John Bartlett Fall 2012 Presentation

John Bartlett's Fall 2012 collection was showcased at Milk Studios on Thursday, February 9th, 2012 in New York City.

"We have forgotten how to be good guests, how to walk lightly on the Earth as its other creatures do."

These words by the late British economist, Barbara Ward were on the cover of each run-of-show, along with Bartlett's unmistakable logo: his cherished, rescued, three-legged dog Tiny Tim, who passed away last year. Bartlett continues to do tireless work on behalf of shelter animals through the Tiny Tim Rescue Fund.

This "future-rustic" collection embraces a more heroic sense of outdoor life, where the outdoorsmen do not simply consume or observe nature - they take action to defend it. The collection was the result of Bartlett's Lexus/CFDA eco-fashion award, and in addition to drawing inspiration from exciting organic, recycled, and cruelty-free textiles, Bartlett drew upon many diverse works from "Lord of the Flies" to "The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou".

Some of the highlights were the nautical-striped organic cotton jersey shirts and the expertly crafted motorcycle jackets in cardinal and chocolate, collaborated upon by the legendary Schott in Ultrasuede Ambiance, a completely recycled, supple and durable suede-like microfiber that was also used for some incredible pine jeans, quilted black snowboard shorts and cadmium tote bags.

Organic cotton cable sleeve-scarves, knee-padded organic cotton football leggings, quilted plaid shorts and vests and organic cotton prince of whales pants all made for a strong and boyish, nostalgic and thoughtful collection. The garments were  made almost entirely in the United States, and Bartlett admits that this was a long-awaited dream, accomplished:

"Through my experiences as a fashion designer, animal rights activist, and recent vegan - I have always envisioned creating an eco-luxe collection...I believe that sustainability is sexy and that we can create a new generation of very exciting, durable, eco-luxe products without hurting the Earth and its inhabitants."