After the Carolina Herrera show Monday, I walked out with my favorite author, Dominick Dunne, who was accosted by zealous fans at every turn. "I just love you!" gushed one skinny social type. Another thrust a copy of a magazine into his hands. "It's new -- and all about the luxury market!" enthused the shameless pitchwoman. "Perfect for you." A bit shellshocked but always gracious, Dunne took it from the woman but kept chatting with yours truly about his long awaited next book, A Solo Act. It's still not done, which is no surprise -- how can Dunne concentrate when he has la scandale of the year to keep him otherwise engaged. Don't miss his latest column on the Brooke Astor mess. Not, surprisingly, he has less than glowing things to say about the Marshalls, who first promised him an exclusive on their side of the story and then backed out at the last minute. Of Mrs. Astor's daughter-in-law Charlene, Dunne says: "Look at the harm she's done to her ex-husband -- and she left her kids. She's just mean." Note to Mrs. Marshall: Dunne makes a much better friend than an enemy.

--Diane Clehane

FishbowlNY's Fashion Week Coverage: