Daily Front Row

2010 May 25

Rooftop Revelry

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Stefano Tonchi, Nadja Swarovski, Steven Kolb
BILLY FARRELL / PatrickMcMullan.com View Gallery

(NEW YORK) “Everything feels good when the weather is nice, even if you’re working!” laughed Joseph Altuzarra last night at Ink 48, as Nadja Swarovski and Stefano Tonchi hosted a fête to celebrate the nominees and honorees of the 2010 CFDA Fashion Awards at the hotel’s rooftop. Everyone was in high spirits, and nominees, board members and friends came in droves including Steven Kolb, Thom Browne, Donna Karan, Dennis Basso, Prabal Gurung, Cynthia Rowley, Italo Zucchelli, and Elie Tahari.

“It’s fantastic to see everyone out tonight,” noted Gurung. Friend and fellow nominee Altuzarra chimed in, “It’s a little community; it’s always nice for us all to be together in the same room. There’s a lot of camaraderie.” The terrace was filled with individuals who are used to soirees at marvelous locations, but everyone was notably impressed. “I love the venue!” declared John Patrick as he leaned back in his loveseat. “It’s not like the CFDA events are held in some cafeteria like a PTA meeting. It’s so pleasant, with beautiful people everywhere. This takes it to another level.”

However, there was a distinct high school reunion-esque feel to the occasion. Browne caught up with Zucchelli and Simon Spurr and Karan chatted with Tonchi as the Swarovski décor illuminated the terrace. “You know, I’m a simple guy," laughed Patrick. "I had to have my nails cleaned for this because I’ve been working in the garden for a week. I’ve got potatoes, corn, thyme, sage. Luckily, the rabbit hasn’t eaten the fennel!”

Co-host Swarovski explained, “This year’s nominees are so fantastic and we did a movie about them to show the insight into the mind’s of these designers.” Nominee Jason Wu was eager to get a first view of the short film. “I guess it’s my acting debut!” he laughed. “I’m always adding new things under my belt. I just did the glasses, so maybe acting is next?”
EMILY POPP