
BUSINESS
1. Stephen Ross
What makes him haute: After founding The Related Companies as a government assisted housing company, founder, chairman and CEO Stephen Ross has since expanded the company into the force behind numerous high profile projects around New York City and throughout the United States – most famously, the Time Warner Center on Columbus Circle. Ross also currently serves as owner of the Miami Dolphins football team. He is also active in philanthropy, making the single largest contribution to the University of Michigan business school and aiding in the planning for the renovation of the Guggenheim’s Frank Lloyd Wright building.
2. Richard LeFrak
What makes him haute: Lefrak took up the position of chairman of Lefrak Organization after his father’s death in 2003. Today the company portfolio includes 5,000 apartments in LeFrak city and a $3 billion investment in the 16 million square foot commercial, residential, retail complex in Newport, New Jersey. LeFrak has expressed interest in bidding for the Stuyvesant towns and has already bought interest in Bank United and Blackstones Mineral Company. His net worth stands at $4billion.

3. Loren and JR Ridinger
What makes them haute: JR and Loren founded Market America in 1992. JR is the creator of the UnFranchise business development system and founder of beingjrridinger.com. With his wife and business partner Loren, an internet fashion and cosmetics mogul, JR has revolutionized the online entrepreneurial market by creating a business that not only affords people the opportunity to buy cost efficient and quality products, but also provides struggling workers the opportunity to build success. Loren is an entreprenur in her own right, serving as Senior Vice President of e-commerce sites Marketamerica.com – which she formed with husband JR –and shop.com and meeton.com. Loren is the mind behind cosmetic line, Motives® by Loren Ridinger and the skincare line, Cellular Laboratories™. She is also founder of the Loren Jewels®.
4. Aby Rosen
What makes him haute: After launching the RFR Holding LLC with partner Michael Fuchs in 1991, Rosen has since transformed the company into a citywide phenomenon by acquiring two of New York’s trophy buildings: The Lever House and the Seagram Building. In 2006 Rosen collaborated with famed art collector Ian Schrager to re-open the glitzy Gramercy Park Hotel. Rosen is an investor in a number of haute restaurant locations including Fishbar and Chinatown Brasserie.
5. Brian Benstock
What makes him haute: After starting out under the guidance of Paul and Edith Singer in 1982 as a car salesman, Benstock quickly moved up to Vice President of Paragon Auto Group in New York City. Benstock created the online car sales site Paragoncars.com. The company’s digital strategy enabled them to dominate the crowded digital space allowing them to sell twice as many certified vehicles as the next closer competitor in the world- this has not only changed the way cars are sold it’s changed the franchise itself by creating a franchise within the existing franchise.
6. Richard Mack
What makes him haute: Richard Mack is a managing partner of Apollo Real Estate Advisors. A multibillion dollar company, Mack’s father founded Apollo. The firm was recently honored for their commitment to community service.
7. Joseph Cayre
What makes him haute: As founder and principal of Midtown Equities,Caytronics, GoodTimesEntertainment,GT Interactive Software Corporation and CORE Group Marketing, LLC, and The Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation, he is not one to be overlooked. He was part of the deal to buy the World Trade Center in 2001, and the Sears Tower in 2004.
8. David Seelinger
What makes him haute: David Seelinger is chairman and CEO of EmpireCLS Worldwide Chauffeured Services. The company is based in the New York area, but has subdivisions in over 650 cities across the globe. Seelinger’s firm is also behind private aviation services and concierge travel services, proving CLS’s dedication to providing their clients with the utmost in comfort and luxury. A-listers like the Kardashians are loyal fans.
9. Kenneth Chenault
What makes him haute: After joining American Express in 1981, Chenault quickly rose through the ranks and is now the CEO and Chairman. Chenault is currently co-chair of the Business Roundtable, a director at IBM and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Chenault was inducted into the Junior Achievement Business hall of fame in 2002. In 2010 the Old North Foundation honored Chenault for his significant contributions to the preservation efforts of many significant monuments and landmark structures, including the steeple of the Old North Church. Chenault is the third African American CEO of a Fortune 500 company.
10. Andrew Farkas
What makes him haute: Farkas founded the Insignia Financial group in 1990, and led it to become the largest owner and operator of commercial space in the United States. After Insignia merged with CB Richard Ellis in 2003, Farkas founded the Island Capital Group LLC, a real estate merchant banking firm specializing in real estate investing. He is now Chairman and CEO of Island Group LLC. Farkas is involved with the Fresh Air Fund, The Doe Fund and various other health and education organizations. He lives in New York City.
11. Tony Goldman
What makes him haute: It is through Goldman’s real estate endeavors that SoHo came to be the active, trendy neighborhood that it is today. From his post as chairman and CEO of Goldman Properties, Goldman opened the doors to the Greene Street Café and the Soho Kitchen and Bar. Since his New York beginnings, he has moved on to South Beach, buying up 18 properties in Miami Beach, including the Park Central Hotel. Goldman is currently working on developing the Wynwood Arts District in Miami. He also founded The Goldman Properties Company and is the Chairman and CEO. Goldman, it seems, has the Golden touch.
12. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner
What makes them haute: Real estate scion Jared Kushner purchased the New York Observer at the age of 25 for $10 million, moving the paper towards a tabloid direction. Kushner has been credited with expanding the Observer Media Group and increasing the Observer’s online presence. Kushner is also principal of the family company, Kushner Companies. But Ivanka Trump is not one to be outdone; she has modeled, made several television appearances and authored The Trump Card: Playing to Win in Work and Life.
