In the past 25 years, FLO has grown from a casual lunch gathering of a few hundred guests to an ultrachic affair attended this year by 1,240 of the brightest socialites in New York. The event’s affectionate nickname — the Hat Luncheon — refers to the glamorous and often whimsical creations the women traditionally don for the occasion.

The mood of the event was carefree, but its importance is significant. The luncheon honored private and civic leaders and raised $2.3 million for the Conservancy’s ongoing mission of restoring and maintaining Central Park for generations of New Yorkers.

FLO 2007 Co-Chairs Serena Boardman, Blaine Trump, Nancy Paduano,
Hilary Geary-Ross, Thorunn Wathne, and Betsy Messerschmitt

Joanne de Guardiola and Amy Fine Collins

Grace Hightower DeNiro

 
Elizabeth Stribling and April Gow

Conservancy President Douglas Blonsky and
Conservancy Trustee Barbara Smith-Gasby

A parade of hats and a cacophony of color on display at Conservatory Garden

Perhaps a last petit four before leaving?