Even the most seasoned guests of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) sometimes yearn for a laid-back evening from the swirl of events. Then, enter two renowned companies that staged the ideal ladies’ night out: Markarian and Larroudé, situated in New York City. Following six months of creative synergy, their partnership produced a stunning Fall collection. Fashion insiders and celebrities both found a welcome break from the hectic NYFW schedule in the evening when they could relax, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and—of course—celebrate in style.
Markarian and Larroudé: Dream Teamwork
The collaboration between Markarian, started by Alexandra O’Neill, and Larroudé, created by Marina Larroudé, brings together two strong, female-led companies. Markarian’s reputation for elegant, feminine designs and Larroudé’s ability to create glitzy but understated shoes help explain the buzz about the partnership.
Originally intending just one wedding shoe, the team soon developed a full-fledged Fall collection with a range of footwear designs, including boots, mules, sandals, and pumps. Reflecting on the collaboration, O’Neill expressed her respect for Larroudé and underlined the need for women-led companies to help one another.
Speaking especially of Larroudé’s attitude to fashion, O’Neill stated, “She’s so beautiful, sweet, kind, and has the best style.” These two designers clearly worked in harmony, not just in the magnificent works they produced together but also in the relationship they developed throughout the process.
An evening to treasure: honoring fashion in Tribeca
The event took place at The Orangery, a trendy area within the newly built Warren Street Hotel in Tribeca. This opulent location, a sister resort to the well-known Crosby Street and Whitby Hotels, offered the ideal backdrop for a fashion-forward yet small supper. The atmosphere seemed more like a laid-back get-together among friends than a normal Fashion Week event, with wildflower bouquets on the tables and a menu of burrata, salads, roast chicken, and grilled salmon.
Actors Elizabeth Gillies, Erinn Westbrook, and Anna Van Patten, among others, wore stunning Markarian dresses with sequins, ruffles, and corsets. An on-site bartender created several glasses of Whispering Angel wine, fiery margaritas, and Palomas to raise the atmosphere as the evening went on.
Fashion Week Free of Demand
The evening stayed laid-back even with the famous guest list and opulent surroundings. Larroudé claims, “This doesn’t even feel like a Fashion Week dinner because it doesn’t feel like work.” With attendees appreciating the chance to catch up and savor the time free from the typical demands of the fashion business, the ambiance was a welcome departure from the hectic nature of NYFW.
ABBA’s best songs were the ideal background for the evening, and music was integral to the laid-back yet joyous mood. The happy enthusiasm in the room embodied the core of the Markarian and Larroudé partnership—fun, free-spirited, and vibrantly alive.
Perfect Fashion Test Drive
Although the evening seemed more like a ladies night out, it also provided the ideal venue for visitors to highlight the most recent creations resulting from the partnership. From embroidered velvet mules to striking boots, guests were anxious to test the brand-new styles when the Fall collection arrived on the scene.
Visitors may “test drive” the newly launched shoes, effortlessly combining comfort with great design. O’Neill couldn’t keep her enthusiasm under control as the partnership developed outside of their original goal. She laughed, not knowing exactly how many pieces there were. “We have everything, and I am rather pleased with how it turned out.”
A Night to Remember: Fashion Gossip and Tequila Shots
No fashion event would be complete without some spontaneity; this meal was no exception. A signature of Markarian’s events, LALO tequila shots were distributed to ensure that those free from an early performance could really let loose. For many, the temptation was strong as the energetic vibe of the evening seized.
Dessert came last; those who could stay were given panna cotta. Editor-in-chief of Glamour Samantha Barry made a courteous leave before dessert to catch a political argument. Others, driven by fashion, stayed late at the Luar afterparty in search of a Madonna sighting and prepared to put their new dance shoes to a genuine test.
Fashion Meets Fun: Why This Cooperation Outfits Us
The Markarian and Larroudé partnership is a monument to the strength of friendship and mutual respect in the fashion business, not simply another fashion show. With different looks and a dedication to quality, both brands—run by women—have found their place in the realm of fashion.
This cooperation emphasizes the beauty of the items and the need to develop solid professional and personal contacts in the sector. For O’Neill and Larroudé, this partnership honors innovation, connection, and the delight of working with someone who more deeply shares their vision.
More than just the events, the spirit of the evening stayed, a mix of fashion, laughter, and camaraderie that embodied what NYFW should be about—more than just the shows—more about the community, the people, and the tales behind the clothing and shoes that adorn the runway.
Finally, a flawless fashion moment
More than simply exquisite shoes and dresses, this cooperation between Markarian and Larroudé celebrates two creative brains joining together in a real and happy manner. Already generating waves, their fall collection is going to be one of the most unforgettable events of NYFW. This dinner party will also be unforgettable.
It was a night full of laughter, camaraderie, and fashion that spoke to the core of industry collaboration—not simply another fashion week dinner. For those fortunate enough to make it, it was a reminder that, ultimately, fashion is more about the people than it is about the clothing.
Check out every look from the Markarian and Larroudé Dinner Party below:
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(All photos are the courtesy of Pierrick Rocher/BFA.com)
