Finance

The Vogue Café made its Manhattan debut as a bustling hub of excitement, drawing a continuous stream of visitors eager to experience its unique ambiance. Chloe Malle, the magazine's editorial content head, shared insights into the creative process behind the café's menu, whose distinctively named beverages like "That's All" espressos and "The Glacial Pace" iced coffees were a hit. The atmosphere evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of past iconic fashion gatherings, setting the perfect tone for the impending Met Gala.

Throughout the weekend, the café offered a diverse range of events and experiences. On Saturday, guests enjoyed a live recording of The Run-Through podcast, featuring a conversation between designer Tory Burch and Nicole Phelps. The venue also hosted a charm bar where attendees could personalize jewelry with Brooklyn-based brand Don't Let Disco, and custom totes by Alex Mill were available. By evening, the café transitioned into a lively European-inspired bar, attracting notable personalities such as Grace Gummer, Coco Jones, Alex Consani, and Tommy Dorfman, who socialized while DJ Nikki Kynard provided music and Altro Paradiso served delicious food.

Sunday's activities included a screening of "The First Monday in May," where Malle and editor Lilah Ramzi made a brief appearance, much to the delight of the audience, including the film's producer, Fabiola Beracasa Beckman. The café, situated at 234 Spring Street, continued its operations on Monday, maintaining its dynamic role as a social hotspot. This event highlighted the convergence of fashion, culture, and community, leaving guests with memorable experiences and exclusive keepsakes, including the latest issue of Vogue.

The Vogue Café's successful run exemplified how creativity and community can transform a temporary pop-up into a celebrated cultural event. It underscored the power of fashion to bring people together, creating a vibrant space where style, conversation, and shared experiences flourish. Such initiatives inspire a sense of collective joy and artistic appreciation, fostering connections that transcend the ordinary and elevate the spirit of engagement.

Colman Domingo orchestrated a spectacular pre-Met Gala celebration at the Faena Hotel in West Chelsea, creating an unforgettable evening of high fashion, lively entertainment, and genuine connection. Guests were encouraged to don their most extravagant attire, reflecting the host's own custom-designed feathered ensemble. The event drew a star-studded crowd, including Natasha Lyonne, Evan Mosseri, Eva Chen, and renowned designers like Alessandro Michele and Marc Jacobs. With a bespoke cocktail flowing and a dynamic lineup of DJs and live performances, the night transcended a typical pre-gala gathering, transforming into a vibrant tribute to the power of art and community.

The actor's personal touch was evident from the moment guests stepped into the venue. Domingo himself warmly greeted attendees, drawing them onto the dance floor with his infectious energy. His outfit, a striking feathered jacket and matching halter blouson crafted by Mexico City-based designer Patricio Campillo, was a testament to the event's "Put That Sh*t On!" theme, which called for bold and expressive dressing. Campillo revealed that the intricate feathered creation took an impressive 20 days to complete, with artisans meticulously hand-sewing each rooster feather.

Beyond the fashion, the party was designed to encourage uninhibited enjoyment. Upon entry, guests' mobile phone cameras were adorned with gold stickers bearing the "Xo Colman" brand, signaling a temporary reprieve from constant digital documentation. This thoughtful detail allowed attendees to fully immerse themselves in the festivities, dancing and mingling without the pressure of capturing every moment. The guest list boasted a diverse mix of personalities from various industries, emphasizing the broad appeal and influence of Domingo's circle.

The evening's bespoke drink, 'The Catwalk' cocktail by Don Julio Tequila, served as more than just a refreshment; it became a playful inspiration for many of the revelers. The name encouraged an impromptu runway on the dance floor, where notable figures such as Meghan Fahy, Leo Woodall, Nina Dobrev, Gabrielle Union, Heidi Klum, and Coco Rocha showcased their unique styles. The musical ambiance was expertly curated by DJs Spinderella and Lina, who set a dynamic tone before transitioning to a captivating live performance by singer Jacob Lusk. His rendition of 'Bennie & The Jets,' performed without the distraction of cell phones, created a rare and intimate moment that underscored the party's ethos of authentic engagement.

Domingo addressed his guests with a heartfelt toast, emphasizing the evening's purpose: a celebration of artistic expression in all its forms and the transformative power of the individuals present. He urged everyone to forge new connections, believing that collective creativity and community have the potential to effect positive change in the world. Looking ahead, Domingo announced an upcoming science fiction thriller directed by Steven Spielberg, teasing an exciting new chapter in his artistic journey.

Colman Domingo's pre-Met Gala party was a masterclass in event hosting, seamlessly blending opulent fashion with a genuine spirit of camaraderie and artistic appreciation. The meticulously planned details, from the feather-adorned dress code to the cell phone-free dance floor, created an environment where guests could truly connect and celebrate. The evening was a vibrant prelude to the Met Gala, highlighting not only fashion and entertainment but also the profound impact of community and shared artistic passion.