R. Couri Hay is Social Life’s Travel Editor and Society Columnist. He began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview and 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. 

Jay McIninery & Anne Hearst , Sandra & Eric Ripert , Vera Wang , Martha Stewart , Peter Marino , Isabelle Bscher, Nicky Rothschild & Brooke Shields 

The Southampton Arts Center Commemorates 250 Years of the American Flag 

The Southampton Arts Center (SAC) is kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a historic exhibition, Independency: The American Flag at 250 Years. Curated by historian John Monsky, the exhibition explores the American flag’s evolution over two and a half centuries, using rare and significant flags to tell the nation’s story. From a rare kerchief commissioned by Martha Washington in 1775 to flags flown during the Apollo moon landings, each piece offers a unique perspective on the nation’s past. The show is divided into four galleries: Introduction, featuring early American flags, Campaigns, Parades, and Protests, highlighting 19th-century political flags, Vietnam and the Moon, showcasing flags from the turbulent 1960s, and Sacrifice, honoring those who served in battle from the War of 1812 to Afghanistan. Each gallery pairs flags with contemporary photographs, drawings, and artifacts, immersing visitors in the eras these flags represent. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Independency invites visitors to reflect on the flag’s role in shaping national identity. Through triumphs and tragedies, innovation and sacrifice, the flag remains a symbol of our country’s ongoing story. The SAC’s co-founder is Simon Levinson, with Christina Strassfield as the Executive Director. The exhibition runs from May 17th to July 19th. https://southamptonartscenter.org 

Jay McInerney Celebrates 

Michael J. Fox, Phoebe Cates, Kiefer Sutherland, and Dianne Wiest starred in the movie version of author Jay McInerney’s best-selling book Bright Lights, Big City which defined the decadent nightlife of the 80s in NYC. The debonair writer known for his good taste in clothes and wine celebrated his 70th birthday at a dinner party at Le Bernardin given by his wife, the media heiress, Anne Hearst. During a break in the 

five-course tasting menu by Michelin-starred chef Eric Ripert, the writer drew laughs when he confessed, “Last year I had three different hospital stays; so I’m really glad to have made it to 70 in 2025,” adding, “While in the hospital my friend Eric Ripert sent me two meals that made me want to live again so here I am.” Among those drinking the vintage wines were friends from all over the country including Gregory Peck’s son Tony Peck and his wife Paula, baroness Milly de Cabrol, Dana Hammond and her husband Dr. Patrick Stubgen, designer Vera Wang and her husband Arthur P. Becker, Binky Urban, Robert Zimmerman, Candace Bushnell, Chef Ripert’s wife Sandra Ripert, Risk and Returns author Wilbur Ross and his wife Hilary Geary, Alison Mazzola who orchestrated the party and other members of the Demi-monde. 

Race of Hope 

Audrey Gruss’s Hope For Depression Research Foundation’s Race of Hope in Palm Beach broke all records attracting over 1,200 people, including socialites Jamee and Peter Gregory, Whitney and Christine Schott, and The Colony Hotel’s Sarah Wetenhall. The event, which raised over one million dollars, celebrated its seventh anniversary and raised funds for life-saving mental health research into new treatments for clinical depression. Over the years, the organization has honored Dakota Johnson, Anderson Cooper, Brooke Shields, and Michael Phelps. This year’s sponsors included James Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui of Findlay Galleries and Livingston Builders, Teresa and Jim Remez. HDRF’s Southampton 5K Race/Walk takes place on August 3rd. To sign up, go to https://hopefordepression.org. 

East Side House Settlement 

Third-generation gallerist Isabelle Bscher’s Galerie Gmurzynska made a bold Winter Show debut at the Park Avenue Armory with a vibrant display of 20th-century masterpieces and contemporary standouts. Front and center was Wesselmann’s Cigarette #1 —a jaw-dropping, two-paneled sculpture crafted from oil, wax crayon, and printed paper. Commanding attention with its bold composition, the piece embodies Wesselmann’s signature ‘flirty narrative’ in tandem with the evolution of his infamous smoker’s collection. Gmurzynska showcased a work by Georges Braque, Heinrich Campendonk, Wassily Kandinsky, Jacques Lipchitz, and Joan Miró. In the mix at the opening night party that benefitted the East Side House Settlement were Michael Bloomberg with his decorator Jamie Drake, Martha Stewart, Ryan Murphy, Nicky Rothschild, Peter Marino, Kathy Rayner, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Coco Kopelman and Jerry Lauren. https://gmurzynska.com 

Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard 

This year’s Oscar-nominated film Conclave, starring Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and Stanley Tucci, tells the intriguing story of what happens when a Pope dies and a new one is elected. The movie also calls attention to the role of the colorfully uniformed Vatican Swiss Guard, which has been protecting the Pope and Vatican City since 1506. The Guards even travel with Pope Francis, including during his recent hospital stay. The faithful are praying for the Pope’s full recovery but in the event of a papal conclave, 

which occurs during the time between a Pope’s death or resignation and the election of his successor, the Papal Guards are responsible for protecting the conclave. A new documentary “Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard” offers an in depth look into the Guards and their history including the time when Adolf Hitler and the Nazis were plotting to kidnap the Pope. The film’s executive producers Mario Paredes and Dr. Ramon Tallaj, the founder of SOMOS Community Care, have also worked with the Vatican for over a decade on creating health equity for the underserved in NYC. https://somoscommunitycare.org 

Peter Thomas Roth’s Mother Turns 102 

Skincare mogul Peter Thomas Roth hired a private jet to take his mother, Carole Roth, to Las Vegas to celebrate her 102nd birthday with 17 family members and Julia Lemigova, a Real Housewives of Miami star. The festivities started off at Chippendales, where Carole received two lap dances that were so racy they got banned from TikTok. The lucky birthday girl was spotted gambling at the Wynn until 2 am and won $1,500. The group, including her five great-grandchildren, also took in the Michael Jackson show. Carole was recognized everywhere she went on the strip from her work as a model on QVC, where she uses her son’s Retinol Fusion PM on her perfect legs. As a present, Roth gave his mother her very first Birken bag, making her longtime dream come true. https://peterthomasroth.com 

Jean Shafiroff & The Red Cross 

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff asked guests at her birthday party to donate to the American Red Cross. The birthday girl wore four different gowns including ones by Carolina Herrera, Victor dE Souza, and Malan Breton. Jean, famous for never revealing her age, quipped, “It’s a security question.” Guests, sipping on the bubbly rose Aphrodise, included, Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, Jon Ledecky, the owner of the New York Islanders, the Consul General of Italy to the United Nations Fabrizio di Michele, NYT writer Ruth LaFerla, Lucia Hwong Gordon, hair guru Chaz Dean, dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel, AD 100 designer TC Chou, divorce attorneys Martha Cohen Stine and Harriet Newman Cohen, comedian D’yan Forest, gallerist Isabelle Bscher, top plastic surgeon Dr. Bianca Molina and her aide de camp Erica Kulka, lawyers Arthur Aidala and Marianne Bertuna, Jason T. Busch, Maryanne Grisz, Cyril Verdavainne, and fashion designers Julia Haart, Victor dE Souza, CD Greene, Nabys Vielman, Ron Dyce, and Fern Clausius. https://redcross.org

Check out the complete Social Life Magazine issue here.  Read more latest events and gossip at Couri’s Columns. 

The post Social Safari by R. Couri Hay appeared first on R. Couri Hay.

Celebrating Philanthropy: Jean Shafiroff Hosts Event for New York Women’s Foundation

On April 2, 2025, Jean Shafiroff—renowned philanthropist, author, advocate, TV host, and fashion influencer—opened her home to friends and family for a vibrant gathering in support of the New York Women’s Foundation (NYWF). As a longtime board member and dedicated supporter of the organization, Jean, author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give, brought together a dynamic group to celebrate the Foundation’s mission and impact.

The New York Women’s Foundation: A Legacy of Impact

Founded in 1987, the New York Women’s Foundation has become a global leader in women-led grantmaking, with a focus on gender, racial, and economic justice. The Foundation has distributed over $130 million in grants, empowering community leaders and fostering transformative change.

A pioneer of trust-based philanthropy, NYWF redefines traditional giving by prioritizing early investment in emerging women-led initiatives. This approach amplifies community voices, builds agency, and ensures funds are used effectively. By breaking down barriers and fostering meaningful dialogue, the Foundation not only provides grants but also cultivates sustained progress and collaboration.

A Night of Connection and Celebration

Guests enjoyed light bites and sipped Aphrodise sparkling wine while mingling in support of a shared cause. The evening brought together an inspiring group, including Ana Oliveira, Candace Bushnell, Julia Haart, Victor De Souza, and many others, all united by their commitment to advancing justice and opportunity.

Jean Shafiroff’s event underscored the power of collective action and the importance of organizations like the New York Women’s Foundation in shaping a more equitable future. Through her tireless advocacy, Jean continues to inspire others to make a difference through purposeful giving.

The post Jean Shafiroff Hosts Event for New York Women’s Foundation appeared first on R. Couri Hay.

Jean serves on the boards of the served on the board of The Jewish Board, a large mental health service charity, for 28 Southampton Hospital Foundation, years and now is one of its Honorary Mission Society of NYC, Couture Council of
the Museum at FIT, French Heritage Trustees.

