Susan Lucci, 77, Stuns in NYFW Debut at Dennis Basso Show

NEW YORK — The phrase “age is just a number” takes on new meaning as Susan Lucci makes a stunning debut during New York Fashion Week.

The celebrated soap opera star took to the runway for the first time ever, gracing the catwalk at Dennis Basso’s show with enthused applause from an appreciative crowd.

At 77 years old, Lucci captivated attendees as she closed the show in a gorgeous pale green silk chiffon gown. The off-the-shoulder design featured a delicately pleated bust and a striking cape detail that cascaded elegantly down her arms and back.

Lucci shared after the show that the ensemble was custom-fitted specifically for the event, which aimed to spotlight the essence of the “modern, multi-generational woman,” as noted in Basso’s show details.

Backstage, Lucci expressed her excitement about participating in the prestigious event. “Dennis called me a couple of months ago and asked if I would do this with him, walk through the valley and then walk with him,” she said. “I was so flattered and honored and happy. I’ve never walked the runway before in fashion week.”

The actress, well-known for her role as Erica Kane on “All My Children,” has a history of modeling, including for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women’s Red Dress Collection. Nonetheless, she remarked that modeling at New York Fashion Week was a unique experience. “This is fashion week in New York. This is all by itself,” she stated.

Designer Dennis Basso praised Lucci for her professionalism and ability to guide younger models. “Susan Lucci, I love that! All these young girls during the rehearsal couldn’t figure [the runway] out. I told her how to walk it once, no problem,” he noted.

Lucci also shared that if she were in the audience, she would be taking notes. “If I were in the audience, I would be writing furiously which looks I wanted,” she said, highlighting her admiration for the collection.

The star-studded front row featured notable guests such as Kathy Hilton, “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star Meredith Marks, Kelly Bensimon, Sandra Lee, and “Bachelorette” star Rachel Lindsay. They watched as almost 40 looks from Basso’s spring/summer 2025 collection were unveiled, presented in collaboration with QVC, which will feature select styles for purchase following the show.

Basso’s partnership emphasized the theme of embracing the “age of possibility” and promoting fashion for women of all age groups. “I wanted to create the collection for the grandmother who’s 80, who thinks she’s 60, for the 50-year-old who thinks she’s 30, and for the 30-year-old who thinks she’s 18,” Basso explained.

Models of various ages strutted down the runway, showcasing a diverse range of designs including sparkling tweed looks, modern silhouettes, sheer pants, and signature fur creations, all tailored to resonate with today’s women.

Basso noted the evolving image of women, saying, “The 50-year-old, and the 60-year-old, and the 70-year-old are different women. We’re all different people. We’re younger, we’re modern. Personally, I’m 70 years old. I think daddy’s hanging in there!”

Accompanying the joyous celebration of fashion was a philosophy that aligns with another familiar saying: “When you feel good, you look good.” Lucci, who underwent her second heart surgery in 2022, emphasized her wellbeing. “I’m in great shape,” she affirmed. “I feel great, all good.”

In an industry often concerned with the passage of time, Lucci’s debut sends a powerful message about beauty, confidence, and self-expression at any age.

Source: USA Today