Ride the Curves Down Zac Posen's Memory Lane

This collection was inspired by Charles James. And, while there were impressive day dresses in luxe fabrics that echoed the '50s and were styled with gloves and cat-eye sunglasses, the line was, as to be expected, all about the gowns.

The final looks, full-skirted gowns with architectural necklines and lavish fabrics, were awe-inspiring.

Like James is oft remembered for his capes, this offering might well be remembered for the same: namely a navy cape-back gown and this lush copper-brown duchesse satin ensemble.

Another Posen signature, ruffles, made a powerful presence on the Spring 2014 runway — no more so than when piled on to excess on a pastel cocktail dress.

Employed as an accent, airy ruffles made a strong showing throughout the collection.

A more sculptural variation of the architectural element ensured you knew these gowns were Posen, through and through.

Though there was a decrease in volume, there was certainly no less to covet when a pretty lavender came down the Fall 2013 runway.

Suiting also made an appearance, and rich styles earned a rightful place among the eveningwear.

But what Posen does best are glamorous gowns, and this look was proof of that.

The cast of The Face walked Posen's Spring 2013 collection, which meant the chance to see Karolina Kurkova, Coco Rocha, and Naomi Campbell work their magic.

Naomi Campbell's bustier dress was at once ladylike and entirely womanly.

But no dress could outdo the showstopping entrance of Coco Rocha's dream wedding gown.

Next stop, Tokyo. The designer looked to a new source, Asia, for his Fall 2012 collection.

He kept in the same spirit while bringing in trademark elements like fur accents.

Even when there weren't floral prints, the inspiration was still there with exotic hues.

Jewel tones took center stage once again in the case of this sculpted gown.

Posen proved his daywear prowess with a suit that had all the markings of his red carpet dresses.

A sweet swingy dress would be equally suited for day but was still Posen through and through.

Instead of simply referencing Paris for his Fall 2011 show, Posen literally took his show there by staging it at the Palais de Tokyo.

Burgundy silk made a return to the Fall 2011 runway.

A hint of emerald peered out from under a dramatic black cape.

Oh la la! Another Parisian chic collection featured sheer panels and lace.

What's a trip to France without boudoir-inspired pink feathers?

When paired with black plumes, the designs really took flight.

Those rich tones got even more opulent when paired with velvet.

Silk felt equally luxe when sculpted in a chocolate hue.

Not to be outdone, fur had its runway moment.

The designer found a creative play on contouring with graphic latticework.

Those grids got sexier than before with leather and cutouts.

Taking inspiration from the '70s, ruched off-the-shoulder designs benefited from rich jewel tones.

Pastels have never looked so sultry as on the Fall 2009 runway.

Ruffles and florals got a dramatic feel too from romantic high necklines and cutouts.

Of course, if we're talking romance and drama, nothing can outdo bronze lamé.

Next stop, Paris! The designer's Fall 2008 show pulled from a Parisian influence.

Boudoir inspiration included garter and frills.

Karen Elson may have slipped in this dress, but she didn't let the designer down!

Looking to a similar source but in a much bolder color palette, Posen went bright for Spring.

Though all of his dresses weren't vibrant, the designs were mostly colorful . . .

. . . and even when they weren't, the gowns still managed to catch your eye.

Even Posen's outerwear is sophisticated and refined.

Posen balanced a sexy neckline with a sweet babydoll dress.

What would soon become one of his most famous designs once Gwyneth Paltrow wore it to the 2007 Oscars, this ruched blush gown is truly a Posen signature.

Zac Posen's swinging fringe dress demonstrated the designer's eye for structure with a braided belt and contoured bodice.

Scarlett O'Hara, eat your heart out!

An early example of Posen's fetes in ballgown design, this floral number was a fashion tour de force.