It’s almost set in stone: the ticket for opening night of The Winter Antiques Show at The Park Avenue Armory in NYC should come with snow boots and fur coats. The powerhouse names of New York society convene every year, come rain, snow, or lack of towncars at the Armory January 20th for the preview and party for buyers, collectors, dealers, and yes, celebs. With over 74 prestigious antique dealers from all over the globe, the Winter Antiques Show is the height of where it’s at in this haute world. And for the opening night party, high fashion is in order.
Last night, with Stephanie Seymour, and Hugh Jackman in attendance, the people who frequent such affairs could feel justified in venturing out for the fete. Fashion watchers throughout the week can see celebrities, the Mayor, Martha Stewart, politicians, and rap singers alike on any given day. They come to shop in an environment that is museum-like, in an environment that is world-renowned for it’s architectural treasures. (The Tiffany designed rooms MUST be seen).
Whether you come to see an extraordinarily vetted selection of antiques from every facet of collecting heaven, or to do some serious shopping for a St. Valentine’s gift, (the jewelry!) this show is the place to be and to be seen.
Often shot by Bill Cunningham for the New York Times, the show is a benefit for the East Side House Settlement. With a $20 entry fee, you collect an armful of glossy magazines, and the sought-after catalogue of this, the 57th show.
On Thursday, the Young Collector’s Night will be the hot ticket for the sons and daughters of the powers-that-be here in town. We’re all getting ready for Fashion Week, so one never knows who will show for the party. Last year, Maggie Rizer bowled us all over in a devastating blue evening gown.
This is a milieu where you can come from out of town, hear a lecture, cruise the aisles, and breathe in the un-haughty air of old. It’s a place to sport that strange embroidered jacket in the back of your closet. It’s a place to wear a fabulous hat! No dress code required, don’t get me wrong, but how to pass up the opportunity to be a bit outré in your ensemble?
Photographer: Amanda Gordon/Bloomberg
If you didn’t make it to the opening party last night, and you can’t make it to the Young Collector’s happening on Thursday, please be sure you check out the show at least once during your stay in town. It’s one chance to get into the armory for the building itself, but at the same time, the show lays before your eyes marvels! By the way, it’s not far from the Balenciaga exhibit just down the road apiece.
Live, love and enjoy the antiques!