Get ready to step back in time and embrace the timeless elegance of New York’s most iconic women—because designer Dennis Basso’s latest collection is a love letter to the ‘It Girls’ of the past, and it’s nothing short of breathtaking. But here’s where it gets controversial: while many designers chase modern trends, Basso dares to look backward, drawing inspiration from late socialites like Pat Buckley, C.Z. Guest, and Nan Kempner. Is this a nostalgic retreat or a bold statement about enduring style? You decide.
In an exclusive interview, Basso revealed his vision: ‘This season, I wanted to celebrate New York City—its nights, its glamour, and the women who defined it.’ He reminisced about the era of now-closed hotspots like 21 and Le Cirque, where the chic elite gathered, always dressed to perfection. ‘Those women,’ he noted, ‘whether in casual or formal wear, especially in the evening, were flawless.’ But this isn’t just about the past—Basso’s collection is a bridge between eras, blending vintage elegance with modern sophistication.
While the line focuses on evening wear, it also includes daytime looks perfect for special occasions. And this is the part most people miss: Basso isn’t just catering to nostalgia; he’s observing a resurgence of dressing up. ‘People are out and about,’ he said, ‘and I see more women embracing strong, sophisticated styles.’ Could this be a sign of a broader cultural shift back to formalwear? Or is it just a fleeting trend?
With a client list that includes Martha Stewart, Liza Minnelli, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, and Carol Alt, Basso’s designs are no stranger to the spotlight. Here’s a fun twist: his pieces might even grace the red carpet for the upcoming ‘Devil Wears Prada’ sequel, as Meryl Streep’s stylist has reportedly pulled looks for her to consider. Speaking of Hollywood, remember that iconic coat Miranda Priestly wore in the 2006 film? Yep, that was a Basso creation.
The collection debuted at the Columbus Citizens Foundation on the Upper East Side, drawing a crowd of well-heeled attendees like Rosanna Scotto. But beyond the glitz, Basso’s work raises a thought-provoking question: In a world obsessed with fast fashion and fleeting trends, does timeless elegance still have a place? Let us know what you think in the comments—is Basso’s homage to the past a step forward, or is it time to leave the ‘It Girls’ of yesteryear behind?
