Alison Roman, celebrated for her culinary expertise, recently unveiled her inaugural fashion partnership: a unique shoe collection created with the brand Margaux. This collaboration, featuring four distinct styles, draws inspiration from Roman’s daily experiences within the vibrant city of New York. The launch was marked by a festive gathering at Keens Steakhouse, an establishment deeply woven into the fabric of Roman’s personal history.
The Lillie Langtry Room at Keens Steakhouse on a recent Thursday evening was alive with the warm glow of candlelight, flowing martinis, friendly greetings, and lively conversations. Attendees discussed various engaging topics, ranging from romantic entanglements and social media content to the latest Milan Fashion Week trends and the fascinating lives, particularly the footwear choices, of renowned New Yorkers. This convivial atmosphere perfectly complemented the celebration of Roman’s new venture.
During the dinner, Roman expressed her profound connection to Keens Steakhouse, noting that it is “inextricably linked with my life in New York.” She recounted years of patronage and even the significant occasion of exchanging vows with her husband, Max Cantor, at the venue. For Roman, Keens epitomizes the special character of New York, a city where timeless institutions continue to thrive.
Margaux, established in 2015 by Alexa Buckley Roussel and Sarah Pierson, emerged from a desire for footwear that combines elegance with everyday functionality. The brand aims to provide stylish shoes that seamlessly integrate into the active lives of women. For Roman, this means navigating the demands of motherhood, running errands, entertaining guests, and preparing for her new shop in Brooklyn Heights. Each day presents new challenges, much like the diverse experiences of every New Yorker. This led to an intriguing question posed to the guests: whose New Yorker shoes would they choose to metaphorically step into?
Author Zoe Dubno, sporting the Charlie Boot from the collection, immediately named Laurie Anderson, praising her joyous, reverent, and playful perspective on the world. Fashion writer Jalil Johnson, who wore the Parlor Mule and an ensemble influenced by the latest Prada collection, chose Jackie O. Johnson expressed a desire to witness her transition from America’s First Lady to a book editor. Adam Eli, a writer and community organizer, selected Ruth Messinger, highlighting her role as a political and feminist Jewish figure who broke barriers and whose journey reflects the city’s rich history.
Photographer Hunter Abrams offered a thoughtful perspective on the essence of a New Yorker, quoting a friend who said, “New Yorkers are born everywhere, every day.” After careful consideration, Abrams settled on Halston, envisioning a delightful and glamorous experience filled with fascinating people. Actor Madeline Wise selected actor Richard Kind, noting that he is an underrated icon of New York whose unique worldview she would love to share. Fran Lebowitz was a popular choice among several guests, including actor Heléne Yorke, who admired Lebowitz’s distinctive and recognizable presence. Writer and editor Chloe Hall expressed a wish to embody Lorne Michaels on a Saturday night or a hostess at an exclusive restaurant, envisioning a dynamic and vibrant experience.
The guests at the celebration wholeheartedly embraced Roman's Margaux footwear collection. Designer Rachel Antonoff, caught in traffic en route to the dinner, recounted having to exit her vehicle and walk in her Parlor Mules, a task she completed with remarkable ease. She humorously remarked on her newfound comfort, stating, “I’ve never been less aware of my bunions,” underscoring the collection's blend of style and practicality.
