Dennis Basso Resort 2016 Collection

It was Basso Light for resort. That’s how Dennis Basso saw his “unorthodox” approach to fur this season as he designed them “in pieces.” Patchwork was a better description for the elaborate mixes of black broadtail or white quilted sable with lace, organza, silk ribbons and beaded houndstooth cashmere he used for a slim coat or little bolero and shown over wide silk taffeta pants. It might sound like a lot, but Basso achieved a surprisingly sleek elegance with even his wackiest combos. Stripped of embellishment, was a knockout long broadtail vest in a hand-cut, oversize eyelet effect, which he also used for coats and jackets.

Basso’s eveningwear has evolved each season in both range and creativity. Here he showed gowns and tea-length dresses in a tangerine tie-dye chiffon and in a charming, appliquéd pink silk organza. A chic navy-and-white bamboo linen group included a simple A-line dress and mid-calf styles with beaded bodices. He said he is particularly happy with the success of the 2,400-square-foot Dennis Basso boutique in Harrods in London, that “has attracted an international customer who loves special-occasion dresses.” So much so that the store recently opened a separate Dennis Basso children’s boutique, where a girl’s party frock starts at $2,600. “All made in New York, ” he added proudly.