalks daily for local business. What sounds like a basically simple solution
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was organized by Henry, eventually producing a number of steady jobs for his local (on the street) neighbors, and turned into a very big organization, creating jobs for a lot of people. I got to know him more during the summers of those early years when he’d returned to this country. He also had a house in Southampton where he frequently held large dinner parties that were casual and informal and everybody just had a good time, which is the way Henry liked it. Among his fancies he loved sunflowers. He had a large empty space of a lot next to his residence which he
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
covered with sunflower plants, tall and sweeping and colorful and filling the entire space and making his address memorable and easy to find for the guests who didn’t know the neighborhood.
I can still remember one of his dinners, on a warm and balmy Saturday night in Southampton at the end of July, Henry, the indefatigable host, had 325 over to his casa with its heavy-duty leitmotif of sunflowers, for dinner, dancing, and a Chinese auction (too complicated to explain
but a very effective way of raising a lot of money from the well-fixed).
This was a pay party for Henry’s SoHo Partnership which so successfully assists many of the homeless, down on their luck, in getting back up on their feet again. Lobster, chicken, corn on the cob. More than $125,000 was raised, with Sotheby’s Jamie Niven as auctioneer. Afterwards, everybody got up to the rock ’n’ roll to “just a little R-E-S-P-E-
C-T,” and then it was off into that warm and balmy night … A pleasure for all and a gift for many.
Meanwhile, back to the future. A couple of weeks ago here in Manhattan, another frequent host, Marc Rosen , hosted a cocktail party at his Fifth Avenue apartment to showcase the talent of Ilya Ramlav , a 33 year old Russian virtuoso concert pianist and Rostropovich Prize winner in Moscow.
He’s been a soloist of the Saint Petersburg House of Music where he toured extensively across Russia, performing recitals and collaborating with
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Gloria Gaynor
James Wilmer, Ian and Laura Tobin, Erin Mullaney and Catherine Wilmer
Rich Cacace, Deborah Houkand Maurizio Gamba
Joanie Reynolds and Sheila Bandy
Jill Hillier, Bret Kane and Paige Sloniker
Lily Ustayev and Wanda Zaiser
Paige Sloniker, Brett Kane and Ashley Gerry
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
MORSELIFE’S SPEAKER
prestigious philharmonic orchestras and conductors includidng Yuri Bashmet’s Russian Symphony Orchestra.
Last year he was the featured artist at the distinguished History Makers Gala at the New York Historical Society. His recent appearances include Moab Music Festival in Utah, Armenian State Philharmonic, Buenos Aires Symphony Orchestra, and Patagonia Classica.
He’s also a passionate educator and has conducted master classes at institutions such as the Armenian State Conservatory and the Astor
Piazzolla Conservatory in Buenos Aires, inspiring a new generation of pianists. His artistry has been featured on international platforms, including National Classical Radio of Argentina, NRK Television in Norway, and ATV Armenia.
Ilya was impressed of course and so Marc asked him if he’d like to pay a visit to see the piano. Yes, yes, Ilya agreed and two weeks later,
on a Thursday, Marc invited about 30 friends to come hear Ilya play. The concert was entitled, “I Know a Fine Way to Treat a Steinway: An evening with Ilya Ramlav. A Tribute to Van Cliburn.”
The program: Serge Rachmaninoff; I. Allegro Agitato, II Non Allegro – Lento; and III, Allegro Molto. This was followed by Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune; then Frederic Chopin, Polonaise in
A-flat Major, Op 53; and for an Encore: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovskky’s The Seasons, Op 37b VI June.
At about 6:45, Marc introduced him to the gathered room whereupon he sat down at Van Cliburn’s piano and ...we observed this quiet, almost shy man take charge of the keys. It was so dramatic and dynamic and enormous energy that you were transformed to a concert hall sensational, vastly dramatic, and a man deeply and dramatically committed to a profound and massive musical energy. It was overwhelmingly compelling and brilliant. u
Van Cliburn, 1958
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Audrey Foster and Susie Mendik
Mark and Diane Goldman
Griffin Dunne
Beth Myers, Carolyn Koslow and Susie Levitt
Betty Levin and Bonnie Strauss
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DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
Emily Heitner, Chrissie Crampton and Jocelyn Gailliot
Laurie Beard, Lesley Schulhof and Hélène Comfort
Claudia and Taylor Overstrom
Amanda Kahn and Mercedes de Guardiola
Lara Meiland-Shaw, Joanna Baker de Neufville, Krista Corl and Alexandra Vidal Trullols
Charlotte Groeneveld and Sarah Hoover
Austen Cruz
Cindy Adams
Andrew Boszhardt
Gabe Fazio and Laila Robins
Dallas and Amanda Jenkins Karen Mulligan and Matthew Shattuck
Jonathan Roumie Whoopi Goldberg and Annie Leibovitz
Michael Bonini and Samantha Moench
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
CATHOLIC CHARITIES’S GALA IN PALM BEACH
Bill Porter and Lois Pope
Father O’Shea with Dan and Mary Higgins
Amy Aciemo, Florence Berney and Karmita Gusmano
Pepe and Emilia Fanjul
Jennifer and Joey Trefelner
Virginia and John Gildea
Kathryn and Leo Vecellio
Kathy and Paul Leone
Bishop Barbarito, Lian Fanjul, Andres Fanjul and Catherine Fanjul
Take
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
The smoked-oak finishes on the slight off-white leather setting makes me think of a
friend, the designer Vivienne Tam, enters the room. She is a burst of color, wearing a jade-green satin, short-sleeved shirt with a flowy sheathe and graduated jade balls that form a Chinese animal-head-like design; relaxed jeans that are rolled just above the ankle; Chinese-red leather pumps; and an overs summer Sunday morning, and I am sitting in the serenely restrained and minimalist dining room at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s latest Manhattan venture, Per-
ry St. The restaurant is bathed in neutral colors, predominat ed by a calm, bone-colored white. The smoked-oak finish es on the slight off-white leath er banquettes and the Thomas Juul-Hansen slate carpet with modernist abstract forms are the only touches of color in the place (if, that is, one counts smoked oak and slate as “col ors”). Craft-paper lampshades and sheer white Trevira win dow treatments round out the neutral palette. The blanched setting makes me think of a photographer’s backdrop, as if fellow diners and I are waiting for our portraits to be taken. This backdrop effect is made all the more apparent when my
friend, the designer Vivienne Tam, enters the room. She is a burst of color, wearing a jade-green satin, short-sleeved shirt with a flowy sheathe and graduated jade balls that form a Chinese animal-head-like design; relaxed jeans that are rolled just above the ankle; Chinese-red leather pumps; and an oversized watch with thick red leather straps. The top of her smooth black hairband, leaving the length of it to
ting in the serenely restrained and minimalist dining room at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s
ry St. The restaurant is bathed
ANNIE WATT; CAPEHART
DEBORAH AND CHUCK ROYCE HONOR THE DUCHESS OF YORK IN PALM BEACH
Jim and Patty Read with Jeff Salzman
RJ Heijmen, Meredith Townsend, Bill Blind and Jaime Heijmen
Deborah Royce, Sarah, Duchess of York and Chuck Royce
Katie and Jamie Pressly
Philip and Elizabeth Douthit
Amanda Salzman and Sophie Wynne
Valantina and Nicholas Prouty
PALM BEACH ZOO BALL
Stephen and Christine Schwarzman
Michele Kessler and Tom Quick
Jon and Whitney Clay
Bret and Amy Baier
Patty and Peter Garvy
Holly Bartlett and Leezy Sculley
Sylvester and Jennifer Stallone
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
QUEST AND VIA COQUINA’S COCKTAIL PARTY IN PALM BEACH
Ellen Kavanaugh and Alexandra Wren
Maria Elena Aprea and Tiffany Martin
Annabelle Coleman, Lis Waterman and Ann Jeffery
Cara and Kevin Ferro
Julia Amory, Callie Baker Holt and Ashley Ludlow McGurk
Gigi Benson and Grace Meigher
Pamela Taylor Yates
Rachel van Wyk with Peter and Soraya Geisler
Julia LeClair, Krystian von Speidel and Bettina Anderson
Melissa Tenorio and Sophia Sherkanowski
Johnny Johnston and Gil Walsh
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
PRESERVATION FOUNDATION OF PALM BEACH’S COCKTAIL PARTY
David and Jennifer Fischer
Greg and Kim Richter
Audrey McNiff and Tim Cohan with Muffy Miller
Betsy Shiverick and Alessandra Branca Haynes and Ginger Griffin
Mario Nievera and Sara Harris
Sarah Cooke and Mackey Reed
John and Christine Giampetroni
Drew Shilling and Tony Rutgers
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
Andrea and Steve Wynn
Kristen and David Steinberg
Andrew Price, Mackenzie Price, Tricia Berns and Michael Milken
Martin Short and Steve Martin
Lisa Oz and Gloria Suarez
Nancy and Russell Bourne
Serena Williams
Barbara Ann Bernard, Jim Coleman, Joel Pashcow and Candace Belmont
Hillary Latos and Nicholas Perricone
Barbie®: A Cultural Icon Exhibition is created and toured by Illusion Projects Inc. and curated by Karan Feder, in partnership with Mattel Inc. Karan Feder – Curator, Shelley Lynn
Producer,
Barbie®:
generous support
Francine
LeFrak Foundation, Francine LeFrak, The Samuel J. and Ethel LeFrak Charitable Trust, Michele and Marty Cohen, Ruth Ann Harnisch, The Harnisch Foundation, and Marcy Syms.
