Social Life AUGUST 27, 2026
JEAN SHAFIROFF Style and Philanthropy
©2026 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW trademarks are registered trademarks.
THE X7 BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
builtbyoceanco.com
#1
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE FIRM IN THE HAMPTONS
the right representation makes all the difference “Saunders, A Higher Form of Realty,” is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Equal Housing Opportunity.
new estate - bridgehampton south 8 Bedrooms | 10,135+/- SF | .96 Acre | Heated Gunite Pool | Pool House | Home Theater | Wellness Center | Golf Simulator EXCLUSIVE $21.995M | 479PAULSLANE.COM
THE OAKLEY-LEICHT TEAM
PATTY OAKLEY
BRIAN LEICHT
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker
516-639-3487 | POakley@Saunders.com
516-729-6828 | BLeicht@Saunders.com
STAGED TO INSPIRE. DESIGNED TO SELL.
Luxury Staging For Exceptional Homes Every home tells a story. Our role is to ensure that it’s unforgettable. Through carefully curated furnishings, refined styling, and a meticulous eye for detail, Iconic Modern Home creates interiors that inspire confidence, elevate perception, and showcase each property’s full potential. As A Vesta Home Company, we pair local expertise with the resources of a national luxury furnishings and design platform to deliver exceptional results at every scale.
Get in Touch Start Designing… 203-885-9327 info@iconicmodern.com
EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES
4 CAPTAIN BALFOUR WAY, MONTAUK
522 WICKAPOGUE RD, SOUTHAMPTON
6 B EDS | 7+ BAT HS | 1.2 ACRES | 6,530 SQ FT | $10,9 95 ,0 0 0
7 B ED S | 8 + B AT HS | 1. 0 5 AC R ES | 8 ,8 0 0 SQ F T | $ 14 , 6 95 , 0 0 0
TARA CAP RI 631- 741- 1756
G E O F F G I F K I N S 516 - 429 - 6 927
W EB ID 5653249
WEB I D 475 9187
450 SEVEN PONDS TOWD RD, WATER MILL
118 SAGAPONACK MAIN ST, SAGAPONACK
8 B EDS | 10+ BATHS | 1.1 ACRES | 9,910 SQ FT | $11,9 95 ,0 0 0
7 B ED S | 7 + B AT HS | 1. 37 AC R ES | 8 ,5 0 0 SQ F T | $ 21, 9 95 , 0 0 0
JAM ES GIUGLI ANO 631- 456- 3567 | PAT RI CK GI UGLI AN O 6 31 -312 -7933
MI C HELLE B R ESK I N 917 -751 -0 620
W EB ID 5434463
WEB I D 4784 0 27
21 PHEASANT CLOSE E, SOUTHAMPTON
8 BE DS | 9.5 B ATH S | 0.2 ACRES | 12,400 SQ FT | $34,995,000
8 B E D S | 7. 5 B AT H S | 2 . 47 AC R E S | 10 , 0 0 0 S Q F T | $ 16 , 9 95 ,0 0 0
SHAWN ELLIOT T 516-695-6349 | ZACH ELLIOT T 516-695-1547
JAMES GI U GLI AN O 6 31 -4 5 6 -35 67
WE BID 5273772
WEB I D 5 6 54 5 51
672 HALSEY LN, BRIDGEHAMPTON
17 BARN LN, BRIDGEHAMPTON
9 BE DS | 10+ B ATH S | 6 ACRES | 15,000 SQ FT | $24,995,000
6 B E D S | 7. 5 B AT H S | 0 . 96 AC R E S | 6 , 0 0 0 S Q F T | $ 6 , 295 , 0 0 0
GEOFF GIFKINS 516-429-6927 | JAMES GIUGLIANO 631-456-3567
TARA CAPRI 631-741-1756
PATR I C K GIUGLIANO 631-312-7933 | WEBID 5466365
WEB I D 54 3785 6
BRAND | MEDIA | MARKETING | ANALYTICS | STRATEGY | POSITIONING
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and has been compiles from sources deemed reliable. Though information is believed to be correct, it is presented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. © 2025 Nest Seekers International. All rights reserved. Licensed Real Estate Broker NY, NJ, FL, CA, CO, CT. Nest Seekers International fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
2 WEST WATER ST #1A, SAG HARBOR
NESTSEEKERS.COM
THE HAMPTONS | GOLD COAST, LI | NEW YORK CITY | NEW JERSEY | GREENWICH | MIAMI | PALM BEACH | BEVERLY HILLS | COLORADO | ITALY | LONDON | PORTUGAL | ASIA
EXCLUSIVE PROPERTIES
5 BARK CT, WAINSCOTT
153 POND LN, SOUTHAMPTON
4 B EDS | 4.5 BATHS | 1.25 ACRES | 3,900 SQ FT | $ 4 ,95 0 ,0 0 0
10 B EDS | 10 B ATHS | 3 . 6 AC RES | 16 ,0 0 0 SQ F T | $ 49 ,9 95 ,0 0 0
SHAWN ELLIOT T 516-695-6349 | ZACH ELLIOT T 516- 6 95 - 1547
JAMES GI U GLI AN O 6 31 -4 5 6 -35 67
W EB ID 5617043
WEB I D
60 CULVER ST, SOUTHAMPTON
155 DUCK POND LN, SOUTHAMPTON
6 B EDS | 7.5 BAT HS | 0.46 ACRES | 4,500 SQ FT | $ 10 ,495 ,0 0 0
6 B ED S | 7. 5 B AT HS | 1. 9 AC R ES | 8 ,0 0 0 SQ F T | $ 23 , 9 95 , 0 0 0
GEOFF GIFKINS 516-429-6927
PAT RI C K GI U GLI ANO 6 31 -312 -7933
W EB ID 4966642
WEB I D 54 6 6 3 6 5
8 ASHWOOD CT, SOUTHAMPTON
7 BE DS | 7.5 B ATH S | 2.71 ACRES | 6,500 SQ FT | $46,995,000
7 B E D S | 7. 5 B AT H S | 1. 0 2 AC R E S | 7, 5 6 0 S Q F T | $ 5 , 5 95 , 0 0 0
J A ME S GIUGLIANO 631-456 - 3567
D O U G L AS S A B O 516 - 3 82 - 5727 | L AW R E N C E B OA L 6 31 - 624 - 03 81
WEBID 5622701
WEB I D 5 3 82111
111 MAGEE ST, SOUTHAMPTON
120 HALSEY LN, BRIDGEHAMPTON
6 BE DS | 7.5 B ATH S | 0.59 ACRES | 6,000 SQ FT | $7,250,000
9 B ED S | 10 + B AT HS | 2 . 5 AC R ES | 14 ,3 0 0 SQ F T | $ 23 ,9 95 ,00 0
TA R A C A PRI 631-741-1756
JAMES GI U GLI AN O 6 31 -4 5 6 -35 67
WE BID 5622398
WEB I D 5 619 0 8 3
BRAND | MEDIA | MARKETING | ANALYTICS | STRATEGY | POSITIONING
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and has been compiles from sources deemed reliable. Though information is believed to be correct, it is presented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. © 2025 Nest Seekers International. All rights reserved. Licensed Real Estate Broker NY, NJ, FL, CA, CO, CT. Nest Seekers International fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
64A WEST END RD, EAST HAMPTON
NESTSEEKERS.COM
THE HAMPTONS | GOLD COAST, LI | NEW YORK CITY | NEW JERSEY | GREENWICH | MIAMI | PALM BEACH | BEVERLY HILLS | COLORADO | ITALY | LONDON | PORTUGAL | ASIA
Stunning Homes in the Hamptons
R A P H A E L’ S L U X U RY S A L E S A N D R E N TA L S
45 Hillside Dr W, Sag Harbor | $2,195,000 | 4 BR, 3 BA
5 Lincoln Ave, Southampton | $1,195,000 | 3 BR, 2.5 BA
This contemporary o#ers an open living and dining area with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, skylights, and wood burning fireplace. The property is nicely landscaped with a heated gunite pool. Web# 421396
Completely renovated, turnkey home in Southampton, rebuilt from the studs with a modern design. Open-concept living area, eat-in kitchen with stainless appliances and two en suite bedrooms. Web# 409325
81 Harbor Ave, Sag Harbor | $2,250,000 | 4 BR, 2 BA
132 Peconic Hills Dr, Southampton | $2,099,000 | 3 BR, 2.5 BA
This newly renovated cottage, with premium upgrades and a pool, is moments from Sag Harbor Bay and its sandy beach. Light-filled living room and eat-in kitchen with walk out to deck. Also available for rent. Web# 424599
This spacious contemporary is an ideal oasis in the Hamptons no matter the season. Beautifully landscaped grounds with heated pool, fire pit and deeded Peconic Bay access. Also available for rent. Web# 420939
Raphael Avigdor Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker
M 917.991.1077 | O 631.204.2740
raphael.avigdor@elliman.com 2331 MONTAUK HIGHWAY, P.O. BOX 1251, BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY 11932. 631.537.5900 © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
Gorgeous New Construction
W I T H 1 8 S E AT M O V I E T H E AT E R A N D P I C K L E B A L L
Stunning New Construction Estate — 7 Ashwood Court, Southampton | $6,295,000 | 7 BR, 7.5 BA | APPROX. 7,546SF Experience the peak of Southampton luxury with an unparalleled blend of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. On a pristine 0.92-acre lot sits this magnificent three level traditional. At the heart of the home is a chef’s kitchen fitted with sleek marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. The expansive layout o#ers dual primary suites one on the main floor and the second upstairs. The fully finished lower level serves as an ultimate entertainment hub, boasting two guest rooms, two baths, a bonus room, a high-end gym with a sauna, and a fully equipped 18-seat home theater. Featuring a heated gunite pool, a spa, a regulation pickleball court, which can be expanded to accommodate Padel, and an outdoor shower. The fully equipped pool house boasts a full kitchen with an ice maker and a convenient pass-through serving window. Crafted with wood siding and a metal roof, this smart estate includes a 2-car attached garage, 9-zone climate control, municipal water, smart home controls and a whole-house generator. Web# 424686
elliman.com ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. THIS LISTING MAY INCLUDE IMAGES THAT HAVE BEEN DIGITALLY ALTERED OR VIRTUALLY STAGED. ORIGINAL, UNEDITED IMAGES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE
22
Social Life
POLO HAMPTONS 2026 BY VITAL AGIBALOW
L I F E S T Y L E A N D F E AT U R E S Jewelry Runway Fashion Shopping Cover Feature Health & Beauty
30 34 36 42 67 80
SOCIET Y AND EVENT PHOTOS Society Parties Hot Shots
104 108 126
T R AV E L , A RT, A N D P R O F I L E S Travel Home Art Profiles
132 146 158 168
Social Life
24
Social Life Publisher JUSTIN MITCHELL Editor-in-Chief DEVORAH ROSE Creative Director MARSIN MOGIELSKI
FEATURES Managing Editor baRi tRontZ Senior Editor Rob hoRning Editor-at-Large alie Mitchell Feature Writer caMeRon Westin foRbes Travel Editor R. couRi hay Society Editor Jean shafiRoff Society Editor Rachel helleR Mom Editor lyss steRn Men’s Fasion Editor MJ Pedone Local Hamptons Editor KaRen beRlineR Wine and Spirits Editor shaRon Roth Contributing Editor Zibby oWens International Editor noRah bRadfoRd Features Editor inna desilva Contributing Writer chRistina chao The Social Register Julia lindenthal CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AND WRITERS bRian aKeR, Rolise Rachel, david andReWs, blaiRe bass, Jocelyn bRandeis, Ray colon, Whitney fitZgeRald, helena haRloW fallon haRRington, JennifeR heaRst, lauRa heaRst, JeReMy MuRPhy, eMily yoRKe
CORPORATE Advertising Sales Director Robyn Michele New Business Developer cass alMendRal New Business Developer caRRie bRudneR Luxury Director RobeRt Pace Senior Executive Melissa Mitchell-boyd ART Art Editor Mago Video Director Katya nesteRov Videographer JacK MuRRay FASHION / BEAUTY Fashion and Jet Set Editor gRegoRy dellicaRPini JR. Fashion Editor sofie MählKvist Beauty Director Jeanette M. Zinno Watch and Jewelry Editor Jonathan valdeZ WELLNESS Wellness Editor liana WeRneR-gRay
PHOTOGRAPHERS Rob Rich, vital agibaloW, fadil beRisha, PatRicK McMullan, MaRsin MogielsKi, lisa taMbuRini, annie Watt, david WaRRen
Advertising and Sponsorship Please contact Social Life at advertising@sociallifemagazine.com Publishing Offices: SOCIAL LIFE MAGAZINE, INC. Social Life
QUIET IS THE NEW LUXURY. TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
GRAND TURK • PROVIDENCIALES • SALT CAY • NORTH CAICOS • MIDDLE CAICOS • SOUTH CAICOS • PINE CAY • PARROT CAY • AMBERGRIS CAY www.visitturksandcaicos.com • info@turksandcaicostourism.com
26
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
August is always a special time in the Hamptons. Summer is at its peak, making it the perfect season to spend a relaxing day at the beach, unwind by the pool, or simply appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. I encourage you to unplug from the digital world for a while and let real life unfold. Wellness continues to be a priority for so many people, and the Hamptons offers endless opportunities to embrace a healthy lifestyle. On weekends, I enjoy tennis, exercising, and spending time outdoors. Whether you’re looking to meditate, take a yoga class, paddleboard across calm waters, cycle scenic back roads, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk, you’ll find countless ways to recharge both body and mind. The East End also offers exceptional opportunities for sailing, horseback riding, golf, fishing, and a wide variety of other outdoor activities. August is also a season of generosity. Throughout the Hamptons, charitable organizations continue to host fundraising events that strengthen our community and support important causes. Among them, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital holds a special place. It provides world-class medical care to residents and visitors alike, especially during emergencies, and remains an essential part of life on the East End. If you’re able, I encourage you to support its mission by making a donation at southamptonhospital.org. With Labor Day coming soon, make the most of these long, sunfilled days! Justin Mitchell
Social Life
AN OCEAN OF EXPERIENCES. TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
GRAND TURK • PROVIDENCIALES • SALT CAY • NORTH CAICOS • MIDDLE CAICOS • SOUTH CAICOS • PINE CAY • PARROT CAY • AMBERGRIS CAY www.visitturksandcaicos.com • info@turksandcaicostourism.com
28
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Nomi Ellenson Photography
“Summer is not measured by the days we keep, but by the moments that linger long after the season has gone.” I’ve found myself thinking less about how quickly the season passes and more about what remains. The unplanned adventures that stay with you. The conversations that make you feel supported and seen. The excitement that begins the moment you step onto the polo field. The memories made on a beach walk as well as the laughter that fills a table of friends over dinner. There are far too many to name, but these are the moments that become the true measure of summer. This issue celebrates the people who continue to shape the spirit of the season with creativity, generosity, and style. From inspiring conversations and remarkable achievements to extraordinary gatherings that remind us why this community is so special, these pages capture the energy that makes summer on the East End unlike anywhere else. There is something deeply comforting about traditions returning each year, while new stories quietly find their place beside them. Whether it’s discovering a new favorite restaurant, celebrating an important milestone, supporting a meaningful cause, or simply lingering over dinner long after the sun has set, these experiences become what we carry with us long after summer has ended. As always, thank you for inviting Social Life to be part of your summer. It is a privilege to tell these stories, celebrate this extraordinary community, and preserve the moments that make each season unforgettable. Here’s to savoring every conversation, every laugh, and every memory still waiting to be made. With love,
Devorah Rose Editor-in-Chief
Social Life
Villas Aqua & Bleu
A World of Privacy in Vibrant St. Barth
LE BARTH LE HOTEL S A Baie de Grand Cul-de-Sac, Saint-Barthélemy | reservations@lebarth.com +590 690 52 33 18 | Toll Free: (844) 5 LE BARTH Or (844) 553-2278 LE BARTH LLAS An le de la Rue du Roi Oscar et Rue de la France, Gustavia, Saint-Barthélemy reservations@lebarthvillas.com | +590 690 52 33 18 Toll Free SA - Canada (844) 772 2784
30
WA T C H E S by Jonathan valdeZ
No matter the occasion, looking your best and having the perfect watch is always a must, all summer long.
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
HARRY WINSTON
18-Karat White Gold With Diamonds $188,000 744 Fifth Avenue 212.896.9284
18-Karat White Gold With Diamonds $49,300 701 Fifth Avenue 212.399.1000
BULGARI
HERMÈS
18-Karat Rose Gold and Diamonds $41,800 730 Fifth Avenue 212.315.9000
18-Karat White Gold and Leather $301,300 706 Madison Avenue 212.751.3181
Social Life
CELEBRATING
40 YEARS
OF AWARD-WINNING DESIGN, RARITY AND COLLECTIBLE TIMEPIECES
© 2026 Glenn Bradford Fine Jewelry Corp.
10 YEARS IN THE HEART OF THE HAMPTONS
3 3
3 3 2 3
3
2016 Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5270R-001 Perpetual Calendar
Glenn Bradford handmade solid 18kt tennis bracelet with signature Butterfly ‘B’
Chronograph Moon Phase Rose Gold Silver Opaline Dial
gallery set with black and white diamonds with ruby detail set in the hidden clasp.
)
glennbradford.com
) ) %!') $")
@glennbradfordfinejewelry
,03 $ 3* !!3 #&%(+ $+3 . !)13 $ 3 %!! + ! 3. + *3 $ !, $ 3* $ 3 $3 (+ ( 3 - 3 3 +,( 3
%! / 3 + 3 " && 3 *3. !!3 *3 $ 3 3 !, 3 #%$ *3 $ 3%+ (3( ( 3 #*3 ! $$3 ( %( 3 ', # ( $ 3 3 #%$ 3 % + !3 $ 3 , !! + 3 3 !!%.3 #%$ 3 ( ! +3 3 %! /3 03 + 3
32
J E W E L RY by Jonathan valdeZ
August is the month when things truly start popping off out east, so make sure you shine all month long!
CHANEL 18-Karat Yellow Beige Gold With Diamonds $16,350 15 East 57th Street 212.355.5050
ROBERTO COIN 18-Karat Yellow Gold With Diamonds $30,440 579 Fifth Avenue 212.486.4545
MESSIKA 18-Karat Pink Gold With Diamonds $82,100 20 Hudson Yards 646.346.7592
PIAGET 18-Karat Rose Gold With Gemstones $19,700 20 Hudson Yards 332.204.2938 Social Life
GLAMOUR Ring Grossular Garnet and Aquamarines SIGNATURE Double Drop Necklace (styled also as bracelet) with Diamond Pavé Link
BOUTIQUE SOUTHAMPTON · 27 MAIN STREET · SOUTHAMPTON · NY 11968 Inquiries: privateclient@tamaracomolli.com
34
R U N WAY by gRegoRy dellicaRPini JR.
Sky Blue Takes Flight Sky blue has stepped into the spotlight this summer, offering a softer alternative to the season’s usual neutrals. Designers including Tom Ford, JW Anderson, and Valentino have embraced the shade in everything from clean, tailored looks to fluid, romantic silhouettes that evoke an airy optimism. The color works just as well in a monochromatic outfit as it does paired with crisp white, butter yellow, or rich chocolate brown. Whether you choose a flowing dress, a structured blazer, or a sleek accessory, sky blue brings an inviting freshness to any look.
TOM FORD
VALENTINO
JW ANDERSON
COPERNI Social Life
KATIEJNYC.COM | 150 MAIN STREET, SAG HARBOR | 1046 LEXINGTON AVENUE, NYC
36
ACCESSORIES by gRegoRy dellicaRPini JR.
The Art of Camp This summer, fashion leans into camp with playful, unexpected, and impossible to ignore accessories. From the theatrical touches seen on the runways of Balenciaga and Marc Jacobs to everyday statement pieces, it’s all about injecting personality into your wardrobe. The easiest way to embrace the trend is with one standout accessory—a sculptural heel, a tiara-inspired necklace, or an oversize charm that instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. Think polished with a wink: bold, expressive, and just the right amount of over-the-top.
COLLINA STRADA Mantis Ring $165
STELLA FLAME JEWELRY Ricordati Earring Pendants $16,750
BALENCIAGA Red Cash Square Folded Coin Wallet $525
ALAÏA
GIVENCHY Gold Sculpted Mules, $1,170 Social Life
1(( 21 $1< 385&+$6(
%1&' *#/26105 8#.+& 6*417)* 1%61$'4 6&$1 72 5('((0 $7 -':$7&+(61< &20
1 (: <25. (67
6JTGG FGECFGU QH TCTG RTG QYPGF VKOGRKGEGU 52/(; 3$7(. 3+,/,33( &$57,(5 $8'(0$56 3,*8(7 :(67 7+ 675((7 7+ )/225 1(: <25. 1< -':$7&+(61< &20
38
ACCESSORIES The Art of Camp
CHLOÉ Blue “The Chloé Chill” Denim Cap $650
AUGUST BARRON Tiara Choker $435
AKNVAS
MARC JACOBS Black & Red Popcorn Slim Compact Wallet, $180 Social Life
IG | Palmilla Love WEB | Palmillalove.com
40
FASHION
SOFIE’S TRENDS by sofie MählKvist
SILKY SUMMER Light, fluid, and elegant, silk has a natural place in summer dressing. From relaxed separates and flowing caftans to polished accessories and evening-ready silhouettes, silk’s versatility makes it especially suited to the season. Easy to wear yet inherently luxurious, these silky pieces capture the elegance of summer in the Hamptons. For more, follow @sofiemahlkvist on Instagram and TikTok
Oscar de la Renta
Valentino
Elie Saab
Mixed Botanical Silk Twill Caftan $5,890 oscardelarenta.com
Silk Turban Scarf $890 valentino.com
Silk Short Dress With Trail $4,555 eliesaab.com Social Life
41
FASHION
Brunello Cucinelli
Prada
Gucci
Silk Bloom Print Pongee Vest With Monili $1,590 brunellocucinelli.com
Silk Poplin Shirt $1,790 prada.com
Printed Silk Twill Top $1,100 gucci.com
Givenchy Shorts in Silk $1,450 givenchy.com
Zimmermann
Manolo Blahnik
Gucci
Wide Leg Pants $825 zimmermann.com
Green and Beige Silk Striped Flat Pumps $1,050 manoloblahnik.com
Printed Silk Midi Skirt $2,500 gucci.com
SocialLifeMagazine.com
42
SHOPPING by gRegoRy dellicaRPini JR.
Whether it ’s for a walk on the beach or an evening painting the Hamptons red, these shops know how to cater to your needs.
Charlie Fox haMptonS Blending luxury retail with elevated cannabis culture, Charlie Fox has become the Hamptons’ most stylish new destination. The thoughtfully designed boutique offers a curated selection of premium cannabis, wellness products, and lifestyle goods in a sophisticated and ultra chic setting. This summer, an exclusive collaboration with Kiki de Montparnasse introduces a limited-edition cashmere capsule, bringing together modern luxury, fashion, and wellness under one roof. 471 County Road 39, Southampton
Marina St. Barth
Creed
Beloved for its vibrant resort wear and effortless island spirit, Marina St. Barth has opened a new Southampton boutique filled with colorful dresses, handcrafted accessories, and vacation-ready essentials sourced from around the world. The airy, welcoming space perfectly captures the carefree glamour of summer on the East End, making it an ideal stop before everything from beach afternoons to sunset dinners. 54 Jobs Lane, Southampton
The legendary fragrance house has debuted a seasonal Southampton boutique, offering its celebrated handcrafted scents, from the iconic Aventus to its newest creations, in an elegant, intimate setting. The space is a destination for fragrance enthusiasts seeking timeless luxury and impeccable craftsmanship. Whether you’re discovering a signature scent or selecting the perfect hostess gift, the boutique is a sophisticated addition to Jobs Lane. 77 Jobs Lane, Southampton Social Life
44
SHOPPING
IN SEASON cuRated by alie Mitchell
Late summer is the perfect time to look beyond the season. This month’s edit is filled with timeless staples, polished separates, and versatile accessories you’ll wear now and continue reaching for into September and fall. For more fashion inspiration, follow @alie_mitchell on Instagram.
By la Maregold
the Celine top
the CeleSte Skirt By la Maregold
Designer Tara Moni created the La Maregold collection to mix and match effortlessly, and the Celine Top pairs beautifully with the coordinating Celeste Skirt or countless other pieces throughout the line. $195 at lamaregold.com
Wear it as a set with the Celine Top or style it with another piece from the collection for a fresh look. La Maregold’s interchangeable approach makes getting dressed both effortless and endlessly versatile. $160 at lamaregold.com
Bridgette Mule By Staud This sleek mule is the kind of versatile shoe that instantly elevates everything from denim to dresses. $295 at Elyse Walker 57 Main Street, Southampton
Maggie JaCquard Wrap dreSS By Couper Founded and designed by Caroline Gilroy and Agee Gretta Leinberry, Couper’s latest in-house collection includes the Maggie Jacquard Wrap Dress, combining an elegant wrap silhouette with rich texture for a look that feels both timeless and modern. $390 at shopcouper.com Social Life
45
SHOPPING
long Feather earringS By JenniFer FiSher Jennifer Fisher’s sculptural Long Feather Earrings bring just the right amount of statement to both evening looks and elevated everyday dressing. $595 at jenniferfisher.com
Chiara StateMent Choker By raMy Brook The Chiara Choker is an instant outfit maker, adding bold polish to even the simplest look. $265 at Ramy Brook 44 Main Street, Southampton
geiSha Sage Maxi dreSS By Bronx BanCo reeSe printed knit Maxi dreSS By raMy Brook The knit fabrication makes this vibrant maxi an effortless choice now and a seamless transition into the weeks beyond Labor Day. $545 at Ramy Brook 44 Main Street, Southampton
Bronx Banco is known for its dramatic occasion dressing, but designer Natalie De’Banco recently wore this striking maxi while hosting an intimate dinner at home, proving it’s just as captivating for a beautifully understated evening as it is for a grand celebration. $1,100 at bronxbanco.com
46
SHOPPING
Cove FiSh Beaded neCklaCe By leo & luCa The fish pendant trend is still making waves this season, and Leo & Luca’s Cove Fish Beaded Necklace is the ultimate touch of summer ease. $88 at leoandlucanyc.com
kyoto BlouSe
le tee long
By uli herzner
By kiki de MontparnaSSe
Designed to pair perfectly with the Soho Cargo Jogger, the Milan Shirt is equally chic worn with your favorite denim for an easy everyday look. $145 at House of Olita 53 Jobs Lane, Southampton
The perfect elevated basic, this silky-soft long-sleeve tee is destined to become one of the hardest-working pieces in your wardrobe. $110 at kikidm.com
Soho Cargo Jogger By uli herzner
By kiki de MontparnaSSe
A cargo pant you’ll wear well beyond summer, the Soho Cargo Jogger pairs with flipflops now and boots come fall. $265 at House of Olita 53 Jobs Lane, Southampton
Suiting BerMuda Short Tailored Bermuda shorts continue to have a major fashion moment, and this polished pair delivers a sophisticated take on the trend. $775 at kikidm.com
48
SHOPPING
TIFFANY ZHOU THE OLEADA FOUNDER ON ENGINEERING A SMARTER LUXURY HANDBAG by cass alMendRal
Tiffany Zhou
The strap snapped on the floor of JFK. Laptop, chargers, a full working day scattered across the terminal tile. Tiffany Zhou felt embarrassment, then irritation, then the thing founders live for: clarity. “I did not see a brand,” she says of that moment of inspiration. “I saw a failure.” But not hers. The failure belonged to an industry still designing for a woman who no longer exists. Zhou walked away from her career in private equity to build Oleada, a versatile collection of large work bags for women. At first, the verdict at home was brutal. Four degrees, thrown away to sell handbags? Her early investors, mostly men, wondered aloud why a world with Hermès needed another bag maker. She found the sentence that ended the argument.
