Natori brings the sassy ‘sarong’ to Fashion Week

Josie Natori’s collection highlights fuller skirts and sarong-inspired pants. Photos by Elton Lugay

It’s September 4, Day 1 of the world-famous New York Fashion Week, and first on my need-to-watch list is the Spring 2015 collection of intimates innovator Josie Natori.

Natori unveiled her tropical wear as if declaring she’s not ready to say good-bye to summer just yet.

Josie’s Escape to Paradise featured models looking casual and mellow with their damp hair and the Natori sandals on their feet. The wet tresses paired prettily with the beach fashion of colorful flora and neutrals.

Josie who’s been in the fashion business for about three decades now said her designs explore the “uninhibited nature of an island arousing the senses and sets sail to a state of bliss.”

The collection highlighted fuller skirts and sarong- inspired pants, while island inspiration is translated in fabric through crisp textures and shimmery organza. The result impressing no less than Hollywood designer and fellow Filipino American David Tupaz.

“Josie’s collection expressed a relaxed almost resort-style feel,” said Tupaz, who is slated to mount his own NYFW pageant September 5 at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue. “With embroidery details and unusual textured elements, she captured that very tropical essence of style.”

Josie said her inspiration is “the feeling of euphoria that only a tropical island can evoke.” She spoke of a color palette that echoes the nature of the islands, from neutral sandy tones to the deep blues of the ocean. She should know, this style CEO who has spent many summers in her native, the Philippines!

Spotted front row was soap opera actress Susan Lucci of ABC’s “All My Children.” In my mind, Erica Kane wrapped in a sarong is nothing short of dazzling!

The designer in summery yellow