Alright ladies and gents, it’s that time again – the New Year. Oh, how it brings hope for change and infinite new possibilities to come! Now most of you have probably begun to compile your list of resolutions, from losing weight and saving more money, to getting more organized and cutting back on the cigarettes. We commend you on making that first step, and wish you the best of luck in achieving your goals. But one thing we don’t ever want you to forget about is the power of a great wardrobe. That’s right, we said it. During these times of political change, economic hardship, and uncertainty about what’s next to come, fashion will set you free. This year, starting now, resolve to be FLY!

To get you all headed on the path to becoming the most stylish Cluchettes you can be, we’ve compiled a list of do’s/don’ts related to fashion and style – “The Fashion Commandments”. I’m sure we’ve all slipped up a couple times and stepped out the house looking, well, let’s just say “not our very best”. But it’s our hope that by following these few simple tips, you’ll be just a step closer to becoming the most classy, budget-savvy, unique, and confident fashionistas out there! Are you up for the challenge?

Now while we’ve already got a list of ten started, it definitely doesn’t stop here. Why is that, you ask? Well, because we still want to hear your input of course! Leave a comment, letting us know what rules/tips you think should be added to the list. Maybe we’ll end up with fifteen commandments, instead. Perhaps even twenty, if you’ve witnessed half the fashion sins we’ve seen this past year… Go ahead, and send them all in. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Commandment #1 Thou shalt not wear leggings as pants, baring your backsides for the whole world to see! Instead, pair leggings with casual dresses, or tunic-length shirts and sweaters. Enjoy the trend, but tastefully and in moderation.

Commandment #2 Thou shalt not show panty line, thongs, bra straps, or any other undergarments for that matter. Be a lady, and keep such personal information to yourself.

Commandment #3 Thou shalt not buy clothing that is too small, under the pretense of losing weight to fit into it. Money spent today should be able to be used today. Besides, it’s not about the number or size on the garment, but rather the way it fits your body and makes you feel. A comfy 14 beats a too-tight 10 any day!

Commandment #4 Thou shalt not spend beyond your fashionable means. Purchasing the hottest new “it” bag means nothing if you can’t afford to go out and be seen in it, or if it will make the rent or car note past due. A Birkin bag may be fly, but you sure can’t live in it!

Commandment #5 Thou shalt experiment fearlessly with bright colors and bold accessories. Spice up a simple black ensemble with a pair of turquoise flats, for example, or a stack of beaded bangles.

Commandment #6 Thou shalt not fall victim to the trends, allowing the magazines and designers to dictate everything you wear and every piece you buy. Be yourself and wear what makes you feel most comfortable. Embrace your individuality!

Commandment #7 Thou shalt not wear shoes and boots with leaned heels. Walking sideways is not sexy!

Commandment #8 Thou shalt not assume that we all are “Sasha Fierce.” Yes we all have fierce alter egos within us, but that doesn’t mean that we should show up at the club in a leotard or one piece with some pumps on!

Commandment #9 Thou shalt understand the importance of appearance and how everything from your hair, makeup and the wrong accessories can destroy a great look. Make sure everything ties together PLEASE!

Commandment #10 Thou shalt always take one good look at themselves in the mirror from head to toe before heading out the door. Whether it’s off to work, a date with a boobie, the club, school, etc., for the next 365 days make sure it’s a look that isn’t going to garner you those side-eye stares. The goal is to be you!

Fellow Fashionistas, there’s a new Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen in town and their names are Ayaan and Idyl Mohallim. Identical twins and the owners behind new fashion brand, Mataano, these sisters are ready to take over the fashion world one design at a time. Already creating a name for themselves, the beloved Oprah has recently featured the duo on her TV show mirroring their accomplishments with the Olsen sisters and applauding them for their inspirational story and much deserved success.

Success of course hasn’t come easily. Ayaan and Idyl had to work hard and experience great struggles to get where they are thus far. When they were the tender age of nine, their parents, who are native Somalis, escaped their country’s civil war and moved to America in search for a better life. They ended up residing in Washington DC and received their higher education at Boston University and University of Michigan. From there, Ayaan and Idyl went on to pursue the Big City in hopes of beginning their own fashion line.

