Just when I thought I had seen everything in NYC, a friend invited me to one of the most unique nights out I've had in a long time. The world famous Friars Club has hosted some of the funniest moments in comedy over the years as they Roast their own during the legendary tributes. I was lucky enough to be invited to sit at Joan River's table as the Friar's paid tribute to songbird Lainie kazan. Lainie has a carrer that spans several decades. Two of her most famous roles were playing head strong mothers in Beaches and My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Her big personality landed her those roles, but it was her big voice that made her a favorite to any Broadway and Cabaret Club fans. Joan was all excited about the upcoming premiere of the second season of her hit show on TV Land Prime - "How'd You Get So Rich?" - more on the show later this month.
While I expected laughs by the mile at the Friars, I didn't expect all the fashion! As we made our way to our table in the Milton Berle room ( hey I was with the most famous celeb in the place - of course we were in the VIP room!), I felt like I was walking through Saks 5th Avenue. To my left - Bottega Clutch, to my right Chanel quilted classic. Ooh were those Louboutins? Is that the new Ferragamo exotic clutch?? Yes and Yes!
Of course Joan looked like a million bucks - she always does. Done done done.. I've never seen that Woman not camera ready! She had just flown in from Las Vegas that afternoon and was out on the town!
The biggest fashion surprise was to find a look from a really talented designer that you and your friends probably aren't talking about - Gareth Pugh. This British designer shows in Paris and has an avant garde approach to his collection. Comparisons to Alexander McQueen started as soon at Pugh showed his first collection. Since the announcement that Gucci Group will continue the label after McQueen's suicide, there has been rumors that Pugh is the possible replacement.
Super Chic Margie Stern was head to toe Gareth Pugh - accessorized with Joan Rivers jewelry of course! Bravo to Margie for having the taste level to get Gareth and to put it all together. This collection is for someone who doesn't need the logo recognition of the uber brand army. Margie and I sat next to each other at dinner and she told me she discovered Pugh at a little boutique in Paris. That's when you know you have style!
Laughs by the mile and a first rate fashion show! What more could you want with Dinner? I hope I get invited to the Friars club again soon!
To see Gareth Pugh's latest collection visit - Style.com