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Premier Wheatley showcases VI designer talent @NYC Fashion Week

Virgin Islands talent shone brightly on the global stage in New York City when the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), made a bold statement through fashion at the "I’Landed in the Big Apple" runway event. Photo: Facebook
In a Facebook post, it was noted that
In a Facebook post, it was noted that "Premier Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley delivered a bold NYC moment in support of local fashion designers on February 14, 2026, at the New York City I’Landed runway showcase, amplifying a message that Virgin Islands talent stands among the world’s finest." Photo: Facebook
NEW YORK, United States- Virgin Islands talent shone brightly on the global stage in New York City when the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), made a bold statement through fashion at the "I’Landed in the Big Apple" runway event.

The showcase took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, as part of a high-profile "Virgin Islands Takeover" during New York Fashion Week (NYFW). 

Runway showcased pieces from VI countries

"I’Landed in the Big Apple – The VI Takeover" focused on celebrating Caribbean culture, island style, and international flair. The event, organised by the Islander Swim Collection, featured a models competition with over 80 participants from the Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, and the UK.

Premier Wheatley attended the showcase and appeared on the runway wearing a standout piece from the Ocean Odyssey collection by local designer Andrea Wilson.

Premier delivered 'bold statement' 

In a Facebook post, it was noted that "Premier Wheatley delivered a bold NYC moment in support of local fashion designers on February 14, 2026, at the New York City I’Landed runway showcase, amplifying a message that Virgin Islands talent stands among the world’s finest."

By wearing the striking piece from Andrea WilsonVI's Ocean Odyssey collection, the Premier showcased the beauty and resilience of the VI on the global stage.

9 Responses to “Premier Wheatley showcases VI designer talent @NYC Fashion Week”

  • Color code (17/02/2026, 11:56) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    That’s orange color jumpsuit don’t sit right with me !
    This a message !
  • tola (17/02/2026, 12:02) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    Strupes
  • HUH!!! (17/02/2026, 12:11) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    And they put him in an orange jumpsuit???????????
  • question (17/02/2026, 12:23) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    What about the people's work ? Water supply, cleanliness of the territory, cost of living, roads ? All I see is trips and social functions. I agree these things need to be done as well, but what about the people ?
  • J (17/02/2026, 12:24) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    I don’t know if that orange jumpsuit is sending the right message…lol
  • well my peace (17/02/2026, 12:37) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    THIS IS WHAT HE GOING AWAY ON OUR MONEY TO DO?
  • confused (17/02/2026, 13:00) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    I seriously thought this was a fake AI story at first.

    Can you imagine anywhere else on this planet where the Premier, THE PREMIER, goes abroad on tax payers $ and takes part in a catwalk. Oh. My. Good. Lord.

    I’ll let everyone else draw comparisons to this ‘striking piece’ to another, similar style outfit. Is Natalio auditioning to wear the real thing?
  • asking for a friend (17/02/2026, 13:04) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Who paid for that trip?


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