“We are the female version of Tumi.” Not decoration. Equipment. She trained as an engineer and never went to design school, which she regards as an edge. To Zhou a bag is a system of weight, movement, and ergonomics, held to a standard most designers would find hard to accommodate. Beauty has to work. “A good bag,” she says, “should not ask for attention. It should give you back attention.” Then came the part that nobody really discusses. Oleada’s Marina Bucket bag sold three months’ worth of inventory in one month, and the win went to Zhou’s head. Fresh off a raise, she chased it: A glossy Los Angeles shoot, pastel colorways, imagery that looked like it conveyed growth. But loyal customers got confused and started asking whether Oleada was pivoting to resort bags. “This was one of my biggest mistakes,” she says with zero spin. Out of the wreckage came the line every founder should take to heart. “A best seller is not a brand.” A best seller proves you touched demand. But a brand tells the customer exactly who you are. Expansion without that clarity does not grow the enterprise; it erases it. So she pulled back to the woman she built Oleada for, and the tastemakers arrived without being paid to. Maye Musk. Susan Rockefeller. Pauline Brown. Fern Mallis. Women who have seen every logo and respond only to a fresh point of view. Eighty countries later, Oleada’s showroom lands in NoMad in New York, and the thesis holds. Not quiet luxury—practical luxury. The bag works for the woman. Never the reverse. Social Life
50
SHOPPING
HOT LYSST by lyss steRn
What’s hot? What’s in? What’s #fabuLyss? Lyss Stern, a New York City–based best-selling author and the founder of Divamoms.com is at the forefront of style, trends, and the must-have-nows. Lyss gives moms and expectant moms the scoop on Instagram @diva_moms
DIVAMOMS MAHJONG STYLE, UNIQUELY YOURS
DIVA DADS’ POSH STYLE
DIVAMOMS HAMPTONS KITCHEN CLEANUP
Elevate your mahjong game with Changles by Michele Fox Blum, where luxury meets personalization. From the most #fabulyss custom acrylic racks and pushers to beautifully personalized carrying cases, every piece is designed to complement your tiles, mat, and personal style. bychangles.com
Elevate his look in seconds with these ready-to-wear, pre-folded pocket squares. Available in two classic styles and a wide range of colors, they’re the effortless finishing touch for every well-dressed dad this summer season. wellsuitednyc.com
Even kitchen cleanup deserves a touch of luxury in the Hamptons. Koala Eco’s Australian Lemon, Geranium, Lemon Myrtle & Rosalina Dish Soap cuts through grease while leaving dishes, pots, and pans sparkling clean. The fresh botanical blend of citrus, geranium, and soft lavender notes fills your home with the clean, coastal scent of summer. koalaeco.com Social Life
51
SHOPPING
DIVAMOMS SUMMER FACIALS GEORGIA LOUISE BEAUTY LONGEVITY No trip to New York City required. Celebrity aesthetician Georgia Louise is popping up in Sag Harbor this summer (June 17 to August 14) with her signature facials, injectables, IV drips, and lymphatic body treatments at a private residence. By appointment only. georgialouise.com
CHEZ ADRIANA CASTRO AT THE CAPRI SOUTHAMPTON IS #FABULYSS Luxury handbag designer Adriana Castro has brought her signature style to The Capri Southampton through September 7 with Chez Adriana Castro, an immersive pop-up featuring her handcrafted handbags, accessories, home collection, and a curated selection of favorite brands. The beautifully designed residency is most #fabulyss and created with interior designer Bea Pernía. She will also host trunk shows and intimate summer events, making it a must-visit Hamptons destination for fashion and design lovers. adrianacastro.co
SocialLifeMagazine.com
DIVAMOMS’ #FABULYSS FLOWER STAND One of the Hamptons’ most #fabulyss hidden gems, the Osborn Girls Flower Stand is bursting with the most gorgeous, farm-fresh blooms that are almost too pretty to take home. Whether you’re picking up a bouquet for a dinner party, brightening your beach house, or simply treating yourself, this charming roadside stand is a must for flower lovers all summer long. Fresh, local, and full of Hamptons charm. @osborngirlsflowerstand
DIVAMOMS’ SCHLEP TO THE BEACH BAG From beach days and boat rides to farmers markets and weekend escapes, the Schlep to the Beach Bag is the ultimate Hamptons carryall. Spacious, lightweight, and casually chic, it’s designed to hold everything from towels and sunscreen to snacks and summer essentials. Because in the Hamptons, there’s always something to schlep! @lyssandkat. The Schelp to the Beach bag is available at SHOCK Westhampton @shockwesthampton
52
PIED-À-TERRE ON DEMAND
CENTRAL PARK TIMES SQUARE NOMAD SUTTON PLACE — STAYAKA.COM
AKA balances the space and comfort of a fully appointed luxury condominium with the style and hospitality of an intimate hotel. Specializing in weekly and monthly stays, AKA stands for unparalleled locations; signature design; attentive service; and exceptional business, wellness, and lifestyle amenities.
NEW YORK BOSTON PHILADELPHIA WASHINGTON DC WEST PALM BEACH
LOS ANGELES
LONDON Social Life
53
SHOPPING
PARIS/64 THE LUXURY ACCESSORIES BRAND BRINGS SPANISH CRAFTSMANSHIP TO SOHO by alie Mitchell
Spanish luxury accessories brand PARIS/64 has opened its first international flagship boutique in New York, bringing its refined aesthetic and commitment to exceptional craftsmanship to the heart of SoHo. Founded in 2019, PARIS/64 has quickly established itself as a contemporary voice in luxury leather goods. Every handbag and accessory is handcrafted in the brand’s own atelier in Illueca, Zaragoza, Spain, where skilled artisans oversee each step of the process—from the first sketch to the final stitch. The result is a collection that celebrates the artistry of Spanish leatherworking through a modern lens. Rather than designing for the moment, PARIS/64 focuses on creating pieces with lasting appeal. Defined by clean silhouettes, premium materials, and meticulous attention to detail, the collections balance timeless style with everyday functionality. It is an approach that resonates with those who value craftsmanship and thoughtful design over passing trends. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Located at 465 Broadway, the SoHo flagship reflects the brand’s understated sensibility. The boutique offers visitors an immersive introduction to the PARIS/64 world while showcasing its full collection of handbags and leather accessories. Beyond shopping, the space has become a destination for intimate styling appointments and gatherings that bring together editors, stylists, creators, and clients. The New York opening marks an important milestone for the growing Spanish label as it expands its presence in the United States. While the address may have changed, the philosophy remains the same: creating beautifully crafted pieces that emphasize quality, authenticity, and enduring design. PARIS/64 Flagship Boutique 465 Broadway, New York paris64.com @paris64world
54
SHOPPING
FROM SOHO TO SOUTHAMPTON ALBERTO LUZZI BRINGS ITALIAN CRAFTSMANSHIP TO THE EAST END by MaRsin MogielsKi
Alberto Luzzi, Nic Canal
Alberto Luzzi is a contemporary jewelry house rooted in the artistry of Rome and the energy of New York. Blending traditional Italian craftsmanship with a modern downtown sensibility, the brand creates expressive, handcrafted designs that are both sculptural and effortlessly wearable. Each collection features earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings crafted in sterling silver and 18-karat gold vermeil, incorporating intricate metalwork, woven wire, filigree detailing, and carefully finished surfaces. After more than 20 years in the jewelry industry, designer Alberto Luzzi has developed a signature aesthetic that celebrates individuality while honoring the heritage of Italian artisanship. In the fall of 2025, Luzzi and business partner Nic Canal opened the Alberto Luzzi boutique at 102 Thompson Street in SoHo, creating an intimate space where jewelry is viewed as part of everyday personal style rather than something reserved for special occasions. The brand is also preparing to introduce a new collection of solid gold designs featuring diamonds and emeralds. I consider Alberto a friend whose positive spirit is as magnetic as his designs. I enjoy spending time at his SoHo boutique, where lively evenings unfold among beautiful jewelry, great
music, and a chic, sexy, and stylish crowd. His jewelry has also become part of my everyday wardrobe. More often than not, I am wearing one of Alberto’s rings and a bracelet. His designs have a remarkable way of elevating even the simplest look. This summer, Alberto Luzzi brought that same creative energy to the 2026 Hamptons Jewelry Show in Southampton, where the brand welcomed collectors, clients, and guests during the show’s opening-night preview. Visitors had the opportunity to meet Alberto and experience the craftsmanship behind his latest creations, including the Aima 18-karat gold vermeil lariat necklace with gold mesh, the Aurora statement cuff bracelet featuring amethyst, and the Dune dangle earrings with kyanite. Alberto Luzzi’s creations are rooted in craftsmanship, individuality, and understated luxury. In in SoHo or Southampton, with influences from both Italy and New York, the brand continues to create jewelry that feels personal, modern, and designed to become part of the wearer’s signature style. Trust me—you will enjoy it! u
For more information, please visit albertoluzzi.com and follow on Instagram: @albertoluzzi_jewelry Social Life
YOUR HAIR’S BEST-KEPT SECRET Where transformations are personal, and the results speak for themselves.
SPECIALIZING IN • Customized Hair Extensions • Extensions & Fillers • Ready-to-Wear Wigs • Volumizing Toppers • Cut, Color, Styling • Latest Solutions for Thinning Hair and Hair Loss
Complimentary Private Consultation 420 Madison Avenue . NYC www.angelodavid.com
|
@angelodavidhair
|
212. 883. 6620
56
SHOPPING
THADEN WHERE ART MEETS LUXURY by alie Mitchell
Kristina Thaden at the Thaden showroom at Harrods in London
Some handbags are designed to complement an outfit. Thaden’s are designed to spark conversation. The Swiss luxury accessories brand has quickly distinguished itself with sculptural silhouettes that blur the line between fashion and art, creating pieces that are as expressive as they are functional. For founder Kristina Thaden, the journey began not with fashion but with a sketchbook. Years of drawing inspired by sculpture, movement, and human emotion eventually evolved into handbags that challenged traditional notions of luxury. While manufacturers initially deemed her unconventional designs too complex to produce, she remained committed to finding the artisans capable of bringing her vision to life. That determination continues to define the brand today. Rather than designing around trends or logos, Kristina creates handbags that begin with an idea, a gesture, or an emotion. Her work is deeply influenced by the Japanese philosophy of Ma— the meaningful space between things—a concept that appears throughout the collection. In pieces like The Whole, the negative space is just as important as the leather surrounding it, creating sculptural forms that are both modern and timeless.
Ashley Park in Emily in Paris
Before launching Thaden, Kristina built careers in both theater and corporate management, experiences that continue to shape her approach to design. Theater taught her to observe emotion, movement, and human connection, while business provided the discipline to transform creative ideas into a luxury brand. Together, they have informed a design philosophy where artistic expression and technical precision exist in equal measure. That distinctive perspective is resonating internationally. Three Thaden designs recently appeared in Emily in Paris, while presentations at Harrods have introduced the collection to a growing audience seeking originality over excess. Yet despite the momentum, Kristina remains intentional about the brand’s future. “I don’t want Thaden to be everywhere,” she says. “I want it to be present in places where art, design, and fashion meet, and where craftsmanship and individuality are truly valued.” For Kristina Thaden, luxury is not defined by logos or fleeting trends, but by thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship, and objects created to be treasured for years to come. Social Life
58
YOUR EYES OUT EAST by Ruby saRacino
Ruby Saracino is a New York City and Montauk based lifestyle lifestyle creator, marketer, and tastemaker whose content follows the rhythm of summers out East and life in the city. Whether she’s documenting the latest hotspots, wellness routines, or behind the scenes moments, her content feels like an invitation into the places everyone wants to be. She recently went viral after her surprise cameo with Lil Yachty at The Surf Lodge, with the moment reaching millions across Instagram and TikTok and cementing her as one of the summer’s breakout creators. For more, follow @rubysaracino on Instagram.
MY FAVORITE EVENT TRENDS RIGHT NOW Wellness isn’t slowing down. If anything, it’s getting bigger. Brands are moving beyond just sponsoring workouts and are building entire experiences around fitness: Pop Up Wrkout in Amagansett Square (with more dates in August), VUUM x Hero Beach Club with Makena Diehl, Nylon Members x Fuze House, The League x Madison Appel, and Kith x New York Pilates. Sports are not just for the boys. As the Knicks run in the NBA finals and the exciting matches of World Cup proved, people actually want to gather around live sports again. Montauk has fully leaned into it, with spots turning games into nightly programming. Surf Lodge x Poly Market and Barlume’s watch parties are great examples of brands meeting people where the excitement already is. Brands are taking over the food scene. Cafés and restaurants continue to be some of the best places to show up organically. Instead of traditional pop-ups, brands are partnering with local favorites to create experiences that feel native to the space. Crown Affair x Montauk General Store, Roxanne Assoulin at FINI Pizza, and Cowboy Colostrum at Left Hand all nailed this.
The surprise performance is back. Whether it’s a brand event or a nightlife moment, everyone is trying to create that “you had to be there” energy. Lil Yachty at Surf Lodge, and Sheck Wes at Montauk Project all turned already buzzy events into something people couldn’t stop posting about.
WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO Mix and Mahj is bringing mahjong nights to Mary Lou’s every Wednesday in August from 6 to 9 p.m. The first hour is dedicated to beginners looking to learn the game, followed by open play and guided play for newer players from 7 to 9 p.m. Whether you’re just learning or already love to play, it’s the perfect midweek tradition. The Surf Lodge is keeping its iconic summer concert series going with two major performances. Jack Harlow on August 22 and Teddy Swims on September 6, bringing these can’t-miss nights of live music to Montauk. Organic Oren is heading east. After building a cult following in Los Angeles, they’re bringing their first ever East Coast pop up to Montauk General Store for a weekend residency August 28–30. It’s exactly the kind of brand that makes sense out east, and I have a feeling it’ll be one of the most talked about pop-ups of the summer. Social Life
Timeless Luxury Homes TA I L O R E D T O YO U R V I S I O N
Sandbar Builders, LLC | Phone: 631-431-0107 | www.sandbarbuildersny.com
60
Kenneth Fishel, Christie Brinkley, Maria Fishel
Gabriella Var, Francesco Rauseo
THE AGENCY: Claire Burgdorf, Michael Tagliavia, Christie Tagliavia, Tyler Whitman
Kyle Johnson, Teresa Buchauer
Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg
Dr. Sue Decotiis
Marin Radovanovich, Corey Voelker
Dr. David Schusterman, Regina Mukhtarova, Regina Shaubert, Eric Borich
Christina, Christian, Chiara, and Eric Kissel
1
Julia Lindenthal, Liana Werner-Gray, Cristina Cote
James Michael Brandes
Nancy Pearson
Kenneth Fishel, Nicanor Cavanagh, Martin Pepa
Teresa Buchauer
Suzan Kremer
Nicole Miller, Candace Bushnell
Kathy Prounis, Karina Prounis
Phyllis Chase, Joshua Kokeny
Katy Forrester, Charlotte Edwards
Jean Shafiroff, Ramona Singer, Cindy Karen, Ruth Miller, Elvira Grau
62
1
Rachel Gregory, Pamela Ewing, Carol Bolling, Kitthandra McDonald
Tom Ierna, Catlin Collins, Melissa Polo, Amy Green
Christie Brinkley, Amee Liliana
MANDARIN ORIENTAL: Joy Kairalla, Char Monakee
THE RESIDENCES AT 1428 BRICKELL: Gingi Beltran, Andrew Kraynak
Dawn Bodenchak
Fishel family and guests
Diego Osario
Bonnie Comley, Stewart F. Lane
Martina Dietrich, Martina Raffaeli
Serry Saanrak
Angela Rose, Paul Tripaldi
LE BARTHÉLEMY HOTEL & SPA: Aly Wichman, Charlotte Loubejac
Cameron Tucker
Christopher, Catherine, Leo, and Christopher Sieger
Alex Fishel, Maria Fishel
Mary Snow
Diego Osario, Martin Pepa
Jean Shafiroff
Kristen Hansen, Harrison Rafter
Christie Brinkley, Jewels Izzo
Tim Howard with guest
Masha Tsinberg, Ariella, Sasha
64
Emma Whitt, Jeremy Whitt
John Nunziata, Sierra Low
Maraya and Rebecca Mims
Christy Tagliazia, Michael Tagliazia
Shaunette Mcdonald, Rody Mcdonald
BSP: Craig Cook, Mike Drska
Christie Brinkley, Devorah Rose
Marsin Mogielski
Victor Edozien, Mickey Kittredge
Nicole Schor, Katherine Martin
Aleksandra and Dr. Kenneth Mark
Louis L Reed, Eli Gooden
Jane Scher
BREX: Shahin Kazemian
POLO HAMPTONS MATCH & EVENT 2026 July 25, 2026 Hosted by CHRISTIE BRINKLEY PoloHamptons.com JD WATCHES: Lucas Pettersen, Tyler Dicesare, Victor Maldonado
Adriana Castro
All images thanks to Rob Rich | SocietyAllure.com Vital Agibalow for Hensel
EVENT SPONSORS: BMW NORTH AMERICA TURKS AND CAICOS THE AGENCY ACES YACHTING OAK HILL FARM RISE & SHINE
ACES YACHTING: David Liniado, Oscar Losada
ADAMAS: Tiffany Corriente, Therese Corriente, Annamae Corriente
BAKERTILLY BREX BILL.COM SOTHEBY’S – DAWN BODENCHAK LESSING’S SELECTIVE SEARCH LOS LOBOS + CIROC DR. STEPHEN T. GREENBERG JD WATCHES GRAND STAND AUCTION
Chef Eddie Michaels
GSM CHARITY AUCTIONS: Joseph Scully, Kim Finno
LE BARTHELEMY GALLOWAY CAPITAL PARTNERS DELICATO WINES MANDARIN ORIENTAL 1428 BRICKELL ENVO WATER AVALINE ROSE ADAMAS LÉOUBE FOOD PROVIDED BY LESSING’S THE AGENCY team with polo players
SELECTIVE SEARCH: Erica Feiter, Sophia Bonansinga, Julia Paull
#
#
#
!#
* * $ *
* * $ *
#
#
"#
* * $ *
#
"#
#
# #
! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
* * * * "* * !* * !* * ( * )* * * * * * * * # ' &* # * * $ * $ * $ * $ * * * $ * % * % *
! ! ! ! !
!
! ! ! ! ! ! !
"" #( #$ &" $( ( ( $" %( " !$ (
(! "" # (
#
#
#
!#
* * $ *
* * $ *
#
#
"#
* * $ *
#
"#
#
# #
! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
* * * * "* * !* * !* * ( * )* * * * * * * * * # ' &* # * * $ * $ * $ * * $ * $ * % * % *
67
F E AT U R E S JEAN SHAFIROFF
goWn By Esé Azénabor (Including Cover)
SocialLifeMagazine.com
68
goWn By Esé Azénabor
69
F E AT U R E S
JEAN SHAFIROFF THE FIRST LADY OF PHILANTHROPY WORKS TO SUPPORT FUTURE GENERATIONS by JeReMy MuRPhy PhotogRaPhy by Michael Paniccia
Jean Shafiroff is an internationally recognized philanthropist, humanitarian, author, television host, and advocate for charitable causes whose life has been defined by generosity, leadership, and service. Combining compassion with strategic vision and timeless elegance, she has devoted herself to advancing organizations that improve health care and the lives of children, women, underserved communities, and animals. Known for her generosity and kindness, Shafiroff has become one of America’s most visible champions of philanthropy, demonstrating that giving is not reserved for the wealthy alone but is a lifelong commitment that can be expressed through one’s time, talent, leadership, and financial support. Often referred to by both local and international media as the “First Lady of Philanthropy,” Jean Shafiroff has become synonymous with charitable leadership and civic engagement. The title reflects not only her extraordinary dedication to nonprofit organizations but also her remarkable ability to inspire others to become active participants in philanthropy. Throughout her distinguished career, she has been honored numerous times by dozens of charitable organizations in recognition of her humanitarian work, fundraising leadership, and unwavering commitment to community service. Her example illustrates that true leadership is measured by one’s willingness to improve the lives of others and strengthen communities through sustained commitment and compassion. Central to Shafiroff ’s mission is her desire to inspire younger generations to become actively involved in philanthropy. She believes that charitable giving and volunteerism should begin early in life, fostering habits of compassion, civic responsibility, and community engagement that last a lifetime. She explains that parents and teachers also serve as important role models for fostering philanthropy. Through public speaking, SocialLifeMagazine.com
writing, media appearances, mentoring, and nonprofit leadership, she encourages young people to recognize that meaningful philanthropy is measured not solely by wealth but by a sincere commitment to helping others and making a positive difference in society. Her message is simple yet powerful: Everyone has the ability to give back and make an impact. She also emphasizes that philanthropy is enjoyable. Giving is a feel-good experience, and it is highly rewarding. Shafiroff ’s accomplishments are built upon a strong academic and professional foundation. She earned a bachelor of science degree in physical therapy from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons before receiving an MBA from the Graduate School of Business at Columbia University. Prior to dedicating herself full-time to philanthropy, she enjoyed a successful career in finance, working as an investment banker on Wall Street. Her business background provided her with expertise in finance, strategic planning, and organizational management—skills that have proved invaluable in nonprofit governance, fundraising, and organizational leadership. She frequently emphasizes that successful charitable organizations require the same financial discipline, accountability, and long-term planning as successful businesses. Shafiroff ’s acclaimed book, Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give, has become an important resource for aspiring philanthropists. In it, Shafiroff shares practical guidance on creating a meaningful philanthropic life, explaining how individuals can identify causes they care about, become effective volunteers, serve on nonprofit boards, and maximize the impact of their charitable efforts. Rather than presenting philanthropy as an exclusive endeavor, she offers an accessible road map that empowers readers from all walks of life to become engaged in philanthropy. The book reflects her belief that generosity
70
F E AT U R E S enriches both those who receive and those who give, creating stronger communities and more fulfilling lives. Building on the success of her first book, Shafiroff plans to publish her next book in January 2027, further expanding her efforts to encourage and inspire people of all ages to embrace a more fulfilling life. Shafiroff has further expanded her mission through her television program, Successful Philanthropy. On the show, she interviews nonprofit executives, celebrities, politicians, community leaders, innovators, and distinguished guests who are making meaningful contributions to society. By highlighting inspiring charitable initiatives and sharing practical advice, the program seeks to inspire viewers about the many ways they can become involved in philanthropy and community service. It reinforces her belief that generosity, leadership, and civic engagement have the power to transform lives and communities. Leadership has long been one of Shafiroff ’s defining qualities. She serves on and supports numerous nonprofit and advisory boards, dedicating countless hours to helping charitable organizations strengthen their fundraising efforts, expand public awareness, and increase their impact. Her ability to unite donors, volunteers, business leaders, and community advocates has made her one of the nonprofit sector’s most respected ambassadors. Currently Shafiroff serves on the boards of the Southampton Hospital Foundation, the New York Women’s Foundation, the Mission Society of New York City, the French Heritage Society, Casita Maria, Global Strays, and the Couture Council of The Museum at FIT. She also serves as an advisory board member of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County and Ballet Palm Beach. A Catholic, Shafiroff served on the Jewish Board for 28 years and is now an honorary trustee. Her philanthropic leadership has also benefited organizations dedicated to health care, education, social services, animal welfare, women’s advancement, the LGBTQ+ community, and the arts. Through these roles, she has helped organizations grow their fundraising capacity, expand vital programs, and reach broader audiences. She understands that successful philanthropy requires much more than financial contributions—it requires vision, collaboration, sound governance, and sustained commitment. As a nonprofit leader and ambassador, Shafiroff actively participates in planning fundraising initiatives, hosting benefit events, mentoring emerging leaders, and advocating for important charitable causes. Each year she chairs approximately 10 charity events. In addition, she hosts and underwrites many charity events in her different homes. Her leadership style combines enthusiasm, professionalism, inclusiveness, and an unwavering belief in the missions of the organizations she supports. By leveraging her extensive experience and broad network, she helps nonprofits secure the resources necessary
to expand their programs and serve more people in need. Shafiroff is equally celebrated for her distinctive sense of style, which has become an integral part of her public identity. Her elegant and beautiful fashion choices consistently attract attention at charitable galas and cultural events. She understands that a polished public presence can increase visibility for nonprofit organizations, and encourage greater public engagement with important causes. She also supports young, emerging fashion designers by purchasing their clothing and giving them a platform. In her view, fashion and philanthropy complement each other when they are used to elevate charitable missions and inspire generosity. Her influence in both philanthropy and fashion was recognized internationally in December 2025 when she was one of only 24 people worldwide to appear on Tatler magazine’s Most Glamorous Gowns of 2025 list. Shafiroff was listed alongside Catherine, Princess of Wales, members of royal families, and internationally renowned figures from the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and society. The recognition underscored not only her impeccable style but also her stature as a global philanthropic ambassador whose public appearances consistently shine a spotlight on charitable causes. Jean Shafiroff has built a powerful social media presence, with more than 1.2 million followers on her Instagram account, @jeanshafiroff. Through her platform, she promotes philanthropy, positivity and fashion. Her followers are based across the globe. Perhaps Shafiroff ’s greatest legacy is her determination to cultivate a culture of philanthropy among future generations. She understands that today’s young leaders will shape tomorrow’s nonprofit sector, and she works tirelessly to encourage them to volunteer, serve on boards, support charitable organizations, and become thoughtful stewards of their communities. She also wants to make sure they enjoy the philanthropic work they do. Her message is both practical and inspiring: Philanthropy is not simply about writing a check—it is about living a life of purpose, generosity, leadership, and meaningful service. Through her influential book, Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give; her television series, Successful Philanthropy; her extensive nonprofit leadership; and her unwavering commitment to charitable causes, Jean Shafiroff continues to redefine modern philanthropy. Her generosity, kindness, leadership, and enduring elegance have made her an international role model for charitable service. She exemplifies how compassion, vision, and style can come together to create lasting social change while motivating others—especially younger generations—to build lives that include giving back. Her enduring example serves as a powerful reminder that philanthropy is not merely an act of generosity but a lifelong commitment to improving the world for others. Social Life
goWn By Malan Breton
72
dreSS By Dolce and Gabbana
73
F E AT U R E S
goWn By Esé Azénabor
To learn more about Jean Shafiroff go to jeanshafiroff.com. Follow Jean on Instagram at @jeanshafiroff, @jeanshafiroffstyles, @Jeanshafiroffatwork. Follow Jean on Facebook at Jean Shafiroff and at Jean Shafiroff, Style and Philanthropy. SocialLifeMagazine.com
74
F E AT U R E S
MARGIT BRANDT PRESENTS
PALM BEACH HOME OF THE MONTH 1053 N. LAKE WAY, PALM BEACH, FLORIDA by lauRa heaRst
Margit Brandt
A NORTH END MASTERPIECE THAT DEFINES MODERN PALM BEACH LIVING In Palm Beach, exceptional homes are defined as much by their setting as by their architecture. At 1053 N. Lake Way, the two come together beautifully. Situated on an oversize 0.36-acre lot on one of the North End’s most desirable streets, this meticulously crafted estate offers over 7,000 square feet of living space, combining timeless design with the effortless indoor-outdoor lifestyle that has long made Palm Beach one of the world’s most coveted destinations. Completed in 2016 and designed by architect Michael Perry, the residence was built to an uncompromising standard of quality. Every room reflects careful planning, exceptional craftsmanship, and an appreciation for enduring design rather than passing trends.
