Christian Siriano goes to the ballet

Truth told, Christian Siriano is known for over-the-top confections, but at Saturday’s afternoon show, he took a more discreet route via the ballet. Inspired by movement and particularly the “Dream Ballet,” performed by the American Ballet Theatre, the show opened with slim pale pink polka-dot cropped pantsuits — a gussied-up version of what dancers might wear hanging around. Later, that same silo turned up in a sparkling sea foam ensemble.

There were pearl-drenched shifts and bodices, some with feather trim inspired by images plucked from ABT archives. A patterned chiffon grouping boasted a print that looked like an abstract sunset, all surprisingly slim and chic.

And then there were those Payless shoes, Siriano a longtime collaborator. Our fave was his first-ever flat, called the Margot, this a take on a ballerina oxford sneaker featuring a white rubber sole, a blush metallic or dotted satin upper and ballerina laces – they were great.

Of course, Siriano will always be a bit of a drama king, and the show wouldn’t have felt good without a few big, big ballgown – one, a mound of grayish tulle, stunning.  A magic moment?  The finale, as three models in light, romantic frocks appeared to have walked right off the canvas of Siriano’s favorite Degas painting, “Three Ballet Dancers.” Bravo.