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Tony Bowles

Tony Bowles is one of the youngest sought journalists in the media world. He focuses on lifestyle, travel, entertainment, food, and more! Based in New York City and The Hamptons.

EntertainmentEventsFashion & Beauty

The Blonds Give New York Fashion Week The Grand Finale We Deserved

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

THE BLONDS latest collection is a tribute to the first summer they shared. Filled with escapism, glamour, and nightlife in New York City, all about excess style and memories of those hot nights where Phillipe and David bonded over their mutual love of dance music.

As THE BLONDS researched images for their first book, they recaptured the brand’s signature chain hardware treatment they have dressed everyone from JLo and Cardi B, to Sharon Stone, Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga in.

Guests at Spring Studios on the last day of New York Fashion Week saw  THE BLONDS signature over-the-top looks with golden hardware and lots of Preciosa crystal, along with the second installment of a limited-edition collectible print collection based on an iconic archival piece that will be reimaged as ready-to-wear.

This collection leads up to the launch of their very first cocktail table book entitled “THE BLONDS: GLAMOUR FASHION FANTASY” published by Rizzoli. The Prints Collection, along with THE BLONDS new book are available to order on www.THEBLONDSNY.com  and wherever fine books are sold.

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On The Scene: IKEA Kicks of IKEA Festival with Peter Thomas Roth, Eric Rutherford, Eric West, & more

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

Last night, we were on the scene in Downtown, Manhattan as IKEA US provided an exclusive first look at their upcoming global IKEA Festival, hosted by nine cities including Austin, TX and Brooklyn, NY.

IKEA Festival formally kicks off tomorrow,  starting in Austin, circling the globe, coming back to New York on September 2nd, visiting more global hotspots, and finishing in Paris, France. This preview event did not disappoint and was attended by some of our favorite and most notable influencers and celebrities including Peter Thomas Roth, Eric Rutherford, Eric West, Ralph Souffrant,  Michelle Song, Urszula Makowska and more as the posed for pictures and dressed picture-perfect for their Instagram stories.

Lior Cole

Guests, such as myself sipped on IKEA signature cocktails, ate classic IKEA foods with a modern twist, experienced one-of-a-kind exhibitions celebrating iconic IKEA products over the years, and previewed their upcoming collections KRÖSAMOS and BLÅVINGAD.

Marcus Engman, Chief Creative Officer at Ingka Group (IKEA Retail) says, “It has been a joy to see IKEA Festival grow over the past few years. This time, we are focusing on people who want to spend more time doing their hobbies and passions. We want to show how a little creativity when making your space your own can have a huge impact. A BILLY bookcase is a BILLY bookcase in every IKEA store in the world. It’s when you take it home that it transforms. That intersection is what we want to explore and celebrate during IKEA Festival.”

As well as the nine host cities, IKEA Festival will be taking place in many other IKEA stores globally. With activities like speed dating with home furnishing specialists, food trucks serving up the latest IKEA food offering, events in store, and special offers for IKEA Family members, be sure to check your local IKEA website to see what they have lined up.

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In The Hamptons: Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Hamptons Garden Gala

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

We were in The Hamptons this weekend for the The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation’s second annual Hamptons Garden Gala on August 13th at Patricia and Roger Silverstein’s Water Mill home, which was an intimate benefit, actually more in the nature of a festive dinner party at home with friends and friends of friends.

The heart of the gala which was chaired and hosted by the Silversteins and Vice chaired by Marc Leder, Doug Donaldson, Jean Shafiroff, Susan Shin, Maria Fishel and Pamala Wright along with generous support from Balmain, Ameōn Skincare and Libbie Mugrabi, was Dr. Camillo Ricordi’s briefing on game-changing developments in the fight to cure diabetes as well ground-breaking stem cell research that has far reaching applications for reversing diabetes and fighting other disease aa well as anti-aging protocols.

WATER MILL, NEW YORK – AUGUST 13: (L-R) Patricia Silverstein, Christine Schott, Jean Shafiroff, George Ledes and Roger Silverstein attend the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Hamptons Garden Gala on August 13, 2022 in Water Mill, New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

The gala also featured a touching and inspiring performance by the Chamber Dance Project, choreographed by award winning Diane Coburn Bruning to the vocals of John Lennon’s Imagine.  Roger and Susan Shin were the live auctioneers and one item that was highly sought after were tickets to the Balmain fashion show in Paris! However,  there was another package that trumped everything and that was a special package to spend the day with Dr. Ricordi at the DRI in Miami to learn about the work they do and after that dinner the lucky bidder will dine with the brilliant and charming  doctor.