Barbie®: A Cultural Icon Exhibition is created and toured by Illusion Projects Inc. and curated by Karan Feder, in partnership with Mattel Inc. Karan Feder – Curator, Shelley Lynn M.A.
Director, Tim Clothier – Producer, David Porcello
Consultant, Suzanne Becker PhD – Education Consultant, and Trevor Bluth – Project Manager.
Barbie®: A Cultural Icon Exhibition is made possible at the Museum of Arts and Design through the generous support of The Francine A. LeFrak Foundation, Francine LeFrak, The Samuel J. and Ethel LeFrak Charitable Trust, Michele and Marty Cohen, Ruth Ann Harnisch, The Harnisch Foundation, and Marcy Syms.
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
Benan Ellis and Jillian Zerbiec
Kristin Clark and Jennifer Kennedy
Amy Tarr, Karen Schneidman and Angela Gresham
Paula Campbell Roberts
Judith McCoy and Anne Martha Pitegoff
Karen Bayer, Shirley Madhere-Weil and Neusa Evora
Tiffany Gardner
Amanda Smith
Megan Fairchild
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
CELEBRATING THE DEBUT OF THE CABANA BUNGALOW AT THE COLONY PALM BEACH
Jenny Lopez and Pamela Tick
Roosmarijn de Kok
Sarah Wetenhall and Gucci Westman
Martina Mondadori
Callie Baker Holt, Elizabeth Kurpis, Elizabeth Meigher, Lauren Fornes and Julia Amory Alexander Kraft and Camilla Cardone
Karolina Kurkova and Malcolm Carfrae
Ashley Hicks
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
NANTUCKET BY DESIGN IN PALM BEACH
Design discussion
Jackie Ekholm, Cindy Rinfret and Shelly Tretter Lynch Garrett Bredenkamp, Eileen Boyd Cahill, Darryn McKenzie and Fifi Greenberg
Mary Beth Gilmartin-Baugher, Suzanne Van Nostrand, Laura Reynolds and Olivia Charney
Jamie Sanford and Cece Lyon Sanford
Teagan Jane Sousa and Whitney Lewis
Liz McDermott and Renee McColl
Lauren Fornes and Julia Amory
DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA
THE WINTER SHOW’S OPENING NIGHT PARTY IN NEW YORK
CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY AT DOUBLES IN NEW YORK
ANNIE WATT; BFA
Lisa Bytner and Amy Shiels
Leah MacDonald, Stephanie Kearney, Meghan Klopp, Natasha Blodgett, Brooke Kennan and Molly Reilly
Jennifer Argenti and Amanda Oakley
Martha Sharp and Marcie Pantzer Amanda Waldron, Erin O’Connor, Mimi Crawford and Jessica Sailer
Valentine’s buffet Mimi Crawford and Eve Lehrman
Julianna Obeid, Elizabeth Graziolo and Christy Ollendorf
Elizabeth Singer and Jennifer Hall
Allie Michler Kopelman and Will Kopelman
Candace and Rick Beinecke
Robert Couturier
Roxane West
Nicky Hilton Rothschild
IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY
TO ME, supermodel Cindy Crawford is the supermodel of a lovely person as well. She is still working today just as much as when I photographed her in the ’80s for Vogue and in the ’90s at the MTV studio when she was the on-air host of House of Style.
Cindy was always prepared and ready to go with a smile on her face. I always knew I was going to get a good photograph when she was on set. Cindy has a great personality and not only knows what she is doing but enjoys doing it as well.
Our paths rarely cross, but when they do, she always stops to say hello.
Occasionally, we are at the Upper East Side’s favorite restaurant, Sette Mezzo, at the same time, and when we are, she is the most charming and personable person in the room. Everyone watches as she stops to talk with friends while entering and leaving.
Interesting note: Some time ago, Cindy posted my photograph shown here on her Instagram, which received quite a few great comments that made me smile. Always fun being surprised on Instagram! u
HARRY BENSON
Cindy Crawford, 1985. Photographed by Harry Benson.
THE DI IS CAST
HARRY AND MEGHAN looked like ambulance chasers in burning Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago, but acting like virtue-signaling disaster tourists is what they do best. It does not surprise me. For those of you who don’t read comic books or
gossip columns, they’re also known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. They’ve both become richer of late thanks to the lawsuit they brought against the Murdoch newspapers in London. Enough said.
From above: The Sunday Times front cover newspaper in British press kiosk featuring portraits of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, 2018; young Prince Charles with Princess Diana.
Self-flattering PR stunts are nothing new in La-La Land. For publicity-addicted freaks like Paris Hilton the catastrophe had its positive side: She got on the news posing in front of her burned-out Malibu house. The ones my heart bleeds for are those folks in Altadena, working types, as far removed from the phonies of Hollywood as Meghan and Harry from the real world. I’ve never met either one. I was a friend of his mother, Princess Di, and I believe I was the last one to speak with her before the Paris car crash that killed her.
Diana was a shrewd, extremely nice girl who was completely uneducated but kind and well-meaning. She asked me over to Kensington Place for lunch a couple of times and came over to my place for three dinners I gave so she could meet pro-Diana journalists. There was absolutely no hanky-panky. She didn’t appear to me at all insightful, was always on guard, très comme il faut, but empty in a way. I knew most of her lovers, and they too were somehow empty. Tina Brown, who got
Never mind. I’ve written about this before. Diana and I became friends after she asked to meet me at a rather grand ball in London. I was in my cups, and when she pointed at a chair next to her and asked me to “Sit here and tell me why you write that I’m a madwoman,” I missed the chair and fell under the table. She burst out laughing, bent down, and heard me mutter, “All I know is I’m mad about you.”
don’t know those who know the people they write about. Meghan is hardly the first woman from a modest background to pull rank on people she deems inferior. The Brits genuflect and ring-kiss royals, the rest of us do not. Meghan got a taste of Brit ass-licking and took it seriously. It doesn’t work in America, nor does it work in Britain unless you’re the real McCoy. Americans genuflect to celebrities, the Brits kneel down for royals and rock stars, whereas Greeks like yours truly only bow their heads to military heroes like Erwin Rommel and George Patton.
And let’s face it. Those claiming long-
a bestselling book out of the one meeting with others present she had with Di, did her homework, but it was mostly guesswork. Diana’s last boyfriend, as vile a character and liar as there ever was, proved what a barren vessel she’d become and how confused she was at the time. I always believed and still do that Charles was a spoiled shit who treated Diana badly; Harry takes after her. He’s not very smart and is being played like a Stradivarius by Meghan.
Vanity Fair is the latest to “expose” the life of Meghan and Harry, but take it from me, it’s all bull, gossip picked up from desperate so-called journalists from all over. Writers for these mags have no access and
term therapy needed after working for Meghan need long-term therapy for mendacity and defamation. Exaggeration is as normal as victimhood today, especially in English-speaking countries. (It must be the water.) Both Harry and Meghan see themselves as victims, as do those who worked for them. Victims Anonymous is what I recommend for everyone involved. u
Clockwise from bottom left: Princess Diana with Harry and William; Erwin Rommel, 1941; George S. Patton, 1944; newspaper headlines after Princess Diana’s car crash, 1997; Princess Diana with Dodi Fayed in St. Tropez shortly before the car crash.
RichardJohnson@questmag .com
My Table @ SWIFTY’s
RICHARD JOHNSON has settled in at Palm Beach’s Pink Paradise (otherwise known as the legendary Colony Hotel). He is penning a column from his table at Swifty's on questmag.com.
HARRY BENSON, whose photos grace the pages of Quest, celebrated his 95th birthday on January 25th.
They were surrounded by guests — many who have been shot by Benson over the years — including Robert Kraft, owner of the New
England Patriots, and Quest publisher Chris Meigher and his wife Grace.
