Veruschka and Jackie Rogers: Through the Roof

Friday, pre-hurricane. The excitement before the storm. Rooftop on 10th Avenue Assouline hosted a book party to celebrate a monumental tome, Veruschka. The epitome of fashion in her day, the model Veruschka, now 69, still looks amazing, even wearing a retro look that had no immediate style reference: black harem pants, black jacket, and a black felt helmet-like hair-hugging cloche. Famed Warhol partner and filmmaker Paul Morrissey and designer Diane von Furstenberg, each interviewed for the book, were on hand, as were Sylvia Miles, Patrick MacDonald, Maurizio Padilla, and Lady Bunny. Von Furstenberg greeted the legendary twice Oscar nominated Miles, seated on a white sofa. Miles wanted to see her dress. Von Furstenberg shrugged as if to say, no big deal, and parted her coat. Pretty, said Miles wearing her signature black leggings and a heart sequined cap; she was perhaps expecting something a bit more jazzy for this party that reminded her of the heyday of the '70's. The eclectic crowd marveled at the book, the balmy night, and the view to the neon New Yorker Hotel sign juxtaposed with the Empire State Building. Meantime, that afternoon, rooftop at midtown's Kitano Hotel, the intimate Jackie Rogers runway show, Evening of the Lotus, featured models sporting Madame Butterfly and Lieutenant Pinkerton inspired obis, lime, tangerine, and pink organza strapless cocktail dresses, with military pockets and Japanese linen jackets over wide leg pants, kimono influenced gowns in florals and brocades. As in haiku, Jackie Rogers' work reflects a depth and elegance, perfection in craft and sensibility. Harsh weather may come, but spring, when it follows, will be beautiful.

Regina Weinreich 

Graphic Design: Salpeter Ventura