Tommy Hilfiger set sail for Spring/Summer 2025, literally, with a runway show held on a retired ferry boat at Pier 17 in New York City’s South Street Seaport. This marked a departure from last season’s return to New York Fashion Week at Grand Central Terminal’s Oyster Bar, and a decidedly more nautical-themed affair.
The show’s invitations were weighty, brass-colored coins that mirrored the now-defunct ferry tokens used until 1997, when free ferry rides to Staten Island were implemented. The ferry itself, the MV John F. Kennedy, plied the waters between Manhattan and Staten Island from 1965 until 2021. It gained further notoriety in 2021 when it was purchased by Saturday Night Live stars Colin Jost and Pete Davidson.
Tommy Hilfiger, known for its signature preppy aesthetic, has consistently revisited nautical inspirations since its inception in 1985. This season saw the brand embrace its nautical roots with a collection heavily featuring sailor-inspired elements like button-down striped sweaters, fisherman sweaters, and trench coats reminiscent of peacoats.
The collection also continued the brand’s foray into beige, evident in last season’s designs, creating a sense of modernity. However, the brand’s signature red, white, and blue color scheme, reminiscent of nautical flags and maritime themes, remained a defining presence.
While individual pieces may have seemed familiar, there was a clear effort to update them for contemporary sensibilities. Coats and sweaters were crafted with dropped shoulders, creating an oversized silhouette. Trousers were presented in a low-rise style for a relaxed fit, and cardigans were cropped for a modern touch.
Adding a touch of star power, the front row included a mix of music icons, including BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, Stray Kids’ Felix and Lee Know, and Mrs. GREEN APPLE members Motoki Omori, Kouto Wakai, and Ryoka Fujisawa. Their presence drew a sizable crowd eager to catch a glimpse of these popular artists.
As the show reached its finale, members of the iconic Wu-Tang Clan – Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Raekwon, all hailing from Staten Island – emerged from the front row and launched into a live performance. This unexpected addition cemented the brand’s deep connection to music, a defining part of its DNA.
Tommy Hilfiger, in its nearly 40-year history, has become an enduring American brand, consistently embracing nautical styling while maintaining its appeal to a broad audience. The brand’s steadfast commitment to classic styles demonstrates its ability to remain relevant in the ever-shifting landscape of New York City fashion.
