By Benjamin-Emile Le Hay 11/14/12 12:51pm

Shindigger

DvF and Mitch: lovers once, buddies forever!

Ali Wentworth Delayed by Post-Election Romp While DvF Gets Hot and Bothered at Phoenix House

As we sloshed, caked with snow flurries, into the Mandarin Oriental for the 2012 Phoenix House Fashion award dinner last Wednesday evening, we couldn’t determine whether it was the way-too-early winter outside, the Sandy-forced relocation or the early start after an endless election season, but at first glance, things looked a bit quiet. (In retrospect, we appreciated the venue upgrade, considering it was originally slated to take place at Pier 60.)

“Well there’s Linda Fargo, at least …” we uttered to a weary-eyed publicist as she sashayed passed us in a crisp black sheath dress, before we sauntered downstairs to cocktail hour.

Below, on the 35th floor, the considerably more lively and notable fashion crowd imbibed, heedless of the blizzard-like winds that howled without mercy on the commoners struggling to get around Columbus Circle.

With the exception of Glenda Bailey, this didn’t feel like a typical fashion event; nay, it was considerably more corporate—a bit cliquey, but not necessarily in a bad way. Dashing executives (well mostly dashing) in flamboyant tailored suits sipped scotch and red wine, while a more demure population of women squawked about recent highs and lows. Read More

By Chloë Ashby 9/13/12 3:20pm

Fashion Week Spring 2013

The after party for the special screening of "Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf's" in celebration of their 111th Anniversary.

A Storied Turn for Bergdorf’s Window

“I hope I have a job tomorrow.” That was personal shopper Betty Halbreich’s reaction to the Sept. 12 preview of Matthew Miele’s fashion documentary Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s. Ms. Halbreich explained, “I spurt things without thinking!” But to others, her brutal honesty and WASPish sense of humor made her one of the film’s firm favorites. Gossip Girl costume designer Eric Damon spoke for all when he said, “It’s all about Betty.”

Ms. Halbreich, The Observer thinks you’ll be just fine.

As Fashion Week comes to a close, the celebration of Bergdorf Goodman’s 111th anniversary stepped into the spotlight. Swapping Lincoln Center’s front rows for the old-style stadium seating of The Paris Theater, a confluence of fatigued fashionistas enjoyed a show that for the first time in seven days allowed them to remain in their seats for more than 10 minutes. Read More

2/10/12 6:50pm

Fashion Week Observed

6 Photos

We couldn't catch Bergdorf Goodman's Linda Fargo... but we saw her oggle a few pieces.

Peter Som Causes Orgasmic “WOW” Moments at MiLK Studios

If designers are artists then they must be inspired, nay? For Peter Som inspiration came by way of Katharine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich: “Smoldering femininity and masculine garb.” Som worked tuxedo themes and sheer elements to give shirts and coats a strong architectural look. A variety of fall colors danced on silk tops and dress, and a set of patchwork furs were bursting with color. Read More