Benson, who first came to America with The Beatles in 1964, drew Wilbur Ross and Hilary Geary Ross, art collector Beth Rudin DeWoody, architect Campion
Platt, Ralph’s brother Lenny Lauren, polo-playing Bruce Colley, Tiffany’s John Loring, and sculptor Jane Manus.
Former Barney’s chief Gene Pressman and his wife Christine toasted the shutterbug along with Rudy Giuliani’s ex Judith and
her new husband Patrick Cerminara.
Peripatetic publicist R. Couri Hay was there along with Inside Edition host Deborah Norville and her husband Karl Wellner, plus three Pamelas — Taylor, O’Connor, and Cohen.
Clockwise from top left: Gigi Benson, Harry Benson, Michael Landes, Dominic Landes, and Wendy Benson-Landes; Gene Pressman, Jane Manus, Christine Pressman, and Richard Johnson; Deborah Norville;
THE COLONY keeps
growing. The 90-room hotel has added a house to book just down the street.
To launch the Cabana Bungalow, The Colony’s president and owner Sarah Wetenhall threw a dinner on January 22nd with Martina Mondadori, founder and editor-in-chief of Cabana Magazine.
The two-story, three-bedroom house, with its own
swimming pool, was decorated by Mondadori and her colleague, Ashley Hicks.
As part of the partnership, Cabana and The Colony released a capsule collection featuring linens in a floral design inspired by the lush gardens of Palm Beach, and Cabana’s iconic Ginori plates reimagined in The Colony’s signature pink.
Guests explored the stunning 2,000 square-foot bun -
galow, then traisped over to Swifty’s, The Colony’s poolside restaurant, for a DJ set by Pamela Tick followed by dinner al fresco.
Guests included models Karolina Kurkova and Roosmarijn de Kok, designer Liz Lange, Sotheby's International's Monaco CEO Alexander Kraft, celebrity stylist Denisa Palsha, vintner Joey Wölffer, photographers Priscilla Rattazzi and
Nick Mele, and “influencers” Pamela Tick, Samantha Angelo, and Jenny Lopez.
Also spotted were journalist Bob Morris, author of Assisted Loving, and Princess Arriana zu Hohenlohe-Langenburg, the wife of Dixon Boardman.
The bungalow would be perfect for someone in town for a few weeks searching for a suitable estate to buy.
Clockwise from top left: Gucci Westman; Martina Mondadori, Ashley Hicks, and Sarah Wetenhall; Karolina Kurkova; Peter Ostrega and Samantha Angelo; dinner under the Hanging Garden.
I WENT TO a book party and got to meet George Hamilton, who was dapper and tan and looking great for 85.
The book is On Xi Jinping: How Xi’s Marxist Nationalism Is Shaping China and the World by former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
It’s 604 pages long with no less than 195 pages of footnotes.
The launch was at the Palm Beach estate of Wilbur Ross and Hilary Geary Ross. Guests included Ann Coulter, whose 13 books include Adios, America:
The Left's Plan to Turn Our Country Into a Third World Hellhole . I asked Hamilton about the story I’d heard about how he landed his first film contract at MGM. I had heard he went to a Cadillac dealership and was loaned a spiffy convertible.
But Hamilton said he borrowed a Rolls Royce and got a friend to dress up in livery as his chauffeur.
As he waited with 10 other young wannabe actors, he’d go to the window and signal his driver to stand by.
Hamilton, pretending to be a wealthy aristocrat, told
the secretary he wasn’t sure he wanted to wait around because he wasn’t sure he wanted to be an actor.
Soon he was under contract.
“I'll be remembered as a third-rate actor when in fact, I'm a first-rate con man,” Hamilton said.
Then Rudd, now Australian ambassador to the US, began to speak. Rudd said he grew up on a farm in Queensland, “a state not dissimilar to Arkansas,” in a town of 200 people.
“We saw Sydney as a foreign country,” Rudd said.
One day when he and
his father were on horseback counting steer, his dad asked, “Is your future going to be in beef or dairy?”
Rudd was spurred to become a straight-A student, fluent in Chinese, which led to three years as a diplomat in Beijing, where he witnessed the massacre at Tiananmen Square in 1989.
“I saw the brutality of the Marxist state as they slaughtered all these young kids,” Rudd said.
Xi Jinping, who has already led China for 23 years, shows no signs of retiring.
Clockwise from top left: Reception at the Ross estate; On Xi Jinping copies on display; George Hamilton; Laing Rogers, Allie Hanley, and Ann Coulter; Hilary Geary Ross, Kevin Rudd, and Wilbur Ross.
THE PALM BEACH Par 3 Golf Course is a gem.
Located on the beach near Mar-a-Lago, this track might encompass the most expensive acres of any public links anywhere.
The vistas are awe-inspiring, with early holes running
along the intercoastal (badly named Lake Worth, since it isn’t a lake), and the finishing holes along the ocean.
I played there recently on a windy day and managed one birdie, two pars, and just a couple lost balls. Fore! No one was injured.
The finishing hole, with the Atlantic crashing on the left, makes you feel as if you’re playing at Pebble Beach.
After 18 holes, I had lunch in the clubhouse at Al Fresco, the restaurant run for the last decade by José Luis Duran, better known for Renato’s,
Pizza Al Fresco, and Acqua Cafe.
“No one else was interested, so we won the bid,” Duran told me. Al Fresco is open seven days a week, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I highly recommend the pastrami on rye. ◆
Clockwise from top left: Renato's; Arlene Desiderio and her son, José Luis Duran; Palm Beach Par 3; Al Fresco.
HISTORIC CHARM
BY JAYNE CHASE
NOW IN ITS EIGHTH year, The Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club and Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County have once again chosen twenty-three top interior designers and architects to transform a local 1937 historic house with their visionary designs. This year’s showhouse, located along scenic North Flagler Drive with sweeping intercoastal views, is a breathtaking classic home with stunning ironwork detail and historic charm, serving as an exceptional space. This season’s
Co-Chairs and former design participants, Billy Ceglia and Jonathan Savage, “are thrilled to see so many local designers participating in this year’s event. The Kips Bay Decorator Show House is a unique opportunity for designers to showcase their creativity and expertise,” agree Ceglia and Savage “and a wonderful way to support the Boys & Girls Clubs.”
For local interior designer, David Mitchell Brown, returning to Kips Bay after several years is exciting, and as his primary bedroom is called, “Worth Every Penny.” “Anyone who knows me, knows I love primary bedrooms. It’s literally the place where my clients begin and end their day so it needs to provide the right energy and light throughout 24 hours. It’s a challenge to energize while still providing a sense of calm, but it’s my most rewarding accomplishment in designing a home. For this showhouse,” the handsome designer explains,
“I used two wallpapers. One that gives the sense of calm of a sunset and the other, the energy of the sun rising in a fantasy garden with huge blue peonies. When I do a showhouse, I try to imagine the potential client wanting what many of my Palm Beach projects embrace, which is the need for increased storage and defining a space to be multifunctional. Finding a way to architecturally define a room to encompass these functions without compromising on its size and scale is something I really enjoy. During the process, I also try to embrace many of the designers who have influenced my career like Michael Taylor, the father of California design, and Dorothy Draper, who both combined rich color and plaster techniques that work well in the Palm Beaches.”
From above: A primary bedroom designed by David Mitchell Brown; David Mitchell Brown. Opposite page: The 2025 Kips Bay Decorator Show House on North Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach.
The Palm Beach and Boston team of Bierly Drake & Steele are no strangers to showhouses, having participated in first The Kips Bay Palm Beach Showhouse back in 2017. With an array of design awards, international accolades for their work, and hundreds of editorial features, this unstoppable team accepted the challenge to reimagine the dining room in this season’s house. “As longtime Palm Beach residents, we wanted to design a room that truly felt it belonged here and, to capture grace, elegance, sophistication that defines Palm Beach and its surroundings. Our favorite color is green, which we call “Mizner green,” a warm, glistening bright leafy green that we paired with black and white textures. Historic visionaries like Carlton Varney, Mario Buatta, and Dorothy Draper were hardly shy about using color and large-scale patterns and their wonderful sense of design especially cap-
tures our sense of style. We also often look back at Lilly Pulitzer who pioneered wonderful mixes of flamingo pinks and electric greens and was unapologetic about it. This creative perspective has become the norm in Palm Beach and I think our approach to design is the same. Classic design,” smiles the designer, “and good taste always prevail.”
