Sparkle and shine were back at the Council of Fashion Designers of America's awards show when it returned to the New York Public Library after last year's scaled-back ceremony. This year, KCD led the planning and production, and designer Robert Isabell created an enticing, colorful setting to toast top designers.
For the cocktail hour in Astor Hall, Isabell draped grand-looking persimmon-colored silk curtains from the hall's three tall archways to the floor. He trimmed the curtains with crystal vines and leaves made from thousands of individual crystals from event sponsor Swarovski. A jazz trumpet called the start of dinner in the Great Gallery, and guests settled into a communal dining area (with one long row of tables) where Hank Tomashevski Catering served herb-crusted filet of beef with heirloom tomato and mint compote. Isabell covered the tables with dove grey-colored cotton cloths and added color with orange silk seat cushions. Large antique sterling silver candelabras and mixed greenery served as centerpieces.
To enliven the awards ceremony, Isabell created a supper club-style seating area in the Celeste Bartos Forum. Rows of banquettes topped with hot pink silk cushions faced the stage, where Sarah Jessica Parker played host. Dividers separated each row and were lit in changing colors that matched the stage lighting. Each area had individual champagne and dessert service, with caterwaiters offering chocolate truffles, fruit tartlets and cookies on trays lined with more Swarovski crystals.
—Jill Musguire
Photos by Mary Hilliard
Read about last year's event...
