Stories

Bronson van Wyck, the world-renowned party planner behind unforgettable events for presidents, pop stars, and royalty, shares insights from his journey from a small Arkansas town to global stages. Raised in a place with no distractions, Bronson learned hospitality as an art of creating immersive experiences, an approach he still applies when crafting bespoke celebrations. In this candid interview, he reveals his secrets to successful event planning—like the “twenty-minute rule” to keep energy flowing—and the importance of making guests feel truly welcomed. From disastrous stolen wedding trucks to backstage moments of quiet romance, Bronson’s stories highlight the magic and mayhem behind the scenes. His philosophy? A great party is about generosity, connection, and unforgettable moments that make everyone feel part of something special.

Fabien Baron has crafted an extraordinary career over the past 36 years, blending boldness, simplicity, and provocation across typography, packaging, photography, and design with unwavering dedication to craftsmanship. From launching Kate Moss's career through intimate, raw campaigns with Mario Sorrenti to pushing creative boundaries in film and product design, Baron's work remains strikingly honest and innovative. Celebrated for his intuition and refusal to cut corners, he continues to evolve, now exploring longer-form films and fine art with the same fearless spirit. His new monograph, *Fabien Baron: Works 1983–2019*, offers an immersive retrospective that reveals the compelling themes and mindset behind his legendary artistry, underscoring a life lived with passion and a refusal to take work too seriously—making every project "a blast of good times."

Bronson van Wyck, renowned party planner to celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Beyoncé, shares expert tips from his new book Born to Party, Forced to Work to help you host unforgettable celebrations this holiday season. From practical advice like photographing your space before rearranging furniture to ensure a perfect setup, to making meaningful connections with guests throughout the event, van Wyck emphasizes the art of thoughtful hospitality. He reveals insider design secrets inspired by Dutch still lifes and color theory, and advocates for layered lighting to create the perfect ambiance. His take on food and drink encourages playful contrasts—imagine fried chicken on silver platters alongside sophisticated mezcal flights. When it comes to wrapping up a party, he suggests smooth transitions like group outings to keep spirits high without harsh goodbyes. With decades of experience and a knack for turning parties into immersive experiences, van Wyck's insights guarantee your next event will be as joyous to host as it is to attend.

Fabien Baron’s new book, *Fabien Baron: Works 1983-2019*, offers a stunning retrospective of the acclaimed creative director’s influential career, showcasing over 30 years of groundbreaking art direction, design, and image-making. Celebrated by Vanity Fair as “the most sought-after creative director in the world,” Baron’s work spans typography, packaging, product, furniture, and interior design, revealing his unique aesthetic vision. Featuring collaborations with icons like Vogue Paris editor-in-chief Carine Roitfeld and photography legends, the book blends a design manual with a manifesto, enriched by insightful text from Adam Gopnik and a foreword by Kate Moss. Beyond the pages, Baron continues to inspire with new films, a fresh studio, and upcoming exhibitions, making this volume a must-have gift for anyone captivated by style and creativity.

Legendary event planner Bronson van Wyck draws festive inspiration from his Arkansas childhood and the timeless nativity story in his new book, Born to Party, Forced to Work. Recounting the rich traditions of Christmas at Arrowhead Farms—where theatrical family performances, wreaths from magnolia trees, and quirky culinary delights like quail wrapped in bacon created a season-long celebration—van Wyck reveals how the magic of the holidays truly begins with heartfelt preparation. Blending profound messages of hospitality with his signature flair for unforgettable gatherings, he offers readers a glimpse into crafting intimate, joyful celebrations that honor both heritage and creativity.

Bronson van Wyck, America’s premier event and party planner, effortlessly blends hard work with high-spirited celebration, as captured in his acclaimed 2019 book, Born to Party, Forced to Work. From a humble upbringing in Arkansas to orchestrating unforgettable soirées like Sean “Diddy” Combs’ 40th birthday, van Wyck draws inspiration from art, culture, and even the likes of Baz Luhrmann and Madonna. Amidst his reflections on the state of democracy and personal milestones like planning his parents’ 50th anniversary surprise, he remains a vibrant force in the party scene, offering readers a dazzling look at the craft of celebration through stunning visuals and insider stories that will inspire any aspiring host.