The thoughtful floor plan is centered on flexibility, with a threebedroom main house complemented by a completely separate twobedroom guesthouse. Together, they create an ideal arrangement for extended family, visiting guests, live-in staff, or anyone who values both generous gathering spaces and complete privacy. Inside the main residence, bespoke craftsmanship is evident at every turn. A richly appointed library provides a warm and inviting retreat, while a climate-controlled 1,300-bottle wine cellar is certain to impress collectors and entertainers alike. Throughout the home, custom architectural details create interiors that are elegant without ever sacrificing comfort. Among the home’s most memorable features are the dining-room doors, originally sourced from the New York Public Library. They are an extraordinary design element that brings a remarkable piece of history into the residence while adding character and a sense of timelessness that cannot be replicated. Social Life
75
T R AV E L
The outdoor living spaces are every bit as compelling as the interiors. Surrounded by lush, meticulously maintained landscaping, the estate unfolds into a series of beautifully designed destinations for relaxing and entertaining. Elegant loggias provide shaded retreats throughout the day, while multiple alfresco dining areas make everything from intimate family dinners to larger celebrations feel effortless. A vibrant bougainvillea-framed swimming pool serves as the centerpiece of the grounds, complemented by a tranquil bonsai garden and a welcoming firepit that invites guests to linger long after sunset. Every outdoor space has been thoughtfully planned to embrace Palm Beach’s year-round tropical climate. The location further elevates the property’s appeal. Situated on prestigious North Lake Way, the home enjoys convenient beach access via Via Marila to some of Palm Beach’s most sought-after stretches of sand. Laurie Lane also provides discreet service access, a valuable feature that enhances the home’s functionality SocialLifeMagazine.com
while preserving its elegant streetscape. It is a rare combination of beauty, convenience, and practicality that is increasingly difficult to find. Move-in ready and impeccably maintained, 1053 N. Lake Way represents the very best of modern Palm Beach living. It successfully balances architectural distinction with everyday livability, offering the privacy of a family compound, the craftsmanship of a custom-built estate, and one of the island’s premier North End addresses. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the home’s intelligent layout to its exceptional finishes and resortinspired outdoor spaces. For buyers seeking a turnkey residence that embodies sophistication, comfort, and timeless appeal, this remarkable estate presents an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy Palm Beach at its finest. u To learn more visit: margitbrandtpalmbeach.com
76
F E AT U R E S
ROSS SCHOOL THE FUTURE STARTS HERE
On the East End of Long Island, where tradition often defines the landscape, one school has spent more than three decades redefining what education can be. Founded in 1991 by educator Courtney Sale Ross, Ross School has never been interested in following a conventional academic playbook. Instead, it was built around a bold idea that seems even more relevant today than it did at the school’s founding: The world is interconnected, so education should be too. Serving students from early childhood through grade 12 (day and boarding) across two campuses in Bridgehampton and East Hampton, Ross challenges students to think beyond individual subjects, encouraging them to connect ideas across science, history, technology, the arts, culture, and global perspectives. It is an approach designed not simply to prepare students for college but for lives of curiosity, adaptability, and purpose. That philosophy has become increasingly important as today’s students enter a world reshaped by artificial intelligence, rapid technological advancement, and unprecedented global
connectivity. While many schools are only beginning to rethink how they educate the next generation, Ross has spent decades cultivating critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem solving as core elements of everyday learning. Leading the school’s board of trustees is Emily Tisch Sussman, whose connection to Ross is both professional and deeply personal. A nationally recognized strategist, entrepreneur, podcast host, and co-owner of Gotham FC, Sussman is also the parent of three Ross students. That dual perspective allows her to see the school through the lens of governance while experiencing its impact firsthand as a parent. “As board chair and a Ross parent, I see every day what makes Ross different,” she says. “This is a school that challenges students to think boldly, care deeply, and become fully themselves. It doesn’t ask kids to fit into a mold—it helps them discover what they’re capable of.” Her own career has been defined by navigating complex challenges, building partnerships, and embracing change, Social Life
Wil Weiss
by Kaiya hilton
Photo of students by Diana Lee Photography
PROFILES
qualities she believes mirror the educational experience Ross offers its students. Unlike more traditional academic models, Ross breaks down barriers between disciplines. A lesson in history may naturally lead into environmental science. Art can become a vehicle for exploring mathematics or engineering. Students are encouraged to ask bigger questions, examine multiple perspectives, and recognize that the most meaningful solutions often emerge where disciplines intersect. That spirit extends well beyond the classroom. Athletics, performing arts, wellness initiatives, outdoor education, leadership opportunities, and community engagement and service are woven throughout the Ross experience, reflecting the school’s commitment to educating the whole child. Small class sizes and individualized attention allow faculty to know each student personally, creating an environment where academic excellence and personal growth develop hand in hand. Ross also occupies a unique place within the East End community. While deeply rooted in Bridgehampton and East Hampton, the school attracts families from across Long Island, New York City, and around the world through its day and boarding programs. The resulting mix of cultures, experiences, and perspectives creates a learning environment that feels simultaneously local and global, exposing students to ideas and viewpoints that extend far beyond the classroom walls. Today, Ross continues to build on the vision that has distinguished it for more than three decades. Under the leadership of head of school Tom Sturtevant, enrollment has grown, academic offerings have expanded, athletic programs continue to strengthen, and the school has invested significantly in campus improvements, technology, wellness initiatives, and student life. Throughout that growth, Ross has remained firmly committed to the values that have SocialLifeMagazine.com
always defined it: personalized learning, intellectual curiosity, and an unwavering belief in every student’s potential. For Sussman, preserving that balance between innovation and mission remains one of the board’s highest priorities. “Our job is to protect what has always made Ross exceptional while making sure our students are ready for the future,” she says. “The world will keep changing. Our commitment to developing resilient, creative, compassionate young people won’t.” As independent schools increasingly compete to define what a modern education should look like, Ross stands apart by refusing to separate academic achievement from personal development. Success is measured not only by college acceptances but by the confidence students build, the questions they learn to ask, the relationships they form, and the sense of purpose they carry into the world. For families seeking more than a traditional education, Ross offers something increasingly rare: a school that continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in the values that have defined it since the beginning. On the East End, that legacy continues to shape not only students but the future itself.
78
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
CASA MILLI IT ALL STARTED WITH A GARDEN
Casa Milli
It all started with a garden. by aMee liliana
Ever since I can remember, the garden has been my favorite Everplace sincetoIbe. can remember, the garden has been my favorite place to be. Naming our home Casa Milli after the most special little soul Naming Casa Milli special littlething soul in in myour life,home my Yorkie, Milli,after felt the likemost the most natural in my life—my Yorkie, Milli—felt like us theknow most we’ve naturalnever thingspent in thea the world. Those who know apart. Sheknow is gentle, kind,we’ve endlessly loving, myapart. greaworld. day Those who us know never spentand a day test blessing. She is gentle, kind, endlessly loving, and my greatest blessing. At time, the time, simply the name of home. our home. At the CasaCasa MilliMilli was was simply the name of our I’ve I’ve moved my vegetable garden more times than can count, moved my vegetable garden more timesI than I can count, and somehow gets bigger every started year. What and somehow it gets biggeritevery year. What withstarted a few a few raised beds has grown into tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, raised with beds has grown into tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, zucchini, watermelons, herbs, eggplants, and whatever else I watermelons, herbs, I decide seadecide to growand thatwhatever season. else I don’t thinktoa grow gardenthat is ever finished. Everyisyear find another reason expand son. I really don’t think a garden everI really finished. Everytoyear I findit. another reasonhave to expand Peonies alwaysit.been my favorite flower, so naturally a peony garden came Every spring myself I ahave Peonies have always beennext. my favorite flower,I tell so naturally peenough. Every spring I end up planting more.I have enough. ony garden came next. Every spring I tell myself Every spring I end up planting more.
Chiqui became part of our family a few years later and Chiqui became part of our a fewShe years later curious, and instantly instantly filled our home withfamily happiness. is tiny, endlessly entertaining, and somehow manages to have the enfilled our home with happiness. She is tiny, curious, endlessly biggest personality in the house. tertaining, and somehow manages to have the biggest personality inAs theCasa house. Milli continued to grow, we added chickens. I have aAs habit of naming just about everything, and manyI have of my Casa Milli continued to grow, we added chickens. a habit hens are named after remarkable women I admire, including ofRuth, naming just about many of my hensone are of named Oprah, Grace,everything, Elizabeth,and and Cher. Every themremarkable has a personality own.including Ruth, Oprah, Grace, after womenallI her admire, Elizabeth, and Cher. Every one of a personality her own. Every morning they reward us them with has beautiful jewel all toned eggs in shades of they blue,reward green, us olive, cream, jewel-toned each one with Every morning withand beautiful eggs in a deepoforange yolk. Collecting them never getswith old. a deep-orange shades blue, green, olive, and cream, each one yolk. Collecting neverMilli getstoold. I brought beesthem to Casa help the gardens flourish. I quickly became beekeeping andflourish. wantedI to I brought bees tofascinated Casa Milliwith to help the gardens quickly learn everything I could. What started as another hobby became fascinated withour beekeeping and wanted to learn I eventually became honey harvest. Around theeverything same time, What we planted small applehobby orchard, anotherbecame projectour thathoney could. starteda as another eventually simply grew outthe of my curiosity. harvest. Around same time, we planted a small apple orchard, another project that simply grew out of my curiosity. Social Life
XOXO i li M , a n a i l i L Amee i u q i h C &
Looking back, that’s how almost everything at Casa Milli has happened. One interest naturally led to another.Looking back, that’s how almost everything at Casa Milli has happened. One interest naturally led to another.
Years later, I recreated Colombian a vibrant fresh, Years later, I recreated the the Colombian ají, aají, fresh, vibrant hot sauce I grew up eating. Naming Chiqui’s Ají hot sauce I grew up eating. Naming Chiqui’s Ají was an easy was an easy decision because it reminded me so much of decision because it reminded me so muchand of her. Bright, her. Bright, bold, full of personality, with justbold, the of personality, and with just the right amount of spice. right full amount of spice. Hot Honey came next. If Milli is sweetness and Chiqui is
Hot Honey came next. If Milli sweetness and Chiqui spice, it couldn’t have had a moreisfitting inspiration. is spice,More it couldn’t had a more inspiration. recently, have we introduced a dailyfitting multivitamin for dogs, inspired by the two little girls who have been at the heart of
More recently, we introduced a daily multivitamin for Milli from the very dogs,Casa inspired by the twobeginning. little girls who have been at The happiest part of all the of this never been growing the heart of Casa Milli from veryhasbeginning. the vegetables, collecting the eggs, or harvesting the honey.
The happiest part of all of this has never been growing the vegetables, collecting the eggs, or harvesting the It’sthings sharing bring me the It’s honey. sharing the that the bringthings me thethat greatest joy with the greatest joy with the people I love. For years, friends people I love. For years, friends and family have left our home and familya carton have left our home a cartonfrom of eggs, a carrying of eggs, a jar ofcarrying honey, vegetables jar of honey, vegetables from the garden, or, more the garden, or, more recently, a bottle of Chiqui’s Ají. I’ve alrecently, a bottle of Chiqui’s Ají. I’ve always loved ways loved making feel special. special. Beautiful glassglass jars, jars, making thosethose giftsgiftsfeel Beautiful thoughtful labels,labels, and careful always been justalways thoughtful andpackaging careful have packaging have as important as what goestoinside them. been justtoasmeimportant me as what goes inside them. I realized I wasn’t simply sharing eggs, honey, or vegetables. I realized I wasn’t sharing eggs, or vegeI was sharing little pieces ofsimply the place that brings me honey, the greatest tables. I was sharing little pieces of the place that happiness. brings me the greatest happiness. I don’t think I ever created Casa Milli. plantedIaever garden. I don’t Ithink created Casa Milli. Everything else simply I planted a grew. garden.
Everything else simply grew.
Follow Casa Milli’s journey on Instagram at @casa.milli and discover more at www.casamilli.com.
80
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
BEAUTY by Jeanette Zinno
Summer Strands Salt air, sun-soaked days, chlorine, and humidity can leave even the healthiest hair feeling dry and stressed. These elevated essentials restore shine, nourish from root to tip, and keep hair looking effortlessly polished all season long.
CLAY REVIVAL After days of sun, salt water, and chlorine, St. Meto’s Mother Clay Hair Recovery Treatment helps detoxify, strengthen, and replenish thirsty strands with mineral-rich clay. Hair is left softer, glossier, and refreshed for the rest of the season. Goop, $68
SCALP RESET Summer heat can leave your scalp feeling dry and out of balance. LolaVie’s Scalp Serum delivers lightweight hydration to calm and nourish at the roots, creating the ideal foundation for stronger, shinier hair. Ulta Beauty, $49
DAILY DUO Frequent washing is part of summer, but it doesn’t have to strip moisture. Josh Rosebrook’s Nourish Shampoo & Conditioner gently cleanses while restoring hydration, softness, and bounce with a blend of nutrient-rich botanicals. Credo Beauty, $48
TANGLE TAMER Beach days often come with stubborn knots. Bon Brosse’s N.04 The Massaging Detangling Hairbrush glides through tangles while gently stimulating the scalp, leaving strands smoother, sleeker, and ready for wherever summer takes you. La Bonne Brosse, $198
Social Life
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
82
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
Hamptons Summer Hair by Jeanette Zinno
Elle Medico
As summer settles into the Hamptons, protecting your hair becomes just as important as protecting your skin. I sat down with Elle Medico, co-founder and stylist at UMI Salon in Manhattan’s Flatiron district, who spends part of each summer seeing clients out east, to talk about the biggest warmweather hair mistakes—and the simple habits that keep hair healthy all season long.
What’s the biggest challenge your clients face during a Hamptons summer? Color fading and dryness, without a doubt. Blondes are especially at risk of turning green from chlorine, while brunettes can fade into brassy tones. Salt water pulls moisture from the hair, leaving it rough and dry after a weekend at the beach. How do sun, salt water, chlorine, and humidity each affect the hair differently? The sun damages the outer cuticle, causing dryness and fading. Salt water strips away natural moisture, chlorine dehydrates hair and can oxidize blonde tones, and humidity makes the hair shaft swell, leading to frizz. What’s the biggest mistake people make? Jumping into the pool or ocean without protecting their hair first. A leave-in treatment or hair mask creates a barrier that helps keep chlorine and salt water from stripping moisture and color. What’s your ideal summer hair routine? Keep it simple: a moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner, an antihumidity styling product, and a weekly hydrating mask. After a day in the sun, focus on restoring moisture with nourishing treatments.
UMI Salon co-owners Amerah Underwood, Andrew Inconstanti, and Elle Medico
How can clients keep color-treated hair looking fresh? UV protection is essential. Products formulated to protect against sun exposure help preserve color, minimize brassiness, and keep hair looking vibrant all summer. What’s one piece of advice everyone should remember? Prevention is everything. Enjoy the beach, the pool, and the sunshine—just protect your hair first.
BEAUTY NEWS This summer, Paul Labrecque brings his signature salon experience to The Hedges Inn, offering by-appointment hair and makeup services in a private salon suite. Guests can enjoy expert styling, color, and beauty treatments—or book luxury house calls throughout the Hamptons. 74 James Lane, East Hampton Social Life
RESULTS. REFINED. Award-Winning Skin & Body Treatments. 23 Years of Expertise.
40 West Main Street, Southampton, NY
631.259.2477
bluewaterspany.com
84
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON THESE 7 NATURAL TIPS FOR GLOWING SKIN? by liana WeRneR-gRay, nutRitionist and authoR PhotogRaPhy by leanna caRlson Summer is the perfect time to let your natural beauty shine, and healthy, glowing skin starts from within. While the beauty industry wants us to believe we need dozens of expensive products, I’ve found in my last 17 years of being a health
coach and nutritionist to thousands of clients that radiant skin comes down to nourishing your body with the right foods, minerals, and daily habits. Here are my go-to seven favorite ways to support healthy skin all summer long.
Liana Werner-Gray
Social Life
85
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
4. Be mindful of what you put on your skin. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so think carefully about what you apply to it. I like to follow a simple philosophy: If you wouldn’t want to eat it, think twice before putting it on your skin. Many conventional skin-care products contain long lists of synthetic ingredients, fragrances, and preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, look for simple, nourishing ingredients and remember that healthy skin is built from within—not from an overflowing bathroom cabinet. Too many chemicals age the skin.
5. Choose clean makeup.
1. Start your day with chlorophyll. One of my favorite morning rituals is adding liquid chlorophyll drops to filtered water or enjoying a fresh green juice. Chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, is packed with nutrients and has long been used to support the body’s natural detoxification processes. It’s also known as “nature’s internal deodorant.” I’ve been taking liquid chlorophyll daily for over 17 years, and I truly believe it’s one of the reasons my skin stays fresh and vibrant. A daily shot of wheatgrass is a great way to get a dense dose of chlorophyll. Did you know that a shot of wheatgrass is equivalent to 2.5 pounds of vegetables? Remarkable! You can get fresh organic wheatgrass delivered in the Hamptons from 800wheatgrass.com.
2. Eat your water.
If you wear makeup, opt for products made with skin-friendly ingredients. I personally love Araza Beauty because it’s made with organic, superfood-inspired ingredients while still providing beautiful coverage. In fact, I’m wearing Araza makeup in the photograph accompanying this article. Araza’s concealer and lip tint are two of my everyday favorites because they enhance your natural beauty without feeling heavy on the skin. Use my code, Liana, for a discount.
6. Feed your skin with anti-inflammatory foods. Beautiful skin begins on your plate. My philosophy, the Earth Diet, focuses on whole, nutrient-dense foods that naturally support collagen production and reduce inflammation. This way you eat a lot of collagen-supporting proteins like bone broth, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised eggs as well as antioxidant-rich berries, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables to help protect against oxidative stress and healthy fats like avocado, extra-virgin olive oil, and omega-3-rich foods to support your skin’s natural barrier. These are the best-known foods for the skin.
7. Replace the minerals you lose.
Hydration doesn’t come only from what you drink; it also comes from what you eat. Many fruits and vegetables are naturally rich in water, helping hydrate your body while supplying vitamins and antioxidants your skin loves. Watermelon is about 92% water, cucumber 96%, celery 95%, strawberries 91%, oranges 86%, and tomatoes 95%. Fill your plate with these hydrating foods, especially during the warmer months, to nourish your skin from the inside out.
During summer we sweat more, losing important minerals along with water. Replenishing electrolytes helps your body stay hydrated and your skin looking its best. Choose products like Redmond Real Salt electrolytes made without artificial colors or flavors; they are delicious and refreshing. Staying hydrated with both water and minerals can make a noticeable difference in how you look and feel.
3. Cleanse from the inside with food-grade bentonite clay.
This summer, remember that glowing skin isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating consistent healthy daily habits. Nourish your body, hydrate well, choose real food, and let your natural radiance shine from the inside out.
Food-grade bentonite clay is a natural volcanic ash that has been used for thousands of years by cultures around the world to help purify the body. When mixed with water, it has the ability to bind to certain substances in the digestive tract and support the body’s natural elimination processes. Many of my clients struggling with acne and eczema choose to include Redmond bentonite clay as part of their wellness routine. A common starting point is 1 teaspoon mixed into a glass of water once daily, following the product directions and ensuring adequate hydration. It can also be applied topically as a face mask to help absorb excess oil and leave skin feeling refreshed. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Liana Werner-Gray Certified nutritionist and best-selling author of Anxiety-Free With Food and Cancer-Free With Food Founder of TheEarthDiet.com IG & FB: @LianaWernerGray | @TheEarthDiet Get the new book now: The Truth About Seed Oils by Liana Werner-Gray and Cherie Calbom Available on Amazon and through major book retailers.
86
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
CANINE COUTURE CHAZ DEAN’S SOFTEST LAUNCH YET by JeReMy MuRPhy
Chaz Dean and his angels
The WEN Pets Ultra Plush Faux Fur Dog Beds are not a random lifestyle extension. For Dean, they are the result of decades of frustration as a dog owner. “I’ve had dogs for the past 25 years, and I bought so many dog beds,” Dean says. “I’ve never been satisfied with any.” Dean says the closest he came to loving a dog bed was a Restoration Hardware faux-fur version, but even that, he says, only worked aesthetically. “The looks of it were good,” he says, “but the structure was not.”
So, in classic Chaz Dean fashion, he started tinkering. “I would always open them up, and I would add pillows inside of them,” he says. “I would add three king-size pillows.” Even then, he says, the support was never right. “A king-size pillow never measures up to memory foam.” THE WEN DOG BED Beauty, comfort, structure, and function became the foundation of the new WEN pet beds. Dean says he spent roughly two years developing the beds, testing samples, changing materials, adjusting colors, and watching how dogs actually used them. The result is a plush faux-fur bed with 3.5 inches of memory foam, thick bolsters, washable construction, and waterproof liners. “That is the number-one thing for every dog that I’ve ever gotten,” Dean says of the base support. “It’s what they lay on, their 100-pound bodies or 80-pound bodies. It’s hard on their knees, their hips, and their joints.” Social Life
WEN by Chaz Dean
For more than 25 years, Chaz Dean has built a beauty empire around the deceptively simple idea that care should feel nurturing. The celebrity hairstylist and founder of WEN turned cleansing conditioner into a category-changing product; expanded into bath, body, skin care, fragrance, men’s, kids, home, and pet care; and became one of QVC’s most recognizable beauty personalities. Now Dean is taking that same philosophy somewhere softer, furrier, and very personal: dog beds.
87
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
WEN by Chaz Dean
The bolsters were another key element. Dean wanted dogs to have real support for their necks and heads, not the flimsy edging he had seen in other beds. The small bed has an 8-inch bolster, while the medium and large beds have 9-inch bolsters. “I took what drove me crazy about all the ones I’ve ever had, and I’ve constructed this,” he says. “I’m really proud of them, and they’re so beautiful, soft, and even cooling.” Dean tested the beds with his own dogs, including his nearly 13-year-old lab, Riley, as well as with dogs belonging to friends, family, and colleagues. One early oversize sample went home with an employee whose Bernese mountain dog typically avoided beds because he ran hot, and he immediately loved it. COMFORTABLE NOSTALGIA WRAPPED IN FAUX FUR The softness, he says, was inspired by a memory of old rabbit-fur keychains from his childhood, though Dean, now vegan, is quick to say he would never use real fur today. “In stressful situations, you would rub it; it was calming and soothing,” he says. “It’s the same with these beds.” The beds launched in three colors: olive, graphite, and latte. Olive, he says, reflects the “true iridescence” of the olive trees he lives around; graphite is a refined gray; latte is exactly what it sounds like. Pricing is $299 for small, $349 for medium, and $399 for large. Dean says he wanted prices to stay below many luxury dog beds, which climb far higher. “I tried to keep them affordable for people,” he says. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Dean also expects the beds to get attention on QVC, even if they are not immediately given dedicated airtime. His dogs, affectionately known to WEN fans as “the angels,” are often with him on air. “When I’m on air with the angels, they’re going to be in the beds, and people are definitely going to ask,” he says. The beds connect naturally to WEN Pets, which already includes cleansing conditioners and replenishing treatment mists. Dean says pet owners can lightly mist the beds, much as WEN customers mist pillows and bedding. For care, Dean recommends washing gently, drying on cool or delicate, and, when possible, letting them finish in the sun. WHAT’S NEXT? As for whether pet products will become a bigger category, Dean is open. “There are other things I buy for pets that are frustrating and drive me crazy,” he says. For now, the dog bed is his latest act of problem-solving. The beauty-world perfectionist applied his eye, his instincts, and his love of animals to the place where dogs spend much of their lives. “I created them because I hit a wall,” Dean says. “Why am I settling for this? I want to create all the things that drove me crazy. I need to fix them now. And that’s what I’ve done about the dog bed.” It’s safe to say we are all waiting with bated breath to see what the natural problem solver sets his sights on next. u WEN Pets Ultra Plush Faux Fur Dog Beds are available online at chazdean.com.
88
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
OISHII THE LUXURY STRAWBERRY EXPERIENCE COMES TO CHELSEA MARKET by helena haRloW
This August, one of New York City’s most talked-about luxury food brands is opening its doors in one of the city’s most iconic culinary destinations. Oishii will debut a new pop-up kiosk at Chelsea Market later this month, giving berry lovers the opportunity to experience its celebrated Japanese strawberries in person. Known for cultivating exceptionally sweet, fragrant strawberries in its state-of-the-art vertical farm, Oishii has earned a devoted following among chefs, food enthusiasts, and discerning consumers. The new kiosk brings the brand’s signature experience to Chelsea Market, where visitors can shop Oishii’s complete lineup of premium strawberries, including its original Omakase Berry, seasonal varieties, and the new Connoisseur Grade Omakase Berry.
