A Celestial Celebration of Fashion, Art & Innovation
There’s a certain kind of magic that only happens in New York City — the kind that lives somewhere between glamour and legacy, sequins and soul. On this particular night, that magic glittered high above the skyline at the legendary Rainbow Room, as Fashion Group International (FGI) celebrated its 41st Annual Night of Stars Red Carpet Gala — a luminous evening honoring visionaries who continue to redefine creativity across fashion, art, media, and culture.
Under the twinkling chandeliers, icons and tastemakers alike gathered in the clouds — literally — for one of the city’s most anticipated fashion affairs. From the moment the doors opened, the energy felt electric: flashes from photographers catching glimpses of couture gowns, sculptural silhouettes, and statements that said fashion is still the heartbeat of this city.
A Legacy of Vision and Celebration
For over four decades, the FGI Night of Stars has served as a beacon for creativity and innovation — honoring the artists, entrepreneurs, and industry disruptors who keep the world stylishly spinning. This year’s honorees were a constellation of brilliance:
- Iris Van Herpen (Fashion Visionary Award)
- Jordan Roth (Fashion x Art Award)
- Stellene Volandes (Media Award)
- Sarah Wetenhall (Leadership in Luxury Lifestyle)
- Jen Rubio (Retail Trailblazer)
- Kerry O’Brien (FGI Founders’ Award)
- Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois (Changemaker Award)
The night’s presenters — including Martha Stewart, Law Roach, Wes Gordon, David Lauren, Alina Cho, Sarah Slutsky, Lauren Amos, and Nicola Formichetti — brought an extra layer of excitement and reverence, reminding everyone that the intersection of artistry and influence remains timeless.
A Night Among the Stars
As champagne flowed and cameras flashed, a who’s who of fashion and culture made their grand entrances: Julia Fox, Jean Shafiroff, Linda Fargo, Fern Mallis, Dennis Basso, and countless other notables. The vibe was luxe, the conversation electric, and the style — effortlessly iconic.
FGI President & CEO Maryanne Grisz summed up the evening perfectly:
“Each year, FGI Night of Stars celebrates the individuals whose artistry and leadership elevate our industries and inspire future generations. This year’s honorees truly embody the spirit of art and innovation.”
And indeed, they did. Iris Van Herpen’s otherworldly couture reminded us that fashion is an artform of evolution. Jordan Roth once again blurred the lines between theater and style. And Martha Stewart’s effortless glamour on stage proved that elegance knows no age.
The Heart of the Industry
While the gowns and glitz took center stage, the deeper purpose of the night remained clear. The gala serves as FGI’s largest fundraising initiative, with proceeds benefiting The Fashion Group Foundation — a powerful force behind scholarships, mentorship programs, and educational opportunities for the next generation of fashion innovators.
It’s a continuation of the legacy started in 1930 by a visionary collective of seventeen women — including Helena Rubinstein, Elizabeth Arden, Carmel Snow, Edith Head, Claire McCardell, Nan Duskin, and Eleanor Roosevelt — who came together to build an organization that connected, educated, and empowered women in fashion and related industries.
Ninety-plus years later, FGI remains that guiding light, with more than 5,000 members worldwide, driving creativity through mentorship, access, and collaboration.
Glamour with Purpose
Co-chaired by Alyce Panico and Claudia Poccia, and supported by a powerhouse host committee that included Joseph Altuzarra, Linda Fargo, Nina Garcia, Dee & Tommy Hilfiger, Donna Karan, Nolan Meader, and Jason Wu, this year’s gala radiated purpose and poise.
As the final awards were presented and the evening drew to a close, the sentiment lingered: fashion is not just about what we wear — it’s about what we stand for.
The Verdict
The 41st FGI Night of Stars wasn’t just another glamorous evening in Manhattan — it was a statement. A reminder that innovation and beauty can coexist with mentorship, purpose, and community.
And as the lights dimmed over Rockefeller Center and the last toast was made, one truth remained: in the ever-evolving world of fashion, the stars may change, but the brilliance endures.