Fabien Baron, a renowned art director, has shaped the world of fragrance design for over 30 years, creating iconic bottles like L’Eau d’Issey, CK One, Acqua di Giò, and the minimalist NARS scent. Despite the abstract nature of designing for something intangible like fragrance, Baron’s innovative concepts—ranging from bilingual puns to striking minimalism—have redefined perfumery aesthetics and helped launch some of the most successful scents in history. His work reflects a harmonious blend of art, storytelling, and client collaboration, making him a visionary whose influence spans fashion, advertising, and design. Exploring his career in the book *Fabien Baron: Works 1983-2019* reveals a journey of creativity and bold ideas that continue to captivate and inspire.

The new Rihanna visual autobiography offers an intimate journey into the life of the multifaceted superstar, presented in stunning limited editions that merge art and luxury. Collaborating with The Haas Brothers, Rihanna’s bespoke bookstands capture her iconic style, with one inspired by her tattooed hands gently cradling the Fenty x Phaidon edition, and another, the opulent Luxury Supreme edition, featuring unique gold-toned sculptural elements and innovative fabric textures called vermiculation. This fusion of music, art, and design not only honors Rihanna’s creative legacy but also elevates the book to a collectible work of art, with exclusive details like shimmering endpapers hiding her name in a delicate web-like pattern.

Bronson van Wyck, the internationally acclaimed event planner and author of *Born to Party, Forced to Work*, draws on his wild nightlife experiences in New York City to craft unforgettable celebrations. From his early adventures exploring iconic clubs like Studio 54—where celebrities mingled with downtown artists—to producing dazzling events filled with glitter and glamour, Bronson’s stories capture the essence of legendary parties. His book offers a vibrant mix of insider tips and inspiration for creating ultimate, intimate celebrations that are as enjoyable to host as they are to attend, infused with the spirit of nightlife's golden era.

Sean Combs’ 40th birthday bash was nothing short of legendary, masterminded by renowned event planner Bronson van Wyck. Eschewing tradition, Combs transformed the classic Truman Capote Black and White Ball into a daring black-on-black extravaganza at the Plaza Hotel, complete with Juilliard ballerinas, a sensory garden labyrinth, lacquered crabapple trees, fox fur banquettes, and a rock-crystal bar serving his own Cîroc vodka. Just before the party kicked off, Combs challenged the team with a last-minute wish for snow indoors—an ambitious and seemingly impossible idea that was spectacularly achieved with a snow machine, delighting guests and epitomizing his flair for the over-the-top. This unforgettable celebration, detailed in Van Wyck’s book *Born to Party, Forced to Work,* offers a masterclass in creative party planning and the art of turning dreams into dazzling realities.

Fabien Baron's new book, *Works 1983-2019*, offers an immersive retrospective of the visionary art director's groundbreaking career, tracing his journey from a young Parisian newcomer in New York to a trailblazing force in fashion and design. Celebrated for provocative campaigns like Calvin Klein Jeans’ daring 1996 shoot, which sparked controversy and even an FBI inquiry, Baron's transformative work also revitalized iconic brands such as Burberry with a modern logo and witty, soap-opera-inspired campaigns. In a bold 21st-century twist, he redefined advertising for Bottega Veneta by creating surreal films that led the print campaigns, seamlessly blending art, cinema, and fashion. Featuring insights from luminaries like Adam Gopnik and Kate Moss, this career-spanning volume reveals the creative genius that Vanity Fair dubbed "the most sought-after creative director in the world."

Bronson van Wyck, renowned for his mastery of celebration, shares the art of entertaining in his new book, *Born to Party, Forced to Work*. Drawing from countless glamorous events—and a few memorable near-disasters—he reveals how quick thinking and creativity can rescue even the most high-stakes soirées. One unforgettable story captures a surprise birthday in New York, where a locked dressing room imperiled the arrival of Earth, Wind & Fire. With no band ready and tension rising, van Wyck ingeniously used music cues and heartfelt toasts to coax the band onto the stage, turning potential embarrassment into an electrifying party moment. Packed with such vivid tales and expert insights, his book is a treasure trove for anyone eager to master the unforgettable celebration.

Bronson van Wyck, a celebrated event producer, shares his captivating journey from a struggling actor who once famously crashed the Vanity Fair Oscars party to a maestro of high society celebrations in his new book, *Born to Party, Forced to Work*. Filled with vivid anecdotes and insider tips, the book offers a masterclass in the art of throwing unforgettable parties, blending glamour, etiquette, and fun. Van Wyck’s stories bring together celebrities, artists, and social elites, while his practical advice on everything from seating protocol to after-party etiquette makes this a must-read for party planners, hosts, and social enthusiasts alike. With stunning visuals and candid insights, the book beautifully captures the dynamic world of modern celebration and social rituals.