The Connoisseur Pack represents the highest expression of Oishii’s craft. Drawn from the top 1% of the harvest, these extraordinary extra-large berries are left on the vine longer to reach peak sweetness and flavor before being hand-selected by Oishii’s berry sommelier. Beautifully presented in an elegant set of six or 12, the Connoisseur Pack transforms an everyday fruit into a truly memorable luxury experience. For those who prefer to enjoy them at home, Connoisseur Grade Omakase Berries are also available through Oishii’s premium direct-to-consumer delivery service. Packed at the farm and hand-delivered the very same day, the berries arrive at peak freshness and are best enjoyed within 24 hours, preserving the exceptional quality that makes them so distinctive. Beyond the Connoisseur Pack, visitors to the Chelsea Market kiosk will be able to discover a curated, rotating selection of Oishii’s most coveted offerings—from premium berries and limited-edition sweet treats to bottled beverages, seasonal collaborations, thoughtfully selected Japanese kitchenware, and exclusive gifts, including products available only in person. The full range of Oishii’s premium strawberries are each cultivated using a unique combination of advanced technology and natural honeybee pollination. Grown year-round in a carefully controlled environment, the berries have become known for their remarkable sweetness, aroma, and consistently exceptional quality. The Chelsea Market opening marks another milestone for founder Hiroki Koga, whose vision was inspired by the extraordinary fruit culture of Japan. After moving to the United States, Koga set out to re-create the unforgettable flavor and craftsmanship he remembered from home, building a company that continues to redefine expectations for premium produce. Whether picking up a tray of Omakase Berries, discovering a seasonal variety, or treating someone to the coveted Connoisseur Pack, visitors to Chelsea Market will have the opportunity to experience the full world of Oishii. It’s a destination where craftsmanship, innovation, and extraordinary flavor come together, one remarkable strawberry at a time. Social Life
Experience Makes the Difference
Celebrity Plastic Surgeon and Expert Injector
*
STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S. BEST COSMETIC SURGEON 10 BEST PLASTIC SURGEONS IN AMERICA TOP DOCTOR EXPERT INJECTOR PATIENTS’ CHOICE AWARD COMPASSIONATE CARE AWARD BEST OF THE BEST TOP PLASTIC SURGEON TOP 10 PLASTIC SURGEON *
BY: SCHNEPS MEDIA, AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF PLASTIC SURGEONS, NEW BEAUTY, VITALS, DAN’S PAPERS, FIND A TOP DOC, NAOPS
JOIN ME FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY SURGICAL OR INJECTION CONSULTATION Southampton Manhattan
Woodbury Scarsdale
Smithtown Princeton
Boca Raton Dubai
844.486.0005 @drstephentgreenberg GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com
90
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
ASK THE BUNION KING WHAT EVERYONE WANTS TO KNOW ABOUT BUNIONS by lauRa heaRst What actually causes a bunion? Most bunions are hereditary. Shoes can aggravate the problem, but they usually aren’t the cause. Because bunions are progressive, they often worsen over time if left untreated. Has bunion surgery really changed that much? Absolutely. Bunionplasty 360 Bunion Repair is a minimally invasive approach that allows many patients to walk the same day in a surgical sandal without casts or crutches. Every patient is different, but today’s recovery can be dramatically different from what many people expect.
Dr. Neal Blitz
For years, people assumed bunion surgery meant large incisions, bulky casts, weeks on crutches, and putting life on hold. Dr. Neal Blitz has spent his career proving otherwise. Known as The Bunion King®, the New York– and Beverly Hills–based foot and ankle surgeon is the creator of the Bunionplasty® 360 Bunion Repair and founder and CEO of Voom medical devices. Through his minimally invasive approach and No Casts No Crutches philosophy, he has helped redefine what patients can expect from modern bunion surgery. Here, he answers some of the questions he hears most often. Why are so many people still afraid of bunion surgery? For decades, bunion surgery had a reputation for long recoveries and significant downtime. I believed there had to be a better way. My goal was to create a procedure that corrects the bunion while helping patients get back to their lives sooner and more comfortably.
How does the Bunionplasty procedure differ from traditional bunion surgery? The Bunionplasty procedure is a minimally invasive approach to bunion correction that differs significantly from many traditional bunion surgeries. Traditional bunion surgery often requires larger incisions and, often, joint fusion to achieve correction. In contrast, the Bunionplasty procedure is performed through a few tiny incisions using a motion-preserving bone cut that realigns the bunion while maintaining the natural function of the joint. This regenerative approach is designed to restore normal anatomy with minimal disruption to the surrounding soft tissues, helping patients return to activity sooner with less scarring and a more natural-looking foot. Can both feet be corrected at the same time? In many cases, yes. For appropriate candidates, correcting both feet during one procedure means one recovery instead of two, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner. When should someone consider surgery? It’s not about how the bunion looks. It’s about how it’s affecting your life. If foot pain is preventing you from travel, exercise, work, or simply enjoying the activities you love, it’s time to explore your options. What’s the one thing you wish every patient knew? You don’t have to simply live with bunion pain. Modern bunion surgery has evolved tremendously, and the right treatment can help many people stay active, mobile, and doing the things they love without putting life on hold. u
Learn more at bunionsurgery.com Social Life
Est. 1987
92
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
S CULPT H AUS NYC WHERE LUXURY MEETS BODY WELLNESS by Whitney fitZgeRald
In the heart of Midtown Manhattan, SculptHaus NYC is redefining the modern wellness and body sculpting experience. Formerly known as Beauty Body Aesthetics, the practice has evolved under the leadership of Dr. Bushra Helmandi into a destination focused on helping clients look and feel their absolute best through advanced, noninvasive body contouring and recovery treatments. Located on Lexington Avenue at 41st Street, SculptHaus NYC offers panoramic views of the New York City skyline, creating an elegant retreat where clients can unwind while receiving personalized care. Every detail of the sophisticated space has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the practice’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and whole-body wellness. Dr. Helmandi brings a unique perspective to the industry. In addition to owning SculptHaus NYC, she is also the owner of Active Physical Therapy & Chiropractic Group, giving her an extensive understanding of the body’s anatomy, movement, recovery, and overall function. This foundation allows her to approach body wellness from a comprehensive perspective, combining therapeutic principles with advanced aesthetic technologies to help clients feel healthier, lighter, and more confident. “Our philosophy is simple—we want to enhance what nature has already given you,” says Dr. Helmandi. “Our treatments are designed to support the body’s natural processes while defining and enhancing each client’s unique shape. Whether through lymphatic drainage, body contouring massage, radio frequency technology, or muscletoning treatments, our goal is to help clients feel stronger, more sculpted, and more confident without surgery.” As interest in holistic wellness continues to grow, SculptHaus NYC
is seeing increasing demand for treatments that reduce bloating, improve circulation, support post-workout and post-travel recovery, and enhance the body’s natural contours. Clients are seeking noninvasive alternatives that complement healthy lifestyles while delivering visible, natural-looking results. “Our clients are looking for more than aesthetics,” Dr. Helmandi explains. “They want treatments that help them feel better physically while enhancing their appearance. Lymphatic drainage massage has become one of our signature services because it supports healthy circulation, reduces fluid retention, promotes recovery, and leaves clients feeling lighter and refreshed. With advanced radio frequency technology and body contouring therapies, we’re able to help define natural curves, improve skin firmness, and create beautifully sculpted results without downtime.” Among SculptHaus NYC’s most sought-after services are customized lymphatic drainage treatments, detoxifying body massages, radio frequency skin tightening, body contouring therapies, muscle activation technology, and wellness-focused recovery sessions. Every treatment plan is personalized to each client’s goals, whether they are preparing for a special event, recovering from travel, maintaining fitness results, or simply investing in self-care. What distinguishes SculptHaus NYC is its individualized approach. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all treatments, every client receives a customized consultation designed around their anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. This personalized philosophy, combined with advanced technology and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service, has made SculptHaus NYC a trusted destination for luxury body wellness in New York City. Looking ahead, Dr. Helmandi remains committed to introducing the latest innovations in noninvasive body contouring and wellness technologies while maintaining the personalized care that defines the SculptHaus experience. As clients increasingly seek treatments that support both beauty and overall well-being, SculptHaus NYC continues to lead with a philosophy centered on confidence, health, and natural enhancement. With its elegant Manhattan location, holistic approach, and dedication to helping clients define and enhance their natural curves through advanced body sculpting, lymphatic drainage, detoxification therapies, and innovative radio frequency technology, SculptHaus NYC is setting a new standard in luxury wellness—helping every client feel lighter, stronger, sculpted, and confident from the inside out. u
To learn more please follow: @sculpthausnyc Social Life
DR. SHAWN SADRI COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY NEW YORK CITY & MIAMI
STAR QUALITY & VIP TREATMENT IN A STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY Dr. Shawn Sadri and his extraordinary team provide a VIP experience every time you visit the NYC & Miami offices. When you choose our cosmetic and general dentistry services, you will enjoy a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere while receiving world-class dental treatment.
DRSHAWNSADRI
DR SHAWN S AD RI.C O M
O F F I C E @ DR S HAW N S A DR I . C O M
212 . 256. 0687
515 MADIS ON AVEN U E, S U ITE 1710, N EW YO RK , N EW YO RK 357 ALMERIA AVENU E, S U ITE 105, C O RAL G ABL ES , F L O RIDA
94
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
E CO T ICK FOUNDER ALANA EITMAN ON A SMARTER APPROACH TO TICK CONTROL by WinteR faiRchild What do people misunderstand most about ticks and Lyme disease? Many people believe ticks jump from trees or that deer are the main cause of tick infestations. In reality, ticks can’t jump or fly. They wait in grass and low vegetation until people or pets brush past. While deer carry adult ticks, ticks begin their life cycle on small mammals like mice and chipmunks. Many people are also surprised to learn that Lyme disease doesn’t always cause a bull’s-eye rash.
As tick-borne illnesses continue to rise across the East End, Hamptons homeowners are looking for smarter ways to protect their families without compromising the beauty of their landscapes. EcoTick offers a targeted approach that addresses ticks at the source while minimizing impact on the surrounding environment. Founder Alana Eitman shares how the company is rethinking tick prevention through science, sustainability, and long-term protection. Most homeowners think tick control means spraying chemicals. How is EcoTick different? EcoTick uses discreet tick boxes to target mice and chipmunks, where ticks begin their life cycle. By stopping ticks at the source before they spread throughout a property, we take a smarter, more targeted approach to tick control. I started EcoTick after seeing friends and family struggle with Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome and believing there had to be a better solution.
What does effective long-term tick prevention look like? Successful tick control starts with prevention before ticks become established. That means targeting the small mammals ticks rely on during their life cycle rather than simply reacting after a problem develops. Our goal isn’t to eliminate mice and chipmunks but to reduce the ticks they carry. The most effective protection comes from consistent, long-term prevention rather than temporary treatments. Have homeowners become more interested in safer, environmentally conscious solutions? Absolutely. Today’s homeowners want effective protection, but they also want to know exactly how it works. EcoTick applies a very small amount of treatment directly to the mice and chipmunks ticks depend on instead of dispersing products across the landscape. The result is a highly targeted approach that stays out of the water system while helping protect families, pets, and the environment. u
To learn more visit: ecotickusa.com
How do you reduce ticks while protecting the Hamptons’ landscape and wildlife? Protecting the environment is central to our approach. Hamptons homeowners value their landscapes, pollinators, and wildlife, so our system is designed to reduce ticks in a targeted way while allowing families to enjoy their outdoor spaces and helping preserve the surrounding ecosystem. Social Life
96
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
MARCELLA HYMOWITZ’S THE PEARL by JeReMy MuRPhy TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY “The Pearl was really the brainchild of a lifelong dream to own a dance studio,” Hymowitz says. Over time, she imagined a space where people from all walks could come together, instead of a traditional dance school. “As I got older, that vision evolved from simply being a dance studio for children and teens into a space that serves adults as well,” she explains. “Kids can be taking classes in one room while adults are in another.” That flexibility is central to The Pearl’s philosophy. Children and teens can attend dance, cheer, hip-hop, or acro classes, while parents participate in sculpt, cardio, or dance-based fitness. Families aren’t forced into rigid semester schedules either, as many programs are offered on a drop-in basis.
For Marcella Hymowitz, opening The Pearl on Manhattan’s Upper East Side was more than creating another dance studio. It was about bringing together decades of experience as a New York Knicks City Dancer, fitness instructor, entrepreneur, choreographer, and mother to create something she felt was missing from city life. The result is a studio that blends dance, fitness, cheerleading, and community for every stage of life. Since opening The Pearl, Hymowitz has envisioned a gathering place where connections continue after the music stops.
DANCE, CHEER, AND TEAMWORK Long before opening The Pearl, Hymowitz spent years performing as a New York Knicks City Dancer, building a career that included choreography, artistic direction, and fitness instruction. Yet one of her greatest passions has always been cheerleading. “We have a cheer team and offer cheer classes for Social Life
YanaLOVE
Marcella Hymowitz
MORE THAN A STUDIO The Pearl is truly distinguished by what happens outside the classroom. “We host events before and after classes. One day there might be a speaker, another day a brand activation, and there can be different activities happening throughout the studio,” Hymowitz says. The thoughtfully designed Upper East Side space includes areas where children and teens can complete homework before class, a kitchen where families can eat together, comfortable areas for adults to work remotely, and even a soundproof room for private phone calls. The studio also prioritizes working women, offering classes at 6:00 and 7:00 in the morning and evening with specialty pricing of $30 for women under 30. “After Covid, I felt there were many women who wanted a third space that wasn’t work and wasn’t home. A place where they could relax, stay in their sweatpants, order a green juice or coffee, and simply have some time for themselves,” she says.
97
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y younger girls,” she says. “I was a cheerleader in high school. My senior year, I was captain of the team, and we won nationals. Cheer was a huge part of my life.” While dance nurtured her creativity, cheerleading taught her something different. “Cheer requires everyone working together. If one person is off, it can affect the entire routine. There’s nothing better than that feeling of teamwork and accomplishment.” Recognizing that Manhattan lacked organized cheer opportunities, Hymowitz helped develop one of the city’s first programs before bringing it into The Pearl. “I originally started a cheer program with Fastbreak Sports, developed their cheerleading program, and eventually branched out on my own,” she says.
Courtesy of The Pearl
A BUSINESSWOMAN FROM THE BEGINNING Her entrepreneurial spirit started early. Hymowitz began teaching group fitness while still a teenager after an ankle injury introduced her to another side of exercise. Working summers at a hometown gym, she found herself leading workouts The Pearl NYC before she was even old enough to vote. While studying exercise science in college, she completed a class project that would unexpectedly foreshadow her future. “One of my projects was transforming my hometown gym into a women’s-only fitness center,” she recalls. “It was very similar to what I based The Pearl off of.” That vision eventually became reality. Today, the studio’s calming palette of pink and cream surprises even visitors who insist they dislike pink. “Girls who have sworn off the color pink walk into the studio and they say, ‘Oh, this is what we like.’ Every time.” EXPANDING BEYOND MANHATTAN Although The Pearl is rooted in the Upper East Side, its reach extends beyond Manhattan. This August, The Pearl is making its Hamptons debut, with pop-up classes every Tuesday and Thursday at WAVE in Southampton, SocialLifeMagazine.com
followed by two special events at Post House in Sag Harbor on August 16 and 29, featuring guest instructors. Summer residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience the studio’s signature combination of dance, fitness, and community. For Hymowitz, growth has never been measured by additional locations or larger classes. Success is seeing friendships form, families come together, and women discover a place where wellness is more than exercise. “The entrepreneurial side has always interested me, and creating The Pearl allowed me to bring together my passion for fitness, dance, community, and business,” she says. At The Pearl, a lifelong dream has manifested into a community, one class, one conversation, and one connection at a time. u
To learn more visit: thepearlynyc.com
98
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
IMAGINE SWIMMING AQUATIC FITNESS FOR ALL AGES IN MONTAUK by WinteR faiRchild
Montauk has another place making waves this summer— and it’s not a beach club or a restaurant: It’s Imagine Swimming. Known as New York’s premier learn-to-swim school, its arrival signals a new era for the Montauk Playhouse—home to Imagine Swimming’s state-of-the-art Sarah and Maurice Iudicone Aquatic Center. The aquatic center features a four-lane, 25-yard lap pool, as well as a warm-water teaching and leisure pool designed for children, families, and seniors alike. The aquatic center’s amenities also include men’s and women’s locker rooms, a family changing room, pool deck showers, restrooms, and expansive off-deck viewing windows. More than just a swim school, Imagine Swimming creates a welcoming environment for people of all ages, encouraging active lifestyles and building community through its programming with classes such as competitive coaching and aqua fitness as well as youth swim lessons. As a first-of-its-kind offering in Montauk, the center offers a comprehensive slate of signature programming designed for swimmers of all ages and levels. Weekly lessons, offered Wednesday through Sunday, combine small group ratios with high-energy, child-centered instruction in 30-to-60-minute sessions. Imagine Swimming also offers Lap Swim memberships, available Monday to Sunday, for swimmers who want flexible
access throughout the week. Additionally, its aqua fitness classes provide 45-minute, lowimpact, high-benefit workouts that add movement and strength training for any routine. Imagine Swimming also has a new Masters program (included with the Lap Swim membership) offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays that welcomes swimmers of all levels, combining techniquefocused stroke development and aerobic training with ocean-inspired fitness to build efficiency, flexibility, endurance, and paddling strength for life in Montauk. These workouts will be primarily led by Lars Merseburg—an Imagine co-founder, former German national team member, and NCAA national champion—alongside Metro Masters coach Angelika Cruz. Imagine Swimming’s arrival represents more than the opening of a new facility. It creates a space for residents of all ages and experience levels to add movement to their summer routines and build a new kind of community in the process. Through its programming, Imagine Swimming offers a welcoming third space where residents and visitors can connect, stay active, and develop a lifelong relationship with the water. “We think of swimming pools as a welcoming hub for the entire community, a place where all are welcome,” said Casey Barrett, co-founder of Imagine Swimming. “And it’s a truism that one always feels better getting out of a pool than when you got in!” Imagine Swimming is a meaningful addition to Montauk, with a teaching philosophy rooted in building trust, comfort, and confidence in the water before advancing technique and performance. This approach has carried Imagine Swimming to elite status among New York City swim schools and has guided its opening in Montauk. With programming designed for every age and experience level, Imagine Swimming is helping create a healthier, more connected community, with a committment to aquatic fitness for all. Social Life
SUMMER
E
outdoor season
S
FStennisclub.com | 631-287-6707 | info@fstennisclub.com 1370A Majors Path Southampton, NY 11968
ADULT CLINICS
LEAGUES
SEASONALS
PRIVATE LESSONS
KIDS CAMPS
PRO SHOP
COURT RENTALS
JUNIOR TENNIS
STRINGING
7 AM - 8 PM 4 Har Tru & 4 Hard Courts
NO IP MEMEBERS!H NEEDED
20+ International Tennis Pros USTA Safe Play certified UTR Events & Weekly Tournaments Open Year Round!
Scan for more information!
100
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
THE SHINE STUDIO by alie Mitchell
Shine has been a thriving mobile creative arts business in New York City since 2005, building a reputation for imaginative, child-centered programming that blends process art, social skills, and experiential learning. But it was in 2012 that founder Aaron Goldschmidt recognized an opportunity beyond the city—one that would shape the next chapter of Shine’s story. Many of Shine’s New York City families spent their summers in the Hamptons, yet at the time, options for children’s programming were limited to just a handful of large, traditional camps. Goldschmidt saw a clear gap: Families were craving something smaller, more intimate, and deeply rooted in creativity. With a vision to create a program that celebrated the natural beauty, rich history, and close-knit community of the East End, Shine in the Hamptons was born. Launching its first summer camp in 2014, Shine quickly resonated with families seeking a more thoughtful and engaging alternative. What began as a small, creative offering has since grown into a beloved seasonal staple. Now in its 13th summer, Shine has enjoyed continued success, a testament to both the strength of its programming and the loyal community it has cultivated over the years. A major milestone came in 2021 with the opening of The Shine Studio, a dedicated creative arts space in the Hamptons. This expansion marked a shift from a seasonal program to a year-round presence, allowing Shine to deepen its connection with both local
residents and visiting families. The studio has become a vibrant hub for creativity, offering classes, workshops, and events designed for all ages, 18 months to adult. At the heart of Shine is the belief that the most meaningful learning happens when children are free to explore, create, and connect. Rather than dividing experiences, Shine brings together art, music, movement, cooking, nature, and imaginative play to create immersive, multi-sensory adventures. Each thoughtfully designed experience nurtures curiosity, encourages creative thinking, and supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of the whole child— proving that the most lasting lessons are often discovered through joyful exploration. As Shine celebrates 13 years in the Hamptons, the occasion will be marked with an Art Mitzvah on Sunday, August 16, bringing together families, friends, and the community for an afternoon of creativity, live music, food, crafts, and celebration. For more information and tickets, visit shinenyc.net.
Social Life
SUMMER CAMP BIRTHDAY PARTIES USAIGC COMPETITIVE TEAM
RECREATIONAL CLASSES
HAMPTON GYMNASTICS EAST IS A PREMIER PRIVATE SOCIAL CLUB FOR CHILDREN.
Diaper Dare Angels (18-36 mo.) Mini Stars (ages 3-4) Mini Tumblers (ages 5-8) Diamond Tumblers (ages 8-15) Super Silvers (intermediate 5-7) Pre-Team (intermediate 7-12) Ninja Warriors (ages 5-10) ROSS Mini Tumblers (ROSS students) Dance-Acro (for trained dancers) Cheer Tumbling (interm./advanced)
At Hampton Gymnastics East, our mission is to elevate the skill level of our gymnasts in a private and social setting. Through our meticulously planned, long-term program, we provide a safe and educationally sound environment, all while instilling a deep devotion to the sport of gymnastics and humanity.
631-377-3545 www.hgeast.com E: info@hgeast.com hamptongymnasticseast
REGISTER
102
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
JESSICA ALESSI THE BEACH HOUSE SALON by WinteR faiRchild Known for creating effortless, sun-kissed color, The Beach House Salon has become one of the Hamptons’ go-to destinations for beautiful, natural hair. We caught up with its founder, Jessica Alessi, to talk balayage, summer trends, and healthy hair. What inspired you to open The Beach House Salon? I’ve always loved creating beautiful natural hair, but I wanted to build a space that felt different. Relaxed, creative, and effortlessly luxurious, but where clients could truly feel at home. What is your favorite hair transformation to create? Lived-in blondes and dimensional brunettes. I love creating color that looks natural, grows out beautifully, and makes people feel like the best version of themselves. What are the biggest hair trends you’re seeing this summer in the Hamptons? Healthy, expensive-looking hair is everything right now. Soft dimension, effortless color, and polished styles that still feel natural.
wyldfire.co
What’s your number-one tip for keeping hair healthy and beautiful? Invest in your hair like you do your skin. Use professional products, protect it from heat and the sun, and don’t wait until it’s damaged to take care of it.
Social Life
MEET DR.ROUMIANA TZVETKOVA, DDS, DMD Artistically emulating nature with minimally invasive and high-end dentistry. • • • •
Bonding Curodont Veneers Implants
• • • •
Motto Clear Aligners GLO Whitening Zirconia crown and bridge And more!
BEFORE
AFTER
FREE
professional whitening kit
“This was the best experience I’ve ever had, and I couldn’t be happier. Everyone here has been amazing, and it’s changed my life.” Schedule now with Aspen Dental of Deer Park
104
S O C I A L S A FA R I HAMPTONS HAPPENINGS by R. couRi hay
STEVEN SPIELBERG, JOHN PAULSON, JAMEE GREGORY, KIMBERLY PAIGE BLUHM, BRAD PITT, AUDREY GRUSS, ELSA SCHIAPARELLI, ISABELLE BSCHER, CAMERON YOUNG, JULIA HAART, AND BRADLEY COOPER
Rachel Lee Lozina
Peter Thomas Roth
Hampton Classic The Hampton Classic, which runs from August 23 through the Grand Prix Lunch on Sunday, August 30, has always attracted a long list of stars including Madonna, Calvin Klein, Christie Brinkley, Barbra Streisand, Donna Karan, Matthew Broderick, Steven Spielberg, Kimberly Paige Bluhm, Michael Bloomberg, and his rider daughter, Georgina Bloomberg, to name but a few. This equestrian event is celebrating its 51st year and features world-class show jumping and premier hunter competitions that award up to $1 million in prize money. This is the Hamptons’ answer to Royal Ascot, so wear a whimsical fascinator or extravagant chapeau, and gentlemen, do dress up a bit, but you can leave your morning suit and top hats in the closet. N’est-ce pas? Over 50,000 people are expected to attend this weeklong extravaganza catered by Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs and watch over 200 competitions in six stylishly decorated show rings. hamptonclassic.com
Southampton Arts Center’s SummerFest After the spectacular lead-up of events and exhibitions, including their Whimsy Summer Kickoff Party and their collaboration with the Museum of Democracy on “The Story of America,” the Southampton Arts Center is celebrating the climax of the season with its SummerFest Gala Martin and Audrey Gruss
Jamee and Peter Gregory
John Paulson and Alina de Almeida
on August 22. The annual bash will honor financier John Paulson and his fiancée, Alina de Almeida, with the Champions of the Arts Award for their continuous support of artists and creatives, as well as Paulson’s $3.4 million gift to renovate the center’s gardens. The affair, set on SAC’s lush grounds, will entail a festive cocktail hour, seated dinner, and live music. Co-chaired by Jamee and Peter Gregory, Audrey and Martin Gruss, Simone and David Levinson, Christine and Richard Mack, and Anke and Jürgen Friedrich, the always fun event will benefit the center’s year-round programming and the vibrant arts community of the East End. southamptonartscenter.org The aforementioned Jamee Gregory and Audrey Gruss hosted a talk on legendary designer Elsa Schiaparelli, whose brand has been worn by Beyoncé, Cynthia Erivo, Kylie Jenner, Bad Bunny, and Sabrina Carpenter. The couturier’s legacy in the fashion world was examined by Lydia Caston, a curator from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where an exhibition of Schiaparelli’s work is currently on display. The English show, of which there were photographs at SAC, included dresses worn by Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa, as well as the 1938 Skeleton Dress, the Lobster Dress, and the famous shoe hat created in collaboration with Salvador Dalí.
