Seaport Studios Opening Night Street Party & VIP Reception

To kick off the Seaport Studios Design Market – a part of the two week Downtown Design Festival, a celebration of creative innovation and design – the Seaport District held an Opening Night street party and Seaport Studios hosted a private VIP Reception. The cobblestone pavement of Fulton Street was awash with music, dancing, excitement, and food trucks of all shapes, sizes, and flavors. I personally decided to go with fried mac & cheese from Mac Truck before taking a look around at the shops along the street, one of which being in the Fulton Market Building that is set to open later this year.

Inside the Seaport Studios Opening Night Reception, there was a fantastic layout of various design objects highlighting what the market was all about, such as an array of cookbooks and Otis & Eleanor portable speakers. The interior design alone was mind boggling; the space was created by GUILD using natural materials creating an impossibly chic atmosphere. It was the perfect environment for up-and-coming designers.

To get the party started, David Weinreb, CEO of the Howard Hughes Corporation, spoke to the crowd about the history behind this project and their commitment to the continued growth of the Seaport District’s success. Fulton Street offered him the perfect back-drop of success and potential.

After his presentation, the party really got into the swing of things. Guests could mingle over drinks and delectable ice cream sandwiches and browse the seemingly endless supply of fascinating merchandise.

Among the many supporters of the Design Festival, there were a few notable guests present: Maggie Gyllenhaal and Sarah Flint to name two. Maggie Gyllenhaal, famous actress and activist, stole the show in her multi-print maxi dress and matching neon blue shoes.

Young up-and-coming shoe designer Sarah Flint is one of a number of artists and designers who were featured in the Design Market. I was fortunate enough to have Sarah answer some questions on her recent successes.

How does it feel being so successful at such a young age?

“There are so many exciting things happening right now, and it’s amazing to see all of the love and work I’ve put into the collection reaching new people. I think we’ve found that women like our point of view and it’s so inspiring to see them fall in love with the brand.”

Where do you see the shoe industry trending style-wise in the next few years?

“My line is inspired by a need that I saw in my own closet for shoes that were sexy and wearable at the same time. I am such a believer in mid-heels, kitten heels, and flats and I think that the future lies in shoes that women actually love to wear.”

I can certainly see why Sarah recently won WWD’s Ten of Tomorrow and was named on Forbes’ 30 under 30. Several of her own fashionable flats were on display on the first floor and her Espadrille line will be available at Seaport Studios until July.

The rest of the festival will include Impact! a showcase of design projects from Parsons School of Design, as well as a speaker series called “Downtown Dialogues,” and so much more. The Downtown Design Festival lasts from May 3 until May 17 in the historic Seaport District on Fulton Street.

The rest of the festival will include Impact! a showcase of design projects from Parsons School of Design, as well as a speaker series called “Downtown Dialogues,” and so much more. The Downtown Design Festival lasts from May 3 until May 17 in the historic Seaport District on Fulton Street.