(NEW YORK) "That's really what they're calling it?" laughed Carolina, walking into the "Temple of Herrera," as a certain crew had rebranded the Temple of Dendur for last night's Apollo Circle benefit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Carolina Herrera has sponsored the event for the last three seasons, and in that time, it has developed into a veritable third fashion show, stocked with testaments to the power of a good gown. Is it the best-dressed charity event of the year? It's certainly a contender...

The evening's best-dressed? Eleanor Ylvisaker in a stunning ruffled nude gown with a long, satin-trimmed train. "I'm worried that people are stepping on it!" she said at the pre-party chez Patricia Lansing. Next up: Kate Davidson Hudson in a thistle column. Props for brights. They were closely followed by Amanda Hearst in a black-and-silver embroidered number with an appropriately dramatic train. Other standouts included Meredith Melling Burke, who arrived avec date Adam Lippes, and Alexis Bryan Morgan, squired by Spencer. Kate Lanphear was perhaps the only to diverge from the ladylike looks; she paired her black ruffled gown with elbow-length leather gloves and a studded belt. As it should be!

After all, the Temple of Herrera required such drama. The theme was Surrealism. Short films from the Met's archive were projected on the walls and on screens anchoring the dance floor. Graphic vases roughly the size of André Leon Talley were stuffed with branches stocked with silk birds. DJ Paul Sevigny spun hits ranging from MJ to classic rock and back to MJ again; a few couples swung back and forth. All the single ladies, and many there were, were just as decked out as the Carolina-clad socials. From the crystallized stilettos to tiny satin bags to one memorable jaunty top-hat swathed in net, no accessory was left unturned. Waiters sported pencilled-in mustaches, serving prosecco by the tray while those more inclined towards the harder stuff headed for the bars and munched on marzipan bars decorated with dripping clocks and/or a few filet-topped crostini. The gummy lobsters? A huge hit.

As the night wore on, the fashion gabbing quieted and the stilettoed sought relief on the cushioned banquettes. Time for reflection, which was mostly venue-induced shock and awe. (Few would argue that the Temple is among New York's most magnificant.)"It's my favorite place in New York," declared Mrs. Herrera of the Museum. "I would love to take home a few pieces. Maybe we should tell the guards!"
ASHLEY BAKER