Red Horse Market The East Hampton favorite, Red Horse Market, recently opened a new location in Southampton village at the Christine Mack
Social Life
Annie Watt, Lozina, PMC, Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Kimberly Paige Bluhm
105
SOCIETY former Schmidt’s Country Market. The family-owned and operated shop is run by multiple generations of the Pineda family, who moved to Springs from Ecuador in the early 1990s to settle down and raise their children. Famously, the market prioritizes selling local seafood from Montauk fishermen, fresh-grown fruits and vegetables from neighboring farms, ready-made food prepared on-site with natural ingredients, and world-class catering by executive chef Joseph Genna, who has more than 40 years of catering and fine dining experience. redhorsemarket.com
Body by Julia Julia Haart, the star of Netflix’s My Unorthodox Life, captivated audiences by sharing her journey of leaving an Orthodox Jewish community at the age of 42 to completely reinvent herself. The show captured her taking the fashion industry by storm as the creative director of lingerie giant La Perla and the CEO of Elite World Group. In a new chapter for Haart, she has moved to Miami after selling her Tribeca penthouse for $57 million and finalizing her divorce from Silvio Scaglia. Haart recently launched her latest fashion line, Body by Julia, a ready-to-wear colJulia Haart lection that solves daily wardrobe struggles for women. The collection features a built-in supportive bra and bodysculpting shapewear that’s designed to be flaunted in public. Her daughter, Batsheva, a social media influencer with 578,000 followers, stars in the campaign alongside her mother, which was shot at her new 18-acre estate in Miami. bodybyjulia.com
Limor Garfinkle, PMC, Udo Spreitzenbarth, Courtesy of Dr. Benyamein
Christoph Niemann and Galerie Gmurzynska New Yorker cover artist Christoph Niemann presented his first solo exhibition, dubbed “Urban Horizons,” at Isabelle Bscher’s Galerie Gmurzynska in Zurich, which will be followed by a show at her New York City gallery this fall in the Fuller Building at 595 Madison Avenue. The artist designed the magazine’s first augmented reality cover in 2016 and produced a hand-drawn 360-degree VR animation for its U.S. Open issue. The exhibition spotlights illustrations of the Big Apple, including the A train, the skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as illustrations of Zurich, including the city’s monumental church and famous tramway bridge. The show is also online at gmurzynska.com
Isabelle Bscher
U.S. Open and Global Strays Golf champion and native New Yorker Cameron Young, who won the 2026 Players Championship in Florida, took a quick break before the U.S. Open to go to a party that society swan Jean Shafiroff hosted SocialLifeMagazine.com
for him at her waterfront mansion in Southampton. The handsome pro, whom Jean called “very cute,” offered to give her golf lessons after Jean confessed, “I can’t hit the ball, I don’t know how to swing.” jeanshafiroff.com
Carrie Coon and HOW The Gilded Age’s Carrie Coon, who was nominated for best lead actress at the Tony Awards in June for her star turn in Bug, will be honored at the Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper charity’s upcoming benefit in Palm Beach. The organization just received a $585,000 grant to provide support, including rent, child care, food, and travel to medical appointments, to those battling ovarian cancer in South Florida. The charity’s director, Jennifer McGrath, said, “We will now be able to expand our services 14 times through our Angel Fund.” Florida Governor Ron DeSantis approved the funding request that started on July 1. The 25-year-old organization serves hundreds of women a year. ovariancancerpbc.org Carrie Coon
Adam Levine Maroon 5 lead singer Adam Levine, who was a coach on The Voice, is being scrutinized on the internet by people who claim plastic surgery has made him “unrecognizable.” The critics say Levine looks “embalmed” due to overzealous plastic surgery that’s made the handsome singer resemble a Madame Tussauds wax figure. Rumors are flying about male celebrities altering their looks, including Brad Pitt, who gets a thumbs-up, and others, who some Adam Levine say have crossed a line and are getting a thumbs-down, like Bradley Cooper, Ricky Martin, and Levine. Plastic surgeons on both coasts have noticed a surge in male patients coming in for procedures, including liposuction. Dr. Paige Benyamein, based in Irvine, California, said, “We are seeing more males seeking tummy tucks, face lifts, upper eyelid lifts, and brow lifts. Our younger male patients have been showing more interest in chin liposuction with Renuvion skin tightening to imDr. Paige Benyamein prove the jawline.” socoplasticsurgery.com Plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Cohen, who practices in Baltimore, Maryland, discussed one of the most rapidly growing procedures this spring. “Male breast reduction addresses both glandular tissue and excess fat to restore a masculine chest contour,” Dr. Cohen said. “Surgical correction can be transformative, not only physically, but emotionally and socially.” belcarahealth.com
106
THE SOCIAL REGISTER by Julia lindenthal
Lindenthal started a fundraiser through The Heart Foundation in the name of the late John George Lindenthal, dedicated in his memory to finding a cure for artery plaque, one of the leading causes of death worldwide. She is completing her first TED Talk on this subject in late 2027. For more, follow @lumieredevotrevie
l
Julie Dupree, Zachary Henshik, Zoe D’Amboise
Josh Hart and Diplo
Frederica Stapleton, Lindsey Huffington
Sarah Flanagan, Ashley d’Amboise, Antonella Ziccara
EuroCircle White Party Summer’s signature celebration returned as EuroCircle hosted its annual White Party, bringing together New York’s international business, philanthropic, and social communities for an elegant evening of networking and celebration. Guests, dressed in all white, enjoyed cocktails, music, and waterfront-inspired summer ambiance while reconnecting with friends and making new connections. The event once again showcased EuroCircle’s reputation for uniting entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and global tastemakers for one of the season’s most anticipated social gatherings.
Stephanie Chu, Erica Swanson, Jessica Murray, Irina Kulpolsky, Kensington Burley
E11even and Cipriani FIFA World Cup Championship Party As FIFA World Cup Championship Weekend took over New York City, E11EVEN Miami partnered with Cipriani to host one of the weekend’s most talked-about nightlife events. Held at the iconic Cipriani 42nd Street, the celebration drew athletes, celebrities, influencers, and soccer fans for an evening of music, premium hospitality, and high-energy entertainment. The glamorous affair captured the excitement surrounding the world’s biggest sporting event as championship festivities continued well into the night.
Camille Kostek
l Beyond the Pitch: Sports Illustrated Sports Illustrated expanded the excitement of the FIFA World Cup beyond the stadium with its Beyond the Pitch experience, a new live entertainment series celebrating the intersection of sports, music, and culture. The New York finale, held at Cipriani Wall Street, featured performances by 50 Cent and Diplo while welcoming athletes, celebrities, media personalities, and VIP guests. The exclusive event reflected Sports Illustrated’s growing role in creating immersive experiences around the world’s biggest sporting moments. Social Life
BFA, Zach Hilty, Diana Eliazov, Getty Images, Stephanie Augelio
l
PLANNING ON HAVING AN AFFAIR?
delicious cuisine, stylish presentation, impeccable service
FULL-SERVICE CATERING for your HOME, BUSINESS or VENUE
Southampton 631-324-9825 Glen Cove 516-676-8500 Manhattan 212-991-0078 ElegantAffairsCaterers.com
108
2
1
3
This summer, AIREM welcomed guests to two thoughtfully curated Hamptons gatherings celebrating beauty, fashion, and female entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Eunice Park with Emmy Award–winning journalist and producer Alina Cho, and featuring a founder conversation with Christy Lynn moderated by Elizabeth Kurpis, the events reflected AIREM’s commitment to innovation, community, and meaningful connection.
AIREM 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN WATER MILL HOSTED BY DR. EUNICE PARK AND ALINA CHO
4
5
1.
Dr. Eunice Park Alina Cho 2. Michelle Bergeron McMaster Yesim Philip 3. Erica Rivera Dr. Eunice Park 4. Ali Slatkin Alina Cho Laura Slatkin
BEHIND THE BRAND: MEET THE FOUNDERS DR. EUNICE PARK AND CHRISTY LYNN 5. Dr. Eunice Park Christy Lynn Elizabeth Kurpis 6. Kaleta Blaffer Johnson Alexandra Longanecker Tanner Ewing Amber Elliott 7. Patricia Reed Barrie Glabman 8. Juliet Cavallaro Dr. Eunice Park
All images thanks to Neil Rasmus Todd Rubin Kevin Czopek BFA.com
6
7
8
Korean-beauty inspired
MEDICAL AESTHETIC SPA
HARPER’S BAZAAR ADVANCED SKIN TIGHTENING | INJECTABLES LASER REJUVENATION | MEDICAL FACIALS FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
MANHATTAN 240 W 37th St, 5th Floor. New York, NY 10018
SYOSSET 428 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY 11791
CONNECT: @airembeautyrituals
HAMPTONS 760 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, NY 11976
FOUNDER Dr. Eunice Park MD, MPH Dual Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
CONTACT: airem.com
hello@airem.com
516-614-1880
110
2
1
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY AN EXCLUSIVE COCKTAIL SOIRÉE PRODUCED BY REVEL ROUGE SPONSORS: GRAFF | ELIE SAAB PAUL LABRECQUE THE HEDGES INN SCIAME | ALTIMA CAVIAR
1. Jim Grau Elva Grau Maria Fishel Kenneth Fishel Jeremy Johnson 2. Elisabeth Harris Robert Riva Alayna Steinman Cody Jones 3. Chris Coffee Chloe Pearl Glaser 4. Molly Sullivan Catherine Sullivan 5. Michael Clerico Christina Caruso 6. Vivian Pincheny Catherine Loevner Stan Pincheny 7. Leesa Rowland Julie Auclair Chris Arlotta Elizabeth Steimberg 8. Taylor Materio Nick Spinelli Collin Adams 9. Lauren Roberts 10. Carole Crist 11. Tiziana Lanza 12. Paola Rosenshein Arnie Rosenshein
3
1
6
4
5
6
7
All images thanks to Marsin Mogielski
8
9
10
11
12
112 CHRISTY LYNN’S HIGH SUMMER 2026 LUNCHEON HOSTED BY KALETA BLAFFER JOHNSON IN SOUTHAMPTON
1. Christy Lynn Lee Kaleta Blaffer Johnson 2. Dr. Eunice Park 3. Lisa Frohlich 4. Allie Provost 5. Melissa Vale 6. Fern Mallis 7. Kristin Malta Alie Mitchell Chelsea Baetz 8. Devorah Rose 9. Olesia Stefanko
3
1
2
4
5
8
9
All images thanks to Kevin Czopek BFA.com
6
7
114 RAMY BROOK AT THE BRIDGE
1
1
2
3
5
6
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Ramy Brook Sharp Elizabeth Kupris Erica Pelosini Gabriela Langone Lauren Besselman Valeria Lipovetsky Nina Tiari Michelle Cordeiro Grant Ramy Brook Sharp Valeria Lipovetsky Yhasmina Ferrara 8. Kate Love 9. Jenné Newton-Haydon
All images thanks to Travis Bass
4
7
8
9
BRING YOUR E VE NT TO LIFE IN
true Hamptons fashion
631.725.2422 | info@sperrytentshamptons.com | sperrytentshamptons.com 63 Main St, Southampton, NY, 11968
116 SOFO’S 37TH ANNUAL SUMMER GALA CELEBRATED THE POWER OF THE NATURAL WORLD IN BRIDGEHAMPTON
1. Andy Sabin Bernadette Castro Fabien Cousteau Jean Shafiroff Louise and Stephen Pesce 2. Mark Massone Shannon Russo Pollack 3. Jill Zarin 4. Kathy Prounis 5. Angela LaGreca 6. Emily Sotirov Jonathan Kiembock 7. Susan Rockefeller Annabelle Schultz 8. Olivia Bell 9. Lauren Collett 10. Kloe Walker
3
1
2
4
5
All images thanks to Rob Rich / SocietyAllure.com Lisa Tamburini Michael Ostuni / PMC
6
7
8
Exceptional services, premium solutions. Excellence isn’t optional — it’s expected. As the 6th largest CPA Accounting firm in the country, Baker Tilly delivers premier assurance, advisory and tax services to individuals and businesses that demand a higher standard. Trusted by industry leaders and discerning clients alike, we bring the highest level of insight, precision and excellence to everything we do.
INDUSTRIES • • • •
Family Business Financial Services Food and Beverage Healthcare and Life Sciences • Higher Education • Manufacturing and Distribution
SERVICES • Not-for-Profit • Private Equity and Portfolio Companies • Real Estate • Retail • Small Business • Software and Technology
• • • • • • • •
Assurance Baker Tilly Digital Consulting International Private Wealth Risk Advisory Tax Transactions
Scan the code to learn more about how we can help you and your business.
Let’s connect bakertilly.com New York Metro
Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and Baker Tilly US, LLP, trading as Baker Tilly, operate under an alternative practice structure and are members of the global network of Baker Tilly International Ltd., the members of which are separate and independent legal entities. Baker Tilly US, LLP is a licensed CPA firm that provides assurance services to its clients. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities provide tax and consulting services to their clients and are not licensed CPA firms. The name Baker Tilly and its associated logo is used under license from Baker Tilly International limited. The information provided here is of a general nature and is not intended to address the specific circumstances of any individual or entity. In specific circumstances, the services of a professional should be sought. © 2026 Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP
118
1
SECOND ANNUAL BY DRIA WELLNESS MORNING AT SHOU SUGI BAN HOUSE
2
1. Rebecca Minkoff Molly Sims Dria Murphy Jennifer Fisher 2. Sophie Elgort Kelly Turlington Burns 3. Dria Murphy Kate Love 4. Pilates class led by founder Matt of ETHĒA 5. Talia Parkinson-Jones Sarah Hindsgau All images thanks to by dria
3
4
5
REBECCA MINKOFF X RUMMIKLUBLA AT THE MAIDSTONE HOTEL 6. 7. 8. 9.
Stephanie Gottlieb Lindsey Metselaar Danielle O’Connell Michelle Grant Rebecca Minkoff Jenné Lombardo Cyndi Ramirez
All images thanks to Kriti Bisaria
6
7
8
9
NYC
SOUTHAMPTON
1 1 6 E 60 th St , New Yor k , NY tbar.nyc | 212.7 7 2.0 4 0 4
26 8 El m St , S ou thampton , NY tbar. sh | 63 1 . 283 .0202
120 FRENCH HERITAGE SOCIETY 2026 SUMMER SOIRÉE PRODUCED BY REVEL ROUGE HOSTED BY MARIA AND KENNETH FISHEL
1. Lee Black CeCe Black Ann Van Ness Bill Van Ness Maria Fishel Kenneth Fishel 2. Jennifer Herlein 3. Candace Bushnell 4. Jean Shafiroff 5. Katrina Peebles 6. Olivia Boude Melanie Boude 7. Charles Chemin Stewart F. Lane Bonnie Comley Elise Herget 8. Jennifer Farrell Julie Wald Beth Gittleman Josette Winograd
3
1
2
4
5
All images thanks to Jared Siskin PMC
6
7
8
Mill House inn EAST HAMPTON, NY T H E A R T O F H O S P I TA L I T Y
Mill House Inn is a charming property, ideally located steps away from the village of East Hampton. Nestled back along the tree lined North Main Street. Our beautiful landscape and views of the windmill make for a perfect quiet escape. The Mill House Inn delivers optimum privacy. Smartly designed expansive rooms for business or pleasure.
INCREDIBLE BREAKFAST | PERSONAL CONCIERGE | DOGS & CHILDREN WELCOME SECLUDED GARDEN & DECKS | EAST HAMPTON VILLAGE & TOWN BEACH PASSES
MILL HOUSE INN, 31 NORTH MAIN STREET, EAST HAMPTON
MILLHOUSEINN.COM | 631.324.9766 | INNKEEPER@MILLHOUSEINN.COM
122 IRENE FORTE AND JENNIFER FISHER CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH A SOUTHAMPTON LUNCHEON AT SANT AMBROEUS SOUTHAMPTON
1. Irene Forte Jennifer Miller 2. Kelly Killoren Bensimon 3. Valeria Lipovetsky 4. Rebecca Minkoff 5. Michelle Gerson Wartell 6. Alie Mitchell 7. Irene Forte’s new Red Algae Resurfacing Body Exfoliator and Jennifer Fisher’s Semi-Precious Leather Cord Necklace 8. Charlotte Bickley Meller 9. Jenné Newton-Haydon
1
2
3
4
5
6
All images thanks to Irene Forte and Jennifer Fisher
7
8
9
Grounded in the earth
Inspired by the sea
ALCOHOL ABUSE IS HARMFUL FOR YOUR HEALTH. DRINK WITH MODERATION.
124
1
KENNETH AND MARIA FISHEL HOST ASPREY OF LONDON AT THEIR BRIDGEHAMPTON ESTATE PRODUCED BY REVEL ROUGE
1. Maria Fishel Kenneth Fishel Michele Heary 2. Geraldo Rivera Erica Rivera 3. Linda Gunalp Jennifer Luloff 4. Donna Rubin 5. Kathy Prounis Karina Prounis 6. Asprey of London 7. Candace Bushnell Maria Fishel Nicole Miller
3
2
4
5
All images thanks to Kriti Bisaria
6
7
126
OPENING: PAULSON FAMILY GARDENS
WHIMSY AT SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER
VERA NEUMANN STEVEN STOLMAN
John Paulson and his fiancée Alina de Almeida joined Southampton village Mayor William Manger at the Southampton Arts Center to celebrate the opening of The Paulson Family Gardens. The couple gifted $3.4 million to support the preservation and reimagination of the gardens. Paulson said, “It’s like Alice in Wonderland when she walks through the looking glass—all of a sudden, you come off busy streets and into this oasis.” southamptonartscenter.org
Wyatt Koch, Sylvia Hemingway, Sydney Sadick, Rebecca Seawright, Jamee and Peter Gregory, and Pamela and Madison Wright were among those tripping the light fantastic at the Southampton Arts Center’s Whimsy: Latin Jazz Dance Party. The evening honored Lana Jokel with the Community Leader Award for her commitment to local arts institutions. The summer bash benefited SAC’s year-round programming, which aims to make art accessible for the East End community. southamptonartscenter.org
Taylor Swift and Sarah Jessica Parker were recently spotted in the late designer Vera Neumann’s boldly colored signature scarves, also favored by Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, and Jane Fonda in the ’50s and ’60s. Designer Steven Stolman gave a talk on the famed designer at the Southampton Arts Center. The evening featured a presentation of Stolman’s new collection inspired by Neumann’s archive. Perhaps Swift will sport one on her honeymoon. southamptonartscenter.org
ALINA DE ALMEIDA, JOHN PAULSON
ELYN KRONEMEYER, SYLVIA HEMINGWAY
STEVEN STOLMAN
BILL MANGER, SIMONE LEVINSON
PAMELA AND MADISON WRIGHT
JAMEE AND PETER GREGORY
CHUCK AND ELLEN SCARBOROUGH
REBECCA SEAWRIGHT
MARILYN MONROE IN VERA NEUMANN
Rob Rich / SocietyAllure.com, Courtesy of Stolman, PMC
HOT SHOTS
128
HOT SHOTS WHITNEY GALA NEIL PATRICK HARRIS
YOSHIKI TIME 100 HONOREE
GLOBAL STRAYS MORPHEW WORLD
Japanese rock star Yoshiki, who has shared the Neil Patrick Harris, Aaron Dessner, Stacey Jean Shafiroff and her daughter, Elizabeth, MEHERA BLUM BRINGS HER ICONIC CREATIONS TOopened THE anHAMPTONS Bendet, Bobbi Brown, Beth DeWoody, and stage with Bono, Diana Ross, the Jonas Brothexclusive weekend pop-up at co-chairs including Stephanie March and ers, and will.i.am, performed with Grammy Southampton’s premier vintage boutique, Dan Benton, Laurie Tisch, Kimberly and winner Jonathan Davis, lead singer of the Morphew World. Guests had the opportuNeil Bluhm, and Susan and John Hess raised group Korn, and Josh Groban, who has sold nity to shop a luxury handbag capsule collec$6.3 million at the Whitney Museum’s gala. over 35 million albums worldwide, at a now tion from Uptown Common and chat with The event honored artist Julie Mehretu, legendary two-day concert at Disney Hall in the designers behind the brand, Grant and director Adam D. Weinberg, and Whitney Los Angeles. The Time 100 honoree and muJennifer Anderson. The event benefited Elizboard chair Fern Kaye Tessler. After dinner, sical icon changed the set list for each electric, abeth’s organization, Global Strays, which is Engell Speyer introduced two-time Grammy sold-out performance. yoshiki.net devoted to international rescue, educating Award winner Shaggy, who performed live. pet owners about proper care and stopping whitney.org neglect before it starts. globalstrays.org, jeanshafiroff.com
YOSHIKI, ANNETTE BENING
BRIDGETTE MORPHEW, JEAN SHAFIROFF
CRISTEN AND NIGEL BARKER
JOSH GROBAN, NATALIE MCQUEEN
GRANT ANDERSON, JENNIFER ANDERSON
JULIE MEHRETU, FERN TESSLER, ADAM WEINBERG
JONATHAN DAVIS
ALEKSANDRA AND DR. KENNETH MARK
BFA, PMC, Rob Rich / SocietyAllure.com
STEFANO TONCHI, KIMBERLY PAIGE BLUHM
HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR LUXURY?
EF F ORT L E S S ? OR B R I L L I A N T L Y UN C O N V EN TIO N AL ?
THE SHORE CLUB
THE PALMS
THE SHORE CLUB
THE PALMS
THE ESTATE VILLAS AT THE SHORE CLUB
The refined sophistication of The Palms on Grace Bay Beach, consistently honored by travel publications for its sense of elegance and easy atmosphere. The savvy chic of The Shore Club, the stunning game-changer on Long Bay Beach. Where whimsy rules and magic awaits around every corner. Each with a style and a vibe all its own. Both singular destinations, part of Hartling Group’s stellar portfolio of luxury resorts which also includes The Estate Villas at The Shore Club, and The Sands at Grace Bay.
thepalmstc.com
theshoreclubtc.com
130
SOUTHAMPTON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM (SAAM)
ONE ART SPACE HFAF SHEPARD FAIREY
ACE PROGRAMS FOR THE HOMELESS
The Southampton African American Museum, led by Brenda Simmons, hosted its annual Bubbles & Bloom Brunch at the Southampton Inn, bringing together supporters for the museum’s summer fundraiser. The event honored Dede Gotthelf, Claude and Yvette Weir, and Sharon Joseph for their leadership and contributions to the arts and community. Proceeds support SAAM’s exhibitions, educational programs, and efforts to preserve African American history on the East End. saamuseum.org
One Art Space Gallery, led by MaryAnn Giella McCulloh, presented a near-sold-out exhibition of limited-edition prints by Shepard Fairey, Al Diaz, and Chuck Connelly at the 2026 Hamptons Fine Art Fair. Curated by McCulloh, the presentation brought together three influential artists for a dynamic dialogue spanning street art’s past, present, and future. The exhibition highlighted their distinct voices and the lasting impact of urban visual culture, inspiring collectors and art enthusiasts throughout the Hamptons. oneartspace.com
The ACE Sunflower Hamptons Benefit brought together philanthropy, pickleball, and community at Whitefield on Hill Street in Southampton to support Henry Buhl’s ACE Programs for the Homeless. The annual event featured a competitive pickleball tournament followed by cocktails, dinner, and live music, while raising awareness for ACE’s mission of creating employment pathways and support services for New Yorkers rebuilding their lives. acenewyork.org
BRENDA SIMMONS, CLAUDE WEIR, YVETTE WEIR
MEI FUNG, MARYANN GIELLA MCCULLOH
SANDRA SANCHES, HENRY BUHL, JEAN SHAFIROFF
CYNARA CHARLES-PIERRE, PHILLIP CHARLES-PIERRE
RICK FRIEDMAN, CINDY LOU WAKEFIELD
ADRIEN ARPEL
BRENDA GONZALEZ
ASHLEY MEDICI
MARIBEL LIEBERMAN
PMC / Sean Zanni, Jared Siskin, Ron Asadorian / SocietyAllure.com
HOT SHOTS
132
T R AV E L
MYKONOS THE WILDEST PLACE ON EARTH by R. couRi hay
R. Couri Hay is Social Life’s travel editor and society columnist. He began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview, and he has written for Town & Country and People. Hay also appears on CNN, PBS, Fox, and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He lives in New York City and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm.
A LOVE STORY: JACKIE KENNEDY ONASSIS I arrived on Mykonos with my Couri family and friends, and we were driven to our 10-bedroom villa, where our chef and staff of six were waiting with a superb dinner of local fare. mlv.villas Known for its decadent nightlife, nude beaches, and swanky beach clubs like Nammos and Principote, Mykonos has plenty to offer for every taste: fabulous family-friendly beaches, water sports, cultural experiences, great shopping from tourist trinkets to Chanel, charming towns to explore, and the famous windmills that are the island’s most-photographed site. Mykonos is also a longtime magnet for the jet set and their mega-yachts. Over the decades, chic
Brigitte Bardot in Mykonos, May 1964
guests have included Princess Grace, Elizabeth Taylor, Brigitte Bardot, Marlon Brando, Prin- Lauren Sánchez Bezos and Jeff Bezos cess Soraya, the wife of the shah of Iran, and Jackie O, after whom a beach club is named where you can see a fun drag show during lunch. During our stay, we even had dinner at Nōema next to Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos; we all had the hot spot’s signature lobster and pasta dish. Bezos and his wife were staying on their $500 million superyacht, named Koru. Also anchored offshore was the Maltese Falcon, the world’s most glamorous sailing yacht. I highly recommend cruising on this elegant boat. I have been lucky enough to sail on it twice, once to Tahiti and again to the British Virgin Islands. It’s the only way, really. Social Life
Backgrid
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in Mykonos, 1963
133
T R AV E L
Chora
KING PAVLOS OF GREECE, MICK JAGGER, ARIANA GRANDE AND LEONARDO DICAPRIO Once a sleepy fishing port, Mykonos first took the fancy of high society in the early 1950s as a stop on the honeymoon cruise of Greek royals King Pavlos and Frederica of Hanover. The royal couple and their guests were so enamored by the island’s beauty, they returned for a second visit, and its popularity skyrocketed among wealthy Greeks like Stavros Niarchos, Aristotle Onassis, and Maria Callas. It remains a favorite of the wealthy today. Mykonos is among the world’s top destinations for private jets, and famous folks still flock there in droves. In recent years, Mick Jagger, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sharon Stone, Alessandra Ambrosio, Demi Moore, Gerard Butler, Linda Evangelista, Matt Damon, George Clooney, Gigi Hadid, Mariah Carey, and Ariana Grande have all enjoyed this jewel of the Aegean.
Plaka in Athens
SocialLifeMagazine.com
SUMPTUOUS DINING Even though we had an excellent chef at our villa, we chose to sample some of Mykonos’s finest dining spots during our stay. Bonus: Many restaurants have spectacular ocean views, so dinner or drinks during sunset is sublime. Our crew was 10 strong, from teenagers to their parents, so we checked out a diverse range of dining options. We took in swoony sunsets over dinner at Scorpios Beach Club restaurant, Buddha Bar at the Santa Marina Hotel, and Kastros in Little Venice. We dined at Zuma, Kinjo, Apaggio Seaside Restaurant, Rizes Folklore Farmstead, Nice n Easy, BeefBar, and Katrin. We tore ourselves away from the poolside, with its spectacular view of the sea and sunset, for lunch at Nammos Beach Restaurant and Alemagou Beach Restaurant. All terrific. First on my agenda when back in New York City: SoulCycle!
