Behind the Scenes | Rent the Runway Spring 2021
Easy breezy runway-inspired styles that are summer-ready? You bet. That was the goal behind designing Peter Som Collective for Rent the Runway. Versatility was a must. Flat sandals and a sun hat? Yep. Strappy heels and a statement neckless? Also yes. Crisp prints, juicy colors and effortless silhouettes that could go from errands to brunch to poolside to dinner. Isn’t that what summer is all about? Summer lovin’, let’s have a blast. Peter chats with RTR about the collection and shares some behind-the-scenes pictures from the shoot:
RTR: Tell us about your partnership with RTR and the Designer Collective. What is it? How did you get involved? What was the process like?
Peter Som: RTR’s Designer Collective is such a smart concept–working hand in hand with the team to create exclusive pieces only available at RTR. The process of working with RTR was so easy and streamlined. They’ve allowed me to do what I love best–create and design–and basically the amazing team does the rest. How could I not love that?
How was this different from other collections you’ve created?
This collection was all about easy summer pieces to wear now.
There’s a lot of bright, bold colors. Walk us through that. What’s the mood/vibe?Make it stand out
I’m all about color! Summer is all about color–so I wanted the most saturated orange and the most cherry red but juxtaposed with the crispness black and white. The mood is all about those best summer moments with friends and family.
This article was specially made for my Peter Som x Rent the Runway Collection.
“This collection in 5 words: happy, summer, colorful, effortless…and brunch!”
What roles do fashion and food (design/creativity) in your life and how do they relate, if at all?
Fashion and food are both about creating something beautiful and delicious — whether you wear it or eat it! Both should be a joy.
What are you inspired by right now?
The colors of summer, Helen Frankenthaler, peonies and Lucy Liu.
Current mood
Optimistic.
First fashion memory
My Mom wearing her DVF wrap dresses backwards for a low back V.
Personal fashion icon
My mom.
Life-changing read
The Hill We Climb and Other Poems by Amanda Gorman
Guilty pleasure
Beef Chow Fun
Last thing you Googled
“marcona almond crumble”
Best advice you’ve ever received
Mind over matter. Thank you Mom (again) for that one!
Do you remember the first time you saw someone wearing one of your designs? What was that experience like?
It was a complete thrill. It still is now — that feeling never gets old. And I have to say it’s an honor — knowing that someone chose my dress to own (or rent!) and wear is humbling. I love it.