Kate Moss, a legendary figure in fashion, praises art director Fabien Baron for his visionary creativity, describing him as someone who not only stays ahead of trends but shapes the future of style. Their remarkable collaboration began when Baron gave Moss her first major shoot, spotting her unique potential before she became a household name. Their bond deepened at Calvin Klein, where his exacting yet free-spirited approach fostered iconic campaigns and a lasting friendship filled with humor and creativity. Moss celebrates Baron's rare ability to blend relentless precision with imaginative brilliance, making magic happen and defining cultural moments long before they emerge. For a deeper dive into Baron's groundbreaking work, his monograph *Fabien Baron: Works 1983-2019* offers an inspiring look at his formidable influence on fashion and art.

Fabien Baron, the visionary French-born creative director behind iconic brands like Calvin Klein, Dior, and Gucci, has shaped the aesthetics of fashion, fragrance, and design for over three decades. His first career retrospective, Fabien Baron: Works 1983–2019, offers an immersive, beautifully illustrated exploration of his groundbreaking work—from typography and packaging to furniture and interior design. Featuring contributions from acclaimed author Adam Gopnik and a foreword by Kate Moss, the book delves into Baron's unparalleled ability to blend elegance with edge, as exemplified in his design of Madonna’s 1992 book Sex and the revolutionary CK One fragrance bottle. This stunning volume is a must-have for fashion aficionados and pop-culture fans eager to experience the creative force who has quietly transformed how we see the world.

Giorgio Armani, born on July 11, 1934, has seen his brand thrive not only through his vision but also thanks to the creative talents he collaborated with, such as the celebrated art director Fabien Baron. Known for his iconic work on the 1990s unisex fragrance CK One, Baron brought his minimalist, Bauhaus-inspired touch to Armani’s 1996 launch of Acqua di Giò, designing a simple frosted bottle and a strikingly elegant campaign that became one of the most successful men’s fragrance launches ever. Baron’s philosophy of tailoring each project to the distinct tastes of fashion’s classicists—while avoiding their territorial sensitivities—resulted in a timeless design and campaign that remained unchanged for over a decade. Although Baron is now hesitant to tackle another fragrance due to market saturation, his influential career spanning fashion, magazines, and fine art is celebrated in the forthcoming book *Fabien Baron Works 1983 – 2019*.

Sofia Coppola reflects on her lifelong connection with fashion, particularly her enduring friendship and collaboration with designer Marc Jacobs. From the thrill of discovering Jacobs’s groundbreaking Grunge collection in her early twenties to wearing his pieces at pivotal life moments—weddings, film premieres, and iconic parties—Coppola reveals how Jacobs’s designs have deeply influenced her identity and style. She fondly recalls memorable garments, like a pale blue velvet dress worn before her first wedding and the pastel hues that inspired her film Marie Antoinette, showcasing the intimate bond between fashion, memory, and self-expression. Their shared love for playful, sophisticated aesthetics and Grace Coddington’s evocative illustrations in the book *Marc Jacobs Illustrated* further celebrate this creative synergy spanning decades, highlighting how fashion becomes a tapestry of life’s defining experiences.

Vince Aletti, a dedicated collector and historian of fashion magazines, has amassed an astounding archive of between ten and twenty thousand issues, spanning decades from vintage Vogue to Harper’s Bazaar. Despite the digital age’s dominance, Aletti, who moved to New York in 1967 when print still ruled, continues to buy magazines monthly, carefully curating and rotating his collection in his Manhattan apartment. Known previously as an influential music writer, Aletti’s passion for print endures as he shares highlights from his vast trove in his new book, *Issues: A History of Photography in Fashion Magazines*, offering readers a vibrant glimpse into the evolution of visual culture through the pages of iconic publications.

Marc Jacobs Illustrated is a captivating monograph showcasing over 50 collections from the past 25 years, brought to life through the charming illustrations of Grace Coddington, American Vogue’s creative director at large. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into Marc Jacobs’ career, including his pivotal Spring/Summer 1993 collection for Perry Ellis, where he fused grunge influences from Sonic Youth and Nirvana into his designs. Jacobs reflects nostalgically on this era, sharing anecdotes about his collaborations, the edgy aesthetic of his show, and even his abrupt departure from Perry Ellis. With vivid artwork and personal stories, this book is a treasure for anyone interested in the vibrant history of fashion.

