When one envisions the New York social scene, images of well-to-do individuals parading around fabulous parties come to mind. Devorah Rose, without question, has been a sparkling gem in this enchanting community. With her successful luxury magazine, Social Life, Rose is a heavyweight player in the Hamptons and New York City society. Via her publication, Rose has cultivated and curated some of today's most well-known socialites and other talent. In her most recent endeavor, the reality TV show “High Society” -- which is the epitome of Hollywood at its most evil moment -- Rose is portrayed in a manner which is harsh and cruel. I understand that every story needs an antagonist, but this depiction could not be further from the truth, as my dealings with Rose have been nothing short of splendid. (The season finale of “High Society” airs on Wednesday, April 28.)
You have always been an iconic figure in the New York social scene, Did you ever think you would be on a reality TV show?
One of the first shows to feature me was “The Real Housewives of New York City” and that came about because I happened to be at Rose Bar and it was a pretty wild night. There was this girl that caught my eye and she turned out to be Bethenny Frankel. It was one of those stories – something that can only happen in the movies or in Manhattan.
What is the biggest mistake that these modern day “socialites” make?
I think the biggest mistake many in the public eye or a position of power make is thinking that they are above anyone else or that their perceived status somehow matters. James Cameron was a truck driver at one point in his life. Sometimes I think, how many truck drivers or Starbucks baristas have amazing talent and may never get there? I like to approach life with “Un-shallow Hal” glasses. We all have inner Shakespeares and, whether or not we reach financial success or widespread recognition, it doesn’t add to or diminish from our abilities.
Is there any young, new blood to the social scene that is on your radar?
The social scene isn’t on my radar. It’s something that exists and some people choose to focus a lot of time and attention on it, but I prefer to focus on my work and my family.
When did you begin working with Social Life Magazine?
I started working on Social Life when it was just an idea. Seeing something go from an embryo to full-on empire – magazine, estates, events, original art and creative direction – is so fulfilling. It’s been and continues to be a dream come true.
Your lifestyle demands that you attend numerous events. When it comes to dressing for all of the parties, do you have a go-to designer of choice?
I’ve been fortunate to work with so many great designers that I couldn’t possibly list them all. Right now, my go-to designers are Leila Sham and Maggie Norris.
You are a person in the public eye. Do you ever wish that the media would just leave you alone altogether?
All the time! There are certain individuals who have created a ridiculous meme that gets repeated all the time, and I’d like to break their glass jaws. I just saw the previews for the final episode [of “High Society”] and there is this whole line of argument of me being fake because of my name. That was started years ago with a certain individual who I helped out and she became very jealous instead of thankful. She went around repeating it to anyone who would listen, and it got picked up by the blogs. Now that it’s on the show, it’s getting repeated right and left, even though it’s ridiculous and has no bearing on who I am as a person or as an editor-in-chief. It’s really upsetting.
Do you have a mentor? If so, who and why?
I am my own mentor.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Pet peeves are my pet peeves.
What should every woman have in her closet this spring/summer?
I have to admit that I have no idea and that’s why I have a stylist.
When you are not hitting the red carpet or filming “High Society:, where can we find you?
This is the part that will surprise most people. When I’m not out and about, I’m curled up in my bed with my teacup poodle and a good book. Right now, I’m reading Adam Haslett’s “Union Atlantic”, Sam Lipsyte’s “The Ask”, and David Ebershoff’s “The 19th Wife”.
