Belle of the Ball

On Sunday afternoon, the Cinema Society and Stuart Weitzman hosted a boisterous tea party in honor of Kenneth Branagh’s new adaptation of Cinderella—starring Cate Blanchett as the wicked stepmother, Game of Throne‘s Richard Madden as Prince Charming, and Downton Abbey’s Lily James as the rags-to-riches princess. Mardon and James were joined by a starry crew at the pre-party including Charlotte Gainsbourg and Patti Smith. Also in attendance were Ethan Hawke, Padma Lakshmi, and Michael Shannon, who all arrived with their little ones in tow. James exuded regal elegance, despite the chaotic crush of children. “I felt in such good hands,” said the actress, who looked like modern royalty in a crimson Dolce & Gabbana frock and strappy Stuart Weitzman heels, of the support she received in filming. “Sometimes the pressure was overwhelming, so to be supported by a director like Kenneth and in scenes with Cate meant I didn’t have to worry so much.” And then she lived happily ever after.