If the Shoe Fits… Manolo Blahnik Tapped Alioune Badara Fall to Kick Off the Community Dinner Series

You can take our baguettes, you can take our rings and watches, but please—don’t take Alioune Badara Fall’s Manolos! The host of the evening burst into The Clocktower’s candle-lit private dining room, breathless and agasp, and exclaimed, “Someone has stolen my Manolos!” All eyes were on Badara Fall, and then immediately, realizing the tongue-in-cheek reference to Carrie Bradshaw, chatter resumed.

Badara Fall was very much still in his Manolos—a pair of sleek black patent loafers with a bow on top, no less. The performative skit was for the model and street style star’s social media channels; one of the creative’s many engaging endeavors to bring everyone in the room together—and that was what the whole night was about.

Manolo Blahnik and Badara Fall had perfectly captured the essence of community. It was the Tuesday ahead of NYFW; a jam-packed day and night of never-ending events, and yet, those gathered at The New York Edition were happy to slow down and spend a relaxed evening together. Upon arrival, people were immediately immersed in the throwback glamour of the opulent ’80s-inspired Gold Room. Models Amina Ladymya and Aweng Chuol sipped Manolo Margaritas near the pool table, where Badara Fall and Ian Jeffrey had taken up a game.

Guests were soon led into the grand parlor for dinner, and immediately, eager peals of excitement rang out. Arriving to their seats, attendees found a custom framed illustration of themselves at their place setting; artist Pepe Muñoz had combed through their feeds to find a favorite fashion moment and capture it as a keepsake. After admiring their portraits, dinner commenced, and the room was abuzz with constant chatter.

It was clear from the lack of silence during the evening that the inaugural Community Dinner had been a success—with many more hopefully on the horizon. Badara Fall had somehow brought 30 people from all walks of life and parts of the world seamlessly together. “This is my 10th year in fashion, and this is also the 100th year of Black History Month,” he said as he stood up, toasting the room. “It means a lot to me to be here with all of you. Each of you really inspire and motivate me.”

As plates of filet mignon and halibut came out, drinks and discourse flowed, and the host worked the room, making sure he personally greeted every single guest. He told attendees how he stayed up past midnight working on the seating chart—he didn’t want best friends sitting near each other creating insular bubbles, or loud people dominating quieter corners. He wanted everyone to truly get to know each other through. And that is exactly what happened. Strangers became friends. Acquaintances became even closer. Phone numbers and Instagram handles were exchanged and promises for catch-ups post-NYFW were made, and everyone left feeling like the industry was a little smaller.