Last night was Fashion’s Night Out in New York.  I confess, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when the shopping event was announced earlier this year in May.  But it turned out to be an evening extravaganza as promised, with fashion fans crowding the stores uptown and down.

I debated what to wear.  My personal style is typically classic, with a twist.  But from time-to-time, I do like to wear outfits that push to the edge just a bit.  Fashion’s Night Out seemed like the perfect opportunity, so I chose this Alexander McQueen ensemble.  It might be a little over the top, but it’s a favorite – and it sparked lots of conversations during the evening!

I started out near home at a private event by the exquisite jewelry designer Solange Azagury-Partridge.  It was a quick fly by and then I was on to Barneys.  Barneys had promised activities on every floor and didn’t fail to deliver.  On my way upstairs, I stopped at the jewelry cases.  I love big rings, and this one by Spanish designer Vicente Gracia really caught my eye…

Upstairs, I had a chance to say hi to Isabel Toledo, who I’d seen the day before at FIT’s Couture Council Luncheon. She was signing her new book.  Manolo Blahnik was also there, signing his fans’ shoes.

With Isabel Toledo

At Barneys with Manolo Blahnik

After chatting with Manolo, I spotted shoes from a new designer I’d never heard of: Jerome Rousseau.  Sadly, the pictures didn’t come out so well, but the one I admired is here.  Isn’t it beautiful?

I also noticed that Barneys is carrying Mary Katrantzou, a designer whose dresses I’d first seen this summer at Colette in Paris.  So cool…

As I was on my way out, I ran into Carlos Souza.  Carlos (who looked amazing as always) informed me that he’s back to working with Valentino again.  I greeted Waris, too, who I last saw in Paris.  He was showing his jewelry line, House of Waris, at the front of the store.

With Carlos Souza

Pictured with Waris

From Barneys I moved downtown to the Meatpacking District.  It was hopping!  People spilling out of the boutiques on 14th Street into the sidewalks and street.  I had a great time making my way from Hugo Boss to Matthew Williamson, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and, finally, Jeffrey.  You can see a few of my favorite finds below.  The black and white houndstooth coat at McQueen was divine — I didn’t want to take it off!  It’s one of just three in the world and this is the only one in New York.  Stunning.  I gravitate toward fur, what can I say?

Loving it at Hugo Boss

Fabulous fur at Matthew Williamson

Rocking the fur at Alexander McQueen

At Stella McCartney I ran into Lisa Maria Falcone and chatted with her and a friend.  I’d last seen her at the New York City Ballet Spring Gala back in May.  She co-chaired the event.

Catching up with Lisa Maria Falcone

The shopping came to a close at Jeffrey, where Hugh Jackman stopped in after the first performance of his new play, A Steady Rain.  I’m such a fan, I already have my tickets!

With the heavenly Hugh Jackman

I ended the evening with dinner at Minetta Tavern – it’s really becoming my New York cantine, just like L’Avenue is for me in Paris.  And last night Lindsay Lohan was there and bought me a drink.  What a nice way to end a fun evening!

To see more of my pictures from Fashion’s Night Out, visit my Facebook Fan Page.

- photos by Michael N. Todaro