At a presentation of his new Organic resort collection, John
Patrick cited the cultural catchphrase "Make art not war." The
designer claimed the lineup was a tribute to the late artist
Jimmy Mirikitani, a fixture of downtown New York who lived by
this motto and painted prolifically, who sold his works (Patrick
bought several pieces during the nineties) out of a makeshift
street "atelier" in Soho. Mirikitani was more of a guiding
spirit this season than a direct reference, but one could argue
that the designer has always been about making clothes not war.
Patrick isn't trying to stage a fashion revolution, but is
instead focused on creating beautifully crafted, sustainable
basics like the perfect little hand-loomed cashmere cardigans
and slim white summer suits here. He maintains an unwavering
dedication to details, and counted out each of the 16 gores on a
full eyelet skirt made for twirling. Feminine pieces like tank
dresses (done in delicate lace or with allover floral
embroidery) were paired with sporty s