I have been an avid balletomane all my life. In fact, I wanted to be a dancer. Since that was not my calling, I am a passionate fan and frequent attendee of The New York City Ballet performances and galas. Now that I am in the fashion business, I have the opportunity to wear glamorous gowns to these events!

This year the Opening Night was indeed a glamorous affair. The performance was a compilation of old and new ballets, and the creative aspect of a film in the program added a new dimension to the evening.

In my opinion, the highlights of the performances were the “Western Symphony” danced by Maria Kowroski and Damien Woetzel.  The pièce de résistance was Daniel Ulbricht in Peter Martins’ new ballet "Grazioso." I gasped as he leaped—it seemed as if he was suspended in the air forever.

The evening was a wonderful celebration on behalf of Lincoln Kirstein, founder and namesake for Lincoln Center.

Wearing a Ralph Rucci gown and Chopard Earrings

I was proud to wear one of my favorite designers Ralph Rucci.  He just understands women and makes the most beautiful clothes, especially for the Chic over 40. I accessorized with the most gorgeous Chopard earrings – long hanging brown diamonds and sapphires, offsetting the deep navy gown.

The audience was also full of glamorous men and women.  Here are some of the guests who attended:

With Fe Saracino Fendi

It was great to catch-up with Fe Fendi. After the gala, we both ended up being in Paris over Thanksgiving. Without making plans to see each other over the holiday, we ended up at the same restaurants twice. I guess we have the same taste.

Valentino and Christy Turlington Burns

Christy Turlington a fabulous model and now designer for yoga clothes.  I love her natural look and great smile.

Giancarlo Giammetti and Valentino

Before the dinner everyone gathers on the dance floor to visit with  the other guests. It was fun to see Valentino again. We saw each other just two weeks ago at Cipriani on 59th Street.  He told me he would be in town for a while.

Yigal Azrouel and Meredith Melling Burke

The signature of the designer Yigal Azrouel trademark is soft, feminine clothes that are sexy, modern and elegant. Vogue Editor Meredith Melling Burke wore a beautiful black dress, the bold leather belt emphasized her slender waist in a artful way.

Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan

Tracy is a busy woman – her simple natural look seems effortless. She chose to go for a short cocktail dress – the lace detail makes for a dressier look without being too much.

Kate Snow

Kate, an anchor-woman for NBC has a fresh clean all American look.

Annelise Peterson

Socialite and publicist Annelise Peterson’s look is just elegant. I love the pink feather bag.

Arden Wohl

Arden Wohl is a cool “IT” girl.  Never without her signature headband, her personal style is unique and very much her own.

Lake Bell

The actress Lake Bell looks so sleek — red is her color!

David and Julia Koch

A regular fixture on the social circuit, Julia’s choice of ivory with just a touch of black detail is a nice departure from the standard “black” evening dress.  She’s stunning.

Catherine Malandrino

The unusual choice of green makes the designer Catherine Malandrino standout. Her sexy décolleté is just right. I love the simple drape effect of her dress. It hangs beautifully. This dress would be perfect for the Chic over 40 woman.

Frederick Anderson and Douglas Hannant

The designer Douglas Hannant strikes a balance between modernism and romanticism with an ease that is decidedly American. He succeeds in juxtaposing sportswear and couture.

Rachel Roy

Designer Rachel Roy loves to dress up. She is so tall and striking. The red and pink floral coat is not overwhelming. She can carry it with ease.

Piper Perabo

Actress Piper Perabo is young so she has many options. A natural beauty – hair simply tied up, a bit of make up and no jewelry. She looks perfect.

Jamee Gregory

Socialite and woman about town, Jamee’s hectic schedule doesn’t preclude her from always looking fabulous.  She lives in my neighborhood and even when I see her on weekends in her dressed-down mode, she is always put together.

Candace and Frederick W. Beinecke

The Chairman of New York City ballet, Candace’s choice of red suits her coloring.  She looks glamorous and youthful.  The simple neckline with the short bolero is a very becoming look.

During the cocktail I chatted with various friends. It’s always great to see Coco Kopelman looking elegant and chic in Chanel, as always. We also talked about Paris and the transit strike which was happening just before my departure. 

The one and only Oz Garcia, nutritionist to the stars, was looking dashing and ageless as always. My dear friend, Michele Herbert, was at the table next to mine. We really don’t get enough time to see each other in New York.  Thank goodness for Saint-Tropez where we stay at the same hotel and have more relaxing time to catch-up. We promised to try to see each other this time before Christmas.

It’s always a pleasure to talk to the elegant Marc Hrushka – CEO of Chopard. He was looking gallant as always. We spoke about their new boutique on Madison and 63rd—it’s sublime, a must-see before the holidays.

Bruce Hoeksema, owner of the fabulous VBH, was also among the crowd. Bruce and I often see each other in Paris. His bags are divine—I told him I bought two. I highly recommend visiting his magnificent store on Madison Avenue or at Bergdorf Goodman. Christmas is just around the corner…

After the dinner the music started and everyone moved to the dance floor. It’s particularly fun to watch New York City Ballet dancers boogie to a different beat. It was a great festive atmosphere to kick off the Thanksgiving holiday.

- photos by Arlu Gomez