New York City: Renowned photographer Mert Alas hosted a glamorous gathering at the Clemente Bar, celebrating Valentine’s Day amidst Fashion Week. The event attracted high-profile guests, including Madonna and Joan Smalls, creating a night of connection, artistry, and joy with an emphasis on community and celebration.
Mert Alas, a distinguished photographer known for his influential contributions to the fashion industry, hosted a lavish celebration on Monday evening at the Clemente Bar in New York City. The event coincided with New York Fashion Week and celebrated Saint Valentine, bringing together a host of celebrities and fashion luminaries.
Alas, who has spent three decades capturing some of the world’s biggest stars, outlined his motivation for hosting the gathering. In a statement to Vogue, he expressed, “I like getting people together… In a world where there are crazy things happening, a little escapism every now and then with like-minded people is good.” He elaborated on his passion for forming connections, saying that whenever he visits a new city, his first impulse is to reunite with friends.
The gathering attracted around 150 glamorous attendees, including models and actors such as Joan Smalls, Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, Jessica Stam, and Amelia Gray. Irina Shayk was one of the first guests to arrive, spending quality time with Alas and even participating in a playful photo session with him, where he used an iPhone to capture candid moments. Shayk commented on Alas’ positive impact, stating, “Mert is a very special person to me. He brings a lot of love and happiness, and has an amazing sense of humor.”
As the night progressed, international music icon Madonna made an entrance shortly before midnight, dressed in a stylish ensemble comprising a sheer black top and short skirt that showcased knee-high lace stockings. She quickly reunited with Alas, settling into a cosy conversation with him in a corner of the venue, with nightlife figure Ladyfag joining them shortly thereafter.
Madonna later turned her attention to model and musician Soo Joo Park, who opened the stage with a heartfelt performance from her upcoming debut album. The atmosphere was charged with energy as guests savoured elegantly crafted plant-based hors d’oeuvres while enjoying cocktails prepared by renowned mixologist Monica Berg, who had travelled from London for the event.
Alas effectively curated an environment conducive to connection and celebration, with guests expressing admiration for his hosting abilities. Amelia Gray shared her sentiments, stating, “Every time I’m at a Mert party, I throw out all the stops, and I look as sexy as possible because that’s when I’m in his presence.” She noted that although she had yet to collaborate with him creatively, his imagery serves as a great source of inspiration for her.
The gathering exemplified Mert Alas’ capacity to meld fashion, friendship, and artistry, reinforcing the idea that significant social occasions can thrive within the framework of the fashion calendar.
Source: Noah Wire Services
