NEW YORK, Feb 9, 2002/ FW/ --- America's most American designer, Tommy Hilfiger, kicked off the New York fashion season Friday with a nautical, New England-themed collection that marked a return to home port for the creator.

The mood was rather naval and uniform but never militant in the collection, presented in the Bryant Park tents before an audience that included Wyclef Jean and model-cum-rapper Tyrese.

"I feel like a black Santa Claus," joked Tyrese, who playfully sat Jill Hennessy and Krystal on his knee in his front-row seat next to voluptuous model Sophie Dahl.

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then Hilfiger must be the world's best-loved designer - his logo, red, white and blue color scheme and all-American style is copied worldwide.

What's special about Hilfiger, and not his endless copyists, is that he really understands how most men want to dress outside of the office.

Opening with the ringing cords of Led Zeppelin's "Communication Breakdown," Hilfiger sent out leather officer's jackets, pea coats in twill and aged wool, and moleskin sailor pants that were, commercially, right on the money.

In short, they're the kind of clothes men buy and feel good about throwing on hundreds of times.

"New England, with its tradition-rich heritage, is the vision," said the designer in his program notes.

The Atlantic state tradition came through in preppie toggle coats, argyle sweaters and varsity jackets updated with down vests.

He sent out a number of clever pants, especially one great pair of trousers with a corduroy front and denim back.

For guys who've made a little money, Hilfiger came up with some country looks in wearable Donegal tweed, tartan flannel and windowpane checks.

If you like your sophistication easy, then Hilfiger is the designer for you.

Tyrese and Krystal	Jill Hennessy, Tyrese, Krystal	Anna Wintour
Maggie Rizer and Sophie Dahl	Tyrese	Paolo Mastropietro & wife Jill Hennessy

Jill Hennessy (L) with Tyrese and Krystal(R)

Wyclef Jean and wife

Jill Hennessy and husband Paolo Mastropietro

Jill Hennessy

Paris Hilton