On Wednesday evening, Sophie Buhai and Aurora James hosted an intimate cocktail, bringing together CFDA members, friends of the CFDA, and industry creatives for an evening celebrating connection and community at Gina Correll Aglietti’s beautiful Silver Lake home.
The gathering reflected a shared desire to strengthen relationships among designers who, while part of the same community, don’t often have the opportunity to connect in person in Los Angeles.
In her welcoming remarks, Buhai reflected on the importance of community for designers navigating the industry. “Being an LA designer, we can feel a bit removed from the industry, for better or for worse, and it is important to come together and be in community together,” she said.
Buhai also spoke to the value of the CFDA network, highlighting the sense of community it has created among designers navigating similar paths, and the importance of having a space to come together, connect, share experiences, and support one another.
James echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of fostering connection and encouraging a stronger sense of community among local designers. Both shared hope for Los Angeles to feel more connected to the broader fashion conversation, pointing to the city’s growing creative energy and the importance of building relationships across coasts.
Set outdoors with sweeping views of the surrounding hills, guests enjoyed Yola Mezcal cocktails as well as wine alongside a selection of bites, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for conversation.
As the evening unfolded, guests embraced the opportunity to reconnect and meet new peers. The gathering offered more than just conversation; it served as a reminder of the power of community and the role it plays in sustaining creativity, collaboration, and shared growth. The night was a celebration of what it means to belong to a larger creative network, one that extends well beyond the West Coast.
The event marked a meaningful step toward strengthening CFDA’s presence in Los Angeles, setting the tone for future gatherings that will continue to bring designers together, foster connection, and build a vibrant, connected community on the West Coast.