She is also Executive Vice President of Development & Acquisitions at The Trump Organization. Ivanka joined forces with Dynamic Diamond Group in order to design her first jewelry line, called Ivanka Trump.
13. Donald and Melania Trump
What makes him haute: Larger than life personality Donald Trump is chairman and president of The Trump Organization and founder of Trump Entertainment Resorts. Trump began his career at his father’s company, originally called Elizabeth Trump & Son. When Trump took over, he renamed it The Trump Organization. Trump’s projects included the upscale Commodore Hotel, the Grand Hyatt and the iconic Trump Tower. In 2003, he became executive producer and host of The Apprentice, a competitive reality show. He sits at number 17 on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list. Melania is a star in her own right, with a wildly successful QVC line and an impressive modeling career.
14. Michael Bloomberg
What makes him haute: Michael Bloomberg has held the post of mayor since 2002. With a net worth of more than $18 billion, Bloomberg clocks in at the 13th richest person in the United States. Bloomberg also founded financial news source Bloomberg LP, of which he owns 85 percent. Bloomberg is also active in philanthropy, having recently donated $50 million to Sierra Club’s “Beyond Coal” campaign, an organization focused on closing older coal plants and preventing new ones from being built.
15. David Koch
What makes him haute: David Koch took over the family business and now serves as co-owner of Koch Industries with his brother Charles. Koch Industries is now America’s second largest privately-held company. Koch is the second-richest New Yorker and has contributed widely to causes including Lincoln Center, Sloan Kettering and the American Museum of Natural History and the New York City Ballet – which named its theater the David H. Koch Theater after Koch’s gift of $100 million.
16. Stewart Rahr
What makes him haute: Rahr started wholesaling products to other drugstores out of his father’s Brooklyn pharmacy in the late 1960’s. Since that time, Rahr has transformed his privately owned pharmaceutical business, Kinray–which was bought out by Cardinal Health in 2010– into a $4 billion a year business. Rahr’s estimated net worth is $1.3 billion.
17. Jeff Immelt
What makes him haute: As CEO and Chairman of the Board of General Electric, Immelt has also served as chairman on President Obama’s outside panel of economic advisors. He was named to Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2008; and in 2009, Immelt was appointed as a member of the President’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board. In 2010, he was named number 35 on Forbes list of the World’s Most Powerful People.
18. Ron Perelman
What makes him haute: Under Perelman’s leadership, the MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings, Inc. has done dozens of deals with such recognized brands and strong businesses such as Revlon, Marvel and New World Entertainment. But it isn’t all work and no play; Perelman opened Manhattan’s Monkey Bar with fellow Haute-listerGraydon Carter. He also has a taste for philanthropy; this year, hosted his second annual benefit for the Apollo Theater, raising over $1.5 million. Perelman’s net worth is estimated at upwards of $12 billion.
19. Mikhail Prokhorov
What makes him haute: Billionaire entrepreneur Mikhail Prokhorov began by becoming one of Russia’s leading industrialists in the precious metals sector. While running Norilsk Nickel, the company became the world’s largest producer of nickel and palladium. Prokhorov is the chairman of Polyus Gold and the president of Onexim Investment Group. Prokhorov is the third richest man from Russia and the 39th richest man in the world, with an estimated $18 billion net worth. He also is co-owner of the New Jersey Nets.
20. William and Arthur Zeckendorf
What makes him haute: After founding The Related What makes them haute: The brothers behind Terra Holdings and Zeckendorf Realty, these brothers are best known for the development of the post address 15 Central Park West and the 43-story 515 Park Avenue. Up next for the brothers? A 35-story condo on East 60th Street.
21. John Mara and Steve Tisch
What makes them haute: Steve Tisch began as a filmmaker, making a number of successful movies including Risky Business, and producing American History X and Forrest Gump, for which he won an Academy Award. Tisch, son of former Giants owner Bob Tisch, now co-owns the football team, and is the only person ever to win both a Superbowl ring and an Oscar. John Mara, co-owner of the Giants, is a third generation owner.
22. Leonard Stern
What makes him haute: As Chairman and CEO of Hartz Mountain Industry and Hartz Group, Leonard Stern began the Hartz Mountain’s real estate operations in 1966 when he started to purchase land in New Jersey’s Meadowlands. In 1987, the Hartz Mountain Industries subsidiary also completed a 24-story luxury office tower on Madison Avenue, where Hartz Group’s corporate offices moved. Stern is also the founder of Homes for the Homeless, the largest non-profit provider of residential, employment and education training centers in the country.
23. Stephen Allen Schwarzman
What makes him haute: Stephen Schwarzman co-founded private equity and financial advising firm Blackstone Group in 1984 with his partner Peter Peterson. Schwarzman’s current estimated net worth is $5.9 billion, making him the 52nd richest man in America, according to Forbes. He has served as an adjunct professor at Yale University and is Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Schwarzman has donated up to $100 million toward the expansion of the New York Public Library and is also a trustee there. He has also earned a place on the Time 100.
24. Billy Rudin
What makes him haute: This power player has a seriously enviable real estate portfolio. He is widely credited for leading the revitalization of downtown New York City and Silicon Alley. He is the chief executive of Rudin Management.