134
T R AV E L
Kato Mili Windmills
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN MYKONOS THE CAPITAL CITY: CHORA, LITTLE VENICE Exploring the charming, twisting streets of Chora, Mykonos’s beautiful, whitewashed capital, is a delight. Legend has it that the seemingly impenetrable mazelike street layout was designed to deter invading pirates from finding their way into the center of the city or getting back out. Today, in the pirate-free era, this confusing but fun setup makes for delightful wandering through charming alleys and squares. The neighborhood of Little Venice is one of the most stunning places on the island, studded with gorgeous historic homes built by prosperous ship captains of long ago. Many of them are now restaurants, bars, shops, and nightclubs with spectacular sea views, perfect for taking in the sunsets. The area is buzzing day and night, so it’s attractive for families and night owls alike. THE WINDMILLS OF KATO MILI While in Little Venice, don’t miss the famous windmills dating back to the 16th century. The windmills were originally used to provide wind power for grinding grain. Yep, back before electricity, green energy was all the rage. The hilltop views overlooking Little Venice, all of Chora, and its harbor are glorious. Grab a seat in the small square across from the windmills, open a bottle of wine, and be mesmerized by the orange and pink skies as dusk settles in.
Panigyri of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera
Soak up a bit of history at the Aegean Maritime Museum, which is nearby. The historic area of Alefkandra is also close to the windmills, lovely for a stroll with plenty of cute restaurants and bars for a bite or a tipple with seaside views. In the evenings, revelers flock here for music and partying. aegean-maritime-museum.com ANO MERA Ano Mera is the second biggest city on Mykonos, and as the island’s only inland town, it has a quieter atmosphere, a change from the beaches and nightlife in Chora. It’s also a quick ride away, only 5 miles from Chora. Mykonos is a small island. In Ano Mera’s narrow cobbled streets, you’ll find some fascinating sites like the ruins of Gyzi, a 13th-century Venetian-style castle, and a couple of beautiful ancient monasteries, Panagia Tourliani and Paleokastro. In the summer, Ano Mera is home to unique fairs known as panigyri, featuring wonderful food and wine, and typically lasting until dawn. Highlights include the annual panigyri of Saint Marina on July 17 and a weeklong celebration of the Virgin Mary each August with a bazaar in the village square. DELOS: HOME OF THE GREEK GODS Believed to be the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis, Delos is a small, rocky island about 30 minutes by boat from Chora’s port. You’ll be transported back thousands of years to a partially intact ancient Greek society, with temples, houses, and marketplaces adorned with statues and sculptures that pay tribute to its deities. Social Life
135
T R AV E L
Nammos Beach Club
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delos was once the religious and political center of the Cyclades. Because of its mythological significance as the birthplace of gods, the ancient Ionians made Delos their religious capital. It fell victim to rampant piracy, and after a Roman attack in 88 B.C., Delos was abandoned. Its rich history was discovered during an archeological excavation in the late 19th century. Today, you can wander about the ancient ruins of oncemonumental structures like the Propylaea, a grand marble archway, and the Sanctuary of Apollo. Many artifacts can be seen at the Archaeological Museum of Delos. RHENIA ISLAND Rhenia Island, located southwest of Mykonos past Delos, is quiet and uninhabited, steeped in wild nature and Greek mythology. Around 530 B.C., the tyrant Polycrates conquered Rhenia and dedicated it to Apollo, the Olympian god of oracles, prophecy, archery, poetry, music, and healing. Rhenia is an easy hop from Delos, so people often visit both on the same day. You can also swim and snorkel in crystal blue waters off Rhenia. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF MYKONOS Located at the Chora harbor overlooking Delos, the circa-1902 Archaeological Museum of Mykonos houses artifacts discovered during the excavation of a “purification pit,” a repository for urns SocialLifeMagazine.com
of cremated remains, on Rhenia Island. Relics on display include vases, jewelry, and pottery dating as far back as the 25th century B.C., as well as artifacts relating to the history of Delos’s ancient shrines. Notable for history buffs, the museum has a large piece of pottery with scenes from the fall of Troy. MYKONOS BEACH CLUBS Then there’s the famous Mykonos party atmosphere. The island, known as the Ibiza of Greece, is a hotbed of partying both day and night, with a variety of clubs, bars, and beach clubs catering to all tastes. It’s also a longtime mecca for LGBTQ+ tourists, with many venues serving that community. It’s a hopping gay scene that draws attractive revelers from around the world. Here I’ve rounded up some of the island’s best beach clubs. NAMMOS We reserved sun beds at Nammos to while away one splendid afternoon during our time on Mykonos. This spot on Psarou Beach is perhaps the best-known of the island’s beach clubs and a seeand-be-seen favorite of the jet set. Launched in 2003, Nammos is so popular that it’s now a high-class brand with locations in Cannes, Dubai, and Limassol in Cyprus. Reservations in advance are a must, but one way to snag a last-minute sun lounger is to stay at the brand-new Nammos Hotel; each booking includes two impossible-to-get sun beds. nammos.com
136
T R AV E L
Prince Rainier, Princess Grace, with Albert and Caroline in Athens, 1961
SCORPIOS On the secluded Paraga peninsula, Scorpios offers a holistic space with a beach club in the image of a Greek agora. There’s an inspired menu of Greek classics and freshly caught seafood, and a bazaar stocked with handmade Greek kaftans and cool sunglasses. Daytime is chill and relaxed, and sunset brings mellow music. The vibe here is boho chic. scorpios.com JACKIEO’ BEACH CLUB Named after Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, whose early-1960s visits to Mykonos were pivotal in the island’s rise to fame, JackieO’ is chic, welcoming, and lots of fun. Set on Super Paradise Beach, the club also has a restaurant, swimming pool, and Jacuzzi, and features regular drag shows in the summer. Like its namesake, the vibe at JackieO’ is effortlessly stylish and unfussy. Come as you are—no jewelry, hair, or makeup is required. jackieomykonos.com
JackieO’ Beach Club
The Parthenon
BEEFBAR ON THE COAST Evoking a mid-century jet-set cool, sun worshippers at The Coast can order lunch from Beefbar directly to their lounger. Set on the gorgeous bay of Agios Ioannis, the place is accessible by boat with stylish habitués alighting on the private jetty or mooring their yachts in front. Others stay at the elegant hotel at the site. beefbar.com ATHENS On your way to or from Mykonos, I highly recommend spending a few days in Athens. This modern city with ancient roots is a treasure, its historic landmarks like the Parthenon and the Acropolis sit amid vibrant neighborhoods full of quirky shops, bars, museums, and cafés. Noshing is a must; excellent food is found everywhere in Athens. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite sites in this amazing city. THE ACROPOLIS AND THE PARTHENON The Acropolis, the most famous landmark in Athens, is a large, fortified hill in the center, upon which lie several ancient structures that have overlooked the city for 2,500 years. The Parthenon, located on top of the Acropolis hill, is one of the most prominent buildings in Athens. Built between 447 and 438 B.C. as a temple to Athena, the patron goddess of the city, the Parthenon is probably the world’s most iconic Greek ruin. We toured the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which has been restored quite a bit since we were last there. Restorations of this ancient site have been ongoing since 1975, so no matter how many times you visit Athens, there’s always something new to see at the Acropolis. theacropolismuseum.gr Social Life
137
T R AV E L THE ERECHTHEION There are other interesting sites on the Acropolis too, including the Erechtheion, where the porch is supported by six columns in the shape of draped women. The Theatre of Dionysus is impressive, and the Acropolis Museum displays many artifacts from this ancient site. We rode back down in the elevator—yes, if you get the right guide, you can not only go to the front of the line with your group, but you can also use the elevator that was put in with funding from the Onassis Foundation. This modern innovation improves accessibility at the site. Check out Anafiótika, a charming area on the slopes of the Acropolis known for a small cluster of white, island-style homes reminiscent of Santorini. Wander the streets, poke around the shops, and stop for a drink or a meal at a taverna. THE HOTEL GRANDE BRETAGNE After our walk, we headed to the Plaka, which is opposite the Hotel Grande Bretagne, still the best hotel in town. We strolled in the shade and picked one of many local and authentic Greek restaurants to order divine grilled octopus. After lunch, grab a gelato and then shop and shop and shop. The prices are good, and there is a lot to choose from.
The Porch of Maidens
SocialLifeMagazine.com
SYNTAGMA SQUARE, THE NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM We stopped at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the Olympics were first held over 2,000 years ago. We took a stroll near the ocean and watched the changing of the guard, which takes place hourly in front of the Presidential Palace. The guards with black pom-poms on their shoes, tights, beige skirts, red hats, and long braids do a truly hilarious march that reminded me of show horses lifting their legs and pawing the ground. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square is a moving memorial dedicated to the Greek soldiers lost during World War I. Nearby is the excellent National Archaeological Museum, which features the best collection of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. History buffs could spend hours here. namuseum.gr The Exarcheia neighborhood was once the home to anarchists, revolutionaries, and artists. A bit of the grit remains, but today it is packed with interesting restaurants, drinking establishments, and bookstores perfect for an afternoon or evening exploration. KOLONAKI, MOUNT LYCABETTUS, AND THE MUSEUM QUARTER Kolonaki is Athens’s swankiest central neighborhood, and a shopper’s paradise. Even if you’re not in the market for designer goods, this area is worth a visit, as it is home to Athens’s Museum Quarter, Mount Lycabettus, and the National Gardens. Mount Lycabettus is the highest summit in central Athens, offering some of the best views of the city. Huffing and puffing are not required to reach the top; you can take a funicular up the hill. lycabettus.com This area’s museums and galleries include the Benaki Museum of Culture and the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art, which both have impressive collections of Greek art and artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. benaki.org, cycladic.gr The Byzantine Museum is one of the best in Athens, with an enormous collection of over 25,000 items from the 3rd century through to medieval times. The National Gallery has a wide selection of art, and the National Gardens’ extensive grounds are not to be missed. byzantinemuseum.gr Greece is a trip worth taking!
138
T R AV E L
ROCK HOUSE, TURKS AND CAICOS WHERE TIMELESS ROMANCE MEETS CARIBBEAN LUXURY by Robyn fReedMan
There are destinations that impress, and then there are destinations that become part of your story. Perched dramatically atop the ancient limestone cliffs of Providenciales’s breathtaking North Shore, Rock House by Grace Bay Resorts is redefining luxury in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Inspired by the elegance of the Mediterranean coastline yet unmistakably Caribbean in spirit, this extraordinary retreat offers an intimate escape where spectacular ocean panoramas, impeccable service, and refined design come together in perfect harmony. Occupying a magnificent 14-acre oceanfront estate with over 600 feet of pristine shoreline and elevations reaching nearly 95 feet above sea level, Rock House embraces an ecological approach to luxury, preserving the natural beauty of its dramatic landscape while creating one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive hideaways. Every arrival feels like discovering a secret destination known only to the world’s most discerning travelers. For couples seeking an unforgettable romantic escape, families celebrating life’s milestones, or executives searching for a sophisticated retreat, Rock House offers an experience unlike any other. Holiday reservations for 2026 and 2027 are now among the most coveted in the Caribbean. The crown jewel of the resort is the magnificent Ocean View 10 Bedroom Reserve Villa, created by seamlessly combining two adjacent Five Bedroom Reserve Villas into an extraordinary private estate. Designed for multigenerational
families, destination weddings, milestone celebrations, executive retreats, and exclusive gatherings, the residence delivers the privacy of a luxury home with the impeccable services of a world-class resort. Spread across two expansive levels, the villa features ten beautifully appointed bedroom suites, each offering a California king bed, spa-inspired ensuite bath, freestanding soaking tub, and separate walk-in shower. Two gourmet kitchens, elegant indoor and outdoor living spaces, expansive terraces, and two private infinity pools create an effortless atmosphere for entertaining or simply enjoying uninterrupted moments together while overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The panoramic 180-degree views of Providenciales’s North Shore are simply mesmerizing. Morning coffee arrives with the gentle sound of waves below. Afternoons unfold beside the expansive cliffside pools, perched nearly 25 feet above the sea, while evenings become unforgettable as the Caribbean sky transforms into brilliant shades of gold, coral, and sapphire. Rock House was designed for unforgettable moments, and perhaps nowhere is this more evident than as a destination wedding venue. Imagine exchanging vows on the resort’s spectacular oceanfront pier with endless blue water stretching toward the horizon. Family and friends remain only steps away within private villas and elegant suites, allowing an entire celebration to unfold effortlessly in one extraordinary location. Social Life
139
T R AV E L Sunset receptions beneath the stars, intimate beachside dinners, and celebrations extending throughout the property create memories destined to last a lifetime. Before dinner, guests naturally gather at the resort’s enchanting Cave Bar, carved into the dramatic limestone cliffs. It has quickly become one of the property’s signature experiences, offering handcrafted cocktails in one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive settings. As happy hour unfolds against the backdrop of the setting sun, it becomes clear why Rock House is already earning recognition among the region’s most remarkable luxury resorts. Dining reaches extraordinary heights at Vita Restaurant, where contemporary Italian cuisine is elevated by fresh Caribbean influences and one of the most breathtaking dining settings anywhere in the islands. Suspended more than 30 feet above the ocean, Vita offers an atmosphere as unforgettable as its cuisine. Signature dishes include yellowfin tuna tartare, buffalo burrata, lemon spaghetti with wild jumbo prawns, locally caught red snapper, grilled lamb cutlets, and beautifully prepared branzino for two. Decadent desserts, exceptional wines, and imaginative cocktails crafted by the resort’s master mixologists complete an evening that rivals the world’s finest culinary destinations. Guests seeking additional culinary adventures will discover that the celebrated Grace Bay Resorts Collection offers several exceptional dining experiences beyond Rock House itself. Among the most sought-after is Infinity Restaurant & Raw Bar, widely regarded as one of Turks and Caicos’ premier destinations for premium steaks, exceptional sushi, fresh seafood, and elegant waterfront dining. A dinner at Infinity has become a true island tradition and is considered a must during any luxury stay in Providenciales. Beyond its accommodations, Rock House embraces a lifestyle centered on wellness, relaxation, and authentic island discovery. Guests may enjoy private poolside or beachside dining, in-room service, luxurious spa treatments, private cabanas overlooking the sea, a state-of-the-art fitness center, personal training sessions, yoga, Pilates, tennis and pickleball clinics, HIIT workouts, and restorative ice bath experiences.
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Nature lovers can explore the beautifully preserved Rock House Nature Trail, winding through native tropical vegetation while revealing the fascinating geological and historical story of the island’s ancient limestone landscape. The resort also features the elegant COCO Boutique, a carefully curated luxury shopping destination showcasing international resort wear, designer swimwear, fine accessories, and sophisticated fashion collections. Every piece from some of the world’s most coveted luxury brands, creating a shopping experience that perfectly complements the refined atmosphere of the resort. Accommodations range from beautifully appointed Oceanfront Studios and Ridge Studios to spacious one- and twobedroom suites, culminating in the Reserve Villa Collection featuring private residences with two through ten bedrooms. For corporate retreats and incentive groups, additional luxury accommodations throughout the Grace Bay Resorts portfolio can comfortably host meetings, executive conferences, and celebrations of virtually any size while maintaining the highest standards of personalized service. Rock House is more than a luxury resort—it is an invitation to experience one of the Caribbean’s newest and most captivating destinations. Romantic yet sophisticated, intimate yet grand, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted from arrival until departure. Whether celebrating a honeymoon, planning an unforgettable destination wedding, gathering generations of family together, or simply escaping to paradise, Rock House offers an experience that lingers long after the journey home. For reservations, holiday availability, weddings, corporate retreats, or private villa inquiries, contact Rock House, Grace Bay Resorts, 1 Blue Mountain Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, or visit gracebayresorts.com. Holiday 2026 and 2027 reservations are now booking for what promises to become one of the Caribbean’s most extraordinary luxury destinations.
140
T R AV E L
SALTERRA RESORT & SPA, SOUTH CAICOS DISCOVER THE CARIBBEAN’S NEWEST ICON OF LUXURY, PRIVACY, AND PARADISE by Robyn fReedMan
There are places in the world reserved for those who seek something beyond extraordinary. Places where privacy is priceless, beauty is untouched, and luxury is not simply experienced—it is discovered. Salterra Resort & Spa, South Caicos is one of those rare destinations—a secluded Caribbean sanctuary where every detail has been thoughtfully designed for those who appreciate the exceptional. Your arrival begins in Providenciales, where, after clearing customs, a scenic island flight carries you above the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the Turks and Caicos archipelago before touching down in South Caicos. From the air, the vibrant blues of the Caribbean seem almost unreal, offering the first glimpse of an island that remains wonderfully untouched.
Known affectionately as The Big South, South Caicos is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. Measuring just 8.5 square miles, it offers something increasingly difficult to find: genuine tranquility. Here, there are no bustling crowds or overdeveloped beaches. Instead, visitors discover a peaceful island rich in history, authentic local culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Every sunrise paints the horizon in brilliant color, while evenings deliver spectacular sunsets before revealing some of the clearest star-filled skies in the Caribbean. Even passing tropical showers become part of the experience, often giving way to vivid rainbows stretching across the island. South Caicos is proudly known as the fishing and seafood capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands, where generations Social Life
141
T R AV E L of island families have built their lives around the sea. Their warmth, hospitality, and deep connection to the island create an atmosphere that feels personal, welcoming, and refreshingly authentic. Perfectly positioned along this remarkable coastline, Salterra Resort & Spa blends refined luxury with effortless Caribbean elegance. Spacious oceanfront guest rooms and suites feature sophisticated island-inspired décor, luxurious bedding, spastyle bathrooms, expansive living spaces, and floor-to-ceiling views that seamlessly bring the outdoors inside. Every accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to embrace the island’s natural beauty while providing the elevated comforts expected from a world-class luxury resort. For guests seeking an even more exclusive experience, the spectacular Premier Penthouse offers expansive entertaining areas, multiple bedrooms, panoramic ocean views, and exceptional privacy. It is an extraordinary setting for multigenerational family vacations, executive retreats, wedding celebrations, or simply indulging in one of the Caribbean’s most luxurious accommodations. Dining is one of Salterra’s defining experiences. At Brine, locally sourced seafood and island ingredients are transformed into elegant culinary creations that celebrate both Caribbean flavors and international refinement. With its intimate atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, reservations are highly recommended. Guests looking for relaxed oceanfront dining will find Cobo Bar & Grill equally inviting, serving fresh seafood alongside Caribbean, American, and Mexican-inspired favorites. Throughout the resort, additional venues including The Flamingo Café, Regatta, and Jack & Jenny’s provide everything from handcrafted coffees and light bites to lively evening gatherings, ensuring every meal becomes part of the vacation experience. Wellness is equally elevated at The Spa at Salterra. Inspired by South Caicos’s rich salt heritage and natural surroundings, the spa offers an exceptional collection of restorative massages, holistic therapies, beauty treatments, and wellness rituals designed to leave guests feeling completely renewed. It is a peaceful sanctuary where time slows, stress disappears, and every treatment reflects the serenity of the island itself. Adventure awaits just beyond the shoreline. South Caicos is surrounded by some of the Caribbean’s most pristine marine environments, making it a paradise for exploration. Guests can dive vibrant coral reefs with Salterra’s professional scuba program, whether earning certification or joining guided dives among tropical fish, sea turtles, eagle rays, and spectacular underwater landscapes. Snorkeling excursions reveal equally unforgettable encounters with marine life, while paddleboarding and kayaking offer peaceful ways to experience the island’s crystal-clear waters. Private boat charters and sunset cruises introduce hidden SocialLifeMagazine.com
coves, secluded beaches, and untouched cays that feel entirely your own. Guests can spend the day exploring deserted private islands, enjoying gourmet picnics on powder-soft sand, or discovering the extraordinary beauty that exists beyond the resort’s shoreline. Bonefishing, deep-sea fishing, eco-tours, and wildlife excursions further showcase why South Caicos has become one of the Caribbean’s most remarkable destinations for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Families will discover that Salterra offers the perfect balance of sophistication and memorable experiences for every generation. The thoughtfully curated Kids Club provides younger guests with engaging activities inspired by the island’s culture, marine life, and natural surroundings, allowing children to learn, create, and explore while parents relax by the pool, unwind at the spa, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon together. It is a destination where family memories are made effortlessly. Salterra also provides the perfect setting for life’s most meaningful celebrations. From intimate beachfront weddings and anniversaries to milestone birthdays, family gatherings, and executive retreats, every occasion is thoughtfully curated by the resort’s experienced events team, creating unforgettable moments in an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Behind Salterra lies a remarkable legacy. Developed by a third-generation Caribbean family with more than four decades of hospitality experience throughout the region, the resort was envisioned not simply as a luxury destination, but as a long-term commitment to South Caicos itself. Every decision reflects a dedication to protecting the island’s environment, preserving its cultural heritage, investing in its local community, and creating opportunities for future generations. The resort’s distinctive architecture and interiors were created in collaboration with the internationally acclaimed EOA Group, whose elemental design philosophy draws inspiration from stone, sand, sea, and sky. The result is an atmosphere that feels effortlessly elegant, timeless, and deeply connected to its surroundings—luxury that never competes with nature, but complements it. Salterra Resort & Spa is more than a Caribbean getaway. It is a destination where refined hospitality, exceptional dining, restorative wellness, extraordinary adventures, and authentic island culture come together in perfect harmony. It is a place where mornings begin with endless turquoise horizons, afternoons are filled with unforgettable discoveries, and evenings end beneath brilliant Caribbean skies. For discerning travelers planning their next luxury escape, South Caicos offers something increasingly priceless—space, privacy, authenticity, and the freedom to truly disconnect while enjoying every modern comfort. Coming Soon: Salterra Residences, offering an extraordinary opportunity to make South Caicos your home in paradise. Visit salterra.com.
142
T R AV E L
A SOFTER SIDE OF FORT LAUDERDALE PELICAN GRAND BEACH RESORT AND ITS ROOFTOP GEM, PURE SPA by inna desilva
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Fort Lauderdale is a city many travelers think they already know. I’ve been there countless times myself, and the famous strip with its Spring Break energy is familiar to many—if not by sight, then certainly by reputation. But just a short distance north, the atmosphere shifts. The noise fades, the beach opens, and the coastline feels almost dreamy. This is where Pelican Grand Beach Resort sits, in a prime oceanfront location with a luxurious feel and the kind of vibe that makes you instantly rethink what Fort Lauderdale can be. The first thing you notice is the architecture of the building itself: graceful, historic, and anchored by its iconic oceanfront porch. A long row of white rocking chairs faces the Atlantic, allowing you to sway gently in the breeze. Film buffs may get a kick out of the fact that this porch looks like the one used in the filming of Some Like It Hot. Pelican Grand is one of those rare properties that makes vacationing with kids feel easy. The beach is swimmable and safe, without the riptides or strong currents that many South Florida
shorelines have. Families float along the lazy river beside the pool, and the poolside menu offers genuinely excellent bites, far better than typical resort fare. If you want to truly unwind here, plan on a minimum of four nights. Anything less will feel rushed. My sister and I did not even rent a car; we never needed one. Uber is inexpensive for a nearby excursion, and the resort has everything you need to settle in and stay put. I loved OCEAN2000, the restaurant at the resort, enough to eat dinner there both nights. The seafood is exceptional, the steak perfectly done, and the crowd a mix of travelers and stylish locals who clearly know where to find quality. The crab and lobster cakes were standouts, and the Caribbean lobster and local grouper were exactly what you hope to find in South Florida. Executive chef Steve Mendez, who has been with Noble House Hotels for over seven years, brings a steady hand and refined approach to the menu. Noble House has managed the property for many years, and the consistency shows. Social Life
143
T R AV E L
La Veranda
The famous veranda to enjoy Florida’s breeze
The hotel’s owner, Swedish businessperson Bo Jertshagen, opened the resort in 2009 and invested $7 million in renovations in 2019. There is a subtle Scandinavian sensibility throughout, with clean lines, calming tones, and an emphasis on comfort without clutter. Atop the hotel, on the 11th-floor rooftop, sits one of the best spas in South Florida: PURE Spa. If you’ve tried many of the region’s top spas, as I have, this one stands out immediately. PURE Spa opened in 2015, the vision of Pelican Grand CEO Cassandra Jertshagen, who led its concept and development from the beginning. Inspired by Swedish well-being, the spa pairs restorative treatments with panoramic ocean views and features a signature partnership with Swedish skin-care brand Maria Åkerberg. The space spans nearly 3,000 square feet and includes three serene indoor treatment rooms, two outdoor oceanfront cabanas, and a relaxation lounge with hanging chairs overlooking the sea. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Private massage with ocean views
Whitewashed wood, soft green accents, and floor-to-ceiling glass create a sanctuary where the horizon feels like it enters the room. The spa’s guiding mantra, “You Are Beautiful,” is woven into the experience, not as branding but as a gentle reminder. The oceanfront penthouse treatment suite is PURE Spa’s crown jewel. With chandeliers and wraparound windows framing the Atlantic, it is a fantasy suite for couples. It is the kind of space that makes you stop speaking mid-sentence just to take in the view. Come an hour before your treatment to enjoy the quiet of rooftop lounge chairs. You can even order lunch from room service. Pelican Grand and PURE Spa together offer a quieter, more refined interpretation of Fort Lauderdale, one where oceanfront luxury, Scandinavian calm, and genuine ease come together effortlessly. It is the kind of place you return to not just for vacation but for restoration. And once you have experienced this softer side of the city, it is hard to imagine Fort Lauderdale any other way.
