For the Birds

Waris Ahluwalia's jewelry collections are frequently avian-inspired, and last night found him co-hosting a charity event to benefit a real-life bird species. Describing his role in the Endangered Species Coalition's Party for the Pelicans at the Wooly, the designer shrugged, 'I love birds. What am I gonna do, not help?'

Co-hosts like Leelee Sobieski (with fiancé Adam Kimmel), Arden Wohl, and Tom Sachs felt similarly compelled. They and their guests turned out to dance, mingle, and most importantly, bid on auction items donated for the occasion, including surfing lessons from Sachs, a custom suit by Kimmel, and a magnificent birdie brooch from House of Waris.

Sachs, who hosted a similar event for the Coalition last year, appreciated the party atmosphere. 'It's not some big awful banquet in a hotel,' he said. 'This is an interesting scene happening here.' He noted that many of the attendees were among the group that had made last year's benefit the most successful in the Coalition's more than 25-year history. 'To be honest, with what is happening in the Gulf, people are ready to give,' Sachs explained. 'We need to take advantage of that.'

Wohl, flitting past in a silvery dress and headband, offered her agreement. "This is how people are made aware and get involved—friends telling friends," she said. "So when you leave here, go tell your friends."

—Chris Wallace