Coco Chanel famously said, "Fashion fades; only style remains the same." Co-hostess and alum Claire Shanley, CC '92, wisely quoted the classic designer in her opening speech to Sunday's event, Intelligent.Style, taking place in a large loft in the Meatpacking District. While celebrities and designers gathered in Bryant Park to experience high fashion, Columbia College alums attended a show put on by the Columbia College Women, an alumni association, and sponsored by the Office of Columbia College Alumni Affairs and Development. It aimed to embrace all that is style, and, of course, Columbia women.
As Shanley explained in an interview, the point of Intelligent.Style is to bring together alumnae across all years, ethnicities, and professions to celebrate women who embody and treasure good style and even greater careers. Fortunately, all of the planning for this event, which started in May, paid off, as a wide assortment of alumnae came out Sunday afternoon to sip on champagne and nosh on delicious desserts prepared by Gourmet Goddess.
The event began with a fashion show of alumni models sporting various looks created by nine New York based stylists. The short exhibition was then followed by a deconstruction of the multiple looks, as each stylist explained to the audience the premise of the outfit they created.
Fittingly, the stylists strived to create ensembles that suited each of the models' own careers, spanning from a folk singer to a high-powered financier, and all of the stylists emphasized the importance of maintaining a classic, mature style. Although some looks were more youthful and creative than others, the outfits all stemmed from a common desire to appear effortlessly cool and chic. The ensembles were also aligned to current trends, as colors were quite mute, heels were incredibly high, and accessories were bold and edgy.
Stylist Samia Grand Pierre recommended the use of accessories to spice up certain outfits. For example, a rock-and-roll-esqe necklace or belt "can change your look and make a look your own," she said. She assured all of the professionals sitting in the audience that the use of such pieces would not interfere with the seriousness or sophistication of a great suit.
Similarly, stylist Nicholaus Stansberry praised the use of small details to create a more stylish exterior. He paired classic Diane Von Furstenberg separates with a bright beret and colorful flower brooch.
Finally, several of the stylists spoke of the wonders of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers, recommending that every woman acquire such a staple item, as it is flattering to any figure.
The event also launched the CCW season of events—an important year as 2009 marks the the 26th anniversary of women being accepted into the college. To commemorate such a landmark, and honor all of the women graduates, the CCW introduced a new scholarship which will go to a deserving Columbia College student each year. For style is not just about fashion—it's about the life you lead and the person you endeavor to be.
Tags: Arts & Entertainment, Jessica Schwartz