Determined to stand out from the pack of fellow designers, Ayaan and Idyl worked their way from the bottom up in the industry and immensely studied their craft and sharpened their talent for design. In the beginning of 2008, Ayaan and Idyl soared closer to their dreams and created their brand Mataano. They debuted their Spring 2009 capsule collection in November in New York City and instantly received nothing but positive feedback from viewers. Their premiere collection consisted of ten beautifully crafted dresses heavily influenced by their native culture and of course, the bloom of Spring.

Clutch: What is the meaning of Mataano?
Mataano: Mataano means “twins” in Somali. It’s a reflection of our identities. We are twin sisters born in the United States and raised for nine years in Somalia before leaving due to civil unrest.

Clutch: How have things been since your appearance on the Oprah Show?
Mataano: A whirlwind! We went from zero to a hundred in a matter of days. The “Oprah effect” is incredibly powerful. Being on the show has given us the national credibility that will bring Mataano to the forefront in fashion.

Clutch: Spring 09 debuts your first collection from the line, a capsule collection of ten dresses; Was there a specific concept or theme?
Mataano: Spring in bloom was our theme, and we used rich textures and vibrant hues to showcase our collection. Our fabric and color was influenced by our Somali culture.

Clutch: As women of color and more specifically Somali, is it important to incorporate your culture in your designs?
Mataano: We have always felt the intermingling of cultures to be natural and authentic, and aim to bring that aesthetic to the public through the Mataano brand. We are a product of dual cultures and it is important that our designs reflect that.

Clutch: What do you do to maintain a fresh perspective in your design process?
Mataano: We stay abreast of fresh and new ideas. We do a lot of research and development prior to designing a collection and we make sure we travel for inspiration and influence. Everything else is innate–you’re born with it!

Clutch: The one designer you would love to collaborate with and why?
Mataano: That’s a tough question. There are too many talented designers out there for us to just pick one. If we had to pick one, we would pick Oscar de la Renta because we love his use of fabric, texture and colors. He is always reinventing his company and his designs–not to mention, we hear that he is the sweetest man and has a great personality as well.

Clutch: Five years from now Mataano will…?
Mataano: …be a household name.

For more information on Mataano please visit www.mataano.com.

Aesthetically, the purest translation of American aristocracy and refinement. The style embodiment of western nobility and sophistication. Surviving three decades of challenge, change and competition, lifestyle brand Ralph Lauren has artlessly become one of the fashion world’s most iconic style houses.

Debonair and eager, young tie salesman Ralph Lifshitz had inevitably grown exhausted of his product peddling days. With an infectious drive and a natural entrepreneurial intuitiveness he would create the first Ralph Lauren collection in 1968. “I didn’t know how to make a tie, I didn’t know fabric, I didn’t know measurements. What did I know?” Lauren was famously quoted as saying in a 1982 issue of Vogue. But, this early niche tie collection would soon catapult the Ralph Lauren name into Fashion’s Hall of Fame.

Within only a few short years, the Lauren empire would begin to swell at an unexpected rate. With such apparent little experience in manufacturing, shipping and financial management, these early years were also amongst the darkest. Nearing the brink of bankruptcy, a distressed Lauren would finally secure a strong handle on his ever growing empire by the late 1970’s. By the 1980’s, the line had been fully expanded into including complete collections for men, women and children. A home accessories line and fragrance line would also launch during this decade.

But, while the brand’s most apparent competition gained aggressive momentum during the 1990’s, today Ralph Lauren has victoriously remained at the forefront of traditional American fashion and conversely within the urban community. “I think Tommy Hilfiger exploited its popularity during its height and didn’t stay true to its core fan base.” says popular Hip Hop journalist and declared Polo loyalist Brian “B-Dot Miller. “Polo, to me represents a level of sophistication.” he adds. “Polo is an upper crust sport originated in the east and for some reason this guy from the Bronx encapsulated that lifestyle into his brand better than any other designer.” continued “B-Dot”. And while further research yielded similar praises, it becomes overwhelmingly apparent how the Ralph Lauren brand has managed to maintain his devoted customer base.

Hailed for never compromising its core identity, what the Ralph Lauren brand represents is the importance of consistency and integrity in the world of design. In its thirtieth year of existence what was once one man’s small collection of ties has spawned an empire worth more than $3 billion, over 12,000 employees, a charming magazine, a foundation benefiting cancer research and a little polo man that will be encrusted into our hearts forever.

