Peter Som has often been described as his generation’s torch-bearer for the American tradition of designer sportswear, and whilst his sportswear collections are hugely admired and popular, his other designs are equally inspiring and influential.
Som was born in San Francisco in 1970, to architect parents, two facts that can be seen in his later work, with the formal and intricate design combining well with the laid back inspirations of the Bay Area. Following a degree in the History of Art at Connecticut College in 1993, Som went on to study at the famous and prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York City. Here, his talent was soon apparent, winning the Parsons Gold Thimble Award, presented to him by Isaac Mizrahi.
Peter Som’s career began in 1998, working as a designer under the influential Bill Blass, but by 2001 he had created his own label, launching at New York’s fashion week. Since this time he has combined work on his own label along with working with other fashion houses, including being Creative Director at his former employer Bill Blass in 2007, and Tommy Hilfiger’s Creative Consultant between 2009 and 2012, having responsibility for the women’s runway collection.
Som’s designs are known for both their femininity and their luxury, whether it be stylish cocktail dresses, luscious floor-sweeping gowns or classic American sportswear. Also known for his bold prints, every piece he designs retains a classic femininity mixed with a splash of quirkiness. Peter Som’s designs have been recognised by a number of industry accolades, including being nominated for the CFDA’s Swarovski’s Perry Ellis Award for emerging talent in both 2002 and 2005, and he was also a semifinalist in the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund initiative in 2004. Peter Som has continued to go from strength-to-strength, and has cemented himself as a leading original voice in the world of fashion.
Website: www.petersom.com
0