Arguably the greatest party planner of them all, Robert Isabell, died sometime last week at age 57.
From New Year's at Studio 54 to the wedding of Caroline Kennedy, he made one night of glamour a thing to remember. He also created a line of fragrances for home and body, some of which still appear to be available to order from his website.
For a fuller, more personal appreciation, head to Bart Boehlert's blog. Also interesting is New York Social Diary's take on Isabell's close friendship in recent years with nonagenarian banking heiress and supreme tastemaker Bunny Mellon: "There were rumors of marriage or adoption. True or not, the stories corroborate the shared closeness of the two. Mr. Isabell, in fact, it has been said, will be laid to rest at the Mellon family plot next to a church that Paul Mellon built in Upperville, Virginia".
7 comments:
I saw that. Bart Boehlert wrote a nice piece about Robert Isabell.
Thanks, Pigtown. I missed that, so added a link.
i'm feeling very sad about this news. he was so brilliant.
AAL-
He was young.
That reminds us: life, Studio 54, flower arranging and party planning, are evanescent, but they all give alert people a lot of pleasure.
God Bless M. Isabell
I can fully conjure the beyondo sensation of trolling through several inches of silver confetti at one of Robert Isabell's early event endeavors at Studio in late 70's New York. What an instant sensation! The many parties and private events that followed over the years created by this master of restrained and almost intellectual indulgence will not be soon forgotten by those of us fortunate to have experienced them first hand. A true master, unlikely to be matched in taste, wit, quality and just plain unadulterated beauty.
Gaj Lambert
I was saddened also to hear of Isabell's passing. I'd followed news of his work for years. Another 50 something suddenly going gives this member of that club a moments pause. He was a great talent and I loved his bio.
And I'm proud to say I was there at 54 too..as an upstart youngster!!!
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