Snigdha Ahuja
Updated on: October 9, 2024 3:20 am GMT
Historic Staten Island Ferry Transforms into Fashion Venue for NYFW
In an unexpected twist for New York Fashion Week (NYFW), the iconic Staten Island Ferry, MV John F. Kennedy, is set to debut as a fashion venue this Sunday. Purchased for $280,000 by Saturday Night Live stars Pete Davidson and Colin Jost, along with comedy club owner Paul Italia, the ferry will host designer Tommy Hilfiger’s Spring 2025 runway show, blending fashion with nautical history in a stunning waterfront setting.
From Decommissioned Transport to Fashion Stage
Once an essential transit service for New Yorkers, the MV John F. Kennedy operated from 1965 until its decommissioning in 2021. This historic vessel, now docked at Manhattan’s Pier 17, is being reimagined as a chic entertainment venue and boutique hotel under the creative direction of architect Ron Castellano. The refurbishment project has a projected budget of $34 million and aims to preserve the ferry’s mid-century aesthetic while adding modern amenities such as a comedy club, restaurants, and bars.
Tommy Hilfiger’s Nautical Inspiration
Bringing his love for the city and its landmarks to life, Tommy Hilfiger is infusing his new collection with a nautical theme. “We’re inspired by nautical this season,” he stated in an interview before the show. The collection embraces what he describes as “nautical, preppy, collegiate, all-American and modern,” making the Staten Island Ferry a fitting backdrop for the event.
Hilfiger is known for utilizing unique venues for his collections, having previously staged presentations at Grand Central Station and Brooklyn’s Skyline Drive-in. The designer’s goal is not just to showcase clothing but also to create a memorable experience that resonates with fans and fashion insiders alike.
A Celebration of Local Culture
The runway show is not only a celebration of fashion but also of Staten Island’s cultural roots. Jost, a Staten Island native who has fond memories of riding the ferry to school, expressed his excitement about the collaboration. ”I took this exact boat every single morning to high school,” Jost shared. “And when it was available, I just loved the vibe of it.”
Attendees will be treated to a live musical performance featuring renowned members of Staten Island’s own Wu-Tang Clan, including Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Raekwon, enhancing the event’s local flair. The culinary offerings will feature classic New York snacks, including hot dogs, soft pretzels, and caramel corn, with special Statue of Liberty pins hidden inside for lucky guests.
Connecting History with Modern Fashion
The objective of Hilfiger’s show goes beyond showcasing his Spring 2025 collection — it aims to bridge the ferry’s history with its new life as a modern entertainment destination. The designer’s current collection showcases nautical stripes and casual styles, reflecting the “New American Prep wardrobe” from refined Ivy League aesthetics to everyday coastal functionality.
Future Prospects for the Ferry
As the fashion world descends on this transformed ferry, the vision of Davidson, Jost, and Italia will continue to take shape. With long-term plans to convert the ferry into a venue that celebrates art, comedy, and hospitality, the John F. Kennedy is embarking on an exciting new chapter.
The introduction of the ferry as a fashion venue highlights the innovative spirit of New York City, where ideas blend and the unexpected reigns. As Hilfiger and his team prepare for the show, all eyes will be on this symbolic vessel, demonstrating how history and modernity can converge in the most remarkable ways.
For more details on Tommy Hilfiger’s collections, visit Tommy Hilfiger’s official website.
As New York Fashion Week continues, keep an eye out for exciting news and the creative projects this historic ferry will inspire on its new adventure. It’s ready to change how we think about fashion!