WALLSTREET
25. Jamie Dimon
What makes him haute: As the CEO and Chairman of JP Morgan Chase & Co., Dimon has earned a place on Time Magazine’s list of the World’s 100 Most Influential People four times. He previously served as a Class A director of the Board of Directors of the New York Federal Reserve, a prestigious position that gained him notoriety in the global business and finance world. Dimon was credited with helping JP Morgan Chase repay its TARP funds with supreme speed and efficiency and was even quoted as saying that JP Morgan Chase did not need the bailout money. Since Dimon took over, JP Morgan Chase has become the leading bank in terms of domestic assets under management, publicly traded stock value and market capitalization value
26. Steven Schonfeld
What makes him haute: Steven Schonfeld founded trading and investing firm Schonfeld Group Holdings LLC, of which he is Chairman and CEO, in 1988. Today he, President Andrew Fishman and Chief Operating Officer Mark Peters run the company. The three lead the company to please clients through dedication, technology and professionalization.
27. Nicolas Berggruen
What makes him haute: The son of esteemed art collector Heinz Berggruen, Nicolas Berggruen founded and is president of private investment firm Berggruen Holdings. While he and his family have achieved much to be acknowledged, one of his most known qualities is that he doesn’t own a home, but moves from hotel to hotel instead.
28. Edmond Safra
What makes him haute: Edmond Safra is the nephew of late banking tycoon and namesake uncle Edmond Safra, who died an untimely death in a fire over a decade ago. His wife is MarielleSafra. But Safra is a star in his own right, starting New York-based investment bank Arview Holdings, Inc., which will advise companies with holdings from $50 million to $500 million.
29. Herbert Allen, Jr.
What makes him haute: Herbert Allen, Jr. joined family business, investment boutique Allen & Company, in 1962. Both the firm and Allen – who was named President in 1966 – are notoriously private. Some of Allen’s high profile clients include Bill Gates, Rupert Murdoch, Barry Diller and Oprah Winfrey. Allen also maintains a position on Coca-Cola’s board of directors.
30. Lloyd Blankfein
What makes him Haute: Lloyd Blankfein was appointed CEO and Chairman of Goldman Sachs in 2006 by former CEO Henry Paulson. In 2006, Blankfein was one of the most well paid executives on Wall Street, earning $54.4 million – Goldman Sachs wasn’t far behind, bringing in $9.5 billion that same year in net earnings. In 2009, he was named #18 on Forbes’ “Most Powerful People” list.
31. Leon Black
What makes him haute: Leon Black founded Apollo Management in 1990, which currently manages more than $20 billion in funds. Prior to his time at Apollo, Black was at investment bank Drexel Burnham Lambert. While Apollo took a few hits during the dip in the market, Black continues to do well, with an estimated net worth of $3.5 billion.
32. Wilbur Ross
What makes him haute: This billionaire is known for investing in failing companies and restructuring. In 2000 with $440 million, Ross launched WL Ross & Co., a firm that focuses on restructurings, buyouts, turnarounds and consolidations. Ross has a net worth of approximately $1.9 billion.
33. The Santo Domingos
What makes them haute: The Colombian clan is behind the Santo Domingo Group. With a portfolio stretching from Colombian television and radio stations to stake in SABMiller, its no wonder they have seen so much success. The family is frequently donating or hosting charity events.
34. David Tepper
What makes him haute: As founder of Appaloosa Management, David Tepper’s strategy is to buy stocks from companies that are failing; he then reaps the benefits of their recoveries. He has invested in Bank of America, Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft in past years, which account for much of his financial success. A philanthropist, the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University often receives charitable donations from him.
35. Nat Rothschild
What makes him haute: This Brit is the Chairman of “JNR Limited,” a firm focused on investment advisories, and is amongst the largest of its kind worldwide. Rothschild also serves as co-chairman of natural resources group Bumi pic.
36. Carl Icahn
What makes him haute: Carl Icahn serves as the chairman of Icahn Enterprises, a holding company that manages a multitude of investments. Icahn is ranked as the 20th wealthiest American by Forbes. He and his wife give back through a handful of philanthropic efforts including three charter schools in the Bronx and Icahn House East in the New York City. Icahn has an estimated net worth $10.5 billion.
37. Steven Cohen
What makes him haute: As founder of hedge fund SAC Capital Advisors, Cohen boasts a net worth of an estimated $8.3 billion. His interests are varied as well – he is an art collector and has a strong interest in philanthropy, recently contributing $50 million to the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System. Cohen is the 35th richest man in the United States.
38. George Soros
What makes him haute: A Wall Street mogul, Soros is active in many communities, beginning with his hedge fund firm, Soros Fund Management, LLC. On the creative side, he is a prominent author as well as a philanthropist, serving as founder and chairman of The Open Society Institute.
39. Kenneth Langone
What makes him haute: The legendary Kenneth Langone was the former director of the New York Stock Exchange and a financial backer of Home Depot. Today, his focus is on philanthropic efforts. He actively donates to charities including the Robin Hood Foundation and Ronald McDonald House, among others. He is Chairman of the Langone Medical Center at New York University.
40. Bruce Kovner
What makes him haute: As founder and chairman of Caxton Associates, Bruce Kovner sits at the helm of one of the biggest hedge funds in the world, which manages $14 million in funds. The notoriously secretive investor is worth an estimated $4.5 billion.
