Alexandre Birman and Vogue’s Willow Lindley Host a New York Fashion Week Luncheon

Ryan Sides

It’s that time of year again! Enter New York Fashion Week, a multi-day, multi-show saga where designers, editors, and fashion lovers pull out all the stops. Rain or shine, shoes—stilettos, cowboy boots, kitten heels, clogs, sandals, whatever they may be—remain the unsung heroes of NYFW.

So, it felt fitting to kick off the jam-packed days ahead with a few notes from Vogue’s director of accessories and collaborations, Willow Lindley, accessories editor Ciarra Lorren-Zatorski, and Brazilian designer Alexandre Birman. Hosted at Fasano Restaurant, the duo gathered the Vogue100 community for an intimate luncheon and exclusive styling session.

Guests were welcomed with two menus: one for the Italian-inspired three-course meal and one to design a custom pair of Clarita heels. Worn by the likes of supermodels including Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Gisele Bundchen and Oscar-winning actresses like Julia Roberts, Scarlett Johansson, and Gwenthy Paltrow, the Clarita has walked many lives. Debuted in 2013, the timelessly feminine shoe is one of Birman’s core silhouettes and is a best-seller.

“I’m delighted to be with you all during one of the most exciting weeks in New York,” Birman smiled. “Designing beautiful shoes is my passion, and I m thrilled to watch every one of you start your own journey here today.”

While guests enjoyed a decadent lunch, Birman offered styling and colorway suggestions to ensure everyone went home with the perfect pair of Claritas. Soon, the table began to trickle out as guests hurried to catch runway shows and presentations across town (and in NYFW traffic nonetheless!). No matter where they were going, everyone stepped out wearing a little piece of Clarita. A leather bracelet adorned with the signature knot was a touching parting gift to all guests. The keepsake will inevitably tie the group together as we head into the busy month of global fashion weeks ahead.