Wu backstage during Fashion Week.

CAPITOL FILE: I’m sure you have an affinity for Washington—especially since Michelle Obama is a fan of your designs. Tell us your favorite places to shop or relax while in DC.

JASON WU: I’m a big art buff so I love visiting all the amazing museums this city has to offer, like the Smithsonian museums and the National Gallery of Art.

CF: What is your favorite neighborhood in The District?

JW: I love shopping around Georgetown—it reminds me of the West Village in New York City but with a bit more history.

CF: Did the experience of having the first lady choose your dress for the inaugural ball have any unexpected or unintended consequences, good or bad?

JW: The wave of press that accompanied the first lady’s choosing my gown for such a momentous event obviously yielded a huge boost in business. Over the past few years, however, the Jason Wu label has been steadily expanding. The dress just pushed everything into overdrive. It’s a little nerve-wracking to have all eyes on me as I move forward with the brand, but the industry attention and support I’ve been handed has allowed me to take advantage of new opportunities and collaborative efforts.

CF: What people or things remain inspirational as you design for spring 2010 and beyond?

JW: Contemporary artist Tara Donovan’s installations were my creative starting point—she makes amazing displays out of Styrofoam cups, clear tape and all sorts of everyday materials. Her art makes me rethink the way I look at texture and materials.

CF: Do you have plans to expand to other categories as well?

JW: Absolutely. We have a lot of great collaborations on the horizon right now, so you’ll have to stay tuned!

CF: Tell us about the trend report event you just cohosted with Capitol File at Neiman Marcus’ Mazza Gallerie store.

JW: It was very exciting! I couldn’t wait to greet some of my loyal customers—and at Neiman Marcus, a retailer that has shown me so much support since day one. And obviously Washington has been a crucial city as far as my career growth is concerned. I was definitely looking forward to the event.

CF: Who is the Jason Wu woman?

JW: She’s polished but still appreciates whimsy. Elegance is definitely one of my design hallmarks, but I like to offset it with a modern, youthful edge to keep the overall look fresh.

CF: Do you find your customers are Wu collectors?

JW: Many are. The pieces I design transcend season and trend, so a skirt I dreamt up for spring 2008 might go perfectly with a soft cashmere knit from my last resort presentation and a coat from my first or second collection. Since the beginning I’ve stayed very true to my chosen aesthetic.

CF: Are your designs meant to be built upon season after season?

JW: Yes. I am constantly evolving and refining the Jason Wu look. But I like to return to my favorite colors, patterns and cuts in some way. My next big move is to focus on growing my brand on an international platform.

CF: What are you reading these days?

JW: Dana Thomas’ Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster. It’s all about the way the fashion industry operates.

CF: What’s on your iPod?

JW: Two Suns, the latest Bat for Lashes album.