41. John Paulson
What makes him haute: John Paulson is President and founder of the New York-based hedge fund Paulson & Co. He is a native New Yorker, hailing from Queens and attended both NYU and the Harvard Business School. At the age of 39, Paulson started his own hedge fund with just $2 million and one sole employee. He was ranked 39 on Forbes list of the wealthiest people with a net worth of $16 billion. Between the years of 2009 and 2011, Paulson gave $15 million to the Center for Responsible Lending and $20 million to the New York University Stern School of Business as well as millions more to other charities.
42. Ruth Porat
What makes her haute: With Morgan Stanley since the mid ‘80s, Porat claims the much lauded title as the most senior woman on Wall Street. She sits at the number two spot at Morgan Stanley, as CFO.
FASHION
43. Daphne Guinness
What makes her haute: Inducted into the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame in 1994, we’ve been taking fashion cues from this savvy socialite for years. In addition to her boundary-pushing and always unique sense of style, Guinness collaborated with notable jewelry designer Shaun Leane in 2006 to design and construct a gold and diamond arm glove. The project, “Contra Mundum,” Latin for “Against The World,” took five years to complete and the outcome is considered one of the finest pieces of artisan jewelry the world has ever seen. In 2009, Guinness released a fragrance with Comme des Garçons that launched her into the world of luxury cosmetics. But it is her enviable couture collection, assortment of jewels and signature hair that propels Guinness into the world of legends.
44. Marc Jacobs
What makes him haute: Marc Jacobs has been at the top of the fashion game for years. Since being named creative director of ultra luxe brand Louis Vuitton in 1997, Jacobs has split his time between leading Vuitton and cultivating his two eponymous lines, Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs. With two major brands and more than 200 retail stores in 60 different countries, Jacobs continues to impact the global fashion market. Socially conscious in addition to stylish, Jacobs has also made great strides for the gay community; and in 2011 was ranked 12th on Out Magazine’s “50 Most Powerful Gay Men and Women in America.”
45. Diane von Furstenberg and Barry Diller
What makes them haute: From princess to famed fashion designer, Diane von Furstenberg has done it all. First propelled into stardom with her iconic wrap dresses that debuted in 1973, von Furstenberg has continued to be a fixture on the high fashion circuit. Her timeless wrap dresses have staying power as well, appearing not only within her super luxe boutiques, but in the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, as well. The wrap dress also served as the inspiration for the exhibit Journey of a Dress in 2011. Furstenberg’s second husband Barry Diller is an icon in his own right in the media field. Diller currently serves as Chairman and Senior Executive of IAC/InterActiveCorp and is widely credited as one of the founding partners of USA Broadcasting and Fox Broadcasting Company.
46. Carolina Herrera
What makes her haute: One of the biggest names in luxury clothing, Carolina Herrera has long been recognized for her keen fashion sense. Since she burst on the scene in the 1970s and founded her clothing company in 1980, Herrera has widely been considered one of the best-dressed women in America, dressing icons like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Renee Zellweger. As one of the world’s leading fashion designers, with two successful brands, multiple boutiques and the recipient of numerous awards such as, Womenswear Designer of the Year and the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award, Herrera has proven to be an unstoppable force of nature in the fashion world.
47. Oscar and Annette de la Renta
What makes him haute: Known for his beautifully crafted clothing and shoes, this iconic fashion designer began his career as an apprentice to the famous Cristóbal Balenciaga. De la Renta gained notoriety in 1963 when he began designing for Elizabeth Arden. In 1965, de la Renta began working under Jane Derby; upon Derby’s death, he took over the brand, renaming it Oscar de la Renta for Jane Derby. Later he pared it down to just Oscar de la Renta. But his expertise stretches far beyond fashion design; in 2006, de le Renta was commissioned to design Tortuga Bay, a boutique hotel at Puntacana Resort. Despite his varying pursuits, de la Renta has continued to bless the fashion world with his luxury garments. His wife, Annette, is active in charity, serving on boards of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Morgan Library, The Animal Medical Center and the New York Public Library.
48. Ralph Lauren
What makes him haute: The 173rd richest man in the world, Ralph Lauren has developed a brand considered synonymous with classic American style. Polo Ralph Lauren started out with a line of men’s ties in 1967. By 1969, the designer was able to secure a spot in Bloomingdale’s, next came the bold women’s suits, the first to feature the iconic Polo emblem. Polo Ralph Lauren quickly grew from there and today is one of the most well known brands in the world. The designer also has an eye for philanthropy. In 2003, Polo Ralph Lauren teamed up with the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center to create the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention, which provides top of the line cancer treatment in underprivileged communities.
49. David Lauren and Lauren Bush
What makes them haute: David Lauren has worked for his father’s company, Polo Ralph Lauren, in sales and marketing since 2001. He has helped the company tremendously by helping launch the brand’s official website, starting the popular Rugby brand and moving the company into the mobile era. His wife, former model and member of the presidential Bush family, re-launched her clothing line in 2008. Bush’s line, Lauren Pierce, is centered around helping women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo become more self sufficient by teaching them how to dye fabrics, which were subsequently used throughout the collection. Ten percent of the proceeds were then used to support these same women. Bush is also the founder of Feed Projects LLC.
