Sparkles, sandals and socks and sailor collars, all aboard the SS Hilfiger.

S.S. Hilfiger

How many times can one re-invent Americana? When we’re talking Tommy Hilfiger – infinitely. The good news is, it doesn’t get old – not when the inspirations from season to season range from Bob Marley to Sargeant Pepper-era Beatlemania. In these case of this season, the starting point was Titanic-esque steamship luxury – a theme carried out, as as per usual, to epic Hilfiger proportions, with a giant ocean liner erected in the middle of the Park Avenue Armory, complete with railings, smokestacks, and a wooden deck lined with benches for a first-class front row.

All that glitters

Hilfiger’s interpretation of turn-of-the-century steamship luxe was filled with sparkles and sailor stripes. Pajama silk gave the impression of an heiress out for a stroll on deck, while even familiar basics like a cozy turtleneck sweater featured sequins and irridescent beading in a cableknit pattern. Navy-inspired outerwear came in every variety – trench coats, cropped jackets, and a knee length leather coat lined with shearling – a sampling replete with red lapels, gold military buttons, and metals of honor.

Romance overseas

We’d be remiss not to mention the unmistakeable influence of Gucci’s Alessandro Michele, as evidenced by the familiar color palette, ruffled collars, and sequined tromp l’oeil bows and ribbons decorating necks and waistlines. The new Romantic edge spanned head to toe, with soft lace-trimmed ankle socks peeking out of pumps and chunky high-heeled maryjanes. Thin gold chokers imitating sailor knots completed the look, for an effect both sophisticated and quaint.

Words: R.J. Hernandez