Cheryl Shops

When & Where: Tuesday, September 14 at 3 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Basso picked up from where he left off with the ballerina theme from last spring (which I loved), but took it to a Judy Jetson–like level of futurism. The shimmery metallic fabrics were interesting, but the midriff-baring cutouts, random flounces, and supershort full skirts made everything look a bit costumey. The rare bits of fur (mostly in shrugs) and more sophisticated gowns seemed better suited to Basso's loyal clientele. The audience, however, seemed to like what they saw: They gave the designer a standing ovation.
Standout Look: This horsehair gown was dramatic and diaphanous, and the buttery nude color made it seem all the more luxurious. It should be noted, this gown was almost to the model's waist by the time she hit the end of the runway; she yanked it up and soldiered on.
Bonus Points: Somewhat unexpectedly, Basso used a very diverse lineup of models.
Where to Buy: Visit dennisbasso.com for store locations.

Where & When: Tuesday, February 16 at 3 p.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: I hate to break it to my anti-fur readers, but fur has been everywhere this season. Of course I was expecting it at Dennis Basso--for security purposes, my bag was searched twice before I even entered the Promenade--but it was all over the Basso runway, from broadtail and mink to sable and even crocodile (not a fur, I know, but an exotic skin nonetheless). The majority of the looks were either fur coats, evening gowns, or a mixture of the two; one gets the feeling that Basso's clients don't really have the need for daytime clothes--but, then again, with furs this fabulous, who's looking at what else you have on? Some of the furs were so overwhelmingly voluminous that they had a Chewbacca-like effect; I preferred the cropped and sheared numbers for their more subtle--but no less beautiful--shapes.
Standout Look: Granted, no one buys a fur to look thin (you buy a fur to look rich!), but this cropped version had a lovely tapered effect that emphasized the waist, thanks to a wide band of leather trim along the hem. Pairing it with a simple jersey sheath dress provided a chic blank canvas for showcasing the fur.
Bonus Points: The soundtrack featured a surprisingly hip (albeit several months old) mix of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Muse. Also, I was seated directly across from reality stars Nole Marin, Giuliana Rancic, and Carson Kressly; the Vogue crew, complete with Anna Wintour and Andre Leon Talley, was on the other side of the runway.
Where to Buy: Find a store at DennisBasso.com.

Where & When: Tuesday, September 15th at 3 p.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Dennis Basso has been providing fur coats for society ladies since the '80s; I was a bit puzzled as to why he was showing a spring collection, but it looks like he'd like to be dressing his clients as well. I think the pretty, colorful party dresses that he sent down the runway will definitely do the trick. Inspired by Degas' ballerinas, Basso incorporated iridescent fabrics--ranging from gold to midnight blue to watercolor floral prints--as well as asymmetrical one-shoulder necklines and full, dancer-like skirts. Yes, there was fur: It turned up in swingy short-sleeved coats and adorable shrugs, all of which will keep the chill away on cool spring nights. Degas' ballerinas may not have worn fur, but Basso's certainly will.
Standout Look: In a season where there has been much discussion about designers skimping on fabrics in order to lower prices, Basso's dresses looked expensive (and probably will be). This iridescent purple style photographed beautifully, as did many of the dresses, an important consideration for those planning on wearing these looks during the social season.
Bonus Points: I ended up sitting with my fellow blogger The Shophound, and we spent the show trying to gauge the reactions of the Botoxed ladies-who-lunch sitting across the aisle from us. Also in the front row: Joan Rivers, Carol Alt, Beverly Johnson, and Mary Louise Parker.
Where to Buy: Dennis Basso boutiques worldwide; click here to find one near you.