Dennis Basso: From Furs to Fame with Friends and Celebrities

Fashion has a way of capturing hearts, and few in the industry do it as effortlessly as Dennis Basso. In an intimate “Fashion Icons” talk with Fern Mallis at Manhattan’s 92NY, the New York designer, known for his unparalleled love of fur, delighted the audience with humorous anecdotes and deep insights into his illustrious career.

Early Beginnings at FIT

Basso described his journey, beginning with fond memories of his time at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). “The clubs, the excitement, the first suit from Bloomingdale’s,” he chuckled. It was here that friendships formed over shared successes and occasional fashion faux pas.

Breakthroughs and Honorary Accolades

An honorary doctorate from his alma mater, FIT, marked one of Basso’s proudest moments. “There were 6,000 people, and it felt unreal,” he remembered fondly. His reminiscing about that day was filled with heartfelt gratitude and modesty - a testament to his character. According to WWD, Basso’s dedication is reflected in every aspect of his career.

Behind the Glitz: Making it Big in Fashion

Basso’s rise from fur parties to owning his first showroom showcased his relentless passion. Always one to push boundaries, he recounted how a simple ad in WWD led him to a game-changing opportunity in fur design, proving that sometimes the simplest beginnings lead to grand finales.

Core Stories: His Big Celebrity Break

Dennis shared with the enamored audience a pivotal moment — his first fashion show, which Nikki Haskell promoted on her cable TV show. The event drew luminaries like Egon von Furstenberg and Ivana Trump, leading to a defining moment for Basso. “Ivana bought seven fur coats the next morning,” he recalled, a memory forever etched in the fabric of his life.

Dressing the Stars

Celebrities like Meryl Streep and Patti LaBelle have walked the red carpet in Basso’s creations, but it wasn’t just the gowns that made an impression. The stories of how these connections were woven left the audience spellbound and added a deeper layer to the allure of Hollywood glamour.

Personal Reflections on Love and Legacy

Reflecting on his private life, Basso shared the serendipitous meetings that brought him closer to his husband. “Fire Island was where real magic happened,” he smiled wistfully. Lastly, considering his legacy, Basso hoped to be remembered as “someone who loves life,” a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates his infectious passion.

As Basso continues to influence fashion and inspire many, it’s evident that his legacy is not just about the glitz and glamour but the heart behind every stitch.