Jean has been honored several times—by many different charities and organizations. The list honoring her includes the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, American Humane, Southampton Hospital Foundation, Mission Society of NYC, French Heritage Society, Urban Resource Institute and countless others.

Jean Shafiroff is also the author of a book called Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give, which has an introduction by Georgina Bloomberg. “Philanthropy is multifaceted,” said Shafiroff. “The premise of my book is that anyone can be a philanthropist. If you do not have financial resources to give, you can give your time and knowledge. However, if you have resources, I believe you have an obligation to give.”

Jean Shafiroff first got started in philanthropy at a young age. While attending Catholic school, the nuns taught her the importance of helping those less fortunate. She also counts her parents as good role models; her father was a music school teacher, and her stay-at-home mom volunteered at the local church and school.

Jean Shafiroff ’s desire to be of help to society led her from a young age to volunteer with various charities, and then to start serving on the board of directors of a number of them. She also volunteered at her daughters’ schools.

“When my children went off to college,” said Shafiroff, “I became much more involved in charity work. I started to join different charity boards. Today I serve on seven charity boards, two honorary charity boards, and one advisory board. Each year I chair eight to ten charity galas, and then host and underwrite several large cocktail parties in my homes. I have done a great deal of volunteer fundraising and have raised quite a bit of money for several charitable organizations. It has been hard work; however, it is very fulfilling to know that you are helping by changing the lives of the less fortunate.”

“When you serve on a charity board,” she said, A charity has to be run like a business. All decisions have to be made in the most professional manner. I am on many boards that receive government funding. I take all charity work very seriously.”

But charity events can be fun and social. “You meet many people who generally have similar values,” said Shafiroff. “The people attending are interested in philanthropy and helping others. They want to see changes made in the world.

Jean Shafiroff is a fashion lover who is noted for wearing elegant and interesting gowns to different black-tie charity events. Fashion can help elevate an event.

Shafiroff makes an effort to support lesser-known and emerging fashion designers. “If we want to give lesser-known and young designers an opportunity, we have to create a platform for them,” she said. “I realize that part of my job as a member of the Couture Council and the Museum at FIT is to promote different designers. I believe in this and enjoy doing it. It’s just like someone who supports the arts; I support the work of lesser known and emerging fashion designers.”

Shafiroff first got involved in fashion as a vehicle for philanthropy in 2010, when she became a board member of the Couture Council at the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. “All my life, I have loved fashion,” she said.

As a member of the Couture Council of the Fashion Institute of Technology, she makes an effort to buy the clothing of lesser-known designers and also emerging designers. In 2008, she started buying the couture of the very talented young designer, Victor dE Souza.

“In 2008 I remember buying a pink gown of his that I wore to the French Heritage Society Gala. Bill Cunningham put my photo in The New York Times, probably because of the gown I was wearing,” she remembers.

In 2009, she attended Victor dE Souza’s runway show during New York Fashion Week and fell in love with the finale gown on the runway. It was a cranberry-hued, one shoulder silk gown covered with tiny flowers. “At the end of the show, I went to Victor, and I said, ‘I’d like to buy that gown,’ and he said, “Okay.” He sold that very gown to me,” she recalls. “I love that gown and now have it in my collection.”

Bill Cunningham, the late New York Times fashion photographer and documenter, captured Jean Shafiroff at galas frequently. “Mr. Cunningham seemed to recognize the work of lesser-known and emerging designers, and tried to give them a platform,” she said.  I am most grateful for their support.”

As she became more involved in philanthropy, Jean Shafiroff began purchasing more and more gowns from independent designers, but also continued to purchase beautiful gowns from designers such as Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta.

When she co-chaired the Mission Society of New York City’s Bicentennial Gala at the Pierre Hotel in 2012, she wore his gown. She continues to buy his clothing and wears it to many events she chairs and attends.

Jean Shafiroff also wears the designs of Malan Breton, a very talented Taiwanese-born designer who is a Goodwill Ambassador to Taiwan, and a former Ambassador to the UK Parliamentary Society for The Arts, Fashion and Sports. He has held runway shows in different cities around the world. Most recently, he held fashion shows at New York Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week. He has dressed stars for America’s Next Top Model, the Golden Globe Awards and the 73rd Tony Awards. Shafiroff met Breton many years ago at a charity event, and they became friends.

Jean has often worn gowns by Malan Breton to the Viennese Opera Ball in New York City, an event she has chaired for many years. She also wore a striking black couture gown of Breton’s to the American Ballet Theater Gala and then a beautiful golden green gown to the recent Carnegie Hall Gala.

