EcoSalon at NYFW: John Patrick Organic

John Patrick Organic’s optimistic presentation for spring ’12 makes way for an aesthetically-pleasing collection.

John Patrick showed his 19-piece, spring 2012 collection on a rainy New York morning just steps from the Hudson River. With a diverse troop of models looking relaxed and even happy, Patrick’s presentation was in stark contrast to what one usually identifies with New York Fashion Week shows.

Patrick says, “I don’t do trends,” allowing him to take the idea of sustainability to his own metropolis where other designers want to emulate him and where in fact, he becomes the trend setter. Patrick says this collection comes from his personal quests: “It’s about going on a journey, but you don’t know where you’re going. It’s where I am in life.” If not by intent, his designs nonetheless feel very relevant – light, ethereal and make for an effortless and natural life.

Freedom, as we know, comes in many forms. Pieces like the Khaki Strapless Dress (below), an all-weather hat and cozy flats channel Patrick’s wilderness-seeking independence.

His white, off-shoulder dress, coupled with a recycled nylon Camel Catskill Rucksack (below) – “A bag that people can use!” proclaims Patrick – takes lightweight travel to a more cosmopolitan place.

Following his pursuit of the organic life, Patrick’s blend of simple luxury with sustainability is clear in designs like his featherweight Tie Silk Shorts and Raw-Edge Shirts.

True to name, the bottoms are made from recycled men’s ties sourced from New York, California and France.  “Recycled materials are so important given the state of the world,” I overheard Patrick telling the buyer from Barney’s New York. A part of me wished I could have seen her face better when she digested that.

As the non-linear, runway-free show came to a close, the models danced around hugging and still smiling. More fodder for the aforementioned show optimism.

If Patrick’s designs point a compass toward the future, this writer thinks we should all join the journey.

Here are more shots from the show:

Jennifer Barckley

Jennifer currently resides in New York City where she covers eco fashion and beauty for EcoSalon.