Serena Williams surprised at MAC Cosmetics' Billion Dollar Ball "she dresses so disrespectfully towards the brand"

MAC Cosmetics wrapped up Thursday just as it began — in the heart of a glittering celebration.

The beauty powerhouse drew a crowd of stars and executives to its Billion Dollar Ball on Wednesday night, situated near the New York Stock Exchange where the day kicked off with bell-ringing ceremonies.

Kim Petras and Danna Paola, current MAC Viva Glam ambassadors, were among the luminaries at the event, which buzzed in the basement of the historic J.P. Morgan bank building with thumping beats audible from the street.

“I’m expecting a lot of fabulous people and glamorous looks,” said model Alex Consani, cohost of the event, noting the extravagant makeup, sky-high heels, and striking headpieces adorning attendees. “It will be the coolest group of people.”

Normani, past collaborator Teyana Taylor, and Lil’ Kim were also spotted among the guests. Taylor expressed her affection for MAC, particularly her own product line, celebrating the creative freedom and collaborative spirit the brand offers.

The evening commemorated MAC’s 30 years of Viva Glam, highlighting the Estée Lauder Cos.’ commitment to nearly doubling their philanthropic contributions to $1 billion. The event’s venue, including a vintage bank vault opened for photo opportunities, encapsulated this theme of financial dedication.

“The idea was to host something memorable — and associated with money,” explained Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois, MAC’s senior vice president and general manager. “What happens in the vault stays in the vault.”

The festivities featured surprises like smoke machines, complimentary fans, and a performance by Petras, juxtaposed against the rustic charm of no air conditioning and limited facilities, echoing MAC’s underground origins.

“Viva Glam was one of the earliest brand initiatives with a genuine commitment to philanthropy, and when MAC joined the Estée Lauder family, they brought that ethos with them,” said William P. Lauder, executive chairman of Lauder. “It’s become an integral part of our cultural identity.”