An evening celebrating fashion, creativity, and the people moving both forward, Fashion Group International’s 42nd annual Night of Stars brought an extraordinary gathering to New York City’s Rainbow Room on October 14, 2026. With the theme “The Modernists,” this year’s gala recognized six leaders whose work influences how we dress, experience beauty, and connect with culture.
For me, the evening held a particularly special milestone: the opportunity to participate in the red carpet festivities and interview some of the distinguished guests. Being invited to ask a few fun questions was one of my highlights of 2026. I am so grateful to everyone who made this first-time red carpet interviewer feel welcome and approached our conversations with such warmth and graciousness.
Celebrating the People Behind the Vision
This year’s honorees represented the many creative disciplines that shape the fashion industry, from design and styling to communications, beauty, and philanthropy.
Wes Gordon, Global Creative Director of Carolina Herrera, received the Fashion Visionary Award, presented by Paige Paul. His recognition celebrated his creative leadership and contribution to contemporary American fashion.
Roksanda Ilinčić, founder and creative director of ROKSANDA, was presented with the Fashion Star Award by Jonathan Saunders, Creative Director of Kate Spade New York. Her expressive use of color, sculptural silhouettes, and attention to craftsmanship have given her work a distinctive place in fashion.
The Media Leadership Award went to Lucien Pagès, with Nicole Phelps, Director of Global Vogue Runway, presenting the honor. The recognition highlighted the role of communications in introducing creative voices to the world and shaping the stories behind influential fashion houses.
Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of The Estée Lauder Companies, received the Beauty Award, presented by Aerin Lauder, for her leadership and work building globally recognized beauty brands.
Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger received the Style Award in Honor of Edith Head, presented by Christian Siriano. Her orees, business leader, designer, and philanthropist Henry R. Muñoz III received the Changemaker Award, presented by actor, writer, and producer Tonatiuh, for his work across design, architecture, culture, and institutional equity.
A Guest List as Stylish as the Occasion
The gathering included Vera Wang, Brandon Maxwell, Linda Fargo, Sybil and David Yurman, Fern Mallis, Ruben Toledo, Vlada Roslyakova, Kate Barton, Gary Wassner, Olympia of Greece, and Jean Shafiroff, Jean Claude Langerholc, among other notable guests.
Also in attendance were Katya Tolstova, Olga Ferrara, Nolan Meader, and Sergio Soldano Creative Directors Giovanni Premoli and Dario Di Bella.
With so many different creative perspectives represented, the evening offered a reminder of just how many people and disciplines contribute to fashion’s cultural influence.
Thoughtful Details Throughout the Evening
The celebration opened with a Simon G. Jewelry–sponsored cocktail reception, hosted by the brand’s Chief Operating Officer, Brooke Brinkman, before guests gathered for dinner and the awards ceremony.
For the occasion, Simon G. Jewelry created a commemorative brooch for each honoree, interpreting “The Modernists” through the house’s craftsmanship and design.
Italian fashion house Sergio Soldano also supported the evening, gifting guests exclusive Sinopia Tote Bags. Under the creative direction of Giovanni Premoli and Dario Di Bella, the revived heritage brand brought its own artistic perspective to the celebration.
Additional event sponsors included Scent Marketing, Inc., M·A·C Cosmetics, The Estée Lauder Companies, and Location 8.
Supporting Fashion’s Next Generation
Beyond the celebration, Night of Stars raises funds for the professional and educational opportunities at the heart of Fashion Group International’s mission.
Proceeds support mentorship, scholarships, educational programming, professional development, and community grants, including initiatives administered through The Fashion Group Foundation.
FGI President and CEO Maryanne Grisz emphasized the organization’s continuing commitment to connecting creative professionals and helping talent grow at every career stage. Alyce Panico, FGI Chairperson of the Board and event co-chair, reflected on the evening’s theme as a celebration of people willing to challenge convention and bring new possibilities into view.
The gala was co-chaired by Alyce Panico and Claudia Poccia, with a committee comprising Carlos Campos, Nicole Fischelis, Nolan Meader, and Karen Bromley.
For NS Lifestyles, it was a privilege to take part in an evening that celebrated both remarkable careers and the opportunities being created for those just beginning. Thank you to Fashion Group International for including me in such a memorable night and to the red carpet guests who made a new experience so much fun.
Learn more about Fashion Group International at fgi.org and follow @fginyc.
Event photography: Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images.
