Kathy Griffen lent her comedic star power to the opening of 31 River, a new bar at the Sofitel Hotel, where gal pal Kristen Chenowith graced the winter edition cover. Kristen, no slouch herself with an emmy and a grammy looked good having recovered from a stage accident last year while filming. This petite five foot powerhouse of the broadway stage can belt 3 octaves and she's just fine, thank you. Her dancing days are on hold while she tours as a singer, soon to be seen performing at Lincoln Center for PBS series airing in February.
Cocktail parties are always entertaining in Hollywood, whether you are in the business or not, its fun to people watch. Models, fashionistas, and young Hollywood all gather to mingle and munch on the latest lite bites and curated cocktails while discussing pop culture and news, or their latest project. Young Hollywood actors, actresses and models were joined by super models, Kelly Emberg, and Beverly Johnson, who basically invented the word. Fashion Diva, Sue Wong, who herself is a great American story, was there looking fabulous and holding court. fashion trends, were in evidence as the girls had on their faux fur, studded leathers, skinny leathers and Louboutins. Some of the models looked stuning in their cocktail ensembles. Even the guys, who deserve notice for dressing up in suits and leaving the jeans at home. Music, dance and the latest TV and film projects were all represented, so the crowd was a great mix from CSI NY to Glee, to Las Vegas to Iron Man and more.
Though the bar itself, could use an interior refresh (new carpets, please) the cocktails and small bites were tasty and the cheese bar was a favorite with the guests. The outside area of the bar is filled with flaming torches and comfortable white canvas furnishings that lend a California element to what could have been a dull exterior space; the cozy warmth is great for a winter evening with friends. Curated cocktails presented by the 31 River mixologists make the bar a fun meeting place with people watching a required sport.
The magazine, GENLUX features the gorgeous Kristen, who channeled Nancy Sinatra on her cover and photo shoot that features retro couture that reminds us of girl groups from the 1960s.
Hotel Sofitel, continues to be solid in the 4-star category in Los Angeles with their service and style, but I wish a designer could freshen up the Mid-century Paris deco feel that it has lost. It would be a perfect setting for notables, cover girls and fashionistas who will be drawn to this sexy backdrop in a new fresh incarnation of the current classic.
HOTEL SOFITEL: The modern French hotel, one of a large worldwide chain has added a 4-star Parisian glamour to what is a busy corner of La Cienega and Beverly. Enjoy sleek Beverly Hills hotel rooms near the world-famous Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue, and Sunset Boulevard. www.sofitellosangeles.com