Tis’ the season that follows after the summer heat waves, the time has now come for fashionistas alike to wrap around in the warmth of fur coats, beautifully tailored jackets and 100% wool scarves. A Poodle Pusher lives and will scramble for “layers” like it’s our birth right, the good old saying less is more doesn’t apply during this time of the year. In fact we boycott anything small and lightweight, what’s this time we speak of, you’ve guessed it, Fall!!!!

There is a popular misconception floating out there that during the fall and winter months fashion and style should get replaced for sweatpants or baggy unflattering garments, pieces from previous seasons that no longer belong, or there is a lack of variety of clothes to wear during this time of the year? Such thoughts should no longer be condoned. The reality is that there are actually more fashionable pieces to play and mix with in your wardrobe; which brings us back to our obsession with layers!!! Not to worry we will explain why? To get started we wanted to spill the beans on a few trends we see as a huge hit and point out a few essential pieces that EVERY wardrobe should have this fall.

*Ruffed Up*
Worn in the “Elizabeth” days to demonstrate the status of a woman in society; ruffles are still holding strong as a fashion staple appealing to the modish desires of today’s woman. Not only has this historic trend grabbed attention in the fall/winter 09 runway fashion shows, it has been worn by fashionistas and celebrities alike and can also be seen interpreted in a variety of ways: ruffled collar shirts, sleeves, coats, skirts and dresses to name a few.

*Attention to Details*
Style is all in the details! From intricate patterns and stitches, to the choice of fabric or accessories paired; great fashion ensembles are always built as a result of paying attention to the fine points. Poodle Pusher’s philosophy when it comes to styling clients, runway shows, fashion shoots or ourselves — has always been just that. To elaborate we wanted to share with you amazing details that we have fallen madly in love with and ones we see being a huge hit across the board.

Feathers - Subtle feather details on shirts, dresses, skirts, hats, collars, and sleeves are always breathtakingly chic, as seen on the fall 2008-2009 runways. The key to this trend is to be worn with grace, elegance and simplicity: Stay clear of bright feather boas or ensembles that are overkill.

Boyfriend Denim – Don’t ask why his shirt and boxer briefs are so much more comfortable than ours? Maybe it’s the fit, or the mere face that it’s his. Whatever the reason is….We just can’t get enough of wearing them and now we can add his jeans to the list!!! The Boyfriend denim is the laid back, grungy or disheveled denim that pays homage to him. It’s the quintessential approach to looking feminine chic with a masculine edge; not to mention can be uber comfortable as well. To get this look, take an old pair of jeans with a baggy loose fit and cuff them. Another option will be to run a pair of scissors across them and cut them to shorts (also looks great when paired with leggings); don’t be scared about making a mistake because there is no such thing! Feel free to customize it according to your taste. Lastly, slash lines across the thigh or pocket area and add the finishing touches by washing them and putting it in the dryer to fray the lines.

Note: For an overall Fab look, pair with a button down shirt, sweater, Leather jacket, booties or pumps.

Super Hero - We all have our alter egos, the fearless and resilient version of us that emerges in a time of need with no inhibition, very much like our beloved comic book characters. Clark Kent had Superman; Peter Parker had Spider Man; and Diana had Wonder Woman. We all live by-curiously through these alpha characters because lets face it he/she typically has most of the fun and excitement and without a doubt makes a bolder fashion statement and holds the better wardrobe. Fashion is a direct product of our environment tied closely with our innate instincts and artistic expressions. So, it’s not a surprise that the world’s best-known designers are tapping into their alter egos to explore new avenues for their craft. Bold, sculpted and architectural silhouettes much like our comic characters costumes can be spotted in their latest collections. The art to wearing this look is in translating from couture to ready-to-wear fashions. Go for coats and jackets with a sculpted feel (padded shoulders, trapeze a-lines, belted and half sleeves) and match it up with jeans, trousers or leather pants to achieve this look.

Note: Celebs are getting in on the act too. Beyonce has unleashed “Sasha Fierce” and Rihanna’s latest tour ensemble could definitely be lifted straight from Cat woman’s wardrobe.

*Bag Lade*
In the case of your choice of bags, BIGGER is BETTER. We all know EVERY lady has to have her on- the-go makeup KIT and half our wardrobe in our bags. Right? Well now we have an excuse and answer to the tough question, why do you have all that junk in your bag? Answer- “I have to fill it up, or my bag looses shape and looks empty” Hey, we are getting closer. Seriously, big bags should be the rave for every woman! Adding a big bag to your look makes for a dramatic and BOLD style statement, and believe it or not, can give us a slimmer look, otherwise known as the “slimming effect” What more can a girl ask for! So not only are they stylish; they are also practical, versatile and serve as great storage for our cosmetics, books, brushes and other paraphernalia.

