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This is Part I of my interview with Michael -- Part II will feature questions sent in by YOU so watch this space!

Would you say that you're more content now than when you just started out?

The whole concept of 'content' is a slippery one. Since I started out, I definitely feel we've come a long way in getting the message out, refining the collection, understanding the customer better, etc. But as far as feeling personally content, I'm a long way off from that. Grateful- yes, content- no. But I think this natural discontent is built in to us as humans-- things can always be better.

What's next for the label but also for you personally?

Right now we are trying very hard to bring the collection to the next level, meaning fill in the gaps on our distribution, get the prices a little better, etc. And as for me personally, the division between my personal life and work life is nonexistent, but I think that's the way it often goes with a new business that has your name on it.

What's the best thing about having some money to play with?

I wouldn't know the answer to this yet. We're still in the stage where everything goes right back in the company.

Do you sometimes worry about valuing your creative life above your personal life?

As I said, there is very little division between my work and personal life these days. Does it worry me? A little, but again, I think this is natural at this stage.

What do you do to relax?

Relaxing is hard for me since I have a hard time turning my brain off. When I'm in the middle of designing a collection (particularly when I'm in Italy) I have a terrible time falling asleep, so I've stopped trying to fight it. I just keep a notepad by my bed and write everything down, then deal with it in the morning.

What's your favorite restaurant and/or bar in Manhattan?

I love the restaurant Charles a lot.

What's your usual drink order?

My usual drink order is vodka/soda with lime-- boring, I know, but it does the job. If I'm by a pool, I can't get enough beer-- my inner frat boy comes out.

What's your worst habit?

Smoking is definitely the worst of all my bad habits. I had smoked in college, then quit for ages, but living in Italy 1/3 of the time these days where everyone smokes and makes it look so damn good has got me hooked again. But I'm just looking for the opportunity to quit again. Somehow it just isn't as sexy in America

Beach, or city vacation?

Beach-- definitely. Or at least a beautiful sunny pool.

Do you Tweet? If not, do you have any plans to do so?

No, I don't Tweet-- and I'm not sure I really see the point in it. But I do love e-mail, hate the phone, and I'm warming up to Facebook.