Peter Som has not, historically, been a designer interested in the kind of slouching, oversized "hip" that permeates downtown circles. Pretty prints, polished silhouettes and ladylike separates are generally his modus operandi, which have made Som a favorite for red-carpet-bound celebs.
But for Spring '13, Som took a new approach to his super-femmy frocks. There were pretty pastel florals, sure, but rendered on a perfect pair of slouchy, knee-skimming boardshorts (produced in collaboration with NYC denim brand Earnest Sewn). There were the usual floor-sweeping gowns, but fashioned from mixed-up prints and finished with daringly high slits.
The uptown-princess-discovers-punk-rock mood was furthered by the makeup: matted, messy locks were finished with streaky highlights in rainbow-bright hues, while the eyeshadow—shock orange, and applied all the way to the brow—gave the whole collection a twinge of '80s rock glam.
Even with the downtowny, surf-punk vibe, there were plenty of dainty looks to satisfy longstanding Som fans: An elegant short-sleeved shift dress with a white lace bodice and shock-orange silk skirt, for example, will feel just right for an early spring wedding, while a baby-blue shirt dress with a gathered skirt and contrasting white collar will suit girly professionals (with a penchant for classic prep).
Still, if you have to pick just one piece, make it those flowery pink boardshorts.
Related Stories:
PHOTOS Star Spotting on the Front Rows of Fashion Week