Some fashion purchases are impulsive. Others become lifelong investments. A beautifully crafted leather jacket is one of those timeless wardrobe staples that never goes out of style—equally chic with jeans and a white T-shirt or layered over an elegant dress for an evening out.
At NS Lifestyles, we love discovering brands that prioritize quality, craftsmanship, and enduring style. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Belzette, a luxury fashion brand creating beautifully designed leather jackets for women who appreciate timeless sophistication.
The Story Behind Belzette
Founded by a trained architect and an accomplished interior designer, Belzette brings a unique design perspective to fashion. Drawing inspiration from architecture and interiors, the brand focuses on clean lines, beautiful proportions, and thoughtful details.
Rather than following fleeting trends, Belzette creates sophisticated leather jackets designed to remain wardrobe favorites for years to come.
Timeless Style Meets Exceptional Craftsmanship
A great leather jacket is one of the most versatile pieces a woman can own. It instantly elevates casual denim, adds polish to tailored trousers, and creates an effortlessly chic look when paired with a feminine dress.
Belzette’s jackets are crafted from premium leather selected for its beauty, durability, and luxurious feel. Over time, the leather naturally softens and develops character, making each piece even more personal to its owner.
With refined silhouettes and meticulous attention to detail, Belzette embraces the concept of understated luxury—beautiful pieces that make a statement without trying too hard.
Why NS Lifestyles Loves Belzette
At NS Lifestyles, we’re always drawn to brands that combine beautiful design with lasting quality, and Belzette delivers both.
Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or searching for that perfect investment piece, a Belzette leather jacket is a stylish addition you’ll reach for season after season.
In a world of fast fashion, Belzette reminds us that true luxury never goes out of style.
Discover Belzette
Explore the collection and discover beautifully crafted leather jackets designed to become lasting wardrobe favorites.
Shop the collection: www.belzette.com
Follow Belzette on Instagram for styling inspiration, new collections, and a closer look at the brand.
Some of the most meaningful stories begin with the people who shape our lives. For author and illustrator Judith, Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures began with her father’s love—and a desire to carry the lessons he taught her into the lives of a new generation.
After losing her father in February 2025, Judith turned to writing and illustration as a way to remember him. What emerged was a children’s book inspired by kindness, compassion, hope, and the bond between a father and daughter. Through her characters, Light and Shadow, she created a place where those memories could live on, offering her grandchildren a way to know the special man who helped shape her world.
At NS Lifestyles, we love discovering the personal stories behind creative work. In our conversation with Judith, she shares how faith supports her through grief, why she chose to write for children, and what she hopes families will find within the pages of her books.
A Conversation with Judith
What inspired you to become an author, and why did you feel drawn to writing for children?
My dad passed away in February of 2025. Through my grief, I felt inspired to write and illustrate the lessons he taught me in the form of a children’s book so that I would always remember him and those beautiful life lessons he taught me. I felt drawn to do this in the form of a children’s book so I could pass down these lessons to my grandchildren, whom I hope will know that my father was such a special, intelligent, and wonderful man.
What sparked the idea for Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures, and what does the title mean to you personally?
My father always referred to me as the light of his life, and truly made me feel as though I was the light of any room I was in. When creating this book, I could not think of any better name for the two main characters than Light and Shadow – who represent my father and I. I know I will meet my father again one day in heaven, but until then we get to meet in my dreams. This led to the perfect title for my book, Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures.
Your father helped inspire your writing. What memories or lessons from him did you most want to carry into your stories?
My father taught me so many different lessons and showed me love in so many ways. I feel so incredibly blessed that I was able to be raised by a man like him. I think the memories I wanted to carry the most into my stories were kindness, love, hope, compassion, care. We live in a world where we move so fast and get caught up in the hustle of our day-to-day life; I wanted to make sure I shared the life lessons my father taught me that, at the end of the day, matter the most.
How would you describe the role faith plays in your life, and how does it shape the stories you tell?
Faith is such a huge part of my life and has allowed me to meet some incredible people. I spend the vast majority of my day in prayer or listening to prayer while I accomplish my daily tasks. Where many people would listen to music or an audiobook, I find comfort and joy in the quiet moments of prayer throughout my day. Both of my books have characters that have played a role in my spiritual journey through my faith, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the faith-filled life that I do.
Does prayer or quiet reflection play a part in your writing process? Can you share a moment when it helped you find inspiration or clarity?
