The Glossy Podcast: Dennis Basso on NYFW’s Past and Present – A Detailed Summary

Release Date: February 8, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Glossy Podcast, host Jill Manoff sits down with renowned New York City-based designer Dennis Basso. With nearly two decades of showcasing at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) and upcoming presentations for his Fall 2025 collection, Basso offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of fashion, the significance of NYFW, and his distinctive approach to design and business.

Introduction

Jill Manoff (Host):
“Thanks so much for being here.” [00:05]

Jill introduces Dennis Basso, highlighting his long-standing presence at NYFW since 2007 and his illustrious career spanning various iconic venues in New York City. Basso expresses his excitement about the upcoming fashion week, emphasizing how swiftly time passes in the fashion industry.

Current Season Preparations

As Fashion Week approaches, Basso shares the behind-the-scenes hustle:

Dennis Basso:
“We are, you know, in this full, full steam ahead, so to speak.” [00:57]

He details the meticulous process of selecting models, coordinating accessories, and initiating alterations to ensure perfection for the runway. The preparation underscores the dedication required to present a flawless collection.

Theme: Celebrating the New York Woman

Basso delves into the essence of his current collection:

Dennis Basso:
“The New York woman is something else because she's daring, she's practical, and she's glamorous, and she owns her look.” [01:48]

He celebrates the multifaceted nature of the New York woman, tracing her evolution from the 1930s to the present. Basso’s theme captures the diversity and resilience of women in the city, highlighting their ability to blend high fashion with practicality.

Evolution of Venues and Community at NYFW

Reflecting on his journey, Basso recounts his experiences across various NYFW venues:

Dennis Basso:
“I've sort of run the full gamut.” [04:28]

From the Regency Hotel ballroom and Studio 54 in the '80s to the Palladium and St. Regis in later years, Basso's trajectory mirrors the transformation of NYFW venues. His first show at Bryant Park stands out as a pivotal moment:

Dennis Basso:
“Showing at Bryant Park was like a validation.” [05:03]

Being among giants like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein at Bryant Park affirmed his place in the fashion elite, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie.

Impact of 9/11 on Fashion Week

The conversation shifts to the profound effects of 9/11:

Dennis Basso:
“I was there during 9/11 in 2011.” [06:38]

Basso shares how the tragedy impacted the fashion community, highlighting the unity and resilience that emerged in its aftermath. The shared experience at Bryant Park during such challenging times reinforced the tight-knit nature of the industry.

Shifts in the Fashion Industry

Discussing the current state of the fashion community, Basso observes:

Dennis Basso:
“Everyone is doing what's right for them and what's right for their company and for their creativity.” [07:03]

He notes the diversification within the industry, with some designers opting for exclusive appointment-only shows while others host extravagant, multi-million-dollar presentations. This independence fosters a dynamic and evolving fashion landscape.

Innovative Collection Presentation

Breaking away from traditional runway shows, Basso announces his interactive presentation:

Dennis Basso:
“They're going to be in vignettes. So you're going to be able to stand there almost museum-like.” [07:43]

Set in a historic 1890 townhouse, the presentation will feature themed vignettes, offering attendees an immersive and intimate experience. This innovative approach aims to provide a deeper connection between the audience and the collection.

Education and Business Partnerships

Basso emphasizes the importance of education and strategic partnerships:

Dennis Basso:
“Higher education is so important. So no matter what your field is...I think FIT is an amazing school.” [09:30]

Acknowledging his time at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and his close relationship with Dr. Brown, Basso underscores how formal education and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping his career and business acumen.

Diversification through QVC

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Basso’s long-term collaboration with QVC:

Dennis Basso:
“I've been on QVC for 31 years.” [11:35]

Launching his "Dennis by Dennis Basso" collection on QVC allowed him to reach a broader audience, blending high-end fashion with accessible designs. This diversification has not only funded his creative endeavors but also built a loyal customer base across America.

Customer Loyalty and Business Challenges

Basso reflects on the importance of maintaining relevance and staying current:

Dennis Basso:
“The greatest challenge is you want to stay current, you want to stay modern, you want to be able to be out there.” [13:12]

He discusses the balance between preserving the brand’s heritage and adapting to contemporary trends, highlighting recent successful campaigns, including collaborations with Martha Stewart.

Distribution Channels

Expanding his global footprint, Basso elaborates on his distribution strategies:

Dennis Basso:
“We have a boutique in Harrods...various shops all around Europe and America.” [13:45]

In addition to a strong presence on QVC, Basso’s collections are available in prestigious boutiques like Harrods and through trunk shows in locations such as Palm Beach and Switzerland, ensuring a diverse and international clientele.

Style Evolution Post-Pandemic

Addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on fashion:

Dennis Basso:
“We learned how to pare things down and still get everything done.” [14:44]

The pandemic prompted a shift towards more versatile and comfortable fashion. Basso notes a resurgence in dressing up, with trends leaning back towards elegant dresses, blazers, and statement pieces, signaling a return to glamour post-lockdowns.

Celebrity and Influencer Engagement

Basso reminisces about the high-profile attendees of his shows:

Dennis Basso:
“We've had everyone from Joan Collins to Diana Ross.” [16:16]

His shows have consistently attracted celebrities and influencers, enhancing the brand’s visibility and prestige. Collaborations include outfitting Meryl Streep for The Devil Wears Prada and catering to stars like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger.

Blending Couture and QVC Collections

Basso’s unique approach involves integrating couture pieces with his QVC line:

Dennis Basso:
“I blend them in so you're never quite sure what's what.” [17:51]

This strategy caters to the diverse tastes of the American woman, allowing for a seamless mix of high fashion and accessible styles, embodying the versatility and confidence of his clientele.

Social Media and Personal Presence

Maintaining a strong personal and social media presence, Basso remains actively engaged with his audience:

Dennis Basso:
“I'm on [QVC] once a week.” [18:53]

His consistent interaction through television and social media platforms ensures a direct connection with customers, fostering loyalty and brand affinity.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Basso’s enthusiasm for the upcoming show:

Dennis Basso:
“I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.” [19:21]

His invitation to the audience underscores his commitment to creating an inclusive and engaging fashion experience, blending tradition with innovation.

Key Takeaways:

• Legacy and Innovation: Dennis Basso seamlessly integrates his rich history in NYFW with innovative presentation methods, reflecting both tradition and modernity.

• Community and Resilience: The fashion community’s sense of camaraderie, especially during challenging times like 9/11, highlights the industry's resilience and unity.

• Diversified Business Model: Basso’s collaboration with QVC exemplifies successful diversification, enabling broader reach and sustained growth.

• Adaptability: Navigating changes brought by the pandemic, Basso adapts his designs and business strategies to remain relevant and appealing.

• Celebrity Endorsements: High-profile collaborations and consistent presence among celebrities bolster the brand’s prestige and visibility.

• Educational Foundations: Emphasizing the importance of formal education and mentorship, Basso highlights how foundational knowledge and relationships are crucial in building a successful fashion career.

Dennis Basso’s insights offer a comprehensive look into the intricate balance of creativity, business acumen, and community spirit that drives success in the ever-evolving world of fashion.