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Vogue Essay Recounts Rekindling a Romance at a Midtown Manhattan Art Fundraiser

other · 2026-10-02

In a recent essay for Vogue, Eileen Kelly shares her experience of reuniting with an ex-boyfriend during an art fundraiser in Midtown Manhattan in March 2023, coinciding with the relaxation of COVID restrictions. While wearing Chanel, she noticed him at a seafood bar, and they exchanged warm greetings. After enjoying a few martinis, her sleeve accidentally ignited from a nearby candle. This encounter led him to pursue her once more, prompting her to contemplate the reasons behind their breakup and the possibilities of rekindling their romance. Although their renewed relationship, characterized by newfound maturity, ultimately did not succeed, she found the experience meaningful, emphasizing the potential for personal growth and forgiveness.

Key facts

  • The essay was published by Vogue as a first-person piece by Eileen Kelly.
  • The reunion occurred in March 2023 at an art fundraiser in Midtown Manhattan as COVID restrictions eased.
  • Kelly was wearing Chanel and drinking martinis when she spotted her ex beside the seafood bar.
  • Her sleeve caught fire after her arm touched a candle while she leaned against the bar.
  • Her ex greeted her by name and later began pursuing her again.
  • The second relationship ultimately ended, but Kelly says she does not regret it.
  • She identifies changed circumstances or personal growth as the only real reason to revisit an ex.
  • She advises against returning to an ex due to loneliness, dating exhaustion, or app burnout.

Entities

Artists

  • Eileen Kelly

Institutions

  • Vogue
  • Chanel

Locations

  • Midtown Manhattan
  • New York
  • United States
  • East Village

Sources