Inspired by contemporary American artists, Dennis Basso created a collection of sumptuous furs and evening wear in a rainbow of jewel tones for Fall/Winter 2014. Many of the pieces seemed to me like a modern take on Russian empresses, jeweled details adorning sleeves and luscious fur coats, silk gowns handpainted in black and metallics. Favorite pieces included a black and white chinchilla coat (I had the opportunity to touch it backstage, and I just wanted to melt into it); a black and white stripe, multi-tiered ribbon applique gown with an empire waist and a plunging v-neckline; and a lynx coat that floated down the runway. Basso has a specific audience--which I'm not sure includes freelance writer/photographers in their 20s--but watching his vibrant clothes move and quite literally sparkle in a show is in itself invigorating. View more photos from the collection on Style.com here.
Makeup, by Kabuki for Sephora Pro, was soft and elegant. Like he did for Basso last season, Kabuki used a black winged eyeliner. He also used a soft highlighter on the cheeks and a pale pink lipstick. Hair was pulled back in a chic donut of sorts, twirled and secured under the nape of the neck. Nails, in that wine tone I've been seeing a lot of this season, featured a peel-off nail polish that combined a base coat, color, and top coat.
In the audience, were none other than the fabulous Ms. Mary J. Blige and June Ambrose. I was lucky enough to take their pictures! Check them out here with more sights from backstage and during the show (all photos by moi).