*Layer ME on*
We digressed for a good cause, but now let’s take focus on our obsession here. We can’t stress enough the Importance and beauty of layering. For us it’s the easiest trick in the book on how to be ready for any occasion, in essence a quick fix to the worries we all have of being underdressed or overdressed. Layering allows us to perfect the art of blending different textures, styles and clothing pieces while still being able to create a cohesive and stylish look. The purest form of self expression and Individual style will beyond doubt be achieved by putting this art to practice. Get into the obsession with us and add at least 2-3 layers per outfit than you normally would. Spice up your look by adding one of these: a long cardigan, scarf, sweater, leggings, hat, jeans, knits, blazer, jacket, snood, turtleneck, vest, oh and tunics or tanks left over from the summer make for great texture pieces …… You will find it to be an eye opener, the limits we place on our look by saying “That’s not me” or I can’t wear that” or “it won’t look good on me” without trying, is one of the main obstacles we all can face in the path to finding our personal style. Play around with what looks great on you, Try new ways to find out what looks great on you, get rid of your recycled looks, “out with the boring and in with the new” should be our motto. Tell us your results —- we are curious to find out?

Remember these Key words: Texture, Layer, Mix, and Cohesive

Unfortunately, we have to bid adieu to you all, for now but we would still love to answer any questions you have or read your comments, and feedback. Till next time….

Keep Pushing~

Poodle Pusher

“Imagine an era where individuality is celebrated. Where fashion is written with a loose and casual fare. Where convention is revamped to reveal its more eclectic, fierce alter ego.” Well according to the ladies of Aquaponi, that era is here and the moment is now. The Aquaponi clothing line was founded in 2006 by Los Angeles natives Kelli Marie and Theresa Michelle, who sought to provide something new and exciting for those who were tired of adhering to the norm and dressing like all the rest. The line is a fresh blend of rare vintage and repurposed clothing, ethnic-inspired jewelry, and boho-chic accessories. Each handcrafted piece is a fusion of bright colors and unlikely fabrics - undeniably unique. The brand has been able to attract a loyal clientele in the Los Angeles and Atlanta regions, and has even gained the attention of celebrities such as Common, Project Runway’s Michael Knight, Janelle Monae, and Keri Hilson – just to name a few. We recently caught up with co-owner Kelli White, who gave us the inside scoop.

Clutch: Tell us about Aquaponi. How did the line come about?
Kelli: AquaPoni is an exclusive original label that was coined Theresa and myself. We came up with the concept by thinking “outside the box” and creating brightly colored, ready-to-wear pieces. Initially, we sold jewelry that was from Peru, but ended up being invited to showcase our talents in a fashion show. But we had NO clothes at the time! With only two weeks to pull it all together, we were able to design 20 pieces. The line was very well received and there was a snowball effect from there that brought in orders left and right!

Clutch: How did you and Theresa meet, and end up developing a fashion company together?
Kelli: We’ve known each other since high school, but didn’t actually reconnect and create the line until after college. Originally, I wanted to start my own boutique in the Atlanta area, since I’d noticed that a lot of the things I was wearing from California were new and unfamiliar to the people here. And Theresa already had a degree in fashion design from school; she wanted to sell her clothes in my store! So we decided to fuse our career goals by making and selling pieces independently, which eliminated the start-up costs and overhead of an actual retail space. We planted AquaPoni’s first seeds with mostly friends and close acquaintances as customers, but eventually branched out into boutiques in the Atlanta and Los Angeles area.

Clutch: The name of the brand is very unique and distinctive. What does it mean?
Kelli: AquaPoni has no distinctive definition. It is merely something that was brainstormed and sounded great to us. We pulled some of our favorite words out of a hat and put them together. The word “AquaPoni” is meant to have its own meaning, based on each individual’s interpretation. AquaPoni is constantly being defined through our pieces.

Clutch: Describe the AquaPoni style. Who is the ideal client?
Kelli: The style is vibrantly colored, combining fabrics that the average person may not think to piece together. We have a great deal of vintage cultural inspiration from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, but with a modern twist. The ideal client, male or female, is someone who is not afraid to be different. Someone who’s comfortable in their own skin, and not afraid of getting attention – definitely not shy. We create fashion for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. Believe it or not – Theresa’s grandma rocks Aquaponi!