There was an after party inside the Silverstein’s home at their private “night club” a la St. Tropez, with Roger himself DJ’ing … real estate mogul by day, DJ by night!

WATER MILL, NEW YORK – AUGUST 13: (L-R) Libbie Mugrabi, Susan Shin, Patricia Silverstein, Natalie Lefevre and Suzanne Amini attend the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Hamptons Garden Gala on August 13, 2022 in Water Mill, New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Libbie Mugrabi, flew in from London for this gala, on the heels of her Fashion in Motion opening at the V&A museum, turned DRIF into a verb, writing JustDrif in Glitter on her iconic trucker hats which were gifted to everyone in the gift bags!

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On The Scene: Woodbridge Wines Celebrates New Wine Soda In Downtown NYC

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

Last night we were on the scene with over 200 guests to celebrate the launch of Woodbridge Wine Soda, the brand’s latest innovation – a first-of-its-kind RTD experience that combines crisp white wine with the refreshing flavor, sweetness, and pop of everyone’s favorite classic sodas.

Attendees sampled the newly launched Wine Sodas, while enjoying performances by electric violinist and DJ, Kat V, and exploring rooms decked out in the bright colors of the Wine Soda cans.    

The lively event celebrated the launch of Woodbridge Wine Soda to introduce the drink designed to make wine more accessible and less intimidating, blending sophistication with fun for a beverage that consumers can drink whenever, wherever and however they want.

The new RTD comes in variety six-packs containing three flavors: Grapefruit, Lemon Lime, and Orange – a perfect blend of quality white wine and natural flavors, at 7% ABV per serving.  

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In The City: ST~GERMAIN Liqueur Debuts Fleuriste ST~GERMAIN with Multi-Hyphenate Artist Jameel Mohammed of KHIRY & Paper Floral Designer Zoe Bradley

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

Last night on a perfect summer night in a very downtown New York City, ST~GERMAIN Elderflower Liqueur in collaboration with multi-hyphenate artist Jameel Mohammed of KHIRY and Paper Designer Zoe Bradley launched the 2nd Annual Fleuriste ST~GERMAIN — a veritable paper “fleuriste” or flower shop en français in response to the global flower shortage.

The multi-sensory paper flower shop sought to reimagine the joie de vivre of fresh florals by bringing their eternal joy to life with paper mediums, and spark collaboration and creativity through inspired conversations, exclusive jazz performances, one-of-a-kind bouquets, and whimsical cocktails.

“It’s been an honor to collaborate with Jameel on Fleuriste ST~GERMAIN,” said Zoe Bradley of Zoe Bradley Design. “Working alongside an artistic peer allowed me to endlessly leverage my imagination and create emotive installations that reintroduced the elation of fresh flowers. I hope guests delight in the pleasure and fantasy of our creations.”

The paper flower shop-cum-craft cocktail bar pop-up in the heart of SoHo buzzed, as an illustrious mix of cultural tastemakers, celebrities, musicians and industry innovators mingled and toasted with artfully crafted St~Germain cocktails inspired by Jameel and Zoe —the ‘Songbird’, ‘Fleur Savage’ and ‘Above the Clouds’. 

The intimate soiree previewed the second iteration of the limited-run Fleuriste St~Germain pop-up space, which will be open to New Yorkers from Friday, August 12 (2-8 pm) through Saturday, August 13 (12-8 pm), where they can enjoy exclusive performances by Jameel, spirited dialogues, and paper flower workshops by Zoe along with specialty craft cocktails.

We spotted Actress AnnaSophia Robb, who is set to tie the knot next month, arrived wearing in a stunning yellow Carolina Herrera dress and Mark Cross bag. She chatted with Jameel Mohammed on how her very first cocktail was one whipped up by her mom using a bottle of her favorite elderflower liqueur, St~Germain. Southern Charm star, Venita Aspen, made a surprise appearance, sipping on a ‘Fleur Savage’ St-Germain cocktail as she told fellow guests about her recent move from Charleston to New York just in time for the summer.

Multi-hyphenate artist and Fleuriste St-Germain Creator Jameel Mohammed of KHIRY entranced the crowd with his singing, performing two Ella Fitzgerald songs; ‘Blue Skies’ and ‘I Didn’t Know What Time it Was’.

