Part of New York Fashion Week Men’s The Nautica Spring/Summer 2017 Men’s Show was presented at Skylight: Clarkson Square. Check out the review.
In fashion, especially in today’s fast-moving design landscape, it’s often discouraged to be predictable. Predictability leads to dependency, which leads to a lack of creativity. This, however, is the popular opinion. Go in the other direction and let predictability become heritage, and suddenly it’s a constraint that can energize and inspire. For Nautica, if the name doesn’t clue you in, maybe the invitation will: it waxed poetic about the inspirational nature of the south of France in its timeless glory. Upon entering the show, models were lively and enjoying real champagne around a “pool”, some lounging, chatting with others, snapping pics with guests.
Across the way, a group of guys enjoyed a game of bocce on a AstroTurf stage. And in this demonstration, Nautica overcame the issue of predictability: they preserved heritage by creating this history, and demonstrated the diverse opportunities for wear, from the poolside, to the racing vessel, to the bocce court. The clothes themselves fit perfectly. Taken in earnest compared to the campy/cheeky staging, the clothes came alive with signature Nautica looks: the occasional Cary Grant stand-in with a yellow polo, a selection of light sweaters in luxurious colors, tidy loafers, the small bandana around the neck (thanks Alessandro and Les Demoiselles de Rochefort!) as well as a suite of suits, perfectly tailored, even daringly paired with swim shorts. Who says history and heritage can’t inspire? The show was fabulous and does what fashion should: take you away.
However, it’s curious how the recent tragic events in Nice, a resort town heavily referenced in the collection, may have influenced the impression of the show. We think it’s a respectful representation, celebrating the pleasure and vivacity of this part of the world, and that, in retrospect, this tragedy does not define the region, the culture, or the spirit.
