Dances of Vice Venetian Valentine Grande Masquerade

Happy Valentine's Day! Yours truly celebrated this romantic day with Dances of Vice's Venetian Valentine Masquerade Ball. The venue was the dramatic former bank in Manhattan's Lower East Side. The soaring columns were lit with artistic lighting and draped velvets and silks.
The dress code was Venetian opulence (or naughtiness) with masks being a required element. Alternatively, guests could choose a black tie, but thankfully, most complied with the theme. The main floor was packed with glamorous costumes and a floor show of burlesque, opera, aerialists, and contortionists to give the air of an elegant circus. These performers came courtesy of Company XIV, known for their erotic Nutcracker Rouge production during the holiday season in NYC.
The upper floors were reserved for VIP ticket holders. They included a lounge of the martini glass and vintage bathtub burlesque dancers to tickle your fancy. A mesmerizing juggler looked like he was just casting a spell to make glass balls levitate. A more risque lounge was dedicated to BDSM demonstrations for curious guests. I would call it "bondage light" for newbies who wanted to explore the equipment in a comfortable, supportive crowd.
Shien Lee, the founder of Dances of Vice, produced this extravagant party. For years, she has been the maven who got New Yorkers to dress up and party in theme for the most stylish soirees. Her events have grown more and more popular, taking over massive venues each season.
I dressed up in an outfit inspired by Shakespeare's Titania of a Midsummer's Night's Dream. Hubby was my Oberon in tails. This is an event where you go all out and wear that crazy extravagant outfit that you could never imagine wearing. I can't imagine a more stylish, sexy way to spend Valentine's week with a  (lusted after) loved one.

Photos by Mariana Leung and Adam Weinstein