144
T R AV E L
CELEBRATE U.S. OPEN SEASON AT LOEWS REGENCY NEW YORK by helena haRloW
Few events capture the energy of late summer in New York quite like the U.S. Open. For two weeks each year, the city’s restaurants, hotels, and cocktail bars embrace the excitement as tennis fans from around the world descend on Manhattan and Queens for one of the sport’s most celebrated tournaments. For those looking to make a weekend of it, Loews Regency New York Hotel offers an elegant home base on the Upper East Side. Perfectly positioned near some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, the iconic property makes it easy to enjoy everything New York has to offer before and after a day at the matches. This season, the hotel is inviting guests to extend the experience with its Tailgate Rate package, designed for visitors planning a U.S. Open getaway. Whether you’re attending the tournament or simply enjoying the unmistakable buzz that takes over the city during tennis season, Loews Regency delivers the
comfort and classic New York sophistication that have made it a longtime favorite. Of course, no U.S. Open celebration would be complete without the tournament’s signature Honey Deuce. Throughout the tournament, guests can sip the iconic cocktail at The Regency Bar & Grill, bringing a taste of the Open to Manhattan. What began as the tournament’s signature drink has become a tradition in its own right, with the Honey Deuce now synonymous with the U.S. Open experience. For those planning to be in the city during tennis season, Loews Regency New York Hotel offers an effortless way to experience the excitement, whether headed courtside or simply raising a Honey Deuce to one of New York’s favorite annual traditions. To learn more about the hotel’s U.S. Open offerings and Tailgate Rate package, visit loewshotels.com. Social Life
GO TO EXPERIENCE AN
ATLANTIC CITY YOU NEVER KNEW
G O TO O CEAN | G O FO R TH E WIN B O O K N OW AT T H E O C E A N A C . C O M Must be 21 or older. Party responsibly. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
146
J E T- S E T T E R S T Y L E EITCH BORROMINI ROME by gRegoRy dellicaRPini JR. PhotogRaPhy by loRenZo vinti
There are hotels that offer a sense of place, and then there are hotels that become the destination itself. Tucked inside the magnificent 17th-century Palazzo Pamphilj overlooking Piazza Navona, Eitch Borromini is one of those rare properties where history, architecture, and contemporary luxury exist in perfect conversation. Designed by the legendary Baroque architect Francesco Borromini, the palace has welcomed
aristocrats, clergy, and artists for centuries. Today, it invites a new generation of discerning travelers to experience Rome from one of its most extraordinary addresses. The location is nothing short of exceptional. Step outside and you’re immersed in the timeless theater of Piazza Navona, where Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers anchors one of Europe’s most iconic squares. From here, the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, the Spanish Steps, and countless galleries, boutiques, and cafés are all within an easy stroll, making the hotel an ideal base for discovering the Eternal City on foot. Yet despite sitting in the heart of Rome, Eitch Borromini somehow manages to feel remarkably intimate—a peaceful retreat hidden above the city’s lively rhythm. The thoughtful evolution of Eitch Borromini’s accommodations is evident in several newly redesigned suites that celebrate the grandeur of the historic palace while embracing a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic. Original frescoed Social Life
147
T R AV E L
ceilings, centuries-old fireplaces, and architectural details have been carefully preserved, then paired with bespoke furnishings, rich marble, warm woods, and luxurious textiles that create an atmosphere of understated elegance rather than museum-like formality. The result is a seamless blend of heritage and modern comfort that is authentic and refreshingly current. Some of the most spectacular suites feature sweeping views over Piazza Navona, while others reveal intimate glimpses of Rome’s storied rooftops and church domes. No stay is complete without lingering on Terrazza Borromini, the hotel’s panoramic rooftop, where breakfast, cocktails, or dinner unfold against one of the city’s most SocialLifeMagazine.com
cinematic skylines. As church bells echo across Rome and the golden light settles over the domes of the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica, it’s easy to understand why this address has captivated visitors for generations. Eitch Borromini succeeds because it never tries to compete with Rome—it simply becomes part of its ambiance. Equal parts architectural masterpiece, refined retreat, and unforgettable vantage point, it is a hotel that reminds travelers that true luxury isn’t just about beautiful rooms. It’s about waking each morning inside history while experiencing the very best of the city just beyond your window. Head to eitchborromini.com to book your stay.
148
HOME
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON WATERFRONT LIVING by lauRa heaRst
A waterfront home should feel connected to its surroundings, and at 24 Midway Street in Babylon village, the water is part of the experience from the moment one arrives. Newly constructed in 2025 and represented by Joe Granieri of Nest Seekers International, the contemporary residence offers four bedrooms, three full baths, one half bath, and approximately 3,000 square feet of living space along a quiet canal. Inside, 10-foot ceilings on the main level and expansive windows create a bright, airy atmosphere. The open floor plan was designed for easy entertaining, allowing the kitchen, dining area, and living room to flow naturally into one another. Custom two-tone cabinetry, stone countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and a large center island give the kitchen a clean, modern character, while a natural gas fireplace brings warmth to the principal gathering space. The primary suite offers its own sense of retreat, with marble finishes, a spa-inspired bathroom, and generous walk-in closet space. A second fireplace is located in a bedroom, adding another distinctive detail to the home.
Much of the property’s appeal lies beneath its polished surfaces. Construction features include a helical pile foundation, an engineered floor system, spray-foam insulation, energy-efficient windows, three-zone gas heating, and central air. Outside, the stucco façade is softened by natural-stone accents, while glass balcony railings preserve the waterfront views. A stone patio overlooking the canal creates an inviting setting for summer dinners, cocktails at sunset, or quiet mornings beside the water. The private bulkhead and canal access make the home particularly appealing to buyers drawn to the South Shore lifestyle. At the same time, its proximity to Babylon village places restaurants, shops, and Long Island Rail Road service within easy reach. Currently offered at $1,799,995, the property brings a distinctly Hamptons-inspired sensibility to one of Long Island’s most established waterfront communities. Granieri is a licensed real estate salesperson, real estate adviser, and team leader with Nest Seekers International. His work spans luxury homes, waterfront estates, new development, and investment opportunities across Long Island, the Hamptons, New York City, and select international markets. Since joining the firm in 2024, he has expanded his practice to include development strategy, hospitalitydriven real estate, and lifestyle advisory, an approach well suited to a property that is as much about how one lives as where one lives.
Joseph Granieri Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 631.897.0516 JosephGr@nestseekers.com Social Life
150
HOME
A FRESH TAKE ON SOUTHAMPTON LIVING 244 NORTH SEA MECOX ROAD IN SOUTHAMPTON by Kaiya hilton
244 North Sea Mecox Road, Southampton
Less than two miles from Southampton village and minutes from the ocean beaches, the newly completed residence at 244 North Sea Mecox Road offers a polished interpretation of modern Hamptons living. Listed at $3.895 million, the home features six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, two powder rooms, and 5,800 square feet of living space across three finished levels. Set on half an acre, it combines the ease of new construction with a location close to the restaurants, boutiques, and coastal charm that have made Southampton one of the East End’s most sought-after destinations. Designed by architect Ryan Kesner, the traditional-style residence opens with a grand foyer and an airy floor plan that balances elegance and everyday comfort. The main level features formal living and dining rooms, an expansive great room
with one of two fireplaces, and a chef ’s kitchen complete with premium appliances and a butler’s pantry. A first-floor en suite bedroom offers flexibility for guests or multigenerational living, while a mudroom and laundry room provide practical convenience. Upstairs, the primary suite serves as a private retreat with its own fireplace, dual walk-in closets, spa-inspired bath, and a balcony overlooking the backyard. Three additional en suite bedrooms, a bonus room, and a second laundry room complete the level. The finished lower level expands the home’s versatility with a sixth en suite bedroom, fitness room, powder room, and generous recreation space, making it equally suited for entertaining or extended stays. Outside, three sets of sliding glass doors create a seamless Social Life
151
HOME
connection between the interior and the backyard, where a heated 20-by-40-foot gunite pool anchors the outdoor living space. A covered porch and spacious patio provide inviting settings for everything from quiet mornings to summer gatherings with family and friends. Representing the property is Vincent Abbate of Nest Seekers International. A Southampton native, Abbate offers clients the advantage of lifelong local knowledge and a genuine appreciation for the Hamptons lifestyle. Abbate has consistently ranked among Nest Seekers’ top-performing Hamptons agents. His deep roots in the community, combined with a thoughtful SocialLifeMagazine.com
understanding of the luxury market, make him an ideal representative for a home that captures the best of contemporary Southampton living.
Vincent Abbate Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 631.848.3628 vincentabbate@nestseekers.com
152
HOME
LIVING WELL ON THE NORTH FORK by Kaiya hilton
1810 Main Road in Jamesport
Morning light spills across vineyard rows. Boats drift out toward Peconic Bay. Farm stands fill with just-picked produce, and miles away from the rush of city life, the North Fork moves at its own pace. Increasingly, that’s exactly the point. Luxury real estate has entered a new era. Today’s buyers aren’t simply searching for beautiful homes—they’re searching for a better way to live. Across the North Fork, Douglas Elliman’s Kristy Naddell has watched that evolution unfold firsthand. Whether her clients are relocating full-time from Manhattan, trading the pace of the South Fork for a quieter coastal lifestyle, or purchasing a second home, the conversation has shifted well beyond square footage and finishes. “People are thinking differently about where they want to spend their time,” says Naddell. “Some are looking for a weekend retreat while others are making the North Fork their full-time home. What they all have in common is that they’re looking for a place that feels authentic, connected to nature, and easy to enjoy every day.” That shift has transformed the market. While demand remains healthy, today’s buyers are far more intentional than they were just a few years ago. They’re taking their time, comparing properties carefully and placing greater emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and long-term value.
“Turnkey homes continue to command the greatest interest, while properties requiring significant renovation often face a more measured response,” Naddell says. “Waterfront properties, exceptional land, thoughtfully designed new construction, privacy, pools, and homes with architectural significance continue to perform well. Buyers are patient until the right property comes along. Then they’re ready to act.” As Douglas Elliman’s No. 1 agent on the North Fork, Naddell has built her business by understanding not only today’s market but the lifestyle that continues to draw people east. “The North Fork feels very much like the Hamptons used to,” she says. “It has beautiful beaches, vineyards, boating, incredible restaurants, and farm stands, but it still feels grounded. There’s a real sense of community here.” That authenticity continues to attract buyers from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Nassau County, Florida, and even the South Fork. This year alone, Naddell has worked with several clients who traded East Hampton, Southampton, and Westhampton for the North Fork’s slower pace, greater privacy, and enduring connection to the outdoors. Her current portfolio reflects the many ways today’s luxury buyers define “living well.” Social Life
153
21515 Soundview Avenue in Southold
In Cutchogue, the Barnes Coy–designed waterfront residence at 445 Glen Court demonstrates architecture at its most enduring. Perched atop a dramatic bluff, the home was designed around the landscape rather than fleeting trends, creating a seamless relationship between light, water, and nature that feels timeless. A few miles away, Naddell’s remarkable listing at 1810 Main Road in Jamesport tells a different story. Set on more than 6 acres, the estate combines a private vineyard, premier equestrian facilities, mature orchards, beehives, raised gardens, and a thoughtfully designed art studio with luxury amenities including a heated saltwater pool, wine-barrel sauna, outdoor kitchen, and putting green. More than a spectacular property, it reflects one of the defining trends shaping today’s market: buyers seeking homes that support wellness, sustainability, and a deeper connection to the land. “People are asking different questions than they were even a few years ago,” Naddell says. “They’re looking for spaces that support the way they want to live, whether that’s a home gym, a sauna, room for extended family, outdoor entertaining, or simply enough land to create something that’s uniquely their own.” That same lifestyle-first mindset is fueling demand for exceptional new construction. At Sea Crest Estates in Jamesport, an exclusive collection of just 13 luxury residences by Modern Age Builders, buyers are finding timeless architecture, sophisticated finishes, and modern efficiency moments from Iron Pier Beach. Designed for effortless living, the homes offer exactly what today’s market increasingly demands: the ability to arrive, unpack, and immediately begin enjoying the East End. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Then there are homes that capture the everyday magic of the North Fork itself. At 21515 Soundview Avenue in Southold, sweeping views across the Long Island Sound, direct beach access, and extraordinary sunsets become part of daily life. Beautifully renovated and thoughtfully designed, the waterfront retreat features expansive outdoor living spaces and a rare, grandfathered platform at the water’s edge—an idyllic setting for everything from morning yoga to sunset cocktails. Taken together, these homes tell the story of an evolving market, where experiences matter as much as amenities and lifestyle has become luxury’s most valuable asset. For Naddell, that’s what has always made the North Fork so special. It offers a rare combination of natural beauty, community, and understated luxury that feels increasingly valuable in today’s fast-moving world. In the end, the greatest luxury may no longer be owning an extraordinary home. It may simply be living well on the North Fork.
Kristy B. Naddell Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker 631.905.8584 Kristy.naddell@elliman.com
154
HOME
A WATERFRONT COMPOUND BUILT FOR TODAY—AND WHAT COMES NEXT by david andReWs
Sarah Minardi
In East Hampton, true rarity is recognized in what cannot be re-created. Along Three Mile Harbor Drive, nearly 3.5 waterfront acres, two separately deeded parcels, and almost 300 feet of shoreline come together in an irreplaceable compound opportunity. The setting is private, but never isolated. Positioned in Northwest Woods between East Hampton and Sag Harbor villages, the property looks across Three Mile Harbor toward Gardiner’s Bay, surrounded by some of the East End’s most peaceful water. As rare as the compound opportunity, the water view that comes into view as you approach the main home is unbelievable. “Most compelling is that you do not have to choose between
enjoying it now and planning for the future,” says Sarah Minardi of Saunders & Associates, who represents the property exclusively. “The main house is beautifully resolved, the waterfront is extraordinary, and the second parcel gives a buyer options that are increasingly difficult to find anywhere in the Hamptons.” Thoughtfully reimagined for contemporary living, the 4,575-square-foot main residence keeps its attention firmly on the view. Walls of glass fill the interiors with changing light, while a dramatic double-height great room, expansive gathering spaces, and chef ’s kitchen establish a sophisticated, comfortable rhythm. Four en suite bedrooms include a primary suite with a private waterfront balcony and panoramic outlook. The finished lower level opens directly to the landscaped grounds and shoreline, making it feel connected to the water Social Life
155
HOME
62 and 64 Three Mile Harbor Drive, East Hampton
rather than removed from the house. A gentle path leads to the sandy edge, where kayaks and paddleboards can launch directly into the harbor. Outside, broad waterside terraces, covered dining areas, a heated pool with a custom waterfall, and a pool house create a complete summer setting. The experience is polished, but the landscape remains the star. The separately deeded second parcel transforms the property from a singular residence into a true compound. The existing guest cottage offers immediate accommodations while preserving the possibility of a substantially larger home and potential pool. “There is real value in flexibility, especially when it comes with this much land and waterfront,” Minardi says. “Someone SocialLifeMagazine.com
can create a multi-home compound, maintain a separate guesthouse, or simply protect the privacy and openness that already make the property so special.” Its greatest value extends beyond additional building potential: a finished waterfront lifestyle today, rare flexibility for tomorrow, and room for the estate to evolve for generations in one extraordinary place on the water. ThreeMileHarborDrive.com
Sarah Minardi Saunders & Associates Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker 631.987.8916 SMinardi@Saunders.com
156
HOME
BEFORE THEY WERE BROKERS MARK GREENWALD’S LEGAL EXPERIENCE LEADS TO REAL ESTATE SUCCESS by david andReWs
Mark Greenwald
MARK GREENWALD IS AS SMART AS A LAWYER AND AS APPROACHABLE AS A REAL ESTATE AGENT. WHICH MAKES PERFECT SENSE: HE IS BOTH. With more than two decades of top-tier experience in Hamptons real estate and a J.D. from Cornell Law, Greenwald has become a go-to adviser for clients who value deep expertise, steady guidance, and, above all, results. His legal background sharpens his eye for detail, but his real advantage is knowing how to translate complexity into clear, practical advice clients can use with confidence. In 2026, Greenwald ranked among the top 1% of real estate agents nationwide and in the top 10 agents in the Hamptons—his success is impressive, but hardly accidental. There is busy, and then there is Mark Greenwald busy. Last September, over just 45 days, he completed 10 Hamptons
transactions totaling $64,830,000. For those counting, that averages approximately $1.4 million per day, or nearly $60,000 per hour. These are Hamptons homes and significant estates, each carrying a story, a legacy, and a client entrusting him with one of life’s biggest decisions. That responsibility is never lost on him. Behind every transaction is meticulous research, legal acuity, and preparation that make a complicated process manageable. Greenwald is a strategist who understands that presentation matters—both how a property is positioned and how an agent shows up. His listings are thoughtfully prepared, his advice is direct, and he personally attends every showing. In an increasingly impersonal business, that level of involvement makes an impression. So does Greenwald himself. He is polished without being stiff, confident without being imposing, and serious about the work without taking himself too seriously. Clients respond to that balance. So do other agents. His connection to the East End is equally personal. Greenwald raised his family here and understands the Hamptons not simply as a luxury market but a place where people build lives. Ask him about his kids and watch his face light up. His smile will tell you everything you need to know about the man behind the numbers. Presentation, personality, and preparation account for much of Greenwald’s steady ascent. Yet the clearest explanation may be simpler: He knows his market, knows his clients, and arrives ready. In Hamptons real estate, that combination is difficult to beat.
Mark Greenwald Saunders & Associates Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker 917.596.4426 MGreenwald@Saunders.com Social Life
158
MAGO’S JOURNAL by Mago
MAGO is an internationally acclaimed artist, focusing on installations. He also curates for private collectors and consults for galleries and museums. MAGO is experienced in media and production, and he uses this wealth of cultural knowledge to inform this column.
THE HAMPTONS’ THRIVING CULTURAL MARKET
Gallerist Stella Flame (right) at the Hamptons Fine Art Festival with Debbie and guest
MAGO, artist Lucy Cookson, and sculptor Oscar Molina in Martinez Art Gallery booth at HFAF
MAGO and Johnny Evans at the Martinez Art Gallery booth at HFAF
MAGO, Judith Kasen-Windsor, Robin Brown at Bonnie Druker’s artist reception
MAGO and artist Bonnie Druker at Bonnie Druker’s artist reception
Collector Julia De La Garza at Martinez Art Gallery booth at HFAF
Jean Shafiroff, Bonnie Druker, Becca A. Seawright, and Oscar Molina at Bonnie Druker’s artist reception
Julia De La Garza and MAGO after the HFAF in the Hamptons
Karen Amster-Young and MAGO at the Martinez Art Gallery booth
Installation of “Children of the World” by internationally acclaimed sculptor Oscar Molina at HFAF
The Hamptons’ art market consistently demonstrates remarkable strength, generating worldwide interest thanks to the participation of a host of exceptional artists working in various artistic mediums as well as the visionary galleries and an enthusiastic community of collectors. From Martinez Art Gallery’s presentation of acclaimed painter Lucy Cookson and international sculptor Oscar Molina at the vibrant Hamptons Fine Art Fair to Bonnie Druker’s artist presentation in the
town of Southampton, the season is celebrating creativity at every turn. We welcome you to join us at the Stella Flame Gallery, which also features a solo show by Lucy Cookson. Also consider visiting Julie Keys Gallery at the American Hotel, where you can view Oscar Molina’s most recent sculptures. These exhibitions all reflect a flourishing cultural landscape where contemporary art continues to inspire, connect, and thrive. Social Life
159
ART
JAMES KATSIPIS RENOWNED FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER by couRtney daniels
James Katsipis, Ditch at Dusk, 2019
James Katsipis is a Montauk- and Manhattanbased fine art photographer whose career has been defined by the ocean. Born and raised in Montauk, Katsipis grew up surrounded by the sea, which became his greatest inspiration and lifelong muse. His fascination with photography began in high school, when he first learned to develop film and quickly became capJames Katsipis tivated by photographing the natural world around him. What started as skipping class to photograph professional surfers soon evolved into his first published assignment with Eastern Surf magazine, launching a career that now spans more than two decades. Known for his exceptional ocean photography and striking visual art, Katsipis has traveled the globe documenting seascapes and coastlines. His unique process depends on patience and immersion; he spends time studying the rhythm of the environment before lifting his camera. Katsipis has spent more than 20 years transforming his lifelong connection to oceans into a distinctive body of fine art photography. The ocean has remained his primary muse, shaping both his life and his lens. SocialLifeMagazine.com
His work is a technical and emotional study of the natural elements, capturing the raw, cinematic energy of the coast from his home shores in Montauk to remote destinations around the world. An explorer by nature, Katsipis has traveled across Iceland, Peru, Ireland, Panama, and beyond, immersing himself in extraordinary coastal landscapes and capturing the power, beauty, and emotion of the natural world. His photography has been featured in fine art galleries, books, magazines, major campaigns, and private collections worldwide. He has collaborated with an impressive roster of global brands, including Estée Lauder, La Mer, Donna Karan, Volcom, Patagonia, and Pucci to name a few, establishing him as a compelling voice in contemporary ocean, adventure, and fine art photography. James Katsipis’s fine art and commissioned photography have been exhibited in galleries worldwide and featured in major media publications. His celebrated portraiture series, Mermaids of Montauk, exemplifies his ability to merge myth, fantasy, and environmental reverence. The series has captivated audiences through exhibitions, residencies, and media features. A dedicated environmental advocate, Katsipis is deeply involved in ocean preservation and the protection of Montauk’s natural coastline. He has worked alongside organizations including The Nature Conservancy, Surf Rider Foundation, and the Save the Wave East Coast Film Festival to raise awareness about the importance of conservation. His photography not only celebrates the majesty of the sea but also serves as a vital tool for advocacy and education. In addition to his ocean-inspired work, Katsipis is an accomplished portrait artist whose images capture deep emotion and authenticity. His photography has been widely published and collected, allowing admirers to bring a piece of Montauk’s magic into their homes. Through artistry, exploration, and activism, Katsipis has become one of today’s most dynamic photographers. Three years ago, he opened his own namesake gallery in his hometown, in the heart of Montauk, giving viewers a chance to step into his world, see his work firsthand, and have an opportunity to meet the artist. James Katsipis Gallery 742 Montauk Highway, Montauk jameskatsipis.com | @letstaukgrams
160
R AC H E L’ S R A DA R LONDON & SAINT-TROPEZ, SUMMER 2026 by Rachel helleR
Writer, actress, host, and art adviser Rachel Heller is a sponsorship and brand relations manager at Talent Resources @rachelhellerxo | @talentresources | talentresources.com
This summer I moved between London and Saint-Tropez with my camera, collecting whatever stopped me. Botticelli’s Madonna still breathing inside her frame. Cecily Brown’s tangled, living landscapes at the Serpentine. Marilyn’s smile on the walls of the National Portrait Gallery for her centenary. The dark bronze globe outside the Dorchester catching the light on Park Lane. A Picasso that felt like it was looking back.
And in Saint-Tropez, the temporary museum at Salle JeanDespas, the postcard racks full of Bardot, the late light on the façades. Classical next to contemporary. Sculpture next to street. Glamour next to quiet looking. Nothing arranged for effect, just the places and the paintings that held me. These pieces are simply the ones I couldn’t stop returning to. Social Life
162
BOOK REVIEWS by WinteR faiRchild
Michelle Grace
Harriet Newman Cohen
Dr. Michael Hall
I’m Right Here
Passion and Power: A Life in Three Worlds
Infinite Youth: Solving the Aging Equation
Harriet Newman Cohen’s Passion and Power is an engrossing memoir that chronicles the extraordinary life of one of America’s pioneering divorce attorneys. With candor, intelligence, and wit, Cohen reflects on decades spent breaking barriers in a profession long dominated by men while navigating the complex intersection of law, family, ambition, and personal resilience. Her stories move seamlessly from courtroom drama to intimate reflections, offering readers an insider’s view of the emotional realities behind high-profile legal battles. More than a memoir, it is a portrait of a woman who helped reshape her profession while remaining deeply committed to justice and humanity. It’s an inspiring read for anyone fascinated by leadership, perseverance, and remarkable lives.
In Infinite Youth, Dr. Michael Hall explores the rapidly evolving science of longevity with an approach both accessible and optimistic. Drawing on the latest research in preventive medicine, metabolism, cellular health, and personalized wellness, Hall challenges conventional ideas about aging and presents a road map for extending not just lifespan but health span. Rather than promising miracle cures, he emphasizes evidence-based strategies designed to help readers maintain vitality and reduce the risk of age-related disease. Complex concepts are translated into practical insights that encourage readers to take control of their long-term health. Thoughtprovoking and forward-looking, Infinite Youth offers an inspiring glimpse into what the future of healthy aging holds.
Few books capture the bond between parent and child with as much tenderness and imagination as I’m Right Here. Michelle Grace blends lyrical prose with breathtaking, dreamlike illustrations to tell a story that reassures children that love is constant, even when life feels uncertain. Journeying through galaxies, forests, oceans, and star-filled skies, each page reminds young readers that they are deeply seen, profoundly loved, and forever connected to those who care for them. The book’s poetic message celebrates belonging, resilience, and unconditional love without ever being overly sentimental. A beautiful bedtime read and a keepsake parents will treasure long after the final page, I’m Right Here is destined to become a beloved family classic.
Social Life
164
THE READING ROOM by Zibby oWens
How is the summer almost over? I feel like it just started! There’s still time to dive into some spectacular books before the craziness of September begins. Here are a few of my favorites.
Robinne Lee
Jenny Jackson
Sarah Damoff
Jane Costello
Crash Into Me
The Shampoo Effect
The Burning Side
Forty Love
I was bawling on a plane when I finished this book—and not just because I didn’t want it to end. It’s about a couple on the brink of divorce when their home burns down and they’re forced to move into the wife’s family’s home, where, it turns out, her father has been hiding early-onset Alzheimer’s. It’s about love, forgiveness, loyalty, rebuilding, and trust.
For tennis addicts and newbies alike. Join Jules as she takes up the sport after her daughter leaves for a gap year. She’ll learn more than tennis; she’ll take up with a blast from her past, navigate friendships in midlife, dish with her brother, and finally give herself permission to let joy back in her life.
From the author of The Idea of You, Jenny Jackson is a star editor which was turned into a movie herself, so it’s no surprise that her with Anne Hathaway, comes a new, new book, The Shampoo Effect, has darker, more introspective look at been selected as a Read With Jena woman in crisis. A Black married na pick, a Barnes & Noble pick, woman with children in the mostly and a Book of the Month pick! white enclave of Brentwood, in If you’re in the mood to join Los Angeles, is tempted to take up a new group of friends at that with a woman from her past. It’ll pivotal moment when some are take you to Paris and L.A. starting to have kids, others are still dating, some have achieved career success, and others are still wobbly, then dive right in.
Social Life
165
BOOKS
Laure Frankel
Jessica Knoll
Matthew Quick
Anna Johnston
Enormous Wings
Helpless
Dad, Love, Me
When Lemons Give You Life
The last thing anyone expects happens in this hilarious but poignant story about a grandmother who moves into an old-age home—and becomes pregnant. Yes, it’s that funny.
There are a zillion twists and turns in this fabulous, immersive tale about a group of friends who reunite for a professor’s funeral and resolve to find out the truth behind what happened.
The author of Silver Linings Playbook, which was made into a film with Jennifer Lawrence, shares from the depths of his soul in a memoir about his difficult father, an abusive alcoholic; his struggles navigating success and creativity; and the therapy that got him back to baseline.
I didn’t expect to completely fall in love with this book, but I did. Anna Johnston writes about a fictitious Michelin-star chef who is so depressed in an elder-care facility that he decides to take his own life only to have cooking and food give him a new sense of purpose. It’s really about the relationships that make life worth living.
