The Tamesis
John SchlossbergMatt Borkoski/BFA.com
Few events in New York mark the start of New York’s spring social calendar like the Frick’s Young Fellows Ball. On Thursday night, the museum hosted its annual charity gala, which drew a well-dressed crowd from the worlds of art, fashion, politics and media.
This year’s theme is “Through Time,” paying homage to centuries of world-class art from the museum’s legendary collections. The bold fashion on display certainly brought life to the evening. Several guests in the crowd — including Alessia Fendi, Ivy Getty, Jack Schlossberg and Mark-Francis Vandelli — drew inspiration from Marie Antoinette’s court, with extensive use of bustles and towering pompadours. Others incorporated Renaissance paintings into floral gowns layered with tulle. One attendee even wore an ornate chain headpiece reminiscent of medieval armor, paired with shimmering silver makeup for a playful, modern look
The event highlighted newly launched exhibitions, Gainsborough: Fashions in Portraiture, It explores the connection between an artist’s signature and the style of the time etiquette In 18th century England. Aimee Ng, the museum’s chief curator and the organizer of the exhibition, described the celebration as a modern interpretation of Gainsborough’s spirit. “A night like tonight embodies the individuality that Gainsborough is all about. Whether it’s at H&M or Chanel, you look your best,” she told us Fashion. Gainsborough’s portraits were noble and beautiful, she added, and he conveyed his subjects’ ideas in the way they wanted to be seen. “We don’t know what everyone is wearing, but everyone is participating in the same joy and being themselves. It’s aspirational; it doesn’t have to reflect reality. Tonight felt a little bit like that.”
In the VIP lounge upstairs, partygoers felt like they were immersed in the atmosphere of the glamorous café society of Paris in the 1920s. Guests reclined in luxurious boxes under the soft golden light, sipping Ruinart champagne and enjoying exquisite caviar, temporarily away from the hustle and bustle of the main hall.
It is for all these reasons that this evening became a favorite of Ivy Getty, who has a lifelong appreciation for art. “I grew up in a family where going to museums was a priority,” she said. “We book entire museum tours wherever we visit.” So, in a time when modern technology is getting so much attention, supporting the next generation of artists and nights like this feel especially meaningful, she adds.
The Youth Companions Ball has long been a fixture on the city’s calendar, and many members say it’s the sense of community, in addition to the grandeur and elegance, that keeps them coming back. “This is one of the best ways to meet people in New York who care about the same things as you,” said Casey Kohlberg, vice chair of the evening.
Gainsborough: Fashion in Portrait will be on view at the Frick Museum through May 25, 2026.