Clutch: What types of merchandise does the line include, and what are the average price points?
Kelli: AquaPoni label consists of our signature one-of-a- kind hoodies, letterman sweaters, jersey jumpers, vintage-inspired dresses, tees, boy scout shirts, earrings and handbags. Our price points range from $10.00 for a small pair of earrings to $150.00 for hoodies and sweaters.

Clutch: Aquaponi has already established a firm fan-base in the Atlanta and LA areas. What do you think attracted so many people to line?
Kelli: Fan base? Wow! That is so awesome… We originally lured customers in with our custom hoodies, but we’ve always had much more to offer. People appreciate the idea of wearing garments that others can’t find anywhere else. Our clothes really speak for themselves, and we are constantly selling our pieces off our bodies. Once you get one hoodie, you end up wanting more! Then you become addicted. ; )

Clutch: What, if any, major obstacles have you and Theresa faced as up-and-coming designers?
Kelli: When you are “up and coming,” quite often people don’t take you serious and try to take advantage of you. We have definitely run into some bumps in the road… Finding the right investors has been the major obstacle for us as well, but we will soon overcome that! We also hear of other labels developing similar items, which can be very frustrating since everyone wants to have the newest, most innovative ideas.

Clutch: That being said, what advice would you offer to individuals who are looking to start up their own clothing lines as well?
Kelli: The four P’s: Passion, Persistence, Perseverance, and Patience. Definitely make sure your label is something that you are passionate about. Stick to what is a true reflection of you and don’t be afraid to try new things! Be Persistent: set goals, reach them, and work your mouthpiece. Be open and able to take constructive criticism, treat everyone with respect (even the “little people”) and work hard to create your brand. It won’t be easy, but if you stay focused and stay patient, you will definitely persevere. Many designers are much older, because they have been working at it for so long…. Patience is key!

Clutch: What’s up next for AquaPoni, and where can our readers find your items?
Kelli: AquaPoni is going to continue to design new and innovative pieces! We are constantly changing our flare to surprise our “fans,” so look out for our Fall/Winter collection soon. Our items can be found of course on our website www.aquaponi.com, as well as local Atlanta boutiques; Envy and Pieces of Adrene, and hopefully in a boutique near you soon! But the bulk of our designs are through custom orders, so feel free to reach out to us via the website or our Myspace page if there’s something you would like to have made. Muah! AquaPoni loves you.

For more information about AquaPoni please visit www.aquaponi.com and www.myspace.com/aquaponi.

When Hollywood starlet Sienna Miller and sister Savannah Miller announced the launch of their collection Twenty8Twelve in late 2006, an apprehensive and unimpressed fashion world scoffed silently at yet another celebrity fueled label. The sisters, famed as one of Hollywood’s most quirky yet charmingly chic duos would be facing criticism from some of the industry’s harshest naysayers. And in July of 2007, as a crowd of over 600 specially invited guests attended the anticipated premiere, the girls had surprisingly and effectively pleased their critics.

For years, the sister’s shared an obsession with celebrity style. “We vote on which celebrity wore which Prada dress better, we examine their Oscar gowns with microscopes” they’ve admitted. “There’s such a lack of individuality now, what we’re trying to say is, do it for yourself!” preach the headstrong pair. A combined eye for style and with Savannah’s degree in fashion production and design experience for the legendary Alexander McQueen, the girls set out to turn their dream into a reality. Having secured the backing of Carlos Ortega, owner of denim brand Pepe Jeans, Twenty8Twelve was officially ready for production. Why endorse a brand, or pose for an ad, when you can own the company?” says the business savvy duo.

Differing in design than the celebrity threads they admittedly study for inspiration, the Twenty8Twelve collection is both wearable and undeniably trendy. “Throughout the collection we’ve really covered all different ages, all different body types. It’s really fashionable clothes for all different sorts of confident women.” Sienna tells People magazine of their formula for delivering great collections since the label’s inception. Flirty yet subtly bold, the sisters designs stay true to their own free spirited and willowy styles. Modern cuts with traditional detailing, makes the collection both feminine and powerful.

Three collections in, the sister’s have expanded their line to include a beautifully designed collection of accessories including handbags, wallets, belts and gloves crafted of crocodile and elephant skins. “We decided to add bags to the collection because it felt like a natural progression for the brand,” says Sienna.

