What to Wear to the Couture Council of FIT Artistry of Fashion Awards
SEPTEMBER 22, 2021
GUEST DIARY• BY: KAREN KLOPP AND HILARY DICK
Today, the Museum at FIT is holding its annual Couture Council Award Luncheon for Artistry of Fashion at Cipriani South Street. Considering our recent reentry into city life, the exuberance around this fabulous fashion event, which in year’s past has kicked off New York Fashion Week, has surged. And because it’s being held a couple weeks later than usual, the buzz is all the more boisterous.
It’s no wonder that Wes Gordon, with the energy and creativity (not to mention boyish good looks) of Carolina Herrera’s Creative Director, is receiving the kudos. “I am honored to be recognized with this year’s Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion. This recognition, combined with the reemergence of New York Fashion Week and Carolina Herrera’s ongoing 40th anniversary celebration, is going to make this fall one to never forget.”
Bravo to the celebration of the city’s Covid come back, and the spirit and soul of New Yorkers who are making it happen. Since taking the helm at Carolina Herrera, Wes Gordon has honored the heritage of the brand’s American elegance, while imprinting his own spirited inspiration.
Our fashion guru Dr. Valerie Steele, director and chief curator of The Museum at FIT, says it best: “As we emerge from a uniquely difficult period, we are happy to celebrate the reawakening of New York fashion. Wes stays true to the heritage of Carolina Herrera, while adding his own joyful flair.”
Dr. Joyce F. Brown, president of FIT, also weighed in on the talented designer: “We are pleased and honored to recognize Wes Gordon. His achievements in fashion are outstanding and he is a wonderful role model for emerging designers, including our own students. We look forward to celebrating his accomplishments and being part of New York City’s fashion reawakening at the Couture Council luncheon.”
What fun it is to ponder the sensational style of this iconic house in anticipation of what the fabulous fashionistas will be wearing. Black and white looks so fresh in September providing the perfect transitional template. Animal prints, polka dots, bows and ruffles create a melange of what is best of the season.
Or perhaps you are not ready to give up your sunny shades of summer and looking for fashion to travel south with you this winter. If that’s the case, here are some delectable choices in warm citrusy tones.
Past recipients of the Couture Council Award are Christian Louboutin (2019), Narciso Rodriguez (2018), Thom Browne (2017), Albert Kriemler of Akris (2016), Manolo Blahnik (2015), Carolina Herrera (2014), Michael Kors (2013), Oscar de la Renta (2012), Valentino (2011), Karl Lagerfeld (2010), Dries Van Noten (2009), Isabel Toledo (2008), Alber Elbaz (2007), and Ralph Rucci (2006). In 2008, Giorgio Armani received a special award for Global Fashion Leadership.
Our muse Hilary has her own ensemble in mind. “I love this event as it combines my favorite things, fashion, art and New York City. I am finding it hard to think fall and give up the summer palette with temperatures in the 80s. So I took a floral approach to my look. Dresses that I can wear into the winter with boots and sweaters. And of course a touch of Carolina Herrera on my ears!
Hold onto your spanks — it is the Black Tie Attire that will cause a pitter-patter! And just in time to get back on the dance floor as formal weddings and events populate the calendar.
The Cipriani family, along with Thierry Despont, have restored the iconic Battery Maritime Building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its classic Beaux-Arts adornments. This decorated style of architecture was taught at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris where many prominent American architects studied. Upon their return, Beaux Arts was integrated into the American Renaissance, the hallmarks of which are order, symmetry and elaborate ornamentations. Cipriani South Street is the perfect venue to host the excitement of the 2021 Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion Award this year.
Welcome back New York!
If you can’t be there, visit The Museum at FIT.
Better yet, become a member of the Couture Council and have access to museum’s opening receptions and other special member-only fashion events.
