Fashion icon Dennis Basso takes a nostalgic journey through New York's glamorous past in his latest collection, paying homage to the iconic 'It Girls' of a bygone era. But who were these women and why are they still so influential?
Basso reveals his inspiration: the legendary socialites Pat Buckley, C.Z. Guest, and Nan Kempner, whose style and presence captivated the city. These women embodied the essence of New York's high society, always impeccably dressed, whether for a casual outing or a formal event, especially during the evening.
The collection showcases Basso's interpretation of their timeless elegance, focusing on evening wear with a twist. He explains, "I wanted to capture the magic of New York nights, where people dress to impress." But here's the twist: he also includes versatile pieces suitable for special daytime events, catering to the modern woman's lifestyle.
Basso reminisces about the exclusive hotspots of the past, like 21 and Le Cirque, but he's excited about the resurgence of dressing up. "I see a trend of women embracing their power and sophistication through fashion." This observation fuels his creative process, as he aims to dress the modern-day 'It Girls'.
With a client list boasting names like Martha Stewart, Liza Minnelli, and Jennifer Lopez, Basso's creations are no stranger to the spotlight. And the buzz continues as his designs might grace the red carpet for the 'Devil Wears Prada' sequel, with Meryl Streep potentially donning his pieces. The designer's connection to the film goes back to the original, where his coat was featured on the iconic Miranda Priestly.
The collection's debut at the Columbus Citizens Foundation attracted the city's elite, proving that Basso's tribute to the 'It Girls' resonates with New York's fashion-forward crowd. But what makes these historical fashion icons so captivating, even today?