“We just wanted to wait until we had a supplier who could deliver an affordable, good quality product so that the bags would sit in line with the rest of the collection.” Sienna tells.

To learn more about Twenty8Twelve please visit www.twenty8twelve.com.

Intimate and fashionable, the Sofistafunk experience exudes the charisma of a ladies parlor rather than a boutique. The air is filled with an endearing aroma of Vanilla Chai tea, crumpets and an inspiring mix of jazz. Complete with an ageless in-house collection both charming and sophisticate, mother and daughter-in-law team Arlinda McIntosh and Cheshire Mickens have set a new standard for the future of couture niche boutiques.

Silks, cottons, full, short or long, this darling design duo has garnered a following both extraordinary and eclectic due to their collection of lovely bottom frocks, or skirts. While their full line includes a quaint but delectable assortment of women’s pieces, skirts are their primary focus. Influenced by the styles stemming from the early days of fashion, Sofistafunk pieces possess an alluring vintage appeal.

“Inspired by the eras that span from the Victorian period to the late fifties, Sofistafunk offers a season-less collection of bottom frocks (skirts) in silks and cottons that whisper I love being a girl. We also offer dresses, tops and accessories, but our first love is skirts.”

tells Arlinda.

Challenging the calm of simplistic modern designs, Sofistafunk pieces are exciting and girlishly couture. With pieces made to pretty even the smallest fashionista, no audacious inner princess is left un-frocked. “Our clients ages range from 2 -102, LOL, OK, so maybe we don’t have any clients that are even close to 102 but, we do have a few that are in their 60’s and 70’s. Our size range for all our girls are 2-22. And because all of our design and production is done on the premises, if her size is not on the rack we will make it for her, in some cases while she waits.” Arlinda adds.

Discovering the epithet of chic feminine expression, it’s to no surprise that the Sofistafunk Boutique has been revered the “Jewel of New Jersey”. Having reinvented the design and playfulness of the traditional skirt, the darling design duo Arlinda and Chesire have made an undeniable mark on the world of fashion.

For more information on Sofistafunk Skirt Co. & Boutique please visit www.sofistafunk.com. Address: Sofistafunk Boutique, 21 Grove Ave, Verona, NJ 07044, (973) 433-7098, info@sofistafunk.com.

[Photo Credits: Rowena Husbands, Darius Vick and Tomoko Smith]

One of the main reasons we look forward to fall/winter weather is that it gives us an excuse to pull out our beloved boots, swanky scarves, and most importantly-coats. We don’t mind facing the throes of winter as long as we’re armed with a fly top layer! Enter Mackage, a designer outwear collection that’s full of sharp designs that will take you effortlessly through the chilly seasons to come.

For Fall ’08 Mackage focuses on structured, but feminine fitted silhouettes infused with details inspired by looks from the Russian military. Eran Elfassy and Elisa Dahan, the duo behind the marvelous line, give traditional winter garb an urbane vixen makeover with cinched waist jackets accented wide leather belts, bell sleeves, and fiercely high collars. Even puffy jackets get sexy with bell sleeves and raccoon trim! Who knew that winter could be oh so glamorous? Whether you go for Mackage’s shearling, buttery leathers, or wool chevron print coats-you definitely won’t have to go short on style to stay warm this winter.

Mackage is available for purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue, Henri Bendel, Bloomingdales, and Neiman Marcus. For more information on Mackage please visit www.mackage.com.

Every week we are firmly planted in front of our tv sets to catch the crazy challenges that await the remaining designers of Project Runway’s 5th season. There are only a few episodes left and we’ve got our eye on Korto Momolu to make it to the top! With quiet determination and a penchant for designing modern, tribal infused classics that real women can wear she has established a true ‘one to watch’ presence on the show. We caught up with Korto to talk fashion, work/life balance, and embracing her curves.

Clutch: How did you feel when you got the call back saying that you were chosen to compete on the fifth season of Project Runway?
Korto: I was so thrilled I thought I was dreaming. It was the moment I always wished for and here it was right in my face. Words can’t even describe…

Clutch: As women we wear many hats and play an important role in the lives of our loved ones. How was your life affected during the taping of the show?
Korto: Well unfortunately my daughter Alyse (4) was most affected. She didn’t understand why I left, why I wasn’t coming home everyday and it was a hurting pang every time I spoke with her. It’s a struggle to be a woman going after my career and balancing my family and friends. But I do it and we communicate (my husband and I) so I always know if they feel neglected in ANY way. It’s hard but we make it work. I have a great husband.

