1. Fashion Week
This industry mega-event has Manhattan buzzing twice each year, with models at Bryant Park showing off the latest from the city’s top designers (and a few celebrities). Meanwhile, pre- and post-parties light up the town. Fashion Week returned on February 13, and in the fall will run from September 10 to 17, when it will start on Thursday instead of Friday.
2. Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Awards
Held at the New York Public Library, the June 2008 C.F.D.A. awards honored designers including Tom Ford and Francisco Costa, and attracted big names such as Victoria Beckham and Eva Longoria Parker.
3. FiFi Awards
The so-called “Oscars of the fragrance world” brought 1,000 guests to the Seventh Regiment Armory in 2008 and honored a diverse crew that included Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, and Derek Jeter. The Fragrance Foundation moves the awards to Pier 94 for this year’s event on May 28.
4. Fashion Group International’s Night of Stars Benefit
The 25th edition of these black-tie awards, held October 23 at Cipriani Wall Street, honored designer Donatella Versace, makeup artist Bobbi Brown, and architect Philippe Starck, and brought out A-list celebrities such as Prince, Jennifer Lopez, and Ashley Olsen.
5. International Beauty Show
More than 50,000 beauty professionals are expected at the Javits Center from April 26 to 28 for the 92nd edition of this event showcasing the industry’s latest.
6. American Cancer Society Dream Ball
The A.C.S. raised $2.4 million for the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association’s “Look Good … Feel Better” campaign at this black-tie event, held at the Waldorf-Astoria in September.
7. Accessories Council ACE Awards
Stella McCartney was honored with the green designer of the year award, and Jimmy Choo won brand of the year at this black-tie gala held at Cipriani 42nd Street in November 2008. Stars such as Chloë Sevigny, Helena Christensen, and Pharrell Williams turned out for the awards, which honor achievements in the accessories industry.
