Nautica: NYFW Fall 2012 Presentation

Aside from the opportunity to spend an afternoon ogling gorgeous male models, Nautica’s Fall 2012 Fashion Presentation at the Empire Hotel had some noteworthy highlights.

First off, it was apparent that Creative Director Chris Cox was focused on bringing fresh life to the iconic American menswear line. Inspired by watermen of the northeastern coast, this collection combined style signatures of sailmakers, dockhands, admirals, and prepsters.

Thirty familiar Nautica models lined up against the stately backdrop of the Empire’s dusky wood panel walls, some donning dark eyewear while others wore colorful headgear and vests provided by the brand. A crowd of onlookers elbow-wrestled with photogs to snap images they could tweet from their camera phone. It was an activity that, I’m sure was designed, to make the models smile and strike a casual pose.

Cox’s offering of predictable khakis and dark corduroy was offset by bright yellow parkas, fire engine bombers, and color-block windbreakers. Toggles, as seen on tailored coats and jackets in wool and cotton, were a recurring theme. Trademark knit sweaters, cardigans, flannel button tops, and rugby polos were all updated with clean silhouettes.

The causal interaction between the crowd with the models, as well as Cox himself, made for a lively presentation. At one point I saw Bravo’s Ambria Miscia steadfastly making her way through the room, presumably doing her own fashion hunting. Even after the models turned about face to make their exit, the room was abuzz with people exchanging opinions over wine and champagne to the sounds of the DJ.

On behalf of the show’s attendees, Nautica made a donation to fund a water project with charity: water.

- Tracey L.

Photos via Zimbio and WWD, and by Tracey Lewis for Socially Superlative.

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