The September Issue : K Street Magazine

At 825 pages of incredible fashion and Anna Wintour’s unique flair, the Vogue 2008 September issue was the largest of its kind. I remember turning every page in anticipation. The chance to watch a documentary of the making of this masterpiece was equally as exciting – especially as it will not be released (first in New York) until later this week.

Gilt Groupe and local hosts Michelle Jaconi, Darcy Jones, Katie Rost, Tina Sutphen and Elizabeth Thorp (pictured) offered a theater full of invited the guests the opportunity to preview the film and experience the much talked about W Hotel after for a post viewing cocktail reception and recounting of every. single. minute. of The September Issue.

While the film was obviously an effort by Wintour to counter the establishment of her image as set by The Devil Wears Prada, it doesn’t actually accomplish its mission. Still seen as harsh and unbending, though slightly more human and accommodating to family, Wintour’s reputation as an “icy b*tch” remains intact. Instead, it is Grace Coddington who comes off as the documentary’s heroine; an artistic visionary who understands fashion’s need to push forward, but lives for the ability to use imagery for emotional storytelling. The act of putting together the issue is fascinating, and commentary from the players involved exceptionally entertaining… however the juxtaposition of the fashion spreads with the drabness of the office which actually produces them was shocking. How could Vogue staffers allow themselves to look so poor on camera??

One is left thinking they must not yet know about Gilt Groupe, a website which provides access (by invitation only) to coveted designer fashion and luxury brands at up to 70% off retail – a sponsor and host o the evening. We had the chance to chat with co-Founder Alexandra Wilkes Wilson about the site, the brands offered and how to shop (our suggestion, make use of the size tabs!) before dashing off to have our own Vogue covershot made (these were given out as party favors).

Interested in Gilt? Click here for an invitation to join. Interested in more about the September Issue? It comes out in theaters August 28th in New York/September 11th in Los Angeles and other cities.