Clutch: Being one of the only three African (American) contestants on this seasons show did you feel any added pressure or responsibility to win?
Korto: I really feel it’s time for an African American not to just be in the top 3 but to win. We don’t have many fashion designer role models and it’s a huge statement to say this person made it to the top 3 AND were going to go against the norm and finance a career that can possibly be one of America’s future top designers. I hope I can be that person. I carry many things on my shoulders because being Liberian I am also a role model for those coming out of the civil war and living here in America. They need to see me going after my dream, dusting off the past and moving on. I am so proud to represent them in a positive manner and give them the hope that they too can do it!

Clutch: Having gone through Project Runway and knowing what you know, if you could, would you do it all over again?
Korto: I would do Project Runway again, as for any other show….naw. The show was done with much class and professionalism that I always said this is the only reality show I would do. It’s only about the work not the home drama….hot tub scenes….mess…..it was about the integrity and work needed to be done to show your design skills.

Clutch: When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer and how did you get started?
Korto: In my senior year of high school. My art teacher actually guided me to the design program and I knew it was the right choice.

Clutch: When you’re not designing, what is something you love to do?
Korto: I love to make jewelry — it’s so calming. I cook traditional African dishes or something I saw on the Food Network. I am a TV watcher so I will sit and watch some Lifetime movies — sappy or not. [laughs]

Clutch: How, if at all, does your African heritage and being from Liberia influence your designs?
Korto: I always feel like I have to show through my clothes who I am. If people never get to meet me then it’s ok because my clothes will somehow show who I am and that means a lot to me. I always have slight African influences in the design, use of African beads etc. It doesn’t scream traditional African but it’s there.

Clutch: I believe that all great fashion begins from some sort of inspiration, what inspires you?
Korto: I am always inspired by my surroundings. My current collection is inspired by all the places I’ve lived to date. Canada, U.S. (Arkansas especially and Boston) and of course Liberia.

Clutch: You live in Little Rock, Arkansas now. What’s it like living and working as a fashion designer there?
Korto: Things are a little different but there is a fashion scene in Little Rock. I am proud to be one of the founders of that and I hope to continue to show it’s not where you live but how you live!

Clutch: You call yourself the “poster child for never giving up”. What types of adversity have you dealt with during the course of your career?
Korto: The most traumatic would have to be the civil war in Liberia and how it tore apart my family and the only place that I knew as home. The devastation alone was bad and even though I was blessed to not have to be in the country at the time it affected me the same. My parents were greatly affected. They worked so hard for everything they achieved and to lose everything and start from scratch was hard but we did it and kept the family and our traditions as tight as we could. What doesn’t kill you will make you stronger and it did, for all of us.

Clutch: Not to get too political, but what do you think of Michelle Obama’s style? And if you were to design her outfit for the day of the inauguration, describe what it would look like?
Korto: That would be the most honorable thing ever to be able to design for her. I think right now she’s playing it safe but WHEN she becomes first lady I would love to see her shake it up a bit. As for her gown I would design something to flatter her shape of course but make it regal. She is definitely a queen and I hope to have the pleasure of meeting her….soon.

Clutch: Who are some of your favorite designers of all time?
Korto: I love Valentino, Tracy Reese, Badgley and Mishka and Randolph Duke.

Clutch: What celebrity’s style do you admire at the moment?
Korto: I really like Tracee Ellis Ross, Kerry Washington, Rihanna and Gwen Stefani.

Clutch: What is one item of clothing that you would never wear?
Korto: Short shorts. At least not outside my house [laughs]. Reason — have you seen my behind? Talk about traffic jams and it’s just tacky when I see women out with their butts hanging out their clothes — BIG NO NO.

Clutch: Being a beautiful curvy women, what advice can you give our Clutchettes about embracing their curves through this fall’s fashions?
Korto: I say just DO YOU! If god gave it to you work what you have and stop trying to fight it. I am curvy and it doesn’t matter how much weight I lose I will always have this shape so — I love it. I walk with confidence and so should any woman. People are going under the knife to have what we were blessed with! That alone should make anyone be proud. We have to accept who we are before any person man or woman will. Let’s stand tall my Clutchettes…….being curvy IS all it’s cracked up to be! And don’t let nobody tell you different! Amen.

For more information on Korto Momolu please visit www.kortomomolu.com.