DOWNTOWN CHIC

By Miki Makrillos | Photos by Miki Makrillos

Fashion, food, and entertainment made the annual Open Market, a fundraiser co-chaired by Diane von Furstenberg, Andrew Rosen, Mazdack Rassi and Gary Kline, the place to be. The fundraiser benefited the Meatpacking District Improvement Association, a non-profit business alliance that maintains the meatpacking district through a beautification program and protects the area’s storied history. The event billed as “the largest indoor neighborhood block party,” was held at the Highline Stages. Two floors were transformed into a designer shopping haven, featuring sample sales from designers DVF, Theory, Helmut Lang, Trina Turk, Joie, Alice + Olivia, Rag & Bone, Lilla P, Meg, Rebecca Taylor and Nesh NYC as well as silent auction of items from various contributors. Gourmet foods were served by some of the best restaurants in the meatpacking district, such as the STK Downtown, Fig & Olive, Bagatelle, The Wild Son, Morimoto to name a few. Sparkling wine and specialty cocktails were courtesy of Chandon and other sponsors. There was an abundance of culture, social networking, and celebrity presence at this annual event. Beautiful, talented artists, actors, designers, and entrepreneurs made their presence and support for a good cause!

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I had a splendid time sampling the delicious gourmet delicacies, sipping cocktails, and mingling. I walked away with a beautiful DVF dress and handbag, a beautifully embroidered sheer floral skirt by Alice and Olivia, and a stylish spring shirt by Rebecca Taylor. My VIP gift bag was filled with fashionable delights from various sponsors including a wonderfully illustrated Chelsea Market Cookbook. Congratulations to our hosts, Diane von Furstenberg, Andrew Rosen, Mazdack Rassi and Gary Kline, and all the participants who made this an enjoyable and successful fundraising event, bringing the fashion and food communities together for a fashionably chic experience.