Billy Corgan and Chloe Mendel Corgan rarely dress in black tie for a night out, but Wednesday’s Fall Fashion Gala at the New York City Ballet was a special occasion: Mendel Corgan’s father, Gilles Mendel, was the designer of this year’s gala performance costumes.
The pair, who are currently expecting their third child, got ready in their House of Gilles looks in a suite at The Mark Hotel.
“Billy’s been on tour for most of this year, so we’re really looking forward to a night out, just the two of us, especially with our third child on the way,” Mendel Corgan said of her husband, who fronts The Smashing Pumpkins. “Tonight is extra special because it’s in celebration of my father, Gilles, who designed the costumes for the New York City Ballet Fashion Gala’s world premiere, chaired by Sarah Jessica Parker. Billy often misses key family moments, so having him here with me and the family means the world. And of course, we’ll both be in haute couture from House of Gilles.”
Mendel Corgan’s look, a black gown with Empire waist, had been selected to accommodate her pregnancy, while Corgan used the occasion to break out his custom tuxedo from his wedding, which his father-in-law had made for him.
“Billy’s wearing a stunning tuxedo with embroidery inside the suit — a family illustration he created himself,” Mendel Corgan said. “I’m in a pleated silk organza dress with hand-embroidered flowers my father designed, celebrating my pregnant belly. And to top it off, I’m wearing vintage Fred Leighton jewelry!”
The night appealed to them both to support Gilles, but also to celebrate the arts.
“We’ve always been drawn to the fine arts, and ballet, in particular, is such a beautiful combination of artistry and emotion. The choreography, the costumes, the storytelling — it all resonates with us,” Mendel Corgan said. “As a musician, Billy is especially captivated by how the music elevates the dancers and choreography, drawing from different musical styles that create distinct moods truly conveying emotion through the body. For me, as a designer, it’s the elegance of the costumes — the way they combine beauty with the need for movement and help bring the story to life. Together, these worlds create something magical, and watching my father work with choreographer Caili Quan to push the boundaries of traditional costume design has been incredible. When artists collaborate like this, real magic happens.”
