Tuesday night I attended the preview and launch of the Natty Paint spring/Summer 2012 RTW collection on the roof of the Skyroom in Times Square. Not knowing exactly what to expect, I brought a friend, and my need to stuff my face with fries wound up working in my favor, as we wound up having the best seats in the house.

A medley of colors, and graphic shapes and prints inspired by Peter Max images, kaleidoscopes, and 60’s art reminded me of a Vivienne Tam dress I had, but with a colorful and almost retro spin. As the daughter of a textile designer, who had her own silk screen in her room, I immediately was drawn in to the silk screen process, which is the crux of Natty Paint’s entire collection. Insanely tall models sauntered down in the line, made up of dresses, and separates, which featured reoccurring themes including a bird print, shapes with an almost arcade feel, and of course, in fitting with our recent anniversary, a patriotic print.

The show started off with a pair of 60’s inspired orange palazzo pants with a metallic top, and the accessory of the season; a floppy brimmed ,Ali Mcgraw looking hat. One of my favorites was an almost sheer tank with a geometric zebra like print matched with a pair of well fitted shorts with birds all over them. I would wear this out on a Saturday night with heels, and some accessories, or to Sunday brunch with flats. The show ended on a more evening inspired note, with a gold flecked strapless number with glittery long-sleeve top attached and a fun, black dress with polka dot ruffles at the sleeves and hem; an eccentric take on the typical black cocktail dress.

But I think one of my favorite standouts was the raincoat piece. The model worked this to the max (you would have to, to rock that little a bikini infront of all those cameras), opening, and displaying it with the tie at the top, though it also features a zipper.The plastic poncho/raincoat looked like a piece of pink confection, almost resembling a wall that someone had splattered pastel paint all over. I think this piece culminated in the overall theme that Emily Mandri, the designer, had in mind when she worked on the s/s 12 collection of natty paint. Fun prints, cool, wearable style, and most above all else, have fun with fashion.

Now all I need is a rainy day…….