Whether you know it as the Oscars of fashion or the biggest party of the year, the Met Gala is, as my colleague Laird Borrelli-Persson has previously written, the “hottest ticket in town.” This year, the starry event is back on the first Monday in May, and celebrities are beginning to turn towards New York City for the evening of mesmerising fashion.
If you’re anything like us, you’re probably champing at the bit, waiting impatiently for the exhibit, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty” to open on 5 May so that you can make your way to the museum to feast your eyes on the iconic designer’s detailed legacy—from the statement-making pieces that were brought to life on the runway to the pages and pages of his initial sketches. Or, perhaps you’ll happen to be in town the weekend leading up to the fête, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star-studded red carpet—where there’s always inevitably some sort of surprise—before the fundraising event begins that evening. For such an endeavour, it only seems apropos to stay where luminaries have made their way in and out. Below, some of our favourite hotels with an impressive client list.
The Standard, High Line
Since 2010, the Standard’s lounge on the 18th floor has been the after-party spot. The Top of the Standard instantly commands your attention with the bar’s gilded centrepiece, reminiscent of a trumpet flute, and its floor-to-ceiling windows that provide incredible panoramic views of New York City and the Hudson River. (Plus, remember when Madonna made this hotel the set for her electrifyingly OTT “Bitch I’m Madonna” music video?) After a massive dance party, imagine being able to conveniently take the elevator down a few floors to your room, waking up to the same vista you partied away with.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel
Since its opening in August 2016, the fashion set have been flocking to The Beekman. Not only was it the location for Valentino’s Pre-Fall 2017 show and Billy Reid’s Fall 2017 Menswear collection, but even before the hotel’s arrival, it was also where the Maison Martin Margiela x H&M launch party was thrown. Here, comfortable rooms are characterised by velvet and leather furnishings and the rooftop dining experience on a wisteria-adorned terrace has turned into one of the most sought-after reservations downtown. But before you leave, don’t forget to capture a photo of the vertigo-inducing atrium.
The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel
Open since 1930, The Carlyle has a rich history and has seen its fair share of royals, heads of state, and A-listers, including the likes of Princess Diana, President John F. Kennedy, Prince William and Kate Middleton, George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Cardi B. From the black and white–marbled lobby with Art Deco motifs to the luscious suites (several of which are outfitted with baby grand pianos), The Carlyle is what you want out of an Upper East Side hideaway.
The Mark
A smidge closer to the Met than The Carlyle, many gala attendees get ready at The Mark. Selena Gomez, Kendall Jenner, Kerry Washington, Emma Watson, Tom Brady, and Gisele Bündchen are just a few names that have been spotted stepping through the hotel’s doors. It’s also where many designers have held their after-parties, including Michael Kors in 2015 and Donatella Versace in 2018. But to really throw it back, it’s where Oprah, Pharrell Williams, and Diddy were partying it up at one of the 2010 after-hours soirees.
The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, New York
If you were one of the bystanders on 5th Avenue in 2019, you’ll likely recall Lady Gaga’s grand entrance by foot in her flowy Brandon Maxwell cape dress with a full entourage that helped carry her 25-foot train. The award-winning singer and actor chose the Pierre as her spot to prep for the night, and she wasn’t alone. The hotel overlooking Central Park also welcomed guests like Gigi Hadid, Cole Sprouse, Mindy Kaling, Julianne Moore, and Dame Joan Collins, who walked out arm-in-arm with Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli. And it’s no wonder that so many would choose the five-star property as a place to call their temporary home. Having been around since 1930, fashion legends such as Coco Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, and Hubert de Givenchy have all graced the Pierre’s hallways.
The Surrey
Located on 76th Street just a few blocks from the Met, The Surrey was favored by many celebrities to get ready for the gala in 2019. It was here that Hailey Bieber slipped into her thong-bearing gown by Alexander Wang; Céline Dion donned her dramatic Noel Stewart headpiece and fringed Oscar de la Renta bodysuit; Ashley Graham got ready in her logo-studded Gucci-Dapper Dan blazer dress; and Serena Williams slid into her Nike x Off-White Air Force One sneakers. Aside from all of the stars and luxurious bedrooms—some even with terraces—you’ll find a private roof garden at the hotel reserved just for members and guests that offers up incredible views of the New York City skyline as well as a café by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud.
The New York Edition
While Ian Schrager has also opened his second New York City Edition hotel in Times Square, bringing out a drove of models for the opening party, it’s unlikely celebrities will be willing to give up the first property’s less crowded corner of Madison Square Park for the hustle and bustle of 47th Street. In addition to being the site for Rihanna’s Fashion Week party, and the 2016 ACE Awards, Victoria Beckham has also been seen leaving the chic hotel for a few years now. Simple, but elegant, the bright white and cream–color rooms are contrasted by dark walnut headboards and nightstands, while the faux fur throw strewn over the bed adds a hint of lavishness. It’s no wonder Posh Spice has made the New York Edition her stomping grounds.
Four Seasons Hotel New York
The Four Seasons is a must for the Ty Warner Penthouse, one of the most expensive hotel suites in North America. Occupying the entire 52nd floor, 700 feet above street level with impressive views, amenities include four balconies, a fully outfitted library, unlimited massages, an infinity soak tub in the onyx and rock crystal–clad master bathroom, and a chauffeured Rolls-Royce to top it all off.
This article was first published in Vogue.com.