Amanda Reynal Interiors enbraces a design philosophy that is “rooted in the desire to create spaces that feel both inviting and deeply connected to their surroundings. In Palm Beach, “we immerse in natural beauty where color, texture, and organic movement are a way of life. In order to accomplish this design, I drew inspiration for my sitting room from the clean lined furniture of Billy Baldwin and the commanding window treatments of Frances Elkins. For fabrics and color, I am thrilled about a new partnership and collection launch with Lee Jofa in celebration of Lilly Pulitzer. These joyful designs evoke the memory of Palm Beachers strolling barefoot in Lilly’s iconic colorful dresses, but with a fresh modern
sensibility. In curating these fabrics, I was drawn to the deep blues and lush greens and because we can’t redecorate as often as we change our clothes, it is essential to strike a balance between these bold colors and prints with understated tonal furnishings. In a way, our work is more than just design. It’s storytelling, preservation, and a tribute to a place that so many hold dear.”
Amanda Reynal and her designs. Opposite page: Interiors by Bierly Drake & Steele, and Chris Drake and Will Steele (bottom right).
QUEST Fresh Finds
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY & ELIZABETH MEIGHER
OUR SPRING STYLE Issue is here to spark inspiration for your next shopping spree. As March ushers in a new season, we’ve handpicked a vibrant collection of clothing and accessories, perfect for embracing the warmer days ahead.
Crafted from cotton twill, Oscar de la Renta’s belted Printed Cotton Twill Midi Dress is painted with the season’s hero flower that stands vibrant against its muted background. $2,590 at oscardelarenta.com.
22k Gold Spiral Drop Earrings. $17,780 at viacoquina.com, or call the Palm Beach boutique at 561.300.4012.
Wempe’s Multisize Ring/Bangle in 18k rose gold featuring 210 brilliant-cut diamonds, adjustable diameter. $39,950 at wempe.com.
Striking iron side table with round beveled glass top. Antique gold finish distinctively designed in the shape of gathered wheat. $2,250.00 at LindaHorn.com.
LALAoUNIS
Lightweight and versatile, Quaker Marine’s French Workman’s Jacket in Navy Herringbone can be worn to protect against a chilly sea breeze or over a button down as a casual alternative to a sports jacket on date night. $210 at quakermarine.com.
Barton & Gray Mariners Club offers an assortment of membership options. Members enjoy a lifetime of yachting with the ability to adjust their membership and take advantage of the ever-expanding harbors and new yachts being added to the club. Visit bartonandgray.com.
Stubbs & Wootton’s Palms Indigo Venetian slippers feature a rich cotton linen fabric with a tonal blue grosgrain adorned with the cream and white Gracie Palms embroidery. $650 at stubbsandwootton.com.
Canali’s unlined single-breasted Kei blazer, made from a blend of wool, silk, and linen in a timeless shade with a matt effect, has a distinctly casual appeal. $2,595 at us.canali.com.
Rolex’s new version of the Perpetual 1908 was launched last year. The watch is decked in 950 platinum and graced with an ice blue dial featuring a guilloché rice-grain motif. Price upon request at rolex.com.
Portage Foods offers only the best— from smoked salmon and sustainably sourced caviar, to artisanal cheese and impeccably selected charcuterie, working with local farmers, cheese mongers, fishermen, and butchers to deliver the freshest products available straight to your door. Visit portagefoods.com.
Bentley Palm Beach has 1 of the 20 worldwide, exclusive, Apex Edition Bentaygas by Mulliner. With unique 22” carbon wheels, carbon body kit, bespoke livery, and a unique interior, it’s the ultimate expression of Bentayga performance. Visit BramanBentleyPalmBeach.com.
Step into the true Caribbean lifestyle surrounded by sun, sea, and endless amounts of fun! Unbeatable prices and an amazing summer await you in the Dominican Republic! Book your summer getaway now to save 25%, and turn your dreams into reality. Valid for travel between June 1st through September 30th. For bookings, visit casadecampo.com.do.
Wyeth’s Billie hat in Tan Marle is a mid brim fedora constructed of 100% wool felt and genuine leather trim. $90 at thestore.madmuseum.com.
Just in time for Easter!
Hoppy Toile decoupage seashells handcrafted in Connecticut and painted with gold leaf finish on the back. $26 at bluedoorvibes.com.
Tiffany & Co. Jean Schlumberger Diamond & Golden Paillonne Enamel Bracelet (Vintage). $68,000 at shrevecrumpandlow.com.
Vhernier’s Black & White Diamond Abbraccio Earrings. $63,700 at greenleafcrosby.com.
Ralph Lauren Collection’s Denim Jacket ($2,290), Denim Pant ($1,690), Silk Shirt ($1,790), Espadrille ($890), Ralph Tote in Braided Raffia ($3,600), and Cashmere-Silk Pashmina Scarf ($995). Visit ralphlauren.com.
The Society of the Four Arts will host a lecture, “Rebuilding Notre-Dame: The Largest Preservation Project of the Century with Bénédicte de Montlaur, Philippe Villeneuve and Barry Bergdoll,” at Walter S. Gubelmann Auditorium on March 10th. $20; no charge to Four Arts members.Visit fourarts.org to reserve your space.
Asprey’s Beverly Hills collection pays tribute to the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel at the top of Rodeo Drive and Sunset Boulevard, long a haven for Hollywood’s elite. Its elegant design in a vibrant green hue features detailed banana leaf motifs inspired by the hotel’s iconic wallpaper and stripes drawn from its historic canopy, seen in vintage photographs. Visit asprey.com.
Fresh Finds
Charlotte Kellogg’s Italian Leather Shoulder Tote. $195 at charlottekellogg.com.
Wingate’s Jill Kimono Tailored Jacket in Raspberry Mikado Silk ($1,595) with Wide Leg Satin Navy Trouser ($1,195). Visit wingate-collection.com.
Designed in partnership with Cabana’s founder and editor-in-chief Martina Mondadori and renowned designer Ashley Hicks, The Colony’s new Cabana Bungalow introduces a bookable residence adjacent to the hotel that allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the brand’s rich and storied aesthetic, while presenting Cabana’s own unique interpretation of Palm Beach style. Visit thecolonypalmbeach.com.
Lavanya Coodly’s Rochelle Earrings represent female empowerment. $425 at lavanyacoodly.com.
J.Crew’s Meadow dress in cotton poplin. $168 at jcrew.com.
Part of the America’s Crown Jewels Collection, Claire Florence’s 18k American Flag Cigar Band featuring blue sapphires, rubies, and diamonds, is sold exclusively at Marissa’s in Palm Beach (561.710.4433) and London Jewelers in Manhasset (516.627.7475). Visit claireflorence.com.
stores.
Silver Oak’s 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon. $200 at select liquor
NATURAL BEAUTIES
BY ROBERT JANJIGIAN
FOR THE CURRENT Spring-Summer season, designer Ala von Auersperg is inspired by the gorgeous blooms in her garden. “Floral motifs are central to this collection,” she says. Original prints are meant to be mixed and matched. Prints featuring Grandiflora, Magnolias, Foxgloves, Hibiscus, and other varieties evoke the freshness of the warmer seasons, she believes.
The designer reimagines them in bold color pairings and abstracted proportions. She describes her silhouettes as elegant, yet warm and delicate rendered in signature luxury fabrics, such as georgette silks, cottons, and soft stretch knits, ideal for waterfront destinations. Von Auersperg calls them breathable, with inherent movement and flow—meant to give a woman a feeling of confidence and gracefulness. “These clothes are meant for special occasions—not galas, but dressy lunches or a dinner out at a chic restaurant—where the wearer wants to feel special.”
Her favorite print this season is the raspberry grandiflora—a blend of purplish red and pale blue, available on
From above: Louise Sheer Mesh Dress in Magnolia ($350); Ala von Auersperg. Opposite page: Caterina Long Stretch Knit Dress in Raspberry Grandiflora ($350).
Caterina Long Stretch Knit Dress in Magnolia ($350). Opposite page, from above: Karla Sheer Mini Dress ($325) and Caterina Mini Dress ($275) in Raspberry Grandiflora; Estelle Silk Kaftan in Raspberry Grandiflora ($995).
tiered skirts, shirt dresses, and kaftans.
Key pieces include the Geraldine Mesh Topper, which she suggests wearing over the Caterina Stretch Knit Dress, or something in white. It might also work well as a stylish coverup. She predicts that the Liza Tunic, worn with her new Carol Skirt and the classic Kathe Shirtdress, will be a hit with customers.
The latest collection is released in capsules, each built around a print. The clothes are available online at alavonauersperg. com and at retail boutiques in Palm Beach and Naples, Florida.
The palette of the season balances soft, calming tones as well as bold sun drenched hues.
Ice blue, raspberry pink, and coral have a vibrancy and energy, and are complemented by softer neutrals. ◆
RELIABLE COURSES
WHAT KEEPS THE discerning Palm Beach crowd coming back to restaurants season after season? Dining establishments are judged by the quality and tastiness of the dishes they prepare and serve, the level of service, and the atmosphere.