The evening wrapped with AnnaSophia in the back of house snacking on the leftover hors d’oeuvres, including the miniature tempura rutabagas, and joking that this might be better than the post-event sushi date she had planned with Carrie Diaries alum Stefania LaVie Owen.

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In The Hamptons: Martin & Jean Shafiroff hosted the 2nd annual Southampton African American Museum Benefit

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

The second annual Southampton African American Museum Benefit took place at Blu Mar in Southampton, New York on Thursday, July 28th and was co-chaired by Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Aisha Christian and Michael Steifman.

On the scene we spotted Aisha Christian and Jean Shafiroff  greeting early arrivals in the garden of Blu Mar Southampton including, Brenda Simmons, NYS Assembly Woman, Rebecca Seawright, Mar Morose, Bill Morose, Judith Kasen-Windsor, Anita Farrington and Noel Blackburn.

A museum tour preceding the benefit was led by executive director and co-founder Brenda Simmons and guests were able to see firsthand the vision of Simmons and the labor that it took to pay tribute to the contributions made by African Americans to The Hamptons…16 years to be exact.

In her remarks, Shafiroff she shared and highlighted the contributions of African-Americans made to the community of the Hamptons. “It is a privilege for me to be involved and the African-American community was instrumental to building the Hamptons to what it is today,” Shafiroff said.

The Southampton African American Museum is the first African American site to be historically designated in the Village of Southampton. Its mission is to promote an understanding and appreciation of African American culture by creating programs that will preserve the past, encourage learning, and enhance the life of the community and is definitely worth the visit.

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In The Hamptons: Southampton Arts Center Opens New Summer Exhibition

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

Last Saturday evening during a busy and eventful Hamptons weekend,  the Southampton Arts Center held a party and at that time art lovers came to celebrate and toast three beloved local artists – Deborah Buck, Hal Buckner, and Elizabeth Strong-Cuevas – with the opening of their latest exhibition, Figures Transformed. 

Jean Shafiroff, Simone Levinson, Elyn Kronemeyer

Jean Shafiroff, Simone Levinson, Elyn Kronemeyer

SAC Founding Co-Chair, Simone Levinson, told the crowded room, “Our mission has always been to build a community for the talented artists and art enthusiasts of New York’s East End. As I look around and see all of you here, it is a testament to what we do year-round. Thank you to our artists for inspiring us and to all of you for being part of our community. We’re very excited to have this exhibition as the perfect backdrop for our upcoming 2022 SummerFest! Before we’ve even sent out the invitations, we’ve raised over $500,000 and sold over 400 tickets! THAT is community.”

If you are interested in checking this exhibit for yourself, it is available until September 24, the multimedia exhibition displays works that use the figure as central imagery. Deborah Buck uses anthropomorphic and imaginary figures to create an other-worldly environment that beckons us to partake in a world beyond ours.

Hal Buckner utilizes the female figure to empower, celebrate, and alter the art historical canon. Strong-Cuevas focuses on the figure’s head as a representation of the whole, exploring inner consciousness, outer space and communication through space and time. The show is curated by Christina Mossaides Strassfield and sponsored by Sylvia Hemingway and Lana Jokel.

On September 1st  the Southampton Arts Center will have their SummerFest event  and at that time they will be honoring Helena and Rob Vahradian.

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In The Hamptons: Jean & Martin Shafiroff Host Stony Brook Southampton Hospital Summer Party Kick Off

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

It was another busy weekend in The Hamptons, but we made time to be with New York philanthropist and author Jean Shafiroff, and her husband, vice chairman of wealth management and investment banking firm Stifel, Martin Shafiroff, as the pair hosted the Stony Brook Southampton Hospital Summer Party Kickoff at their beautiful Southampton home on July 29th.

Among the many notable guests were: fashion icon Fern Mallis, Presidential award recipient and former Vicar General for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Fr. Alex Karloutsos and his wife Xanthi; Media Personality and TV Host, Valerie Greenberg; TV personality and property developer Harry Rubin, former creative director for H by Halston and TV personality Cameron Silver; celebrity photographer and columnist Patrick McMullan; NY State Assemblyman Fred Thiele; Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman, Chief Administrative Officer of Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, Robert Chaloner, philanthropists and Hospital trustees Laura Lofaro Freeman and Allison Morrow.

