PRINCE PETER: ROCK 'N' ROLL, IDENTITY, AND THE PERFECT T-SHIRT

There are very few things in fashion more difficult to get right than the graphic tee. Everyone has tried. Most have failed. Prince Peter is not most people.

Prince Peter is a New York-based contemporary clothing line created by DJ Prince Peter and graphic designer Louis Liu — a duo who've taken the glam and grit of downtown New York City and distilled it into seven tees that somehow manage to feel both intimate and iconic. Their debut collection is rooted in a genuinely interesting question: who is the artist? What do we project onto them, what do we remember of them, and does their existence live in the work — or only in our fascination with it? Heavy stuff for a t-shirt. But that's exactly what makes it work.

We caught up with Prince Peter to find out what's behind the collection, who he'd invite to dinner, and what he has planned for the rest of 2009.

Interview by Leila Antakly

You launched Prince Peter during a pretty rough moment for the economy. What made you do it anyway?

I started this collection because of my love for art, rock 'n' roll, and fashion. And honestly — the economy being bad is exactly why it made sense. People aren't buying clothes the way they used to, so if you're going to buy something, it better be worth it. We all love a soft, sexy t-shirt year round. That's what we made.

Who or what is your greatest inspiration right now?

My muse is Jacob Dekat at Q Models.

Dream dinner table — who's sitting at it?

David Bowie, Diana Ross, Prince, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Mother Teresa, Barbie — and a really hot waitress wearing one of my t-shirts.

Favorite cultural hotspot?

The museum. It's the greatest place I know to find inspiration — for everything, not just the clothes.

Favorite spots in NYC?

La Esquina for food. Rose Bar, One Oak, Beatrice, Serpentine, Norwood — basically anywhere I can hear Prince, Jay-Z, and a little Michael Jackson.

Favorite brands?

Obesity & Speed, American Apparel, and I love Number Nine.

What's on the agenda for the rest of 2009?

Take over the world. Like Pinky and the Brain — same thing every night, just try to take over the world. That's the plan.

Anything else our readers should know?

Heal the world, make it a better place — for me, for you, and the entire human race. Oh, and if I see you wearing one of my tees on the street, I just might kiss you.

Prince Peter Collection is available now. Follow the brand and keep an eye on what these two are building — downtown New York hasn't looked this good in a while.

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