It’s easy to see why a Palm Beach restaurant like Renato’s has been a popular dining destination for almost 40 years.
Its setting alone makes it a special place. The historic Via Mizner, one of the town’s most charming and romantic spots, is a remarkable and memorable location.
And then there’s the menu, an elegant selection of Continental and authentic Italian choices, geared toward those who seek a tasty lunch or dinner or to celebrate a special occasion.
Service is superb, and is a core value of owners Arlene
Desiderio and her son José Luis Duran, who ensure that their servers and staff are welcoming and efficiently professional. And then there’s the food, a varied menu of classics overseen by executive chef Javier Sanchez, who’s been with Renato’s for almost 20 years.
“Renato’s quality cuisine comes from taking no shortcuts and never sacrificing the quality of the products and ingredients that we buy. Sauces, dressings, and stocks are made from scratch, as well as our pastries, gelatos, and, of course,
our pastas,” says Duran. “We strive for consistency,” says Sanchez.
On the extensive menu, there are some favorites that are considered Renato’s classics year-round, along with weekly specials offered by the chef.
The most popular dishes include Tagliolini alla Bolognese, Ravioili Caprese, Lobster and Crabmeat Risotto, Dover Sole, Ossobuco Milanese, the center cut Veal Chop, and Maine Lobster Salad. Choose a wine from the restaurant’s extensive list and top off the meal with chocolate Lava Cake or a traditional Tiramisu. All the ingredients that make for a memo rable and obviously remarkable meal at one of Palm Beach’s favorite and well-regarded dining spots. u
From above: The dining room; Fettuccine con Pollo e Spinaci; Tiramisu; Insalata Filetto di Manzo. Opposite page, clockwise from left: The restaurant is located in Via Mizner off of Worth Avenue; Arlene Desiderio and José Luis Duran; al fresco dining is available in the courtyard.
FEBRUARY
On March 5th, Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s inaugural ADDF Scientific Summit will take place at the Palm Beach County Convention Center at 6 p.m. For more information, visit alzdiscovery.org.
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MSK BUNNY HOP
The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering will host its 32nd Annual Bunny Hop at 583 Park Avenue at 5 p.m. The Bunny Hop welcomes children to a wonderland overflowing with fun activities and entertainment for the entire family, while raising critical funds for MSK Kids, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s pediatric cancer program. For more information, visit giving.mckcc.org.
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SCIENTIFIC SUMMIT
Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s inaugural ADDF Scientific Summit will take place at the Palm Beach County Convention Center at 6 p.m. This celebration of Alzheimer’s science will be hosted by Dr. Howard Fillit, ADDF Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer, and feature a keynote from Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN Chief Medical Correspondent, bestselling author, and practicing neurosurgeon. The summit will spotlight nine world renowned
scientists and recipients of the Melvin R. Goodes Prize discussing therapeutics, biomarkers,
prevention and what’s coming next in the field. Following the Summit, guests will enjoy dinner and have
On April 4th, Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County will host its annual Barefoot on the Beach event at The Beach Club. For more information, call 561.683.3287.
the opportunity to mingle with panelists and featured speakers. For more information, rsvp@alzdiscovery. org or 212.901.7983.
KRAVIS CENTER GALA
Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will hold its annual gala, “An Evening with Harry Connick, Jr.” at 5:30 p.m. in West Palm Beach. For more information, call 561.651.4320 or email gala@kravis.org.
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MAJOR DONOR DINNER
The Promsie Fund of Florida will host its Major Donor Dinner and Celebration at Club Colette at 6:30 p.m. The Promise Fund’s mission is to increase survivorship from breast and cervical cancer by providing guided support and access to screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond. The model gives every woman the opportunity to attain health care, regardless of who she is, where she lives, or her level of income. For more information, visit thepromisefund.org.
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AMFAR PALM BEACH
amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, will return to Palm Beach, thanks to the generosity of philanthropist and supporter Ken Griffin. Martha Stewart will be honored at this year’s gala with amfAR’s Award of Inspiration, and Andrea and Steve Wynn will be presented with the Philanthropic Leadership Award. Supermodel, fashion icon and longtime amfAR supporter Coco Rocha will host the evening. Event chairs include Ken Griffin, Lisa and James Cohen, T. Ryan Greenawalt and Joey Licitra, Dee and Tommy Hilfiger, Michele and Howard Kessler, Dr. Dana and Robert Kraft, Caroline and Omeed Malik, Kevin McClatchy and Jack Basilone, and Amy and John Phelan. For tickets and table information, visit amfar.org/events.
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MUSIC & ART
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will host its Evening of Music & Art in the Gardens in the El Cid neighborhood of West Palm Beach at 6 p.m. The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens offers multi-tier membership opportunities and benefits for individuals and families. Individual and Family Membership provides general support for the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. For more information, visit ansg.org.
APRIL
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HEARTS OF GOLD
The Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary 35th Annual Hearts of Gold Luncheon will take place at The Beach Club at 11 a.m.
The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary is a global organization of
volunteers who raise funds and provide services to support The Salvation Army’s mission. For more information, visit salvationarmyusa.org.
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BAREFOOT ON THE BEACH
Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County will hold its annual Barefoot
on the Beach event at The Beach Club. Greg Connors, chairman; Craig Gibson Jr., co-chairman. The organization’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. For more information, call 561.683.3287.
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WHITE HOT NIGHT
Hôpital Albert Schweitzer Haiti (HAS) will host its White Hot Casino Night at the Sailfish Club in Palm Beach at 6 p.m. The 200bed Hôpital Albert Schweitzer Haiti is the only 24/7 full-service hospital serving a population roughly the size of Anaheim, California — more than 350,000 people. HAS has an extensive community health department including four community health centers and 49 community health workers. This infrastructure enables HAS to bring quality primary health care closer to those people living in remote and often mountainous areas. For more information, visit hashaiti.com.
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PUPS4PATRIOTS
American Humane will hold its Pups4Patriots Dinner Dance at Club Colette in Palm Beach. For more information, call 561.537.5887.
On
March 19th, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will host its Evening of Music & Art in the Gardens. For more information, visit ansg.org.
On March 4th, the Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering will host its annual Bunny Hop at 583 Park Avenue at 5 p.m. For more information, visit giving.mskcc.org.
PRETTY AT THE POINCIANA
HENRY MORRISON FLAGLER came up with the idea to develop the original Royal Poinciana Hotel after visiting friends near Lake Worth Lagoon. Taken with the area’s natural beauty, he pronounced the spot a “veritable paradise” and opened the doors of his majestic hotel in 1894 as a winter retreat for the Gilded Age’s elite.
Today, the Royal Poinciana Plaza stands as an iconic Palm Beach shopping experience. Designed by world-renowned architect John Volk in 1957 and conveniently situated just off of Flagler Memorial Bridge, “The Royal” (as it is affectionately known) offers something for everyone. The best in shopping and dining abound throughout its signature black and white-tiled hallways, centered around a picturesque courtyard complete with pale blue Regency architecture, lush greenery and tranquil fountains.
Samantha arrives at The Royal in a Bentley Continental ($359,000) from Braman Motorcars in West Palm Beach. She wears a gingham dress by Angelilli (her own design, available at angelilli-official.com), Carolina Herrera flower earrings ($290), Verdura’s 18k yellow gold and diamond Constellation Bracelet ($42,000) and a Vhernier 18k Rose Gold Kogolong Pirouette Ring ($6,900). She carries Chanel’s Black and White Clutch ($2,250) and wears Carolina Herrera slingback pumps.
PRODUCED & STYLED BY ELIZABETH MEIGHER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICK MELE
HAIR & MAKEUP BY NINA ALCANTARA
We had the pleasure of spending the day at The Royal with lovely Samantha Angelo—the founder and creative director behind her thriving and universally followed fashion, lifestyle and travel blog, The Eye Travels (Instagram @theeyetravels). She looks like a supermodel so it’s no surprise she’s in fashion, but Samantha also has an eye for style—which makes a fashion shoot easier (and more fun). Samantha brought a gingham dress to our set that looked like a Givenchy à la Audrey Hepburn moment—and it turns out she designed this dress herself! Prior to her current role, Samantha trained as a classical clarinetist, which she began at the tender age of
12. Afer receiving a performance degree from the prestigious Eastman School of Music, she earned a clarinet position with The “President’s Own” United States Marine Band and subsequently spent eight years as a Staff Sergeant in the Marine Corps playing music for the President around the world. Try that one on for style this season!
