Let the Sunshine In
Thursday July 02, 2009 | Contributor: Jennifer Wright

Sunny days are here again, and we’re all preparing for 4th of July fireworks. And what will the smart set be wearing as they stroll on the High Line or hit the Hamptons? If this week’s cocktail party at Bergdorf Goodman was any indication—Jennifer Creel’s new line of sunglasses.





The line, designed for Modo, is being sold exclusively through Bergdorf’s (one of our favorite Fifth Avenue destinations). The collection was in development nearly a year, but the time and attention to detail have been worth it. The sunglasses are classic in style—more than a few reminded me of Jackie O. They are all wonderfully lightweight, and the wide variety colors (blue! orange!) and interesting materials (bamboo!) make them delightfully modern and even a tad quirky.





Prices range from $285 to $365. This limited-edition collection will only be available for the next two months—so I’d head over to Bergdorf’s now. (I do hope that Creel considers doing more styles in the future.) A purchase is also environmentally friendly —for every pair sold, a tree will be planted. Given the great turnout at the event and widespread enthusiasm for the glasses, this donation could lead to a veritable forest. Little wonder the designer’s own demeanor was so sunshine-y bright.





Jennifer wasn’t the only one delighted to be soaking up the atmosphere. Bill Cunningham, perhaps New York’s most esteemed style photographer, was there, camera in hand. Patrick McMullan doubtless would have attended as well, but his talented team of photographers was hosting their own party to exhibit their individual works downtown. (Another fine celebration, which I attended later.)





Mr. Cunningham certainly had an outstanding group to capture on film— luminaries from fashion to finance were represented. Nicole Miller looked sporting in a pair of sunglasses, which she modeled for an admiring crowd.





Lady Liliana Cavendish and Sommers Farkas were trying on matching pairs of blue sunglasses while sipping the free-flowing champagne. Cinema Society founder Andrew Saffir was chatting with Christian Leone, remarking on what a pity it was that Jennifer Creel hadn’t yet made a men’s line. Topper Mortimer looked uncharacteristically dressed-down in a hoodie, while Peter Davis appeared ready for summer in white shorts and a pale pink suit jacket. I was also pleased to see Lizzie Tisch, the wife of financier Jonathan Tisch, who was honored recently at the Father of the Year awards.





Whether it was the champagne, the gougères, the beautiful wares or the good company, everyone left the party feeling a little bit sunnier.


Pictures by Will Ragozzino.