The Tamesis
It’s rare for New Yorkers to happily walk through the neon chaos of 42nd Street on a Monday night, but Old Navy’s unveiling of its Christopher John Rogers collaboration was cause for celebration. Upon arrival at the retailer’s flagship store, guests were greeted by disco dancers spinning on an elevated platform, striped jelly on trays and upbeat funk music. “We held a dance party in Times Square,” said Zac Posen, executive vice president and creative director of Gap Inc. Fashion”, “Tonight we have gathered friends from the industry, fans of Christopher’s work, and new clients. “
The store’s ground floor has been transformed into a 1970s-style dance club, complete with dark curtains, flashing blue lights and spinning mirrored balls. But unlike any other Manhattan club, this one has a distinctly CJR feel. “We extended the stripes, exploded the polka dots, used bold colors, and added a handmade quality to the artwork,” explains Rogers. These patterns and hues were the main thread of the evening: wrapping the DJ booth and pillars, lining the shopping racks and even appearing in the restaurant decor. Hors d’oeuvres.
Katie Holmes, Jenna Lyons, Gayle King, Chloe Fineman, Iris Apatow and Kimora Lee Simmons (with her daughters Aoki and Ming Lee Simmons Wearing looks from head to toe, further enhancing the collection’s presence throughout the night and showcasing its versatility. “We’re doing this with all ages and different demographics,” Simmons shared, sitting on a chartreuse couch. “It’s great to be able to show that these pieces work for moms like me and their daughters. I’m excited to see people taking an interest in this diversity.”
As the night continued, excitement hung in the air as guests sipped on pineapple-flavored drinks. “It’s a testament to Zach that he was able to bring in such amazing American designers and create something that will take us right into spring,” shares Katie Holmes Fashion. “These pieces feel very wearable across generations.”
Many opted for low-rise jeans from the collection to style their looks: Apatow paired hers with a CJR-logoed vest, Holmes paired them with green long sleeves, and Fineman added a funnel-neck jacket for extra edge. Others went for the playful stripes at the center of the collection; Gayle King opted for a bodycon dress, while Kimora Lee Simmons opted for a long-sleeved T-shirt version.
With cocktails flowing and excitement flowing, attendees had the opportunity to grab the shopping racks and pick up pieces ahead of the collection’s official launch on April 15. “If you’re a true fashionista, buy the whole thing,” Posen said with a laugh. “You get a month’s worth of wardrobe!”
As the sun began to set, guests filed back into crowded Times Square, colorful macarons in tow. The energy of the evening lingered about them—a sense of optimism and joy that echoed Rogers’ vision. “Having the opportunity to communicate something very targeted to clients who are creating a point for themselves feels like a privilege,” he shares. Posen added: “Old Navy is a place of discovery and excitement. We have a responsibility to educate, inspire and educate our customers because it allows them to feel the power of fashion.”
