Clutching the usual accessories—Leiber bag, reluctant spouse—a flurry of uptown gals made their way to the 583 Park Avenue ballroom for Hale House's 39th Anniversary Gala. "It's very close to my heart," said co-chair Valesca Guerrand-Hermès of the charity that supports at-risk children. "Last year they gave me the Mother Hale Award after I had founded the project for abandoned babies." Amid the holy trinity of dinner conversation—weather, summer vacation plans, a dose of politics—Beth Rudin DeWoody fretted over whether she had won the rabbit portrait that she'd bid on during the silent auction. "I already own a bunch of bunnies, so I'd like to add one to my group," said the art collector with a sly grin. "You know what happens when bunnies get together?" And that, not unexpectedly, was as naughty as the night got.

—Katie Hintz