I know it's retro, frivolous, and awfully elitist. And I don't think it furthers the cause of women's advancement one bit. But, hey, must I flagellate myself for having a little fun time at The Ladies' Hat Luncheon at the Central Park Conservancy?

Actually, I had a ton of fun. Who wouldn't? You'd have to be a total pill not to be seduced by the eye candy at the event: sumptuous displays of flowers, stylish women dressed to the nines, and adorable waiters to boot. And, of course, the champagne never stopped flowing throughout the afternoon.

But lest you think I was there just to indulge my inner debutante, let me assure you I was working the joint. As always, I was on the lookout for lawyers. (This year, as in years past, I was the guest of a lovely Fortune 100 lawyer.) Though I spied a few lady lawyers in the garden and under the giant tent (none who wanted to be named), this was not a legal crowd. But I'm not complaining.

Photo credit: Patrick McMullan

For more photos from the Hat Party: Click here.

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