I don’t know that there is a specific moment that has led to inspiration for my books in regard to my faith; however, I think I choose to live a life full of prayer and quiet reflection, which allowed me to create these beautiful books during a time of grief for my father. It is through prayer I felt called to write my books, and it is also a way I feel closer to my father.
How do you weave values such as kindness, hope, forgiveness, and compassion into a story in a way children can connect with?
The characters in my story and the messages are presented in a simple way, but they have deep meaning. I felt that kids of all ages would enjoy my characters, and as they get older, they will understand the deeper meaning of kindness, hope, forgiveness, and compassion embedded in the characters’ experiences.
What do you hope your stories offer a child or family going through loss, uncertainty, or a challenging time?
I hope that my book can offer a place of comfort for anyone going through a time of loss, uncertainty, or a challenging time in their life. I hope they can realize they are not alone and are truly loved. The characters in my book represent various people in my life who have helped me guide the way through my grief and hard times, and I hope others can realize that there are people out there to help them through it too.
What can you share about your next book and the inspiration behind it?
My next book will share some of the same characters of Light and Shadow’s Dreamy Adventures but also will introduce some new characters, as well! The inspiration behind this second book came as a continuation of the lessons from my father, the love I have for my family and grandchildren, and the response I received from my first book. I felt the need to continue to share with you all how great the lessons that my father taught me were, in a way that relates to people of all ages. Be on the lookout for Light and Shadow’s Unconditional Love coming soon!
Sharing Love Across Generations
What stayed with us most from Judith’s story is her desire to give her grandchildren something lasting: a connection to her father through the love and lessons he shared with her. Her books also offer a starting point for families to talk about kindness, faith, memories, and the people who help us through difficult days.
We look forward to seeing how Light and Shadow’s adventures continue in Light and Shadow’s Unconditional Love.
To learn more about Judith’s books and follow along for updates, visit @lightandshadowbook on Instagram.
And purchase this book HERE!
You asked, and I listened! We’re bringing back Thursday Recipes on NS Lifestyles, since so many of you have been asking me to share them again. I’ve missed this tradition, too, and I’m excited to bring a little weekly cooking inspiration back to your kitchens.
For our first recipe back, I’m sharing a hearty chili from Country Living. Fall always makes me want to gather everyone around the table, and chili is such an easy starting point for a relaxed evening at home.
I’d make this the centerpiece of a casual dinner with warm cornbread and a crisp green salad. Set out a toppings station so everyone can customize their bowl, and keep the table simple with a checked cloth, a few small pumpkins, and plenty of napkins. It’s an easy way to make an ordinary dinner feel like a little occasion.
Two-Beef Chili
Recipe from Country Living • Serves 8–10 • About 3 hours
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 lb chuck, cubed
- Salt and pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 lb ground beef
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp cumin
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 cups beef broth
- Two 28-oz cans diced tomatoes
- Scallions, Cheddar, sour cream, avocado
Directions
Brown seasoned chuck in oil; remove. Soften onion, then brown ground beef. Stir in garlic and spices. Add broth, tomatoes, and chuck. Cover; cook 2–2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until tender. Serve with toppings. www.countryliving.com
Find the original recipe and detailed instructions at Country Living.
Thank you to everyone who asked me to bring Thursday Recipes back! I love hearing what you’re cooking, what your family enjoys, and which recipes you’d like to see next. Here’s to cozy evenings, full tables, and bringing back a favorite NS Lifestyles tradition.
There is nothing quite like the beginning of a new Broadway season. The inboxes are filling with opening-night announcements, reading invitations and exciting show updates. Theater offices are buzzing again after the quieter summer months, and you can feel the renewed energy on the streets of New York City.
Broadway is officially back—and NS Lifestyles is thrilled to experience another exciting season alongside our Broadway partner, producer and theater expert Megan Ann Rasmussen of MAR Productions.
Are You Coming to New York?
If you are planning to visit New York City during the next few months, a Broadway show should absolutely be part of your itinerary.
Whether you are attending with children, grandchildren, a spouse or a group of friends, Megan Ann will help keep NS Lifestyles readers informed about the season’s most exciting and family-friendly productions.
Are there specific shows you are considering? Send us your list and tell us who will be joining you. We will do our best to review those productions and share what you need to know before purchasing tickets—from age recommendations and subject matter to overall entertainment value.
In Development: Spells of the Sea
This summer, Megan Ann and the MAR Productions team spent two weeks in London continuing the development of Spells of the Sea.