Another young highly talented designer she has supported along the way is Esé Azénabor. Ese was born in Nigeria and grew up in Canada. A self-taught bridal designer, she recently opened her latest boutiques on Madison Avenue and in Southampton. Shafiroff first discovered Azenabor’s designs when she sauntered into the designer’s Southampton boutique one summer day. “I loved her clothing, and I bought a big pink hand-painted gown that I wore to the Angel Ball in 2023,” said Shafiroff, who recently walked in the runway for Azenabor’s New York Fashion Week show at the Rockefeller Center in September 2024, wearing a white gown covered in a rainbow of floral patterns.

She also supports the work of Venezuelan designer, Nabys Vielman. “He moved to New York City a few years ago and slowly we’ve developed a friendship,” said Shafiroff. “He is very talented, and I like to support his work.”

Most recently she started to purchase the work of self-taught fashion designer, Ron Dyce. Ron creates a new modern look. I now also consider Ron Dyce a wonderful new friend.

Jean Shafiroff also supports the work of a number of FIT graduates. Recently she wore a gown by young designer Ashley Plasse, who uses the art and craft of embroidery in her designs. Jean Shafiroff wore her dress as she walked down the runway at a New York Fashion Week event entitled Catwalk FurBaby, an Elysian magazine initiative to raise funds for different charities. All the models walked down the runway with dogs. Shafiroff was no exception. Her dog, Rosita, walked the runway with her.

“I was a model, and I enjoyed wearing Ashley Plasse’s dress,” said Shafiroff. “In the show, I represented the New York Women’s Foundation. In a way, I was also representing FIT by wearing a dress created by one of their very recent graduates. The dress was just beautiful.”

Jean Shafiroff has also worked on a photo shoot with Fern Clausius, an evening wear designer who founded her own brand called Fern New York. Fern graduated from FIT in 2019. “I’m constantly going on the websites of young designers and checking out their work,” she said.

One way that she has discovered new designers is at an annual event she hosts. Over the past six years, Shafiroff has hosted Times Square Fashion Week. The annual event shows the work of emerging designers.“We showcase emerging designers and promote diversity at this exciting event.”

She isn’t just a model on the runway, but a model in life. Many women look up to Shafiroff as someone they aspire to be. “I love the philanthropic work I do; it has created purpose in my life, and I believe it’s what I should be doing,” she said.

“Follow your passions. If you’re working full time, do what you can. Perhaps you can volunteer once or twice a month. Next try to become involved with some junior groups, because you’ll probably enjoy being with people your own age.  All of this is in my book Successful Philanthropy, How to Make a Life By What You Give.

Jean Shafiroff owns a large gown collection. She plans to donate this collection to a museum one day. “The gowns are all pieces of art. Many are couture gowns. Fashion is art,” said Shafiroff. “I think they tell the story about my love affair with philanthropy and fashion.”

Jean Shafiroff has already been in touch with a few museums about her couture collection. In 2016, she loaned an Oscar de la Renta gown to the de Young Museum in San Francisco for a retrospective about the designer. This year, she donated a dress to the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum in Palm Beach, Florida.

She plans to write a book that blends the world of fashion and philanthropy, outlining her relationship with fashion designers. For sure, it will be most interesting. Jean Shafiroff has over 1.2 million Instagram followers where she promotes philanthropy, positivity, and fashion. She can be followed @JeanShafiroff

To learn more about Jean Shafiroff, go to JeanShafiroff.com

Fashion Designers on Jean Shafiroff

Fashion Designers who have designed dresses for Jean Shafiroff speak to Park magazine about why the First Lady of Philanthropy inspires their designs and work.

“Jean Shafiroff is one of the kindest, most loving people in fashion.She has a caring heart and uses it in aid of many. I am grateful for the many moments I have had the honor of sharing with her. As it will stay in our archive as a very special moment with Jean Shafiroff.

“Jean Shafiroff inspires me for many reasons! She is a wonderful, classy woman with a heart of gold. Art is so multifaceted, and for Jean I believe collecting couture is the same as collecting paintings, wearable art that has a story behind it. It’s my honor to dress someone like that.”

“Jean Shafiroff is not only an inspiring woman, but a beautiful lady with nobility of soul. Indeed, she radiates a bright light on those of us who’re privileged to be around her. Thus, what a great pleasure it’s for me to have designed a few couture looks for this woman who’s a symbol of New York.”

“For years I’ve watched Jean at galas and red carpet events in larger-than- life gowns that truly catch the eye.   However, she was not afraid to try a new style, be daring, and lean into a different side of herself. It was inspiring to see her transform and connect deeper with her inherent femininity when she wore my designs.”

The post Jean Shafiroff Fashioning a Better World appeared first on R. Couri Hay.