Get ready for the New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala, one of the most glamorous of the season. The 10th Anniversary celebration takes place tomorrow, September 28, 2022, which pairs notable choreographers with couturiers for an evening of unimaginable visual and sensory delights.
It all starts with an elegant Ruinart Champagne Reception followed by a stunning performance of three World Premieres. The first is choreographed by Gianna Reisen with costumes designed by Alejandro Gomen Palomo for PalomoSpain and a commissioned score by Solange Knowles. Then Kyle Abraham presents his work with costumes by Giles Deacon and it is followed by the premiere of Solo by NYCB Resident Choreographer and Artistic Advisor Justin Peck, with a costume designed by Raf Simons. The performance also includes an excerpt from the dazzling Symphony in C by the Company’s co-founder, George Balanchine.
This year’s event honors New York City Ballet Vice Chair Sarah Jessica Parker for her vision and leadership of the Fall Fashion Gala. Since its inception, 30 new works have been created, enhancing the company’s excitement as well as its devoted audience.
For our What to Wear moment, I went in search of gowns of elegant playfulness that this imaginative event inspires. Following the performance there is a sumptuous dinner before the guests hit the dance floor with the classical dancers showcasing their moves. These two black and white gowns hit just the right note — imagine the tassels on the Lela Rose strapless pirouetting to the music.
Grand Jeté
We often get requests from friends who choose not to bear arms for formal occasions and so this collection of fabulous gowns with sheer sleeves provides an elegant illusion. I have my sights set on a new gown for the upcoming Hunt Ball, where black is de rigueur. Here, LBD stands for long, beautiful dresses.
Elegant Illusions
Or if you are in a more playful mood, here is a lineup of lively frocks to fit your fancy.
Sweet & Sassy
Hilary has her own rosy view on a balletomane’s dream. “When I think of the Ballet, I think feminine colors, pastels and volume. And with pink having its moment, I love these pastel pink dresses; and a white column shape never goes out of style. To add to the glamour of the evening, a pretty bejeweled sandal or a platform with pizzazz is a perfect compliment. And definitely go bold with your jewelry for this ultra-glam evening.”
Joseph Gordon’s notes on performing Symphony in C.
Karen Klopp and Hilary Dick are the Founders of What2WearWhere.com. We Take the Guesswork Out of Dressing, the Legwork out of Shopping and the Panic Out of Packing.™
Photographs by Patrick McMullan
