Fashion Week is officially open.
with Donna Karan
with Harry Belafonte
with Peter Lindbergh
with Padma Lakshmi
with supermodel Alek Wek
This was my first time attending AmFAR Gala in NY Cipriani Wall street and certainly will be one of those moments I will treasure forever. Despite low temperatures and freezing winter winds that reminded me of my native country Poland where -30C was just normal winter day the partying had to go on. The world of philanthropy and entertainment was brought together to honor and celebrate brave fight against Aids as well as kicking off opening of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Most beautiful Stars of who’s who in America lined up on the red carpet to honor and support this incredible cause. Thanks to some generous contributions $1.7 million were raised through fashion auctions and private donations to help amFar Aids research programs. With A+ star attendance the soiree could have been easily mixed for Oscar Night or Top model reunion. My head was spinning in admiration of world’s most beautiful faces dressed in finest fashion could offer. The red carpet hangout was full of cat walk stars from Karlie Kloss, Chanel Iman, Selita Banks and Behati Prinsloo whom I rubbed shoulders for what surely was one of the most glamorous and highly anticipated annual fashion event of the year.
My Polish native Tony Award-winning actress and singer Jane Krakowski opened the stage with her beautiful cabaret singing performance and emerald green strapless dress. I was not aware the POLACK girl could sing like a real diva. Liam Neeson made a surprise appearance as presenter to Vanessa Redgrave and Joely Richardson. Legendary photographer Peter Lindbergh man of the hour was also honored, receiving his award of Courage from Robin Wright for his exceptional contributions to the global struggle against HIV/AIDS. The lovely actress genuinely shared with the audience special moments of praising his extraordinary generosity towards amfAR, which was on display that night with two lots that he donated to the event’s live auction. He also awarded the chance to sit for a private portrait commission with him, a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Harry Belafonte, Chelsea Clinton, and Kenneth Cole spoke beautifully and Grammy Award-winning Nile Rodgers, and Harry Belafonte whom I had a chance to meet and chat. The highlight of the evening was disco queen Grace Jones hitting the stage. She instantly made everyone reaching for their cameras through her spotlight floating and Hula-Hooped performance. At 65 she flamboyantly hopped up on people’s tables, electrifying the crowds with her sky high heels. The room was dazzling in climax. One could say that magnitude of everyone’s emotions were elevated. The gala was full of memorable moments, incredible individuals who make this world a better place for us every day. I m so grateful that I could be part of such an amazing gathering and I am much looking forward to attending it next year.
ASK Kasia 