ENTERTAINMENT
50. Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z
What makes them haute: This notoriously private, insanely successful power couple is currently expecting their first child. Former Destiny’s Child star Beyonce went solo in 2003 and never looked back. Since then, she’s recorded four solo albums, the third of which, “I am… Sasha Fierce,” earned her a record-breaking six Grammys, bringing her grand total to 16. But these are only a few awards on her laundry list of accomplishments. As if being music royalty were not enough, Beyonce has crossed over into acting, starring in movies such as Dreamgirls, Charlies Angels and Bad Boys II. Her songs have appeared in countless feature films and hit TV shows. Beyonce has even started her own clothing line, House of Dereon. But Jay-Z is not one to be out done. Winner of 13 Grammy Awards, author, and artist in his own right, Jay-Z is the co-founder of Roc-A-Fella records and Roc Nation. Worth an estimated $450 million, Jay-Z is widely considered one of the most financially successful hip-hop artists ever. Jay-Z is also founder of the swanky 40/40 Club, now with five locations.
51. LA and Erica Reid
What makes them haute: Antonio “L.A.” Reid has made his mark in the music industry. The winner of three Grammy Awards, Reid is co-founder of LaFace records and has helped artists like Usher, Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber and Kanye West achieve success. Reid is the chairman and CEO of Epic Records, the president and CEO of Hitco Music Publishing. His latest gig: a post as judge on the U.S. version of The X Factor. Meanwhile, wife Erica is an emerging author with a killer closet to boot. Keep an eye out for the couple’s son Aaron, who is climbing up the music ranks as a stellar talent all his own.
52. Denise Rich
What makes her haute: A songwriter, Denise Rich is known for her Grammy Award-winning tunes. On the social circuit, she’s known as the woman behind Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research, a charity created in remembrance of her daughter who lost her life to Leukemia. She recently worked with Ne-Yo to raise money for his charity, The Compound Foundation.
53. Clive Davis
What makes him Haute: Davis started out in the music industry as a vice president and general manager at Colombia Records, soon claiming the post of president. Davis went on to co-found Bad Boy Records alongside Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, as well as Arista Records and LaFace Records. He is currently chief creative director of Sony Music Entertainment, and has won four Grammy awards as a producer and was inducted into the Rock n’ Roll hall of fame in 2000. The theater at the Grammy museum was named the Clive Davis theatre in 2011, firmly cementing Davis’ icon status.
54. Woody Allen
What makes him Haute: At only 19 years old, Woody Allen was already writing scripts for The Tonight Show, The Ed Sullivan Show and specials for Sid Caesar. Allen, now known as somewhat of a cinematic genius, has conquered Broadway, film, screenwriting and directing. He is known for using literature, philosophy and psychology. Allen has since become known for his nervous, intellectual charm onscreen, essentially founding the now classic story of the less than good looking nerd who successfully woos the unattainable bombshell. Today, his body of work is large and unrivaled.
55. Robert De Niro
What makes him Haute: A legendary actor with a body of work comprised of more than 70 films and a plethora of awards for his work, De Niro has firmly rooted himself in the category of Hollywood legend. De Niro is an entrepreneur in his own right, as well – he’s co-Founder of Tribeca Productions, partnered with the creators of high-end eatery Nobu and co-owns Tribeca Grill. De Niro also served as President of the Jury at the 64th annual Cannes Film Festival this year.
56. Alicia Keys and Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean
What makes them Haute: After first signing with Colombia and Arista Records, Alicia Keys debuted her first album with J records, selling more than 12 million copies. Keys followed up with several more chart topping records and a dozen Grammy Awards. Keys has since ventured into acting, most notably appearing in film adaptation of The Secret Life of Bees. Her husband, Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean, has made his name as a rapper, producer, DJ and painter. After the release of his successful 2010 album, aptly titled Haute Living, Swizz Beatz won a Grammy win for Best Duo Performance alongside Jay-Z for “On to the Next One.” Swizz is also a Producer in Residence at the Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music at New York University. Dean and Keys have one child together and reside in New York City.
57. Georgina Chapman and Harvey Weinstein
What makes them Haute: Georgina Chapman, daughter of millionaire coffee mogul Brian Chapman, started out as a model and after graduating from the Wimbledon School of art, started the couture line Marchesa with business partner Keren Craig. She has also racked up some acting credit, appearing in films such as Awake, The Nanny Diaries and Factory Girl. Harvey Weinstein, co-founder of production company Miramax, has earned numerous awards for the production of such films as Shakespeare in Love, Good Will Hunting and The English Patient. Weinstein and Chapman live in New York City with their daughter.
58. Charles and James Dolan
What makes them Haute: This father-son duo is quite a power pair. American billionaire Charles Dolan is founder of Cablevision Systems Corporation and HBO and is worth approximately $3.3 billion. His son, James Dolan is executive chairman of Madison Square Garden Inc. and is President and CEO of Cablevision Systems Corporation. James also is the manager of the New York Knicks, the New York Rangers, the New York Liberty and the Connecticut Whale. Since its founding in 1973, Cablevision has expanded across the country, recently acquiring Bresnan Communications. Cablevision is the 8th largest cable provider in the United States.
