Designer Dennis Basso chose socialite, writer, and dear friend Cornelia Guest to walk the runway at his New York Fashion Week show for his Spring 2024 line at 583 Park Avenue. “The exciting thing about this collection is that I used the inspiration of great American families…generational dressing…grandmothers, mothers and daughters,” the New York-based designer told us backstage.

The line pays homage to icons of American style and vivaciousness of new world glamour with gowns to resort wear and even pantsuits and shorts. The palette ranged from shimmering pale blue, midnight black, bronze, copper, white, and even polka dots (trending this season). There were Basso’s signature petite evening boleros. This season saw designs in silk chiffon, satin face organza, embroidered lace, point d’esprit, four-ply silk, and gazar capture the soigné mood, and there were handmade flowers.

The hair was an ode to Barbie with a high-power pony, while the makeup was more subdued and natural, both done by salon owner Julien Farel.

“I think good fashion is timeless,” said Basso. “You should be able to go back into your closet, take something out that you haven’t worn in years, refresh it a little bit, and you can take that girl back out. That has always been my mantra of how I design my collection.”