Tommy Hilfiger, known for his love of New York City and his flair, pulled out all the stops for his New York Fashion Week show on Sunday night. This time, the designer took his passion for the Big Apple and all things maritime to a new level by hosting his runway show aboard a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry. Guests were treated to more than just fashion, with a surprise rap-filled finale that left the crowd buzzing.

Image: Charles Sykes/AP

The night’s live musical performance featured none other than Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Raekwon from Staten Island’s legendary Wu-Tang Clan, who worked their way through the runway and audience seats as they performed. The soundtrack for the evening was curated by Questlove, who also DJed Hilfiger’s February show at Grand Central’s Oyster Bar, adding his signature musical expertise to the event.

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“We’re inspired by nautical this season,” Hilfiger told The Associated Press ahead of the show. “But it’s nautical, preppy, collegiate, all-American and modern. So we needed to show it either on the water, on a boat, or near the water. Then we found out the Staten Island Ferry was available.” The ferry, named the John F. Kennedy, had served the borough of Staten Island until it was decommissioned in 2021. The boat was purchased in 2022 by a group of investors, including comedian Pete Davidson and Saturday Night Live’s Colin Jost, who both grew up in Staten Island.

Jost was thrilled to see the ferry transformed for the event, sharing his excitement with reporters. “It’s pretty crazy,” he said. “It’s one of the few days where I’ve been on the boat and been like, ‘Oh, say, this is nice. This is how it can work.’” He went on to explain his personal connection to the ferry: “I took this exact boat every single morning to high school. And when it was available, I just loved the vibe of it.”

Hilfiger’s Spring 2025 collection embraced his signature nautical aesthetic, with a mix of stripes inspired by sailing heritage and casual, breezy pieces like capri pants and oversized knits. The show also featured the brand’s beloved varsity jackets, club blazers, trench coats, and polos. The designer’s “New American Prep” collection seamlessly blended Ivy League style with practical coastal wear. Accessories included neckerchiefs, adding a playful, preppy touch to the ensemble. The evening’s nautical theme was extended to the refreshments, as guests enjoyed Champagne, beer, hot dogs, pretzels, and custom boxes of caramel corn adorned with Hilfiger’s logo. Inside each box was a Statue of Liberty pin, serving as a special keepsake.

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The show attracted an impressive array of celebrities, from Hollywood stars to global music icons. Shay Mitchell and Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline were both in attendance, with Cline gushing over the collection. “Incredible, as always,” she said. “I want every piece. The accessories were phenom, and how do you end a show better than what he did?” British actor Damson Idris also graced the event. 

Image: Gilbert Flores/WWD

K-pop superstars Jisoo of BLACKPINK, along with Felix and Lee Know from Stray Kids, brought some international flair to the audience. Nasty girl Tinashe was also spotted enjoying the show.

Hilfiger’s collection also had a personal touch for Blue Lagoon actress Brooke Shields. Shields, who attended with her daughter Grier, shared an emotional moment as Grier made her runway debut. “I got very emotional,” Shields admitted. “It was her first show, and this is something she wanted to do. And I said, ‘You’ve got to go to college, but it’s a Sunday, so it’s okay.’”

As the night came to a close, the energy aboard the John F. Kennedy ferry was electric. With stunning designs, a nautical backdrop, and a surprise musical performance by rap legends, Hilfiger once again proved why he remains one of the most celebrated names in American fashion.