(NEW YORK) To usher in their first year as members of the CFDA, a group of newbies flocked to Lisa Perry’s exquisitely decorated penthouse last night with a celebratory intent. The incoming class roster rings in at 32 members, a generous portion of whom were on hand to ogle artwork lining the walls, including pieces from Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Jeff Koons. Dao-Yi Chow, one half of the design duo behind Public School, joked: “I already have two Warhol’s in my back pocket. And a few of the Damien Hirst pills, too!”
The fresh faces were symbolically given with a white daisy upon their entrance, proclaiming their newcomer status in the CFDA and making them prime (and deserving!) targets for congratulatory remarks. The likes of Maxwell Osborne, Patrik Ervell, Jodie Snyder, Danielle Snyder, Daniel Silberman, Lisa Salzer, Natalie Levy, and Jennifer Fisher shared toasts with fellow members. Christian Siriano dished: “This is one of my first events meeting everybody. I’ve never even met Babi [Ahluwalia] and Sachin [Ahluwalia] of Sachin + Babi.” Some familiar faces were on hand too, like the CFDA’s Steven Kolb and the company’s president, Diane von Furstenberg. Also on hand for the members-only event? A sprinkling of existing members, such as Yigal Azrouel, Zac Posen, Catherine Malandrino, and Adriano Goldschmied.
The evening’s host, who was inducted into the CFDA last year, has clearly perfected the art of entertaining. Each room of Perry’s penthouse apartment was a treat for the eyes: gleaming white surfaces were dotted with color and a mound of candy or a bowl of snacks were always within arm’s reach. As a parting word of advice to the newbies, Simon Doonan offered: “Just have fun with it. Fashion is a visual, fun thing. So don’t get it twisted!” When a wise man (especially with that Barneys cache) speaks, you should certainly listen.
DENA SILVER