Following the show’s Kennedy Center premiere two years ago, its writing team has continued to refine and expand the production. Now, with the involvement of its United Kingdom creative team, the magical musical adventure is receiving exciting new energy.
We cannot wait to follow the show’s continued journey and share updates as the next chapter unfolds.
A Broadway Deep Dive: The Affordability of Cats and Corn
Producing a successful Broadway musical involves far more than creating a memorable story and an unforgettable score. Operating costs, theater expenses, cast size, ticket pricing and weekly attendance all play critical roles in determining whether a production can succeed financially.
At MAR Productions, Megan Ann and her team closely study Broadway’s evolving trends, accomplishments and challenges to make their own productions as strong and sustainable as possible.
Over the summer, MAR Productions associate Scott Burke examined two recent musical endeavors—Cats and Corn—to explore how operating costs, cast size and ticketing strategies can affect a show’s financial viability.
Read the full case study here.
It is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the business of Broadway and the many factors that determine whether a production can thrive.
Looking Ahead: Paddington the Musical
NS Lifestyles and Megan Ann will soon be sharing our family-friendly Broadway highlights for the fall season. In the meantime, there is already one delightful production to add to your spring calendar: Paddington the Musical.
Previews are scheduled to begin on March 30, 2027, followed by an official opening on April 28, 2027, at Broadway’s Al Hirschfeld Theatre.
Megan Ann had the opportunity to see Paddington the Musical in London’s West End, and she believes New York audiences are going to love it. Based on the beloved children’s character, the production promises to be a charming theatrical experience for families and Paddington fans of every generation.
Let Us Help Plan Your Broadway Season
If you are planning a trip to New York—or simply want to enjoy more Broadway this season—send NS Lifestyles the shows on your wish list. Be sure to tell us whether you will be attending with children, grandchildren, friends or your spouse so we can help you decide which productions will be the best fit.
Together with our Broadway partner, Megan Ann Rasmussen, we look forward to bringing you reviews, insider observations, family-friendly recommendations and the latest news from New York’s theater community.
We cannot wait to see you at a Broadway theater this season!
There’s something about Palm Beach that makes you want to spend more time on the water. The sunshine, the waterfront scenery, the warm breeze—it’s the perfect setting to slow down, gather your favorite people, and enjoy an afternoon that feels like a vacation.
Now, Fairfield County Boat Charters is bringing its luxury boat charter experience to the Palm Beach area, giving our Florida readers a new name to know when planning their next day on the water. With Palm Beach now listed alongside its Stamford and Norwalk locations, the company is connecting two destinations so many NS Lifestyles readers call home.
For those who spend summers in Connecticut and winters in South Florida, it’s an especially welcome introduction. And for anyone looking to make their Palm Beach plans a little more memorable, a private boat outing is a wonderful place to start.
A Fresh Way to Experience Palm Beach
We love a beautiful lunch reservation or an afternoon of shopping, but sometimes the best plans take you beyond your usual routine. Picture trading a busy calendar for time on the water, with good company and an entirely different view of the coast.
A boat day can become the centerpiece of a weekend visit, a thoughtful way to celebrate an anniversary, or simply an excuse to get friends together. It’s also a lovely idea when you have guests in town and want to give them a taste of the Florida lifestyle.
Rather than squeezing another activity into the day, make the outing the occasion itself.
Put These Occasions on Your Radar
If you’re wondering when to plan a charter, think about the moments you’d like to make feel special: a birthday with close friends, a couples’ afternoon, a family gathering, or a reunion with friends who are back in town for the season.
For hosts, it’s worth considering a boat outing as part of a Palm Beach itinerary. Start by contacting the team with your preferred date, group size, and vision for the day, then ask which charter options would best suit your plans.
Before booking, confirm departure locations, available durations, guest capacity, and what is included so you can plan the rest of your day around the experience.
At NS Lifestyles, we’re always looking for experiences that help you enjoy our favorite destinations in a new way. Fairfield County Boat Charters’ expansion into Palm Beach is a natural fit for readers who love both the Connecticut coast and South Florida.
Whether you’re arriving for the season, entertaining visiting friends, or looking for a reason to step away from your everyday schedule, consider adding a day on the water to your Palm Beach plans.
Ready to plan your next boat day? Visit Fairfield County Boat Charters to inquire about Palm Beach availability.
Email: info@fairfieldcountyboatcharters.com
Phone: 203-293-8546