On a particularly wet Tuesday night in New York, the Phoenix House hosted its annual Fashion Award Dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street. A group of stylish guests, including Lauren Santo Domingo, Vogue’s Sara Moonves, and Andrew Rosen, braved the elements to help raise awareness for substance abuse and addiction, as well as to toast this year’s honorees who were awarded for their leadership in fashion, beauty, retail, and media. But with holiday party season just heating up, even the most dreary of forecasts didn’t stand a chance in putting a damper on the evening s mood. “It’s become a beacon of light and supports so many people who are suffering from addiction,” said Proenza Schouler’s Lazaro Hernandez, who was honored with fellow PS designer Jack McCollough. “It’s just great to be here.”
A similarly sunny disposition was further echoed by honoree Marc Metrick. Prior to delivering a moving speech about overcoming his personal struggle with alcoholism, the president of Saks Fifth Avenue touched on the power of positive thinking, and for that matter, festive dressing. “For people who love fashion, it doesn’t mater if it’s raining—they want to have joy,” he said. “Plus, it’s a great cause, so all around very good for the fashion industry.” Michael Clinton, too, took a light-hearted approach when he ascended the stage to thank guests for their time and support. “You could have been home binge-watching The Crown tonight, and lapping up all that great twentieth-century fashion!” he said. Given that the occasion raised just more than $1 million in funding for the nonprofit’s prevention, treatment, and recovery programs, the future is looking bright for those who find hope at the Phoenix House.