59. Edgar Bronfman, Jr.
What makes him Haute: Son of the wealthy Edgar Bronfman Sr., head of the Seagram Company, Bronfman decided to go his own way in business. He sold his Seagram’s stake in DuPont Oils in order to start the short lived production company, Vivendi Universal. He started out as Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group, which he acquired in 2004. He is now solely Chairman. He has a bit of a creative side as well, writing songs for vocal powerhouses Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand
MEDIA
60. Nick Denton
What makes him Haute: This Brit took the online by storm in 2002 with the founding of Gawker, New York’s favorite gossip site and the most successful blog-based companies ever. He now sits at the helm of Gawker Media and the sites under its umbrella – Gawker, Fleshbot, Deadspin, Lifehacker, Gizmodo, io9, Kotaku, Jalopnik, Jezebel, Gawker.tv and Cityfile.
61. Anna Wintour
What makes her Haute: As editor-in-chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour is widely known as one of the most powerful people in the world of fashion. Sitting at the helm of Vogue and in the front row of every fashion show that matters, it is Wintour who oft calls the trends in the world of fashion. Famously coiffed and famously particular, Wintour worked for Harpers Bazaar, British Vogue and House & Garden, among others until she gained her post at Vogue in 1988.
62. Arthur Sulzberger, Jr.
What makes him haute: Arthur Ochs Sulzberger, Jr. took over post as publisher of The New York Times from his late father, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger, in 1992. Sulzberger attended Tufts University, putting in time at The Raleigh Times and the Associated Press before he started with the Times in 1987. Sulzberger single handedly changed the Times’ online presence, developing its website and blogs. He became chairman of the board in 1997.
63. S.I. Newhouse, Jr.
What makes him haute: Samuel Irving Newhouse Jr., also known as Si, is Chairman and CEO of Advance Publications – owner of Conde Nast, printer of Vogue, The New Yorker and many other widely-read publications. Si was ranked the 47th richest American by Forbes Magazine in 2011 with a net worth of $6.6 billion.
64. Graydon Carter
What makes him haute: Born Edward Graydon Carter, Carter has held the post as the editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair since 1992, during which time he won 11 National Magazine Awards. Also during Carter’s reign, Vanity Fair has made Adweek’s “Hot List” a total of 8 times. Advertising Age recently named Vanity Fair to its 2011 “A-List” in the number 5 position. Carter also served as editor of the New York Observer and co-founded iconic satire magazine Spy.
65. Mortimer Zuckerman
What makes him haute: Mortimer “Mort” Zuckerman is the publisher and owner of The New York Daily News and editor-in-chief of U.S. News and World Report. As if that is not enough, he also serves as chairman of the board and director for Boston Properties, Inc., which he co-founded. Zuckerman earned the title of 147th wealthiest American in 2008 by Forbes.
ARCHITECTURE
66. Richard Meier
What makes him haute: As one of architecture’s “The New York Five” and winner of a Pritzker Architecture Prize, Richard Meier has made the world we live in more beautiful, one building at a time. Principal and founder of Richard Meier & Partners, Meier studied architecture at Cornell University and was later employed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill and Marcel Breuer, before starting his own firm in 1963. Meier is known for designing L.A.’s Getty Center, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and 173/176 Perry Street in New York.
67. Frank Gehry
What makes him haute: A true architectural legend, Frank Gehry is known across the globe for his architectural works – from the titanium Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in L.A. to 8 Spruce Street in New York, Gehry’s work serves as architectural beacons across the globe. Gehry, founder of principal of Gehry Partners, LLP, who is widely regarded as the most important architect of modern day, is also the recipient of the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize.
ART
68. Larry Gagosian
What makes him haute: This Los Angeles native is considered by many to be the most important man in the art world. Larry Gagosian, with his chain of prestigious galleries, has been responsible for making the careers of many artists. With three locations in New York City, two in London one in Los Angeles, Paris, Geneva, Hong Kong, Rome and Athens, his chain of galleries are globally recognized. Gagosian represents some of the biggest names in art including Richard Serra, CyTwombly, Andy Warhol and Cecily Brown. With his keen aesthetic eye and cunning business instincts, Gagosian continues to reshape the art world.
69. Jeff Koons
What makes him haute: Jeff Koons is one the most commercially successful artists in the world and has created epic pieces like Balloon Flower, which sold for more than $25 million. Many critics consider Koons to be highly innovative and important in the history of contemporary art. His work can be found in many of the major museums around the world, in prestigious private collections and he is represented by notable art dealer Larry Gagosian. Recently, Koons has tried his hand at the behind the scenes aspect of the gallery business and curated a show in 2010 of works from the private collection of Greek billionaire DakisJoannou at the New Museum in New York City.
70. Julian Schnabel
What makes him haute: In 1979 artist and filmmaker Julian Schnabel had a well-received solo exhibition at the prestigious Mary Boone Gallery, which immediately placed him at the top of the art world bracket. His “plate paintings” continued to win him recognition throughout the ‘80s. Schnabel then moved into filmmaking, which gained him international success. Some of his most notable films include Before Night Falls, Basquiat and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. He has won multiple awards such as a Golden Globe, BAFTA and a César Award. Schnabel is true art world darling who has proven that modern Renaissance men do exist.
71. Tico Mugrabi
What makes him haute: Following in the footsteps of his father and his family, TicoMugrabi is known for his impressive collection of pieces by Andy Warhol, which contains a staggering 800 pieces. The family’s entire collection of art is believed to encompass around 3,000 works.
