Cheers to Creativity: Uniting Fashion's Finest Before the Runway Rush!
The Grand Opening of Fashion Week: A Pre-Show Soiree
New York's prestigious fashion week commenced with an elegant gathering orchestrated by Saks Fifth Avenue. The event, held at Le Chalet at L'Avenue, brought together a distinguished group of designers including Wes Gordon, Thom Browne, Prabal Gurung, Sabyasachi, and the duo Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. Far from a typical networking mixer, this evening felt more akin to a cherished reunion, offering a serene interlude before the frenetic pace of upcoming shows.
A New Venue, A Welcoming Atmosphere: Le Chalet's Charm
For this year's festivities, Saks chose Le Chalet, a location beneath the usual L’Avenue spot. This alternative setting provided a distinct ambiance: an intimate, cabin-inspired environment adorned with opulent furnishings. Saks-branded blankets draped over cozy seating, rich textures juxtaposed with daring leopard prints, and subtle nods to autumn's emerging fashion trends were meticulously placed throughout the venue. A Saks representative playfully referred to these thoughtful details as "Easter eggs." The evening's allure was further enhanced by sequin-clad dancers gracefully twirling in one corner, while a shimmering champagne fountain cascaded in another.
Beyond the Glitz: The True Value of Connection
However, the real draw of the evening transcended the luxurious setting; it was the palpable sense of unity. Designers, many of whom were in the midst of preparing their own collections, attended not for professional gain but to relax, share laughter, and raise a glass with fellow creatives. Wes Gordon of Carolina Herrera remarked to Vogue that this gathering has evolved into a cherished tradition: "It's an event we anticipate all year. Everyone comes together, sharing drinks, laughter, and celebration—it truly feels like the sole moment during Fashion Week where one can pause and genuinely savor the experience."
Fashion's Extended Family: A Collective Spirit
The theme of kinship resonated strongly throughout the venue. Prabal Gurung, a designer who has showcased his collections in New York for over a decade, emphasized the event's crucial role in the Fashion Week calendar. "The Saks celebration genuinely unites the fashion community," he stated. "Often, we operate in isolation, focused on our individual endeavors. But a moment like this—involving designers, artists, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes—allows us all to convene before the month-long whirlwind that is fashion month."
Saks' Vision: Nurturing Emerging Talent and Community Bonds
“Community is at the heart of it all,” affirmed Roopal Patel, Senior Vice President and Fashion Director at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. Her attire for the evening, a shimmering V-neck Diotima dress, was a fitting selection given the brand's recent success. Patel shared her excitement about championing Diotima's founder, Rachel Scott, whose talent she first recognized through her work with the CFDA. This support underscores Saks' commitment to identifying and fostering the next generation of fashion innovators.
A Sanctuary for Growth: Designers' Gratitude Towards Saks
This sentiment of mutual appreciation was echoed by Gurung: "Saks was my initial home when I launched my collection," he reflected. "It has been a nurturing environment that truly facilitated my development, provided a sense of security, and helped me establish my identity—without Saks, I wouldn't be where I am today."
An Evening of Shared Joy: Slowing Down the Fashion Frenzy
The atmosphere within the room reflected this profound warmth. Guests gathered around a leopard-print pool table, raising their champagne flutes and exchanging lively banter. Thom Browne briefly joined to greet friends, Sabyasachi shared heartfelt embraces, and Laura Kim & Fernando Garcia caught up with colleagues, stealing moments on the dance floor and in the photo booth. As the last bottle was opened, the prevailing mood shifted from one of exclusivity to a feeling of true belonging—a private sanctuary where the normally chaotic fashion week momentarily decelerated.