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.
