There s plenty to marvel at during a Zac Posen preview: the acres of bordeaux tulle on a halter gown, the obsessive attention to detail in the curving pleats on a pencil skirt (how many hours did a seamstress toil over those?), model Anna Cleveland s old school sashay. But what s most remarkable is the fit. Posen s hourglass-enhancing dresses can turn even the most angular of mannequins into sex bombs. His lookbook shoot with the androgynous Erin O Connor is proof positive of that.
Since returning to the New York scene from Paris a year ago, Posen has zeroed in on eveningwear. He says it s paying off at retail, where sell-throughs have been "unbelievable." But dressy skirtsuits and other separates also got their fair share of play in his new Resort collection. A pintucked chiffon and washed organza blouse and pleated high-waisted pants had a smart, retro-modern look.
Posen built options into a long-sleeved black day sheath. Its cowled neckline could be worn pulled down, exposing the shoulders, or up for a more demure look. A pretty violet gown with one manipulable sleeve had the same kind of versatility. Ultimately, it s the drama of these frocks that makes them desirable, but that kind of considered practicality has its appeal, too.