Jason Arday Great and Unfortunate Things This stellar story needs to be a movie. An autistic boy who couldn’t read or write and whom society had written off ends up getting a Ph.D. and becoming a Cambridge professor against all odds. Inspiring, uplifting, and truly magical. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Zibby Owens is the founder of Zibby Media, which includes the award-winning daily podcast Totally Booked With Zibby, Zibby Publishing in New York, and Zibby’s Bookshop in Santa Monica, California. She is the author of six books, including the USA Today best sellers Blank: A Novel and On Being Jewish Now: Reflections From Authors and Advocates. Follow her on Substack and Instagram @zibbyowens.
166
PROFILES
DEBUT AUTHOR MICHELLE GRACE AND THE WONDERS OF MOTHERHOOD by JeReMy MuRPhy
Michelle Grace did not set out to write a children’s book. She intended to save a feeling. Her debut picture book, I’m Right Here, arriving October 6, began as a private act of devotion to her daughter, Mira. Endorsed by parenting educator Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, it is a lyrical, meditative story about the cosmic bond between mother and child, told through the sparkling image of two stars finding each other in the vast universe. THE GENESIS OF I’M RIGHT HERE “I wrote the book when I was completely in my feelings,” Michelle Grace says. “It was an outlet for me to just be creative and express how I’m feeling and freeze a moment in time.”
That idea, art as a “frozen moment in time,” sits at the heart of I’m Right Here. The book follows the emotional, nonlinear journey of motherhood as something destined, mysterious, and written in the stars. In the story, a child feels the steady presence of a mother’s love, a love that surrounds and reassures. Even very young readers still learning the language of the world can understand its deepest message: You are safe, you are loved, and I am right here. For Michelle Grace, that message is inseparable from Mira. Before her daughter arrived, she had not realized how much of herself had gone quiet. She had spent years building a life in New York, the city that had shaped her since childhood, but somewhere along the way, her spark had dimmed. Social Life
Theresa Balderas
Michelle Grace
167
PROFILES Then came Mira, whose name means “my reflection,” and everything changed. “I feel like I had been blinded before her,” Michelle Grace says. “And now I’m so alive.”
Theresa Balderas
BUILDING AN UNBREAKABLE BOND Mira came into her life through surrogacy, a journey she describes as difficult for both mother and child. Because the process did not feel natural to her, Michelle Grace immersed herself in early childhood development, determined to understand how to deepen their bond. She has described the experience “like adopting your own child,” a beginning that required patience, tenderness, and trust. It was during those early days that she discovered the power of creative play as a bridge. “You sit on the floor with your kid, and you play with them, and you say nothing is more important than this right now,” she says. “Every toy has a different voice. Every voice, every tone is different. Every walk is different. You really have to get into character.” That instinct to enter a child’s world now shapes Michelle Grace’s work as an author. Her books are rooted in the belief that children are wired for wonder and that what parents pour into those early years matters profoundly. She sees imagination as a force that can nurture problem solving, emotional resilience, and connection to the natural world rather than something frivolous.
second, My Wild Imagination, is scheduled for February and follows a little girl named Anna and her big, furry “Wild Imagination,” who makes life brighter, bolder, and wilder. Together they splash through puddles as wide as the sea, slide down rainbows into magical gardens, and learn to speak butterfly. A third book, Welcome Home, Little Fairy, is planned for spring. Michelle Grace says each book will have a different illustrator because “every vibe” is different. For all the ambition ahead, the emotional center remains simple. The ideas, Michelle Grace says, all come from her daughter. In a culture that often treats parenthood as logistics, Michelle Grace is writing from the place beneath all that— from the floor, with the toys, the voices, the wonder, and the awe. I’m Right Here is not just a children’s book. It is a record of a mother being remade by love. u
To learn more visit: michellegraceofficial.com
REKINDLING HER SPARK Michelle Grace has always been creative. At 20, she wrote “Higher,” a No. 1 Billboard dance hit for Deborah Cox. But motherhood reignited something deeper. “When you have passion and life again, you start being creative again,” she says. That revived creativity led to I’m Right Here, which Michelle Grace calls a way of saying “thank you” to Mira and “hello” to the world as an author. The book’s gentle tone is matched by illustrations she discovered almost by chance. After an early illustrator’s sample failed to capture the feeling she wanted, Michelle Grace looked at artwork hanging in her office and realized she had already found the visual language of the book. She contacted the artist overseas, whose work in maternal themes felt “unbelievably beautiful, touching, and inspiring.” MORE WORLDS OF WONDER AHEAD More books are already on the way. Her SocialLifeMagazine.com
Michelle Grace with her daughter
168
PROFILES
VITAL AGIBALOW CELEBRITY PHOTOGRAPHER AND HENSEL AMBASSADOR by bRady goodMan-WilliaMs There’s something about portrait photography that has clearly inspired me since an early age. By 20, I had started working with local modeling agencies, and I opened my own business when I was 21. How has your photography changed since then? Those were the days when cameras used only film, and you didn’t see the result of a shot until after the film was processed. As a photographer, you couldn’t afford to make a mistake back then. Now everyone shoots digital, so you can see the shot on display, which makes it all so much easier. But I’m proud to say that I started as a film photographer.
When we imagine editorial and celebrity photo shoots, we think of high intensity, glamour, and many moving pieces. Makeup, hair, and fashion stylists run around with urgency, all under the auspices of a demanding photographer. But after seeing one special photographer on set with Nigel Barker, Carol Alt, Irina Pantaeva, and Iris Apfel, I can attest that Vital Agibalow truly breaks the mold. As he worked the camera in quick bursts of intensity, he never lost the professional yet inviting half-smile from his face—and the effects were visible. Most of us hesitate in the face of fame, but Agibalow’s lighthearted and sensitive demeanor allowed his subjects to open up in ways I had never previously seen. The result? Portraits of each subject’s inner being—comfortable, raw, and vulnerable. I sat down with Vital Agibalow to learn some more about him and his work.
So I know you love portraits. Why is this your favorite genre? I love working with people and seeing their reaction when they see themselves, sometimes in a whole new way. Bringing out a person’s beauty and charm results in much joy to my subjects and their families. Right now, because of word of mouth, I have been doing a lot of physicians’ portraits. But I do also work with fashion designers, which is a whole different world!
Where are you from? How did you become a photographer? I’m New York–based, but my roots are in Sweden, Russia, and Ukraine. When I was 7, my dad gave me my first camera as a birthday present—a Zenith. I fell in love with it. I started taking portraits of the other kids in my neighborhood.
So changing gears a little bit. Do you have any recommendations for others interested in pursuing a career like yours? Do it only if you really enjoy it. Don’t do it for the money, but for the art. You’d be shocked at how much money you can make when you prioritize the art first.
Who was the most challenging designer to shoot? Probably shooting Karl Lagerfeld. Our time in the studio was limited to only 30 minutes, which is a photographer’s worst nightmare! But the resulting portraits from the shoot were so good. He really liked the images, which is huge since he was a photographer himself. My portrait of Karl was published in BELLA magazine and many others, so the hard work paid off.
Social Life
Rob Rich / SocietyAllure.com
Vital Agibalow
Why does your background in film matter? Well, it builds credibility. It makes me more professional than any newbie these days who starts with a digital camera and doesn’t know what it means to shoot slides. You have to be much more accurate when doing so, and this skill enhances my digital photography.
169
That’s great advice. So what new projects are you working on right now? Where can I see your work? I worked with the legendary supermodel Carol Alt for her new show on FNL Network, Carol Alt’s Living Room. Also, I’ve been working with beauty and fashion bloggers like Kate Romanoff. In 2020, the publisher of CAPRICE magazine in Crimea published a limitededition coffee-table book called Super Models 2020, which features more than 70 pages of black-and-white photographs of supermodels from my work over the previous 10 years.
company since 2008. I’m using its lights on each and every shoot, and I’m proud to promote them in my studio and through my work.
You have a brand partnership with HENSEL, right? Tell me a little about that. HENSEL is a German brand that produces professional lights for photographers. I’ve been the brand ambassador for this
Follow Vital: instagram.com/VITALphotoNYC instagram.com/VITALphotoNY youtube.com/VITALPHOTO
SocialLifeMagazine.com
170
PROFILES
KIMBERLY PAIGE BLUHM FOSTERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF VISIONARIES by JeReMy MuRPhy Bluhm joins the museum during what she describes as an exciting period of growth. “The museum is now at a tipping point with this new phase of building,” she says. “It’s really exciting to be involved at this point.” She is especially eager to serve on the museum’s education committee, where she hopes to strengthen ties between the Norton and the broader South Florida community. “I’m there to support its mission,” Bluhm says. “Community access and lifelong learning of the arts are really extremely important to me.” CONNECTING MUSEUMS AND STUDENTS One of Bluhm’s first priorities is building a stronger relationship between the Norton Museum and the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, the nationally recognized public arts magnet school in West Palm Beach.
For Kimberly Paige Bluhm, art has never been solely about collecting paintings or attending gallery openings. It is about ensuring future generations understand the power of creativity. This philosophy has shaped her growing role as a philanthropist and arts advocate, culminating this year with her election to the board of the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach.
A PASSION YEARS IN THE MAKING Before becoming a Palm Beach resident, Bluhm lived in Aspen, where she served on the board of Jazz Aspen Snowmass, a nonprofit organization that presents the renowned Labor Day music festival while raising significant funding for arts programs in Colorado public schools. Social Life
Capehart
Kimberly Paige Bluhm
Already an active supporter of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation, Bluhm believes the two organizations can work together to create larger collaborative programs that encourage students to engage with the museum throughout their education. She first discovered the school when New York art adviser Kim Heirston encouraged her to visit. “The minute I walked into that building and met those students, I was completely and utterly blown away,” Bluhm recalls. “Their talent, their passion, their gratitude for being there. It’s amazing.” Admission to Dreyfoos is earned through auditions, attracting some of the state’s most gifted young artists. The foundation helps provide everything from instruments and classroom resources to transportation and personal assistance for students facing financial challenges. Bluhm works closely with the foundation to raise money and introduce new supporters to its mission. She also volunteers each spring by conducting mock interviews for seniors applying for college scholarships. “It’s been one of the greatest joys of my life,” she says. “Just to interact with those kids is incredible.”
171
PROFILES
Neil and Kimberly Paige Bluhm
Courtesy of Kimberly Paige Bluhm
As public funding for arts education declined, the organization stepped in to ensure students continued to receive music instruction and creative opportunities. When Bluhm relocated, she stepped away from the board for one simple reason. “I’m really a hands-on person,” she says. “I wasn’t going to be there anymore.” She immediately recognized many of the same values when she became involved with Dreyfoos. “The Dreyfoos School goes hand in hand with what Jazz Aspen has done,” she says. “There’s so much synergy there.” A COUPLE OF ART LOVERS Although Bluhm has long appreciated museums and artists, she credits her husband, businessman and noted contemporary art collector Neil Bluhm, with expanding her understanding of the art world. “I really learned a lot about art through my husband,” she says. “He’s taught me a lot over the last nine years and really encouraged my desire to learn more and to be more involved.” Her husband has served on the board of the Whitney Museum of American Art for nearly two decades and played an important role in the museum’s move to Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Through that involvement, Bluhm regularly participates in trustee events, exhibition openings, and SocialLifeMagazine.com
educational programs. “It’s a phenomenal museum,” she says. “I’ve really enjoyed meeting those people and sharing that with my husband.” Today, she describes herself simply: “I’m a lover of art.” LOOKING AHEAD Although Bluhm divides her time among Palm Beach, Miami, Chicago, Aspen, New York, and Europe, her philanthropic focus remains firmly rooted in organizations that create lasting impact. Whether she is introducing donors to the Dreyfoos Foundation, mentoring scholarship applicants, supporting the Norton Museum’s educational mission, or participating in the cultural life of the Whitney, she believes meaningful involvement matters more than simply lending her name to a cause. As the Norton Museum enters its next chapter, she hopes to help strengthen its role as both a cultural destination and an educational resource for South Florida. “My goal,” she says, “is to help build bigger programs for the students and get them more involved with the museum.” Her mission is about far more than preserving art. It is about inspiring the next generation to discover it. u
To learn more visit: norton.org | awdsoa.com
172
PROFILES
ARTHUR AIDALA THE LAWYER BEHIND THE LEGACY
Arthur Aidala
Arthur Aidala has spent more than three decades in criminal law, representing clients in federal and state courts across the country. He is an attorney, a managing partner, a legal analyst, a radio host, a former prosecutor, a husband, and a father. But when asked what his main focus is right now, Aidala does not start with a celebrity case or a television appearance. “The big thing that I’m working on right now, honestly, is managing the law firm,” he says.
That law firm is Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, PC, known for high-profile defendants, complicated cases, and a willingness to step into storms that other lawyers might avoid. As the manager of criminal cases, civil litigation, appeals, and corporate matters, Aidala believes the firm’s strength is not simply its fearlessness, but its range, its honesty, and its culture. Long before he became one of New York’s most recognizable defense attorneys, Aidala was a prosecutor. As a senior assistant district attorney in Kings County, he tried dozens of felony cases, from murder and rape to burglary and gun cases, during one of the most crime-ridden periods in New York City history. That experience continues to shape his approach to criminal defense. He understands how prosecutors think because he once stood in their shoes. “There are prosecutors who wield that power responsibly,” he says. “And then there are those who you have to fight as hard as you can because they are abusing it.” One case of Aidala’s remains especially personal: a New York City crane collapse. At the time, it was the largest crane accident in city history. Seven people died, and prosecutors were under enormous pressure to find someone criminally responsible. Aidala represented crane operator William Rapetti, who was offered a plea deal that would have resulted in roughly a year behind bars. Convinced his client was innocent, Aidala immersed himself in the technical details of crane operation. The pressure leading up to the verdict was overwhelming. “The day before was the first time I ever had stomach distress,” he recalls. When the verdict was finally reached, the courtroom was packed with family members, crane workers, prosecutors, reporters, and spectators. Rapetti was found not guilty, and that acquittal changed his life. “I opened up a door and it was a broom closet,” Aidala recalls. “And I just fell on my knees and I was hysterically crying.” Years later, Aidala attended two of Rapetti’s daughters’ weddings. Every July 22, the anniversary of the verdict, he still receives a text message from his former client. Despite the intensity of this work, Aidala rejects the stereotype of the cold, corporate law office. At the firm, there are birthday celebrations, lunch gatherings, and spontaneous legal debates. Lawyers routinely seek each other’s opinions on cases. The firm’s radio studio often becomes an impromptu Social Life
Udo Spreitzenbarth
by JeReMy MuRPhy
173
Courtesy of Arthur Aidala
PROFILES gathering place whenever a major legal story breaks. Aidala hosts The Arthur Aidala Power Hour every weekday evening on AM 970 The Answer. During broadcasts, colleagues regularly join him to discuss important legal developments. “I try to create an environment that encourages camaraderie and collaboration because I think it’s in the best interests of the clients,” he says. That culture is how Aidala ensures the firm will thrive long after he steps away. He actively pushes younger attorneys into leadership roles, giving them courtroom opportunities, media exposure, and responsibility. Recently, a federal judge asked why Aidala sat quietly in the back of a courtroom during an important proceeding. The answer was simple. The hearing belonged to one of his younger lawyers. “I don’t want them to have to need me,” he says. “I’m trying to create a little bit of a legacy.” In his view, the ultimate measure of success would be seeing the practice continue decades after his retirement. Attorneys such as Imran Ansari, Michael Jaccarino, and Lino De Masi are examples of the next generation he hopes will lead the firm. Away from work, Aidala’s greatest joys are remarkably simple: family, friends, and community. He remains close with friends from kindergarten. He speaks passionately about his wife, longtime law partner, and soulmate, Marianne Bertuna, and their children. Recently, he hosted 50 people at his home for Father’s Day. His father, who is approaching 88, sat surrounded by friends. Across the yard, Aidala’s young daughter splashed into the water. “You pinch yourself about how lucky I am,” he says. Arthur Aidala has spent decades handling some of the most difficult cases in America. He has represented controversial clients, won landmark appeals, and secured life-changing acquittals. Yet perhaps his most SocialLifeMagazine.com
Barry Kamins, Marianne Bertuna, Arthur Aidala
”I try to create an environment that encourages camaraderie and collaboration because I think it’s in the best interests of the clients.” Arthur Aidala
enduring achievement will not be a verdict or a headline. It may be the culture, community, and legacy he is building at Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins—a place where lawyers care deeply, clients feel heard, and the next generation is already preparing to carry the torch. u
To learn more visit: aidalalaw.com
174
PROFILES
MARIANNE BERTUNA A LAWYER GUIDED BY INTEGRITY, TRUST, AND A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS by JeReMy MuRPhy involving estate properties. One day may involve multiple closings, while another could require immediate action against squatters. But it’s something that comes naturally to her. “My family has always been in the real estate world,” she said. “I knew how to do a closing before I even became a lawyer.”
Marianne Bertuna has built a career defined by versatility and an unwavering commitment to serving others. As executive partner at Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, she helps lead one of New York’s busiest boutique law firms while maintaining a multifaceted practice. Whether she is protecting an estate or mentoring other attorneys, Bertuna approaches every case with the same philosophy. “I am fueled by helping others,” she said. “I use all of my ability and energy as an attorney to ensure that my client’s trust is well placed.” That commitment has garnered respect throughout New York’s legal community and established her as one of the firm’s driving forces. AN EVER-EVOLVING CAREER Today, Bertuna devotes much of her practice to serving as counsel to the Kings County public administrator in Brooklyn’s Surrogate’s Court, a position that puts her at the center of complicated estate matters. Bertuna oversees litigation and responds to emergencies
A FAMILY FIRM WITH SHARED VALUES Alongside her husband, defense attorney Arthur Aidala, Bertuna helps lead a firm known for high-profile cases. She believes representing controversial clients reflects a deep respect for the Constitution. “Every American is entitled to a defense,” she said. She credits the firm’s collaborative culture as one of its greatest strengths. “We’re a family,” she said. “Our clients know they matter.” For Bertuna, success is found in preserving trust and honoring the responsibility that comes with practicing law. “A lawyer is part of a profession,” she said. “It’s not just a job.” u
To learn more visit: aidalalaw.com Social Life
Udo Spreitzenbarth
Marianne Bertuna
BUILT ON CRIMINAL DEFENSE Bertuna says criminal defense will always hold a special place in her heart. “I loved being in the courtroom every day,” she said. Representing her clients taught her to think critically and remain calm under pressure. That courtroom experience serves her well in Surrogate’s Court, where emergencies regularly arise, and informs her work investigating fraudulent estate transactions, including one of New York’s largest real estate fraud cases during the mortgage crisis. Beyond the courtroom and the writing desk, Bertuna is equally devoted to giving back. She was a long-time president of the Columbian Lawyers Association, 1st Judicial Department, an association she has stayed close to, serving as chair for the department’s annual Charles A. Rapallo and Justice Antonin Scalia Awards Luncheon. In addition to these vital roles, Bertuna is a trustee and member on the boards of the Brooklyn Bar Association and the Kings County Criminal Bar Association, and a former member of the Attorney Grievance Committee of the Appellate Division, 2nd Department. To top it all off, she serves as a board member of the Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation.
175
PROFILES
RUSTIK CAKE STUDIO THE SWEET ART OF CELEBRATION by eMily yoRKe
ROCIO FUKUDA OF RUSTIK CAKE STUDIO HAS BECOME ONE OF THE HAMPTONS’ MOST SOUGHT-AFTER CAKE DESIGNERS BY TRANSFORMING LIFE’S BIGGEST MILESTONES INTO UNFORGETTABLE WORKS OF ART. In the Hamptons, where life’s biggest milestones are celebrated with extraordinary attention to detail, Rocio Fukuda has become one of the East End’s most sought-after cake designers. Through Rustik Cake Studio, her custom creations have graced celebrations for everyone from local families to internationally recognized names, including Beyoncé, Metallica, Michelle Williams, Charles Woodson, Kaki Swid, and Sarah Lee. Her client list spans local families and celebrities alike, but for Fukuda, every cake begins in the same place—with the story of the person she’s creating it for. What began as a hobby soon became something much more. Whenever Fukuda arrived at a gathering with one of her cakes, she watched people’s faces light up. Their excitement and gratitude made her realize that baking wasn’t simply a creative outlet— it was a way to become part of life’s happiest moments. “When I saw how happy people were when they received one of my cakes, I realized this passion wasn’t just for my own joy—it was for the people celebrating with them,” Fukuda says. Before long, her passion naturally evolved into a thriving business. That approach continues to guide every cake she creates. Rather than beginning with a particular aesthetic, Fukuda starts with her clients themselves. Their personalities, interests, and memories inspire every design, whether it’s a
Rocio Fukuda
whimsical 101 Dalmatians–themed cake for a grandmother’s 101st birthday or a custom creation celebrating a lifelong passion. Every commission becomes a reflection of the person— and the moment—it celebrates. Over the years, Fukuda has become more than a cake designer; she has become part of her clients’ family traditions. Some have returned to Rustik Cake Studio every year for more than a decade, allowing her to watch their children grow, one birthday at a time. “Every year is a story that I get to be part of. I get to watch my clients grow while sharing these special moments with them year after year,” she says. Her favorite tradition, however, is creating her own son’s birthday cake each year—a promise she hopes to keep for as long as she can. As a single mother, Fukuda intentionally built Rustik Cake Studio around the life she wanted for her family. Operating from a commissary kitchen rather than a storefront has given her the flexibility to be present for her son while continuing to grow a business built almost entirely through word of mouth and loyal clients. Looking ahead, Fukuda is excited to introduce new collaborations and products, but what continues to inspire her most is the opportunity to celebrate life’s milestones alongside the families who have supported her from the very beginning. One cake at a time, she isn’t simply creating desserts—she’s helping create memories that will be cherished for years to come.
176
FOOD AND WINE
BREWING IN THE EAST END HOPS, SMASHES, AND BOCCE by shaRon Roth
August is finally upon us, and every moment feels like a golden hour. Summer chill vibes have taken over all. As we slowly meander from morning yoga to beach to boat to sunset, it’s time to start savoring the East End’s rich array of chilled local beers, the perfect addition to our lingering, toes-in-the-sand afternoons. Thankfully, local Hamptons breweries offer uniquely crafted options that complement these radiant August days, producing everything from crisp lagers and hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and Belgian-inspired ales. One of our most beloved breweries is Montauk Brewing Company, whose motto you can’t help but love: “Craft Beer for the End.” Their flagship Wave Chaser IPA delivers bright citrus aromas with a balanced hop finish, making it an ideal companion to fresh seafood, grilled shrimp, or lobster rolls, while their Summer Ale offers equally refreshing, light malt flavors with subtle fruit notes perfect for warm afternoons. Another East End favorite—and fun to visit—is Kidd Squid Brewing Company (sorry, no squids in the beer), the only craft brewing company in Sag Harbor. Located at 11 Spring Street in a historic 1870 railroad-freight depot, this whimsical beer garden boasts games such as bocce, creative munchies like hot pretzels made from their beer, and nitro coffees, matchas, and local vinos for the beer-shy. Hard-core beer enthusiasts should hop (no pun intended!) on the ferry to seek out Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, with its two destinations on the North Fork. Known for its clean, balanced brewing style, Greenport Harbor produces an array of craft-beer favorites, such as its smooth Harbor Ale, its more robust Black Duck Porter with notes of chocolate, its herbal-forward Haus Pilsner, and its orange-blossom-honey-infused Summer Ale.
Now, of course, we must explore some beer cocktails. Both sound delicious.
The Hamptons Shandy Ingredients: • 12 oz local summer ale • 4 oz fresh lemonade • 1 oz vodka (optional, but definitely yes!) • Lemon wheel and fresh mint Fill chilled pint glass with ice, pour in lemonade, top with beer, and gently stir. Garnish with lemon and mint.
Blueberry Beach Beer Smash Ingredients: • 12 oz local blonde ale • ¼ cup fresh blueberries • Juice of half a lemon • 1 teaspoon honey • Fresh basil leaves Muddle blueberries, lemon juice, honey, and basil in shaker. Fill tall glass with ice and strain mixture over it, then top with the blonde ale. Garnish with additional blueberries and basil sprig. Whether you’re sampling a fresh IPA at a local brewery, enjoying a crisp lager by the pool, or attempting to mix a creative beer cocktail for friends, our growing Hamptons craft-beer scene offers something for every palate. Let’s all raise a (beer) glass to our local breweries and to an unforgettable August 2026! Social Life
177
FOOD AND WINE
DELICATO FAMILY WINES UNCORK THE FINEST—A CENTURY-PLUS LEGACY OF ELEGANCE IN EVERY POUR
Courtesy of Delicato Family Wines
by Robyn fReedMan
Established in 1924, and now marking over 102 years of uninterrupted craftsmanship, Delicato Family Wines stands as a rare expression of continuity in an ever-evolving world of fine wine. Family-owned and operated across three generations of the Indelicato family, its legacy has not just been preserved but continuously refined. From the sun-drenched valleys of Lodi to the prestigious elevations of Napa, Sonoma, and Monterey, Delicato Family Wines cultivates more than 6,000 acres of estate vineyards across California’s most coveted appellations, alongside select international sites in Germany and Chile. Each vineyard is a distinct voice in a symphony of terroir—interpreted with precision, restraint, and a deep respect for nature’s rhythm. At the pinnacle of its portfolio, the iconic Black Stallion Estate Winery captures the essence of Napa Valley elegance along the famed Silverado Trail. Here, luxury is revealed in every structured Cabernet, every layered Chardonnay, every bottle shaped by time and place. The portfolio extends with distinction across modern classics and lifestyle icons: Gnarly Head delivers bold expression with unapologetic character, while Bota Box redefines contemporary convenience without compromising quality. Z. Alexander Brown, a collaboration with Grammy-winning SocialLifeMagazine.com
artist Zac Brown, brings creative energy and soulful depth to the collection, and Earth Wise Vineyards reflects a commitment to certified organic stewardship and sustainable excellence. Together, these wines represent more than a portfolio— they form a philosophy: a belief that wine is not simply produced like any other product, but is thoughtfully grown, carefully guided, and ultimately shared in moments of connection. Today, Delicato Family Wines is among the fastest-growing wine companies in the U.S., yet its truest achievement remains unchanged: to craft wines that elevate life’s most meaningful celebrations. Because within every bottle lies the same enduring promise— heritage in every harvest, and elegance in every pour.
Write your summer memories here!
SHARED
|
OWNERSHIP
|
CHARTER
Book a seat on a private jet to sought-after destinations such as the Hamptons, Nantucket, New York, and South Florida. Sign up to enjoy 30 days of complimentary Slate Shared Membership and save $395 per seat on every flight.
Visit FlySlate.com and use code SOCIALLIFE