For Nicole Ari Parker, the 75th annual Parsons Benefit on Tuesday night marked another personal anniversary: her 19th wedding anniversary.
The actress, who hosted the event, attended with her husband Boris Kodjoe. The couple have a particularly personal connection to one of the evening’s honorees, Bethann Hardison, a longtime friend.
“Bethann, who was one of this year’s Parsons Table Award honorees, was actually our own personal cupid,” said Parker. “Over 20 years ago, she put Boris’ hand in mine and said we were meant to be together. The day of the Parsons Benefit marked our 19th wedding anniversary.”
The evening also honored Thom Browne and J.Crew CEO Libby Wadle, and featured a runway presentation of student work from the school’s undergraduate fashion design program. Event cochairs included Wes Gordon, Liz Rodbell and Gena Smith. Money raised from the gala supports student scholarships and other educational initiatives to empower young fashion designers.
Parker wore a full look by Parsons alum Marc Jacobs, styled by Konca Aykan, for the occasion. She accessorized her all-black strapless look with Bulgari jewels, including a Serpenti necklace, and glam by Sam Fine and Johnny Wright.
“Having the chance to celebrate fashion, design, the arts and the role they play in today’s world was truly special,” said Parker, who recently returned to set to film the third season of the Max series “And Just Like That.”
Here, Parker takes us behind-the-scenes as she gets ready at the Plaza Hotel to host the Parsons Benefit.