With the current redo of The Palm Beach Playhouse slated to open at The Royal Poinciana later this year, coupled with Palm Beach’s first waterfront restaurant from Gaby Karan de Felice’s Tutto il Giorno restaurant group rising alongside it, the lights are looking a lot brighter at The Royal these days!
Tap dancing at The Royal. Samantha wears Zimmermann’s Crush polka-dot ruffle minidress ($1,850) and Tux Pump 85 in Black ($795), her own rings and a Janessa Leoné Simone hat ($287). She pairs the look with Vhernier Black & White Diamond Abbraccio Earrings ($63,700) and a custom Vhernier black and white pavé diamond bracelet (price upon request, both pieces available at greenleafcrosby.com).
What’s your flavor? Samantha serves up something sweet from Sant Ambroeus’ signature Gelato Truck dressed in a belted gown from Carolina Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 Collection ($6,990) paired with Verdura White Topaz Byzantine Pendant Earrings of white topaz and 18k yellow gold ($15,500) available at Greenleaf & Crosby at 236 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida, or visit greenleafcrosby.com.
Dancing in the courtyard of The Royal! Samantha wears a belted brocade gown from Carolina Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 Collection ($6,990) with Verdura White Topaz Byzantine Pendant Earrings of white topaz and 18k yellow gold ($15,500). On her left wrist she wears Hamilton Jewelers’ Platinum 18k Rose Gold and Diamond Wide Bracelet, of 18k textured rose gold and 17.27 carats worth of diamonds set in platinum ($99,500). On her right wrist she wears Hamilton Jewelers’ White Gold Diamond Flex Bracelet, of 72 emerald-cut diamonds set in 18k white gold ($52,950), and Hamilton Jewelers’ White Gold and Diamond Stretch Bracelet, with over 10 carats of diamonds set in 18k white gold ($32,400), visit hamiltonjewelers.com.
Samantha takes George the White Poodle for a walk among The Royal’s dog-friendly grounds. Sweet George was impressively well-behaved during our shoot—you can follow him on his own Instagram account at @georgethewhitepoodle.
Samantha sports Veronica Beard’s: Kean Pant in Lemongrass ($448), Coralee Puff-Sleeve Top in Pink Clay ($198) and Small Crest Lock Trap Bag in Off-White ($398). She pairs the look with Manolo Blahnik 100mm white canvas sandals ($533), Alexis Bittar Lucite Front-Back Double Drop Earrings in Neon Orange ($275) and Saint Laurent Ivory Monogram Cat Eye Sunglasses ($505).
Climbing The Royal Poinciana’s magical Mysore Fig Tree! The fairytale-like tree (from Mysore, India) dates back to Henry M. Flagler’s original resort. It might have been destroyed in the mid ’70s had it not been for a group of steadfast Palm Beachers, headed by white-gloved members of the local Garden Club (including former mayor Lesly S. Smith), who fought to keep the beloved tree forever preserved.
A vision in yellow. Samantha wears Carolina Herrera’s Strapless Midi Dress, featuring a pleated skirt and side-slip pockets ($4,290), Hamil ton Jewelers’ 18K Rose Gold Multi Gemstone “X” Link Necklace (price upon request, visit hamiltonjewlers.com), Alix Dumas couture earrings of titanium, gold and gemstones (visit Greenleaf & Crosby on Worth Avenue or call 561.655.5850 for more information). On her right hand she wears Hamilton Jewelers’ 18k Gold Tourmaline and Zircon Ring of 18k yellow gold, an oval zircon, pink tourmalines and diamonds ($14,400), paired with her own rings. She carries Christian Dior’s Lady D-Joy Micro Bag of white lambskin ($3,400) and wears a Sarah Bray Bermuda Clematis Bucket Hat ($150, inset photo).
Badminton anyone? Samantha reveals her sporty side dressed in head-to-toe Polo in Polo Ralph Lauren’s Cotton Chambray Vest ($274), Cotton-Chambray Wide-Leg Pants ($348) and suede snap-front shirtdress. She pairs the look with Polo Ralph Lauren’s Mini Suede Polo ID Cross-Body Bag ($675) and High-Top Pony Ballerina Sneakers in Deckwash White ($268), topped with her own vintage tortoise Miu Miu sunglasss. Around her neck she wears Verdura’s 18K Yellow Gold “Y” necklace of ebony wood beads and a South Sea Pearl, coupled with a pair of Mark Davis 18k Yellow Gold GemSet Bakelite Bangles (starting at $3,800), available at greenleafcrosby.com.
Exploring Marissa’s dreamy new Penthouse! Samantha opts for Safiyaa’s pale blue Lacin Crystal Embellished Mini Shift Dress, which she pairs with Manolo Blahnik Carolyne Pumps in silver ($895). On her right hand she wears David Webb’s Crystal Pineapple Ring, of 18k white gold with diamonds set in platinum ($36,500).
A trip to The Royal would not be complete without visiting Assouline’s Library. Samantha holds up Fashion: The Impossible Collection by Valerie Steele while wearing Carolina Herrera’s pink Strapless Silk Faille High-Low Gown ($9,990), Roger Vivier Embellished Satin Pumps ($1,745) and Angelilli opera gloves.
Samantha lounges in Assouline’s library wearing Carolina Herrera’s Strapless Silk Faille High-Low Gown in shades of cascading pink tulle ($9,990), Roger Vivier Embellished Satin Pumps ($1,745) and Angelilli opera gloves (visit angelilli-official.com).
A MATTER OF STYLE
BY HILARY GEARY ROSS
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE Potter Stewart once said, “I know it when I see it” in the 1964 case Jacobellis v. Ohio. Stew art was explaining his definition of something else for sure but I think it certainly applies to style. When you spot something stylish you can’t help but think, “Ooh that looks so great.” So what makes the magic happen? How do some people appear perfectly dressed, somehow both effortless yet intentional? It is a lot more than color coordination—when someone has style, they seem to understand the balance between originality yet appropriate attire or decor. Legendary interior designers Mario Buatta and Albert Hadley certainly knew that. Mario understood color and comfort better than anyone who ever walked renowned because of that. Hadley’s interiors were never dull— always crisp and chic, plus remarkably contemporary. There is no test harsher than the test of time and both those designers’ interiors look as fabulous today as they did 30 years ago. When I think about style, the London dining club Harry’s Bar pops immediately into my head, as does Robin Birley’s 5 Hertford
Clockwise from top left: Ralph and Ricky Lauren, 1977; Madamoiselle Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel stands on her mirrored staircase in her salon at the Ritz Paris, 1956; Audrey Hepburn and Oscar de la Renta, 1989.
Clockwise from bottom left: Minot and Julia Amory at the Coconuts in Palm Beach, 2024; the Coconuts New Year’s Eve party, 2024; Stephen and Christine Schwarzman at the 2024 Palm Beach Zoo Ball; Matt Holt and Callie Baker Holt at Palm Beach Preservation Foundation’s gala, 2023.
Counterclockwise from top right: The original Annabel’s at 44 Berkeley Square in Mayfair, London; 5 Hertford Street in London; George Hamilton smiles while wearing a bespoke Paolo Martorano jacket; Dixon Boardman and Pepe Fanjul; Charlie Dana at Lyford Cay, 1983.
Street, and I cannot wait for the opening of Robin’s new club, Maxime’s, in New York. Of course, there is the GOAT of all designers: Ralph Lauren, and he covers it all … clothing, interiors, and restaurants like nobody else—even his coffee ice cream is to die for. Now, fashionable apparel is more complicated as it really needs to be functional and nine times out of 10 appropriate if you want to be considered well dressed and most people do. Coco Chanel famously said, “Fashion fades, style remains.” And she was spot on. Fashion is about the moment, while the ephemeral term “style” is about enduring timelessness. A dazzling colorful Pucci print is just right for a Palm Beach soirée
but simply so wrong in Washington, D.C. It is about making things look like they were meant for you and the event you are attending so you have to look terrific, not cheesy or trendy— and never dull. That is no easy feat so we worship and adore the fashion designers as they elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary or to be blunt: they make us look good.
