Intelligencer

Socialite Stress: Walking Your Own Dog

Recession in 10021.

By Andrew M. Goldstein
Published Apr 7, 2008

Ben Bernanke says the country could soon be in recession, but Manhattan’s social set is doing fine. “I live in a pretty simple way,” says Ivanka Trump, explaining she won’t be tightening her belt. “I’m not the type of person who would buy a Ferrari or a very large hat.” Grad student–cum–socialite Claire Bernard worries charities might be unfairly hurt. “I know that benefits aren’t selling as many tickets,” she says, “but a lot of the people that go, their situations won’t really be affected.” But if she had to give something up? “Probably my dog walker. I can walk my own damn dog.” Arden Wohl simply isn’t concerned. “I think it’s a lie,” she says. “You believe what you want to believe. The lives go on!”