Clearly, the true-crime writer Capote had a little bit too much to drink that night. However, he does look fabulous with that classy white hat on his face. Taken on June 22, 1978, the photo below features a young Kate Harrington (“Love Story,” “Child’s Play”), a passed-out Truman Capote, and the legendary silent movie star Gloria Swanson.
Swanson made history for being the silent films’ most successful and highest-paid star. And she was still partying hard at age 79! The photo captures a moment in time when Hollywood royalty mingled with New York’s elite, and Studio 54 was the epicenter of the disco universe.
Richard Gere Proved He Can Dance
The American Gigolo couldn’t stay away from Studio 54. Before he made women across the world swoon on the silver screen, Richard Gere discoed his evenings away at the popular nightclub. Clad in his best ‘70s garb, Gere partnered up with the most gorgeous women in NYC for a night of disco and debauchery.
A big fan of one of the city’s best clubs, Gere proved on more than one occasion that he’s totally capable of busting a move. His passion for music and dance would eventually lead him to star in the classic movie musical "Chicago," proving that his disco days had a lasting impact on his career.
I Got You, Babe
Since they were already divorced when the photo was taken in 1979, their appearance at Studio 54 together has gone down in history as one of the most memorable ones! Of course, the iconic rock duo Sonny and Cher would make their way to Studio 54.
Though the couple's career as a duo ended in 1975 after their split, they remained on good terms and even returned to their television show in 1976. Despite their divorce, their appearance at Studio 54 was a reminder of the magic they created as a duo. The photo of them together that night remains a beloved image of a time when disco was king, and anything was possible.
Clubgoers Danced On Four Tons of Glitter On New Year’s Eve
Of course, Studio 54 had to step things up on New Year’s Eve. But if you’re the ultimate party destination every other night, how do you ensure that the wildest night of the year is truly special? Accordingly, to Ian Schrager, the secret lies in ample glitter. On New Year’s ever, the club owners brought in four tons of glitter to spread across the dance floor.
Schrager described it as “dancing on stardust.” Although it made for a great night, it also stuck around for quite a few months after New Year’s Eve ended. The memory of Studio 54 and its glittering dance floor still captivates the imagination and serves as a reminder of a time when there were no boundaries and everything was within limits.
Grace Jones and Her Eccentric Costumes
Although severe inflation and a messy stock market made day-to-day life dismal, Studio 54 boasted a carefree environment. The club encouraged its patrons to leave all their worries at the door. When the rich, successful, and beautiful show up to the party, the outside world is temporarily forgotten.
Embracing the opportunity to live that feel-good lifestyle, Grace Jones frequented the dance floor at Studio 54. Unwilling to fade into the background, Jones often arrived in eccentric costumes. She debuted many of her forward-thinking outfits at the disco, ensuring that she lived up to her name as a fashion icon.