New York City is more formal than Washington perhaps just because it is a larger venue with residents working in multiple industries. D.C. is less of a company town these days and a whole lot jazzier than it used to be thanks to the glamour girls who now reside there. Palm Beach has morphed into the
Clockwise from bottom left: Harry’s Bar in Mayfair, London; Mark Birley at home in London, 1974; Robin Birley.
most glamorous destination on earth with an exciting inter national group on par with Monte Carlo or any world class resort. This glorious oasis is one where the men sometimes attract the spotlight more than the ladies. Think of how im possibly chic Percy Steinhart looks with his velvet bold ini tialed slippers and perfectly tied cravat, or George Hamilton in his exquisitely tailored bespoke dinner jacket—or how stylish Pepe Fanjul is when he steps out of his bottle green vintage Rolls in a tweed jacket, and how cool Sly Stallone is with a jeweled American flag in his lapel. Speaking of debo nair, who can forget the Slim Aarons photo of Charlie Dana in a lavender jacket at Lyford Cay? Now that being said, the ladies never ever disappoint. And in fact they do outshine the boys. Think of how fabulous suntanned Julia Amory looked in an off-the-shoulder baby blue top with a wine-colored skirt at the Coconuts, or how Callie Baker Holt glowed in a pastel pink one-shoulder evening gown at the Preservation dance, or how Christine Schwarzman sparkled in flowing, jungle-print chiffon at the Palm Beach Zoo party. As Oscar de la Renta once said, “Being well dressed hasn’t much to do with good clothes. It’s a question of good balance and good common sense.” ◆
Clockwise from bottom left: Albert Hadley; a Ross guest room designed by Mario Buatta; Mario Buatta; Percy Steinhart wearing Stubbs & Wootton, photographed by Harry Benson.
Clockwise from top left: The Meadow Club of Southampton; Southampton, New York street sign; Georgetown, Washington, D.C.; Hilary Geary Ross; the Everglades Club in Palm Beach; Palm Beach’s iconic Clock Tower on Worth Avenue; the White House.
RALPH LAUREN: THE FIRST FASHION DESIGNER TO RECEIVE THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM
BY ELIZABETH MEIGHER
RALPH LAUREN has enjoyed many “firsts” in his lifetime. A true visionary, he was one of the first fashion designers to bolster the concept of a lifestyle brand, inspiring his audience to share in “the Ralph Lauren way of life” by granting his followers the opportunity to enjoy everything from his shirts, shoes, blazers and bags—to his linens, place settings, fragrances and even his charitable endeavors.
This past January 4, 2025, Mr. Lauren was honored with a particularly exceptional first when he became the first fashion designer ever to receive one of the nation’s highest honors, the
Presidential Medal of Freedom. The award honors individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant initiatives. In previous years the medal has been presented to a host of cultural, corporate and political figures, including Babe Ruth, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, Julia Child and Maya Angelou. Ralph Lauren was chosen for his “extraordinary contributions as a visionary designer, trailblazing entrepreneur, innovative business leader, and dedicated philanthropist.” Upon receiving the award, Mr. Lauren said, “America AP
is my country—my home and its history, traditions and values have always been an inspiration… As a proud American citizen, I accept it with gratitude and great humility.”
Wheels were set in motion for Mr. Lauren while he was working at one of his first jobs, for the tie manufacturer, Beau Brummell. At the time, young twenty-eight-year-old go-getter Ralph convinced his higher-ups to allow him to launch his own line of ties, which he named, “Polo”. The line was hugely successful in its first year, with Mr. Lauren selling $500,000 worth of ties to the likes of Paul Stuart, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s. He reportedly completed this task out of a lone drawer in a showroom of the Empire State Building, single-handedly making deliveries to each store (Lauren later obtained the rights to the name “Polo”.). Recognized as a rising
star, Lauren was subsequently chosen to outfit the male cast of 1974’s celebrated film, The Great Gatsby, on the heels of which followed 1977’s Annie Hall, featuring Diane Keaton dressed in looks bearing the sophisticated and relatively newfound theme of men’s suiting styles for women (a motif that would permeate Lauren’s women’s clothing lines for years to come).
When Ralph Lauren fragrances launched at Bloomingdales in March of 1978 with “Lauren”—a fragrance for women, on March 12; and “Polo”—a cologne for men, on March 2, it was the first time that a designer had introduced two fragrances (one for women and one for men), simultaneously. With that, the company went international, entering the European market by opening the first freestanding store of an American designer on New Bond Street in London’s posh West End in 1981.
Clockwise from top left: Ralph Lauren and his wife, Ricky Lauren, drive in a Jeep on the beach with their children, David, Andrew and Dylan, in East Hampton, 1977; Ralph and Ricky—dressed in eveningwear from Ralph Lauren’s Fall 1977 collection—at Le Club in New York City; a page from Ralph Lauren: In His Own Fashion by Alan Flusser, a book about a young boy from the Bronx who created one of the most recognized brands in American fashion. Opposite page: Ralph Lauren makes history as the first fashion designer to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom on January 4, 2025.
Clockwise from top left: Ralph Lauren becomes the official outfitter of Wimbledon in 2006, as well as the first designer in the tournament’s 129-year history chosen to create uniforms for all on-court officials; The Dandywood family looking ski-ready on Aspen’s slopes in a Ralph Lauren ad from September 1983; models Heather Diamond Strongarm and Fiammetta Cicogna walk Ralph Lauren’s Spring 2025 runway at Khalily Stables in Water Mill, New York, 2024.
Clockwise from left: Stephanie Seymour walks Ralph Lauren’s Fall/ Winter 1993 runway; a sporty, retro-inspired ensemble from Spring/ Summer 2014; a look from Ralph Lauren’s PreFall 2025 Collection.
Ralph Lauren’s opening of the Rhinelander Mansion at 867 Madison Avenue on the corner of East 72nd Street in New York City as its flagship store in 1986 was another exciting coup for the brand. “I have always wanted my own store to be in a home because it affords… the opportunity of expressing a total way of life in the most gracious manner possible” the designer pronounced at the time. Polo Sport was introduced in 1992, followed by over ten additional lines and acquired brands, including Ralph Lauren Purple Label in 1995 and Lauren Ralph Lauren in 1996. The following year, on June 12 of 1997, Ralph Lauren became a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange.
Restaurants in major cities ensued, including RL in Chicago, Ralph’s in Paris, and our favorite Polo Bar on NYC’s East 55th Street. The menu’s colossal Shrimp Cocktail is large enough to be a scene from Beetlejuice! And it’s that good— not to mention the mouthwatering Polo Bar Burger with cheddar and crispy bacon, served in the cozy atmosphere of the ultimate Ralph Lauren equestrian-inspired den. And lest we forget Ralph’s sought-after Coffee—the one on Madison has become a morning watering hole for well-dressed Upper East Siders in search of their morning lattés or espressos. Never mind the line, there’s always something (or someone) fun to see throughout the seasons. Everything inside the repeatedly spruced up shop is crisp and fresh, and brimming with flavor, just like the brand itself.
Over the years Ralph Lauren has dressed everyone from rockstars to royalty—politicians, princesses, queens, kings, national celebrities—some of the world’s most powerful people and even the US Olympic team. His contributions to American style, culture and society for more than six decades have earned him the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal, France’s Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur and an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
David Lauren—Chief Branding and Innovation Officer of Ralph Lauren—was present for the ceremony in the East
Room of the White House when the President bestowed his father with The Presidential Medal of Freedom and shared, “When I think of my father I am always moved most by his humility and kindness. No matter the size of the honor or the accolades he has received, he has always been a dedicated father and husband, and he has always understood how to create a world around him filled with love and warmth!” Hear, Hear, Mr. Lauren—congratulations on a well-deserved award. Here’s to another trip around the sun. May its light continue to shine as brightly as yours. ◆
Clockwise from top left: Ralph Lauren throws the first pitch at Yankee Stadium before the New York Yankees play the Boston Red Sox on September 20, 2018; Wimbledon Ball Boys and Ball Girls wearing Polo Ralph Lauren shirts in 2016; a clothing room at Ralph Lauren’s 867 Madison Avenue store from November 2020. Opposite page, clockwise from above: The Lauren Family wishes the world a Happy Thanksgiving in 2019; The Prince of Wales w the designer in 2019; Ralph Lauren greets guests on his Spring 2016 runway.
CATALOG COMEBACK: THE REVIVAL OF J.CREW
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY
BEFORE THE INTERNET flattened fashion into an end less scroll, catalogs were a gateway to a world of style and possibility. In the 1980s, fashion was bold, excessive, and unapologetic—power shoulders, cinched waists, and glitzy embellishments ruled the era. But catalogs weren’t just shopping guides; they were aspirational dreamscapes, bringing the drama of high fashion into suburban living rooms. Supermodels smoldered on oversized pages, their looks setting trends long be fore social media made everything instant. Then, in 1983, a different kind of catalog arrived. Its cover was understated yet striking: a woman with a yellow sweatshirt tied around her waist, a man beside her holding one in his hand. They looked like they’d just stepped off a boat, not a runway. It was instantly clear—these clothes weren’t just about looking good; they were about living well.
