Photos by Jill Fehrenbacher for Ecouterre
No one can accuse Organic's John Patrick of being a Johnny-come-lately. Showcasing his Spring/Summer 2012 collection a full day before New York Fashion Week's official launch, the eco-fashion pioneer invited his guests on a journey of exploration and adventure to untouched lands far away. Amidst the eclectic historical decor of the West Village's sailor-shack-turned-hotel The Jane, onlookers reveled in one of Patrick's most streamlined collections yet: classic, timeless, and chic, yet devoid of excessive trendiness. (Like the desert-boot wedges that the models donned, the pieces espouse utility with flair.)
SALLY FORTH
The new collection, Patrick says, is a metaphor for the journey our planet is engaged in, with elements drawn from “archetypes” such as the scientist, traveler, wanderer, recycler, and reuser. Literally and figuratively, the collection breathes these characters into life through an earthy palette of khaki, cream, and olive.
The new collection, Patrick says, is a metaphor for the journey our planet is engaged in.
Unfussy as his safari-esque threads may be (was that a pith helmet we saw?), Patrick isn’t without surprises. A set of ruby and gold silk boxer shorts were constructed from vintage neckties, gleaned from New York, California, and France and tailored to the female form. An oversized clutch, day tote, and weekender feature recycled nylon as accents.
As critical shortages of raw materials become increasingly prevalent around the globe, thinking sustainably just makes sense, Patrick tells us. “I want to be the power of example,” he says. “We are going to get there, but we have to work together to do it…I’m trying to blend ethics with fashion.” Amen to that.
+ Organic by John Patrick
PREVIOUS COVERAGE OF JOHN PATRICK ORGANIC
+ John Patrick Organic Fall/Winter 2011
+ John Patrick Organic Spring/Summer 2011
+ John Patrick Organic Fall/Winter 2010
+ John Patrick Organic Spring/Summer 2010
