A Night of Disco, Design, and Devotion to Craft: Inside Closely Crafted’s Move the Needle Gala After Dark

On Thursday night, Closely Crafted hosted its third annual Move the Needle gala—this year, with a glittering twist. Held at Petite Disco in downtown Manhattan, After Dark paid homage to the glamour and craftsmanship of the disco era while spotlighting the artisans shaping the future of American fashion.

Founded by milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara in 2022, Closely Crafted is committed to preserving domestic craft through education, apprenticeships, and advocacy. “Stewarding artisan skills for the next generation is a profound honor,” said Burris O’Hara. “Access to skilled, local artisans provided the agility and opportunity to sustainably grow my business, and ensuring the next generation has the same chance is deeply personal.”

Guests—including designers Christopher John Rogers, Presley Oldham, Hillary Taymour, and Batsheva Hay—gathered beneath spinning mirrorballs to toast the cause with Woodford Reserve cocktails and locally sourced bites. Mark Stephen Experiential transformed the venue with upcycled décor, while a performance led by International Pleating and MELKE interpreted the life cycle of a garment in real time through pleated muslin.

Supporters like Taymour underscored the value of local production: “It gives us more flexibility in production and helps reduce our environmental impact.” Oldham added: “I’m dedicated to growing my brand thoughtfully and locally, while staying devoted to the craft and quality we strive to bring to each piece.”

It was a night of music and movement, but also momentum—for a mission rooted in protecting the future of American fashion, one stitch at a time.