“My husband Martin and I are so pleased to be able to support the hospital in every way we can. The Summer Party is the hospital’s biggest fundraiser and all proceeds go to the Emergency Departments in both Southampton and the new East Hampton facility. Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is the only hospital on the South Fork and provides first class healthcare services to our community. The Hospital is essential for everyone who spends time here, as no one wants to live in a community without access to excellent healthcare,” says Jean Shafiroff.

“It is wonderful to see so many of our loyal and generous donors together again and to be able to thank so many of them in person for all they do.  Our Summer Party, the longest and most successful fundraiser in the Hamptons has been a ‘gala in your garden’ in host-at-home format for the last three years.  Next year, for our 65th anniversary, we are planning to be back in person,”adds Robert Chaloner.

Guests enjoyed the beautiful waterfront patio and gardens, as well as delicious catering by Cornelia Guest Events all donated by Martin & Jean Shafiroff. Alex Donner donated the entertainment. In a town of excess and beauty, it is reassuring to know that many people are committed to providing affordable healthcare for all.

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Shutterfly Is Going Viral With Popular TikTok Stars With Latest Home Collection

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

It was only a matter of time before TikTok’s influence expanded—from the music we listen to, to the places we visit, to the weird trends we try and now that influence and creativity is coming to a home near you with a special collaboration with Shutterfly that officially launches today!

The collective is a first of its kind, limited-edition capsule collection designed and inspired by a diverse roster of four digital icons. Spanning from comedians, to entertainers and more, the roster includes influencer and viral social media sensation, Brittany Broski, entrepreneur and dating expert Serena Kerrigan, comedian and author Elsa Majimbo, and actor and digital creator Chris Olsen. The creators are paired with four Spoonflower Independent Artists, who helped bring each of their personalities and four product categories to life.

Shutterfly’s focus on expanding its custom design space will allow the brand to pivot into new spaces while tapping into current industry trends and evolving the way consumers shop. The Collective celebrates the addition of 4,000 thousand new artist-sourced designs available in home decor and gifting items on the Shutterfly platform.

The Shutterfly Collective will be available for purchase beginning today through August 23, 2022 on www.Shutterfly.com and will feature exclusive, one-of-a-kind designs on coffee mugs, blankets, journals and pillows ranging in retail price between $16.99  and $79.98.

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New must-visit French restaurant Maison Close opens in SoHo today

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

If you are looking for a new downtown restaurant to enjoy with your friends or even a solo date (treat yourself) then you are in luck! Offering a sanctuary for celebration and luxury that blends the greatest aspects of New York and French culture, Maison Close officially opens today in the heart of Manhattan with approachable French cuisine, elevated beverages, and a celebratory atmosphere that makes both residents and visitors feel at home.

Maison Close’s unparalleled vibe dining experience features a menu of sophisticated, yet accessible French dishes developed by Executive Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux (Louis XV in Monaco, Trianon Palace in Versailles, Plaza Athénée in Paris, Le Jules Verne in Paris and Benoit in New York) including: 

  • Belle Sole Meunière pan seared with a butter foam  
  • Cote de Boeuf served with Choron and Peppercorn sauce  
  • Crepe Suzette with Grand Marnier flambee  
  • Other carefully curated dishes include Tartare de Boeuf au Couteau, Artichauts à la Barigoule and La Grande Tour featuring Beausoleil oysters, Australian shrimps, whole Maine lobster, king crab legs and caviar. 

Guests can also unwind at the restaurant’s luxurious bar featuring expertly crafted cocktails such as Madame Claude with Grey Goose Poire Ginger, lemon and cucumber juice, and rose seltzer, L’Amour en Cage with Remy Martin V, golden berries, lemon juice, sugarcane and egg white, and La Turlutte with Bombay Sapphire Gin, fresh raspberries, meadowsweet cordial, lemon juice, and Moët & Chandon Imperial Champagne.
“When you enter Maison Close, it feels as though you’ve entered the dining room of your oldest friend,” says Chef Lechantoux. “Our menu modernizes the idea of traditional French dining, and I’m excited to bring a fresh take on this classic cuisine to New York City.” 
Maison Close is located at 15 Watts Street New York, NY 10013. The restaurant will be open Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM – Midnight, and Sunday from 11AM – 7PM. Beginning August 6th, brunch will be served Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM – 6PM and Sunday from 11AM-7PM. Dinner service will begin at 6PM Tuesday-Friday and 7:30PM on Saturday until closing. 

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