72. William Acquavella
What makes him haute: Better known as Bill, Acquavella is a well-known art dealer. His personal collection includes stunning works by Pablo Picasso and Pierre Matisse. He’s at the helm of Acquavella Galleries on the Upper East Side, which was started by his father, Nicholas Acquavella.
73. Emily Rafferty
What makes her haute: Emily Rafferty began working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1975 and now serves at the President of the widely-revered museum – the first woman to ever hold this post. Rafferty manages the day to day operations at the Met.
HOSPITALITY/ NIGHTLIFE
74. Jason Strauss, Rich Wolf, Noah Tepperberg & Marc Packer
What makes them haute: Jason Strauss, Rich Wolf, Noah Tepperberg and Marc Packer are moguls in the nightlife and entertainment industry. This is the team behind LAVO, the restaurant and nightclub at Las Vegas hotel The Venetian, and AVENUE lounge in Manhattan. In 2003, Strauss founded Strategic Hospitality Group, the marketing and public relations company that is the official food provider for the Miami Heat. SHG owns and operates NYC’s Marquee and popular Las Vegas club TAO.
75. Jonathan Tisch
What makes him haute: For more than twenty years, Jonathan Tisch has been Chairman and CEO of Loews Hotels. The son of founder Robert Tisch, he also serves as co-chairman of the board and Member of the Office of the President of the hotel’s parent company, Loews Corporation. A busy man, Tisch is also the Chairman Emeritus of the non-profit U.S. Travel Association. His philanthropic efforts focus on getting people active in their communities and for their causes as opposed to just donating money.
76. Ian Schrager
What makes him haute: Ian Schrager’s name rings a bell to most everyone, whether you were around for the days of Studio 54 or were one of the first to embrace his concept of hotel lobby socializing. Reputed for setting the standard in the hospitality industry, Schrager left Morgans Hotel Group in 2005 and subsequently started the Ian Schrager Company. He continues to change the game with PUBLIC, a sophisticated and unique hotel experience at a value, raising the standard of hotel stays for everyone, not just the wealthy set—now open in Chicago. His next venture is EDITION Hotels, a partnership between Schrager and Marriott International, where innovation, modernity and personalization come together.
77. Jonathan Segal and Celeste Fierro of The ONE Group
What makes them haute: Jonathan Segal and Celeste Fierro are the power duo behind The ONE Group, the force behind popular venues like STK and Coco de Ville. The hospitality duo caters to 24 across the United States, and their establishments keep A-listers coming. The ONE Group’s most recent venture is Asellina, an Italian restaurant that quickly garnered the attention of New Yorkers.
78. Vikram Chatwal
What makes him haute: A prominent hotelier, VikramChatwal created VikramChatwal Hotels in 1999. The successful firm boasts luxury boutique hotels worldwide. Chatwal’s flagship hotel is NYC’s sophisticated Dream Hotel.
79. Sean Largotta
What makes him haute: Restaurant owner Sean Largotta, along with partners John DeLucie and Mark Amadel, are the force behind Greenwich Village staple The Lion. Patrons of The Lion stay loyal for the delicious food and equally satisfying environment. An ideal place to people watch, Largotta and crew did well. Largotta is also the man behind the recently-opened Upper East Side eatery The Crown.
80. Michael Hirtenstein
What makes him haute: Originally an entrepreneur with his own business, Michael Hirtenstein sold Westcom Communications for over $250 million a few years ago. Today he negotiates contracts for the EMM Group, which boasts hotspots like Tenjune, the Chandelier Room and SL.
81. Andre Balazs
What makes him haute: Style, luxury and chic are three words that define properties by Balazs’ company Andre Balazs Properties, the force behind the Standard Hotels. Other properties are in chic locales in Los Angeles, Miami and New York as well as residences in New York. Visit any of the properties and you’ll find a serious commitment to design and innovation, matched only by their dedication to service, as Balazs’ properties cater to the desires and standards of the most discerning travelers. Make sure to enjoy a glass of Balazs’ Rose, made in collaboration with winemaker Christian Wolffer.
82. Jason Pomeranc
What makes him haute: This hotelier co-founded and co-owns Thompson Hotel Group and Do Not Disturb Restaurant Group with his two brothers. The hotel group, made up of small luxury properties, includes 60 Thompson Hotel in New York City, with other properties in Los Angeles, Washington DC, Chicago and Toronto. Thompson London in Belgraves, the company’s first international venture, will open this year.

83. Giuseppe, Maggio and Ignazio Cipriani
What makes them haute: This family has been heavy hitters in the hospitality world for generations. They keep the standards high and continue to help grow the Cipriani brand, which just opened two new posts in Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Cipriani Istanbul. They have also been immensely successful in their newly opened Los Angeles hotel and restaurant venture Mr. C.
ATHLETICS
84. Hal Steinbrenner
What makes him haute: Hal Steinbrenner continues to share ownership duties with brother Hank after the passing of their father, who holds the record for the longest Yankee ownership in history. The beloved Yankees are a sort of royalty in New York, which makes Steinbrenner worthy of the crown, as well.
85. Amar’e Stoudemire
What makes him haute: Amar’eStoudemire had a successful year with the Knicks, even setting two of the team’s franchise records. In February, he became the first Knick to start in the All-Star game after Patrick Ewing in 1992. Stoudemire has been busy off-court too: he debuted his clothing collection collaboration with Rachel Roy on Fashion’s Night Out in September.