Vince Aletti, celebrated photography critic and historian, shines a spotlight on the rich, often overlooked history of fashion magazine photography in his new book, *Issues: A History of Photography in Fashion Magazines*. Drawing from his extensive personal collection, Aletti showcases iconic work by legendary photographers like Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Deborah Turbeville as well as unsung talents who’ve been forgotten over time. He reveals how fashion magazines, driven by visionary editors and creative directors, served as vital platforms for artistic innovation, blending commerce and art in ways rarely seen elsewhere. From rare vintage editions of *Harper’s Bazaar* and *Vogue* to maverick publications like *Gentry* and *The Face*, Aletti’s book celebrates the enduring power of the physical print medium and its unique ability to contextualize groundbreaking photographic work. For Aletti, fashion magazines remain a vibrant and essential cultural force, defying digital trends while continuing to inspire curiosity, creativity, and passion.

Clifford Coffin was a remarkably talented yet self-destructive photographer whose pioneering work in post-war fashion photography left a lasting, if underappreciated, mark. Brought to British Vogue after World War II, Coffin captured iconic images like Christian Dior’s groundbreaking 1947 ‘New Look’ collection and created striking portraits of cultural icons such as Lucian Freud and Ernest Hemingway. Known for his sharp wit and volatile personality, he also helped popularize the ring light, now a staple in portrait photography. Despite his brilliance, Coffin’s career was brief, cut short by personal struggles and tragedy, including a devastating studio fire. His hauntingly beautiful images, from gritty London ruins to surreal, Magritte-inspired scenes shot for US Vogue, reflect a unique blend of artistry and post-war hope, earning him a place among fashion photography’s greats—albeit one often overshadowed by his contemporaries.

Raf Simons’ Fall Winter 2018 collection, showcased at New York Fashion Week, draws on stark European influences, inspired by the haunting story of German teen Christiane F and accented by the lush floral paintings of Jan Brueghel the Elder, creating a striking juxtaposition of artificiality and sensuality. Meanwhile, Alexandre de Betak’s production for Alexander Wang transforms the runway into a power-dressed office environment inside the iconic Condé Nast building, reflecting Wang’s roots with a sharp, minimalist edge. In contrast, Betak’s show for Jason Wu embraces simplicity with elegant floral columns that highlight Wu’s collection, inspired in part by Memphis Group founder Ettore Sottsass. Together, these shows reveal a fascinating interplay of narrative, art history, and design innovation, underscoring Betak’s reputation as a visionary show producer.

Yves Saint Laurent’s approach to handbags contrasted sharply with later designers who often centered entire collections around leather goods. While YSL initially entrusted handbag production to specialized workshops using both luxurious and unusual materials like tortoise skin and vegetable fibers, his creative vision transformed accessories into innovative art pieces—think book-shaped bags, music satchels reimagined, and velvet evening bags with diamanté charms. Repurposing metal chains as shoulder straps and experimenting with techniques such as studding, perforating, and patchwork, Saint Laurent elevated humble materials into coveted treasures. Though he never placed handbags at the forefront, his distinctive touch made each piece valuable and unique, proving that true style transcends mere materials.

Yves Saint Laurent, renowned for his iconic fashion, viewed shoes as subtle yet essential finishing touches rather than showy statements. His signature low-heeled patent-leather court shoe with a silver buckle, famously worn by Catherine Deneuve in Belle de Jour, exemplifies this philosophy. As demand for his footwear grew, Saint Laurent maintained rigorous quality control, producing limited designs through his in-house workshop and trusted international partners. Rejecting bourgeois conventions, he delighted in pairing deliberately discordant shoes and dresses, embodying a bold, unconventional elegance that celebrated individuality over tradition. For those enchanted by his timeless accessory aesthetics, the book *Yves Saint Laurent Accessories* offers a captivating glimpse into his refined world.

Yves Saint Laurent revolutionized the role of gloves from mere utility to exquisite fashion statements, emphasizing their importance when many women still considered them essential for public appearances. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, YSL favored classic lengths and vibrant colors that complemented shoes and enhanced the overall outfit’s harmony. His creative explorations included gloves embroidered with gems, trimmed with mink or feathers, and crafted from luxurious materials like lace and leather patchwork. Although some designs, such as delicate chiffon gloves, never reached the market, Saint Laurent viewed gloves as invaluable accessories capable of creating dramatic style moments, elevating them to the level of cherished jewelry.