New York Social Diary LOOT

Our recent What to Wear articles brought us to the MCNY Black Tie Ball in Manhattan and then to Palm Beach to join Princess Yasmin Aga Khan for her work on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association.  Now we are highlighting one of the most decidedly decorative and decorated evenings in the the city.   The first week in April brings a frenzy of jewelry lovers together at MAD ABOUT JEWELRY, the Museum of Art and Design’s 5 day pop up shop on Columbus Circle.   It is a rare opportunity to meet the artists creating the cutting edge, one-of-a-kind pieces and hear about their creative ideas and inspirations.  From nature to skyscrapers, it is a vast and varied assemblage of wearable creations. 

Jewelry Designer and  “Philanthropy is Beautiful” Founder, Joan Hornig i passionate about the event.   “Nothing is more exciting than what happens when LOOT comes to town.  MAD is the only museum in the country that has a dedicated jewelry gallery.    I think it is the best pop up sale of the year in New York.”  

The Opening Party, will take place on Monday, April 3 when the LOOT Acquisition Prize and Awards will honor, Camilla Dietz Bergeron, Francine LeFrak, and Kara Ross.  They will  be joining other extraordinary women of embellished achievement, Honorary Chair, Dame Zandra Rhodes, Marsy Mittlemann, Chair and Curator, Bryna Pomp.  2015 Honoree and Chairman Emerita, Barbara Tober will present one of the awards this year.    “For seventeen years of LOOT, we have seen the world of art jewelry grow in importance and status!  MAD is proud to be the leaders in bringing this exciting and creative art form to the jewelry-loving public.”

Jewelry personalizes an outfit. It gives a nod to your style and personality. I love jewelry, especially vintage pieces given to me by my family. And I adore a big flashy cocktail ring or statement earrings that are so on trend right now. For an event like LOOT, I would throw all caution to the wind and bring out the fun and flashy. Any outfit can be spiced up with great accessories. These dresses below, though pretty on their own, would look so much better with some bling. The floral dress by Erdem is modest yet sexy, and flattering for most figures. Add the diamond feather earrings and the Oscar de La Renta ring and you have an outfit. The Michael Kors dress is simple and works well for the pear shaped figure. It calls for a necklace, and as Karen mentions below, we are loving the choker these days. And as always, a high heel is an elongating must! (Even if you have to take them off right when you leave the party) These gold and silver sandals are sure to sparkle among all the fantastic artists and their jewelry at LOOT.

When we reached Dame Zandra Rhodes in her studio in California, she was thrilled  with her involvement as Honorary Chair and will be flying in for the Opening Night.  “I was already a huge fan of The Museum when they asked me.”    Dame Zandra in London in the late 60’s and early 70’s  was a pioneer in the field of modern fashion and jewelry design.  She hasn’t stopped a minute since.  “Jewelry makes the outfit” she declared “It is an artform that you can wear.”   She was a good friend of Princess Diana and created some of her iconic designs.   

I found another quote on NYSD which pretty much sums up her bold, creative style. “It’s not so much about your clothes. You must own your own personality. That and jewelry will conquer anything.”    

I am happy to report a trend that is here to stay – bare shoulders!  Bravo!   It is a universally flattering style for all ages and body types.  Even my young friends complain that they can’t find great dresses with sleeves.  Well here they are.    We decided on a solid shade, to let the jewelry ring loud and clear.    I like to think of navy as spring’s black.  These two simple sheaths possess details that makes them a great “go to” for drinks and dinners.  Every woman should have one of these in her wardrobe now.  The lower neckline of the Black Halo creates an opportunity to try a choker, another accessory that has come out of the romantic, Victorian trend that continues to charm.   Statement jewelry is another trend that is here to stay.    Often all you need to complete a pulled-together look is a pair of earrings, a cuff, or a necklace with great visual impact.   Thanks to LOOT Mad about Jewelry, fabulous one of a kind pieces are available.   

Curator Bryna Pomp travels extensively throughout the world in search of the most impressive array of artists and artisans creating wearable embellishment.  This year brings 54 artist from 21 countries.   “ It gives me great pleasure to introduce to the New York audience these mostly unknown artists to the MAD audience each year.”  

  For tickets and information please contact [email protected], 212.299.7712

Just a sampling of the unique treasures to explore at LOOT.