I can’t leave home without my CHANEL blazer, it dresses up all my outfits! My Dior tote bag has plenty of room to carry my computer and files to meetings and events; my Gucci sunglasses are essential accessories that I simply adore…”
Joann Gregoli
Joann Gregoli is a globally recognised event planner and producer based in New York City, and she is also the proud mother of six remarkable children. In our discussion, we delve into the significance of dressing appropriately when organising events and weddings and we also explore the wardrobe choices that Joann makes and the rationale behind these decisions…
C&B: “Joann, congratulations on being named on the CITY & BEACH INTERNATIONAL BEST DRESSED LIST 2025! You’re well known for your glamorous dress sense – how do you define your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years?”
JG: “Thank you! My wardrobe choices typically embody a modern yet timeless aesthetic, with tailored pieces that convey a sense of luxury and refinement. I do love the classic, well-structured outfits that balance femininity with professionalism. Whether it’s chic dresses, tailored blazers, or elegant evening wear, my overall style is polished, with attention to high-quality fabrics and craftsmanship, much like the events I plans – thoughtfully curated, graceful, and always reflecting a personal touch of class!”
C&B: “Are there any particular designers you’re drawn towards for special occasions, or as inspiration?”
JG: “I have a profound appreciation for Dior, which embodies classic elegance. The brand’s timeless yet modern approach to fashion resonates with my preferred clothing style. Additionally, I admire Christian Siriano for his bold and innovative designs that seamlessly blend modern creativity with classic elegance. Siriano’s commitment to inclusivity in fashion, along with his ability to create stunning, show-stopping pieces for women of all shapes and sizes, aligns closely with my ethos of celebrating uniqueness and personal style. His meticulous attention to detail, exquisite tailoring, and flair for dramatic yet wearable fashion strongly influence my fashion preferences, making him a significant figure in my choices…”
C&B: “You love to make a statement with what you wear – who would you say is your main inspiration?”
JG: “Lady Gaga – she’s a significant style influencer to me because of her bold, fearless approach to fashion and her ability to use clothing as a form of artistic expression. Her style extends beyond trends and into the realm of self-expression, creativity, and breaking boundaries…”
C&B: “Using both Dior and Lady Gaga as style references is a powerful combination! Are there any particularly bold is pieces in your wardrobe right now? And when you think back over the years, which outfit has been your favourite?”
JG: “I love my Dior combat boots, which are so fun mixed with classic style. I also love a fabulous Hermès wrap that is practical and warm, yet stylish. My favourite outfit – that I have from years ago – is a Bob Mackie gown that I simply adore, its fit and structure just never go out of style.…”
C&B: “Which events have you planned or attended recently that required you to wear something extra-special?”
JG: “I recently attended a Gala Awards dinner where I wore a gorgeous Mac Duggal black gown with asymmetrical flowers (see top of the page). I paired it with a Wolf & Badger white floral bag that was the perfect complement to the gown…”
C&B: “That sounds amazing! As you’re on a plane a lot, do you have any tips for maintaining a stylish yet comfortable look when travelling?”
JG: “I like to mix and match by selecting neutral-coloured basics like black, white, and beige that can be paired in multiple ways to create different outfits. I also pack lightweight jackets, cardigans, and scarves that can be layered to create new looks or adapt to changing weather…”
C&B: “Almost everyone is very conscious of sustainability in fashion; are there any brands you can recommend that are eco-friendly?”
JG: “I love the Reformation brand that creates fashionable, eco-friendly clothing with a focus on minimising waste. They use dead-stock fabric, recycled materials, and sustainably sourced fabrics in their designs. I tend to choose brands that use organic cotton, linen, and hemp, which are grown without harmful chemicals and require less water than conventional crops…”
C&B: “Final question: When travelling to organise a destination wedding, where do you choose to stay – can you recommend any fantastic hotels, restaurants or bars?”
JG: “I love the private members Soho House brand; they have clubs around the world and they’re one of my favourites whether I’m in London, New York, Berlin, Barcelona, Los Angeles or Mumbai. Soho House is great for relaxing and also networking with creatives, like myself!”
CONTACT: http://www.elegantoccasionsbyjoanngregoli.com
*All images supplied by Joann Gregoli
**Joann’s favourite flower is the peony.
