On the eve of New York Fashion Week, former Vanity Fair columnist and celebrated author George Wayne hosted his highly anticipated 34th Annual Downtown 100 party at Fushimi Times Square. The exclusive event, known for bringing together an eclectic group of fashion powerhouses, media personalities, publicist, and celebrities, once again lived up to its reputation as a must attend soiree.
Hosted by Jeff Krauss, CEO of IE Group, and red carpet correspondent Shelli Stelmak the night was a dazzling showcase of talent and influence. Among the notable guests were renowned fashion designer Nicole Miller, Italian luxury brand visionary Guiseepe Atelieri Signorini, legendary house music singer Crystal Waters, Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, acclaimed singer-songwriter Ben Hazelwood, and powerhouse vocalist Kelsie Watts, among many others. Including notable mentions, Adrian Brody, Howard Stern, Martha Stewart, Peter Arnell, Nigel Barker, Lauren Cobello, and more. Guests were served an array of decadent bites from Fushimi’s crafted menu. Such as shrimp shumai, savory homemade vegetable gyoza, rock shrimp tempura, Chef’s choice sushi, sashimi and open-bar cocktails.
For over two decades, Wayne- affectionately known as G.W. – has been the master of the Q&A, engaging the world’s most elusive and fascinating figures in outspoken and, sometimes outrageous, interviews. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, the New York based writer redefined the beat of celebrity culture with his avant-garde magazine, R.O.M.E. His book, Anyone Who’s Anyone: The Astonishing Celebrity Interviews 1987-2017, is a testament to his legacy. Compiling over 30 years of conversations with Carrie Fisher, Barry White, Anna Wintour, Ivanka Trump, and more. His signature, unfiltered style has made him a legend in the world of journalism, offering readers a backstage pass to pop culture’s most captivating personalities.
This year’s Downtown 100 wasn’t just about celebrating influence; it was about recognizing the voices shaping today’s cultural landscape. Wayne’s enduring presence in the media world continues to remind us that a great question- posed at the right time – can unveil the extraordinary.
Photography: David Warren for Dream Team Creatives