That catalog introduced the world to J.Crew, a brand built on timeless, effortlessly cool style. Founded by Arthur Cinad er, who previously ran Popular Merchandising Plan, J.Crew took a different approach: classic, coastal-inspired fashion over passing trends. The catalog quickly became its identity, featuring models in natural, unpolished settings—exuding a refined-yet-relaxed aesthetic that defined late ’80s and early ’90s casual fashion. J.Crew soon expanded beyond mail-order, opening its first flagship store at South Street Seaport in 1989, with more to follow.
From above: Fall preview, 1991; August 2007; Fall/Winter 1991. Opposite page: Summer 1989.
By 1990, J.Crew was a cultural phenomenon. As The New York Times put it, “Few names have so quickly seared their mystique into the minds of the buying public as the J.Crew cat alog.” For many, J.Crew was the catalog. “Back then, social me dia was nothing like it is today, and people really looked at the catalog as an aspirational vision of the life they wanted,” recalls Jeff Pfeifle, J.Crew’s president in the early 2000s. “The catalog was as much about selling the brand as it was about selling the clothes. We put so much time into the outfits, the models, the locations. People really looked forward to it.”
But J.Crew’s magic wasn’t just in its pages—it was in the emotional connection. The styling was effortlessly real: halftucked shirts, rolled-up sleeves, a sweater draped just so. It felt attainable, like the wardrobe of someone living their best life— whether in Nantucket or a crisp New England autumn. And that essence still holds today. Many of J.Crew’s most beloved staples—the Barn Jacket, the Rollneck Sweater—remain just as relevant four decades later.
Now, after a seven-year hiatus, the J.Crew catalog is back. With Olympia Gayot leading J.Crew Women’s and Crewcuts and Brendon Babenzien at the helm of J.Crew Men’s, the September relaunch blends nostalgia with a forward-thinking vision. “I think the revival of the catalog is a good thing,” says Pfeifle. “Visually, it looks great, and it connects with customers in a way social media doesn’t always. If it works alongside social, it can be a powerful tool.”
And hopefully it will. This time, the catalog comes with a shoppable digital experience, seamlessly linking print to pur-
chase via the J.Crew app, alongside IRL activations and social extensions like an Instagram filter.
J.Crew has always embraced a “why not?” attitude—pairing fisherman’s sweaters with sequins, shooting catalogs in the Scottish countryside. As it moves forward, J.Crew remains committed to storytelling and inspiring the next generation through bold visuals and editorial-driven campaigns.
The catalog is back. And so is J.Crew. u
From above: Spring 2025; Holiday 2007. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: November 2004; Fall 2002; Spring/Summer 1993.
HAUTE DOGS
A portable shrine with Anubis figure, the ancient Egyptian god of the dead that was found guarding King Tut’s tomb; Assouline’s Chic Dogs (inset). Opposite page, clockwise from bottom left: A butler serves a meal to a table of dogs in a Knightsbridge, London, restaurant to mark the launch of a new dog food, 1984; Baroness Fiona Thyssen-Bornemisza for the Weekend Telegraph , photographed by Cecil Beaton, September 2, 1966; Sage, a miniature poodle during the competition at the 148th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York on May 14, 2024, as she takes home Best in Show.
FOR CENTURIES, dogs have been more than just pets— they’ve been symbols of sophistication, elegance, and unwavering companionship to the world’s most stylish figures. From Coco Chanel’s chic lapdogs to Winston Churchill’s loyal bulldog, history’s most iconic personalities have embraced their four-legged friends as extensions of their own refined personas. Chic Dogs , a new book published by Assouline and written by Robert Williams,
takes readers on a journey through time, showcasing how these canine companions have not only shared the spotlight but cemented their place in fashion, culture, and celebrity lore. Whether it’s Maria Callas strolling with her poodle or the Queen’s regal corgis, the volume captures the timeless bond between style icons and their beloved dogs. u
From above: Brigitte Bardot, French icon, former actress, singer, and model, as well as an animal-rights activist, driving her Mini Moke with her beloved dogs in St. Tropez, France; a mosaic emblem from Alexandria, Egypt, from the second century BCE, with the depiction of a dog seated next to a gilded vessel. It is the first time such a motif is found on a floor mosaic in Alexandria. Opposite page: Fashion designer Azzedine Alaïa and his two Yorkshire terriers, Patapouf and Wabo, walking in Paris with model Frederique van der Wal, who wears his black leather zippered dress, 1986.
Audrey Hepburn with her Yorkshire terrier, Mr. Famous, while filming My Fair Lady at the Warner Bros. studio lot in Burbank, California, 1964; Princess Elizabeth with her two corgis at her home at 145 Piccadilly, London, July 1936 (inset).
Clockwise from top left: Frank Sinatra and a dog, sitting on stairs with sexy legs surrounding him in a scene from the film Pal Joey , 1957; Yves Saint Laurent designed a series of greeting cards in poster form that he would send to his friends, collaborators, and clients annually until 2007. This one is “Love,” which was designed in 1991 with Andy Warhol’s art; Frida Kahlo embracing her beloved dog Mr. Xolotl, a hairless Mexican breed with an ancestry that is traceable back three thousand years.
THE YOUNG & THE GUEST LIST YGL
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY
Live auction during the Old Bags Luncheon.
OLD BAGS LUNCHEON IN PALM BEACH
ON FEBRUARY 19TH, the Center for Family Services hosted its annual Old Bags Luncheon at The Breakers, bringing together philanthropy and fashion for a meaningful cause. This celebrated fundraiser supports families in need by providing critical resources and professional care to help them overcome adversity. Guests enjoyed a three-course luncheon and a silent auction of designer handbags, all in support of the center’s mission. The highlight of the event was a moving speech by Alana Stewart , who shared her personal journey of resilience.
Clockwise from top left: Bettina Anderson; Kathy and Tessa Hilton; Mia Rowe; Joan Yanow and Alana Stewart.
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LAST MONTH, the Cinema Society hosted an exclusive screening of Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World at IPIC Theater in Downtown Manhattan. The evening continued with an afterparty at The Fulton by Jean-Georges, where guests—including Anthony Mackie , Danny Ramirez , Shira Haas , and director Julius Onah —celebrated the film’s release.
Julius Onah, Anthony Mackie, and Daniel Ramirez
Vanessa Moody, Vlada Roslyakova, and Robin Marsicano
Andrew Saffir, Mariah Strongin, and Daniel Benedict
Julius Onah, Anthony Mackie, and Daniel Ramirez
THE WINTER SHOW’S DESIGN LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK
ON JANUARY 24TH, The Winter Show’s annual Design Luncheon kicked off the highly anticipated fair, benefiting East Side House. Sponsored by Cara Cara and hosted by Julia Workman Brown, Jeffrey Caldwell, Lucinda May, and Starrett Ringbom, the event welcomed guests with a Champagne reception and private tours of the show. The gathering culminated in a seated luncheon and engaging panel discussion held in the Armory’s historic Board of Officers Room. ◆
Julia Brown, Sasha Martin, and Katie Hobbs
Starrett Ringbom, Meghan Klopp, and Lucinda May
Madeline O’Malley
Isolde Brielmaier and Lilah Ramzi
THE LOUVRE ENTERS THE FASHION ARENA
BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY
FOR CENTURIES, the Louvre has reigned as the ultimate temple of art and history, home to masterpieces like Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Now, for the first time since its founding in 1793, the museum is embracing an entirely new artistic realm—fashion.
Running through July 21st, Louvre Couture, Art and Fashion: Statement Pieces marks the museum’s first-ever fashion exhibition, cementing couture’s rightful place in the cultural canon. While the Louvre has long inspired designers—think Yves Saint Laurent’s gold-plated Venus de Milo jacket or Louis Vuitton’s 2017 campaign beneath the glass pyramid—it has never placed fashion at the heart of an exhibition. Until now.
Spanning nearly 9,000 square meters, this unprecedented showcase blends historic masterworks with visionary couture from 1960 to 2025, illustrating fashion’s deep ties to artistic movements across centuries. The exhibition pairs pieces from the Department of Decorative Arts with couture from
45 of fashion’s most iconic houses and designers, including Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Givenchy, Jacquemus, and Fendi. Over 100 couture looks and accessories trace fashion’s evolution, proving its enduring connection to history.
Designed by Nathalie Crinière, the exhibition unfolds across major historical periods, seamlessly weaving fashion into the museum’s grand narrative.
For those who revere both fashion and fine art, this is a oncein-a-lifetime moment—where couture finally takes its rightful place in the halls of the world’s greatest museum, proving that fashion, like art, is eternal. ◆
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above: View of the Louvre Museum’s courtyard and entrance Pyramid, with Richelieu Wing in background; Christian Dior; exhibition view featuring designs by Paco Rabanne, Balenciaga, Loewe, and Gareth Pugh; Christian Dior, Dries Van Noten, Marine Serre, and Christian Dior.
