On Friday, April 24th, we celebrated the release of our latest cover starring the electrifying Kitty Lever, shot by Jordan Millington Liquorice. As Kitty’s first cover, the moment demanded nothing less than a full-scale fête and our friends at the Freehand Hotel delivered, rolling out the red carpet in signature style.
Nestled in a historic Flatiron District building dating back to 1928, just steps from the iconic Gramercy Theatre, the Freehand set the scene for an unforgettable night. We were welcomed into the GW Suite, an airy, light-drenched haven that became our glam headquarters for the evening. With gorgeous city views and cozy open living space, it was the perfect backdrop for the pre-game ritual.
As we prepped for Kitty’s arrival, an infectious laugh echoed down the hallway. She entered like a burst of light, radiating energy that instantly filled the room. The mood shifted: anticipation up, music louder, vibes undeniable. Slipping into a robe, Kitty settled into the glam chair as the transformation began. Lips, eyes, hair check. Then came the look: a multicolor latex mini by Tableaux Vivants, topped with a custom “Party Girl” tiara. Icon behavior.
Much like LADYGUNN, the Freehand thrives as a community driven space where culture, art, and authenticity collide to foster creativity. Naturally, before heading upstairs, an impromptu photoshoot unfolded across the hotel’s artsy interiors. It wouldn’t be a LADYGUNN night without a little spontaneity.
We made our way to Broken Shaker, the hotel’s tropical rooftop escape, where specialty cocktails like “Kitty Under the Moonlight” and the “LADYGUNN Punch” were already flowing. After a few rounds, we descended to Bar Calico on the second floor, a space inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe and the American Southwest for an intimate dinner in their private dining room.
Champagne in hand, guests were welcomed by the sounds of DJ ChiChi, setting the tone for the night. As everyone settled in, Editor-in-Chief Phil Gomez raised a glass: “Kitty is the ultimate LADYGUNN muse because she lives her life authentically and unapologetically herself.” Kitty followed with a full-circle reflection, sharing that just a few years ago she had been working the doors at Ray’s Bar Calico’s sister restaurant and now, she was being celebrated in the very same orbit for her first cover. Surreal didn’t even begin to cover it.
Dinner was a feast in every sense: Burke Bakery sourdough with cultured salted butter, a crisp market lettuce salad with watermelon radish and citrus vinaigrette, and a tuna niçoise tartare layered with kalamata, capers, basil, and lentil crisps. Mains included a perfectly cooked hanger steak frites with hatch chili au poivre and a tahini miso broiled salmon, paired with broccolini kissed with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. A seasonal fruit sorbet offered a refreshing close but the real dessert was still to come.
Because in true LADYGUNN fashion, the night didn’t end at dinner. It evolved into a full-blown dance party, where the music pulsed, the energy soared, and Kitty, our cover star, reigned supreme. Before making their final exit, guests were given a goodie bags, courtesy of KUSH QUEEN. Each bag included KUSH QUEEN THC Gummies and CBD Bath Bomb the perfect combo for capping off such an iconic night. Along with a limited postcard showcasing the cover and select images from Kitty Lever’s cover feature.
The energy of the night, a mix of genuine connection, style, and pure fun perfectly encapsulated everything LADYGUNN stands for. Celebrating Kitty Lever was not just a cover release; it was a testament to authentic, unapologetic self-expression. Cheers to Kitty, the Freehand Hotel, and all the friends who made this night shine!
Check out the night’s highlights, from the glam suite to specialty cocktails at Broken Shaker and an intimate dinner at Bar Calico captured by Zach Bergren below:
