Daily Front Row

2010 September 11

Runway Reviews: Jason Wu, Peter Som

Jason Wu Spring 2011
Giorgio Niro View Gallery

(NEW YORK) JASON WU
After winning his CFDA this year, hugging Michelle Obama, and closely collaborating with the likes of Diane Kruger for brilliant red carpet moments, it’s very hard to classify Jason Wu as a fledging or emerging designer. His latest effort was all business, all hits, and edited to a very clever T.  “I really think that this is the most confidently sexy collection I’ve ever done,” said the designer. “It’s really evolving the sportswear element but adding our little touches: tulle on the jacket, silk lining, and delicate flower pins.” And decisive confidence is usually a good thing. The highlights include an array of signature blouses, lasting jackets, beautifully cut chiffon dresses and a colorful finale parade inspired by the bright tones of  Beatriz Milhazes photographs. Especially impressive were the Liu Wen standout petal number, Frida’s noir column, and Karlie’s hot pink number. “That’s the dress that you immediately start to covet,” raved Kruger moments after the show.

PETER SOM
Oh joy! Peter Som's Spring 2011 show celebrated all things cheerful, sending onlookers into a dizzy state of euphoria as marble print shorts, floral brocade shifts and voluminous tulle skirts sailed down the runway. Short hemlines felt flirty, ultra-feminine and Miami-ready. Color undoubtedly took center stage, as there was nothing muted about this collection. Hues in Pepto pink, turquoise and lemon illuminated the runway. "For me, it was all about taking the seriousness out of fashion and bringing in some happiness," Som explained post-show. "I wanted the girl to be fun, cool and have a smile on her face."