86. Mark Sanchez
What makes him haute: Mark Sanchez is on his third year of his five-year contract with the New York Jets. Said contract, which he signed when he was drafted in the first round of the 2009 NFL draft, brings Sanchez a hefty $50 million a year. Sanchez’ philanthropic efforts include a commitment to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Sam’s Club’s 2011 Giving Made Simple campaign.
87. Abby and Eli Manning
What makes them haute: The Manning clan is growing—the Abby and Eli Manning welcomed baby girl Ava Frances in March. Despite his athletic prowess, Manning hosted Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s Golf Classic, a charity event, for the fifth consecutive year.
88. Alex Rodriguez
What makes him haute: More commonly known as A-Rod, this Yankee player is the highest paid athlete on his team and in the history of professional baseball. His 10-year contract, netted him an impressive $275 million. Rodriguez has broken multiple records and achieved accomplishments including hitting more than 600 home runs.
89. Bruce Ratner
What makes him haute: Bruce Ratner is a prominent real estate developer and minority owner of the New Jersey Nets. He shares ownership with Mikhail Prokhorov, which became official this past May. Ratner is planning to move the Nets to Brooklyn for the 2012-2013 NBA season.

90. Woody Johnson
What makes him haute: Woody Johnson wears many hats – one of them happens to be a New York Jets cap, since he owns the team. Johnson purchased the Jets for $635 million. The chairman and CEO of the Johnson Company He also makes time for philanthropy and founded the Alliance for Lupus Research.
91. Santonio Holmes
What makes him haute: A former Pittsburg Steeler, Santonio Holmes is now in his second year of playing wide receiver on the New York Jets. When he’s not on the field, Holmes is carrying out one charitable endeavor or another, especially with his charity, F.I.N.E.S.S.E Foundation Football camp, which benefits youth.
92. Lala and Carmello Anthony
What makes them haute: Better known as “Melo,” this will be Anthony’s first year playing for the New York Knicks. This changes comes after eight years of playing for the Denver Nuggets. His wife and mother of son Kiyan, La La Vazquez, the TRL veteran has continued to occupy the television screen, whether hosting shows like “Flavor of Love” or starring in and executive producing her family’s new reality show, “La La’s Full Court Life.” The pair actively supports the Carmelo Anthony Foundation, which provides donations and creates outreach programs for under-served communities.
FOOD

93. Thomas Keller
What makes him haute: A skilled chef and restaurateur, Thomas Keller possesses an impressive collection of eateries, spread across Yountville, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas and New York City. He shares the key to his culinary successes through his various cookbooks, the most recent of which held a spot on the New York Times Best Seller List for six weeks. He is perhaps most well known for eateries French Laundry and Per Se. The latest in Keller news: right before retiring, New York Times food critic Sam Sifton left his readers with one piece of advice—the best restaurant in New York is Keller’s Per Se.
94. Daniel Boulud
What makes him haute: An award-winning chef at the helm of multiple award-winning restaurants, Daniel Boulud has seen great success in all of his culinary endeavors. His newest venture: BouludSud, a Mediterranean grill in New York.
95. Jean-Georges Vongerichten
What makes him haute: The French born Jean-Georges Vongerichten is as well known for being a chef with three-star Michelin training as he is for being a restaurateur. His New York City posts, including his namesake eatery Jean-Georges and a handful of other restaurants, garnered loyal patrons as soon as the doors opened. Travel sparks inspiration for Vongerichten, who works with partner Phil Suarez to design every restaurant, detail by detail. Currently on the menu: an international multi-concept restaurant and licensing business with Suarez and other well-known firms.
LUXURY
96. Francois-Henry Bennahmias
What makes him haute: Francois-Henry Bennahmias is currently the CEO and President of AudemarsPiguet North America. The celebrated luxury watch house is the official timekeeper at all Four Seasons hotels, in which the brand’s Royal Oak clocks are displayed. This year, AudemarsPiguet created a unique timepiece to participate in Only Watch, a biennial charity that donates proceeds to research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
97. Jacob Arabo
What makes him haute: Jacob Arabo is the owner and founder of Jacob & Co. Jewelry aficionados revel at his pieces, and he is well known for decking celebrities out in delectable diamond frosting. He has been designing for high-end clientele for more than 25 years. At Baselworld this year, Jacob & Co. announced that MillaJovovich would be the new face of their global advertising campaign.
98. Kevin Ryan
What makes him haute: Kevin Ryan is the founder and CEO of online shopping haven Gilt Groupe. Ryan was able to successfully build this brand after years of practice—he served as co-founder and chairman of Panther Express, was an early investor of HotJobs, and built DoubleClick and AlleyCorp. Gilt Groupe currently is valued at a staggering $1 billion.
99. Nakash Family
What makes them haute: The founders of Jordache clothing brand, Joe, Ralph and AviNakash have been in the clothing industry since 1969. The brothers started with a discount designer jeans store in New York City, but after a few years decided to move on to the clothing manufacturing industry. Today, Heidi Klum is the spokesmodel for Jordache.
100. The Udell Family
What makes them haute: The Udell family is at the helm of popular fine jewelry boutique London Jewelers. Aside from selling decadent, unique jewels and gems, the store has a multifaceted charity portfolio—this year, for example, they supported Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons through an event at the store. Shortly after, the East Hampton location hosted a very successful 8th annual watch fair.
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