Vanessa Noel and her Noel Shoe Museum hosted their highly anticipated annual gala at the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Church, transforming the space into a glamorous celebration of footwear and culture. The evening brought together fashion enthusiasts, art lovers, and philanthropists for a memorable night filled with elegance and entertainment.
Vanessa Noel, founder of the museum, shared her passion for footwear and its deeper significance, stating, “We celebrate footwear not just as fashion, but as a reflection of our creativity and culture.” Her words set the tone for an evening dedicated to recognizing the artistry behind shoes and their cultural impact. The gala not only honored the craftsmanship of footwear but also underscored the museum’s mission to preserve and showcase the rich history of shoes through the ages.
Attendees arrived in their finest attire, proudly wearing their best dancing shoes for an evening that promised cocktails, lively bingo games, a delicious dinner, and hours of dancing to live music provided by The Alex Donner Orchestra. The lively atmosphere and joyous energy reflected the spirit of the Noel Shoe Museum, whose work aims to highlight footwear as both functional and artistic.
The gala was more than just a celebration; it served as an important fundraiser for the museum’s ongoing efforts to educate the public about the art and history of shoes. Through the support of attendees and donors, the museum continues its mission to elevate footwear as a significant element of cultural expression.
Among the notable guests were fashion and media icons, including Phillip Bloch, Candace Bushnell, Sharon Bush, Geoffrey Bradfield, Lady Liliana Cavendish, Susan Gutfreund (accompanied by her dog Lucky), Fern Mallis, Grace and Chris Meigher, Nicole Miller, Veronique Pittman, Marc Rosen, Sana Sabbagh, Jean Shafiroff, and Mary Snow. Their presence added to the evening’s allure, making the event not only a celebration of shoes but also a star-studded affair that contributed to the museum’s continued success.