party lines

Peter Som’s Plans Are Still Up in the Air

Peter Som has had a rough time of late. First, he parted ways with Bill Blass, then, he split with his backers, Creative Design Studios. And last night at the one-year anniversary dinner for sample-sale site Gilt Groupe, he had to deal with us harassing him to explain it all. (We do it for you, people! We do it all for you!)

We’d temporarily forgotten his Fashion Week plans were up in the air, and, foot firmly in mouth, asked him about the upcoming shows. “We’re still trying to figure things out,” he answered. “That’s all I can say,” he said, before referring us to the WWD article on the demise of his financial support. “Shit happens,” he sighed. “Sometimes it’s a lot, sometimes it’s a little. So I think everyone’s going through some tough times.” Would he design a fall collection, anyway? “I really can’t say anymore. I don’t know. Why don’t you ask me some questions about Michelle Obama’s dress?”

Som had, like most designers, submitted sketches. “I was kind of doing something that was white,” he said, laughing. “I guess I was in the ballpark, right?” He’d planned on making a floor-length gown that showed off Mrs. Obama’s “great arms.” The disappointment in his voice was palpable. “That’s kind of water under the bridge now,” he said. “I have a whole four years to try to do something, so, knock on wood. And if not, I think in four years the girls will be ready to wear big-girl clothes.” Sasha and Malia in Peter Som? Maybe things are starting to turn around, after all.

Earlier: Peter Som Will Show His Fall Collection, Somehow

Peter Som’s Plans Are Still Up in the Air