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.

What makes the design elements of this brand so unique are its designers. They both are German, but have very different backgrounds in fashion. Hillman worked as a designer for many years at company’s like Boudicca in London, while Wiens is a graphic designer who has created textiles for everyone from Cavalli to Calvin Klein. But to describe their line as different would not only be an understatement it would truly be a disservice. Pepper and Pistol is bold, bright, eccentric, eclectic and where necessary, sparkly, but not in a Vegas way. Its very Italian Vogue, but what do you expect they’re German, and Germans like to shine.

There Underworld 2008 collection is definitely 60’s/70’s Funky Chic. Our favorite look in the current spring collection hands down is the dazzling dragonfly top. Paired with skinny or straight leg jeans and some mid–tone pink platform slingbacks or adorable flats would be fierce! And since this fall we are all about boots, pooties, and booties, we are loving their gilled dress look, even with the lavender knee socks it’s a go!

To see the entire spring and fall collections or to find out more about the company please visit their website at www.pepperandpistol.com.

1. Proenza Schouler: This Fall its all about the slouchy look this collection. Normally a rule of thumb when it comes to fashion is balance is key.

“Balance is sexy, as humans we are attracted to balance. Science, in fact has proven there is one timeless evolutionary trait for sexy: symmetry,” says Celebrity Stylist Bradley Bayou.

However, since the entire look is slouchy it becomes sleek and symmetric. Sorry voluptuous diva’s this look is not for us, but its hot regardless.

2. Gavin Douglas: When you mix a British designer with Betsey Johnson inspired style and a of dash Marc Jacobs you get Gavin Douglas. His current fall collection is super fun and very playful. Each outfit is a party itself. How does he stand out, because unlike Miss Johnson and Mr. Jacobs, his collection has something for every woman going anywhere! Can we say Fierce!

3. Love Moschino, by Moschino: I absolutely love Cheap & Chic by Moschino and do believe that many brown girls sleep on the line. Continuing to stay fab and fashion forward, the company has released their jean line as an incredibly luxurious knitwear line, Love Moschino. And love I do! For this fall the collection is very colorful and posh. The suede knee high boots in camel, cobalt blue and black paired with multiple looks is simply bananas!

4. Brian Reyes: Do you know Brian Reyes, if not then you should. In the August issue of Elle Magazine editors highlighted some of his pieces as fall season picks. His niche mixing clashing patterns, which is one my fav looks for fall. His pre-spring collection is very resort, very easy, light and minimal. From the delicate fabrics to the simplistic construction, each look is understated sexy.

5. Michael Kors: What can I say he’s a legend, but I’m especially loving his Fall collection because of his use of winter floral(s). Normally I only like flowers in a garden or as a present, but now I love them as a Kors design. But it’s obvious this man knows what he’s doing. In the current retail recession his label remains on top, opening its flagship Milan store later this year. I don’t know if it’s the blonde hair, the classic blazer he sports or his belted waist dresses, but I’m loving me some MK!

Then there are other times when less is more, platforms aren’t always the sexiest shoes on the self. Too much chunk, the wrong fabric choice, horrific hardware, or even the wrong color combo can quickly turn any shoe from chic to cheap. That’s why I love Jeffery Campbell, with his line there are no mishaps just missbehavin.

WHO is Jeffrey Campbell, he’s a renowned shoe designer based in LA, who with help the help of his wife Christine has created a following of “JC Girls” across the globe.

WHAT is Jeffrey Campbell Footwear, think retro but trendy. “Each season the collection grows–offering Jeffrey’s spin on the hottest trends, and his updates to vintage classics of yesteryear” says JC. And who doesn’t like vintage. Honestly, to say that you don’t would be to stay you don’t like fashion, because its constantly recycles itself. Bringing together what was with what is! What inspires him, the cities of London and Brooklyn, Mary-Kate O., after parties, short-shorts and most importantly his daughters.

WHERE can you find Jeffrey Campbell, pick a spot on the map and point. No he’s really everywhere; Mostly found in cute boutiques, he could also be found in department store like Nordstorm or online shoe havens. Currently he retails in Illinois, Boston, Milwaukee, Texas, South Carolina, Vermont, Maryland, Florida, Canada, LA, Brooklyn and many more cities.

WHY Jeffrey Campbell, because he’s inspired by real things and real people which means YOU, ME, WE inspire him. And inspiration is where real fashion and style start.

To find Jeffrey Campbell retailers in your area please visit www.jeffreycampbellshoes.com.

When it comes to lowercase heels some of my favorite brands are Sam Edelman, Maloles, and Gap. I love their flats — there always fashion forward, and super cute. Flats are good both work and play, and depending on the style they can even add a touch glam to a look. So without further ado here are some of my favorite flats for this upcoming fall season.

Being the product junkie that I am, a few months back I was visiting a MAC counter to pick up some concealer when I was introduced to my new best friend. That friend has been loyal and hasn’t left my side ever since. What or who is this friend I’m referring too, that would be none other than MAC’s Fix ($16) + makeup aqua spritz. I know your probably thinking; I know this girl ain’t talking about water in a bottle. Don’t worry ladies I’m not. What I’m talking about is an old underground fave of makeup artist, an angel in disguise.

Fix+ can be used for any and just about every make makeup routine. Used to set one’s makeup look, over time this product as become a force to be reckon with. The water-based potion is packed with vitamins, minerals and toped off with chamomile, green tea and cucumber extracts. But it doesn’t just finish your makeup, it adds radiance to your look, and hydrates your skin. I’ve often used it as a skin refresher and moisturizer at night instead of typical creams or lotions.

The added bonus and maybe the most beneficial aspect of Fix+ is its ability to multi-task. Fix+ can be used to do any of the following: (1) Set makeup (2) Apply powders like creams (3) Intensify eye shadow (4) Add radiance (5) Hydrate and refresh skin.

It’s MAC, it multi-tasks, its healthy for your skin and it retails for only $16, you can’t beat that!

To find out more about my daily routine with MAC’s Fix+ email me at kbarge@clutchmagazine.com and for any additional beauty questions please email Nicole at nmitsch@clutchmagazine.com.

1. Donna Karen: DKNY
The hottest of them all! Keeping the colors and silhouettes simple the collection is young and classic, but extremely posh! Driven by the idea of the little black dress, there are several variations of the staple throughout the collection. However, not to disappoint, there are fresh pops of yellow, green, and fuchsia in just about each look. Carrying the trend of matching tights with patent platform maryjanes, the overall look is very edgy socialite!

2. Moschino: Cheap & Chic
Menswear trousers are definitely in for the upcoming Fall season, but for the cheap and chic freaks of the resort season its all about the dress. And that dress would be nothing with its partner in crime, the statement coat. The collection is cool, colorful and fun, mixing tone and patterns. It has lots of bows, subtle polka dots and great accessories. This collection screams, “I have an open mind and I’m not afraid to use it.“

3. Diane Von Furstenberg
Holding true to tradition but keeping things modern, iconic designer DVF did what she does best, designing clothes for women that make them feel and look the like women. Here sexy nautical(s) seem to be the theme, with lots of bold stripes and the obvious use of primary colors. Always feminine, the sweetheart neckline played a vital role, as well as the trend of a belted waist. Not to fear she featured some of her best trenches ever in this collection, like the one pictured. All 61 looks were made to accentuate any woman’s figure of any age, all with the signature style of Diane.

4. YSL: Yves St. Laurent
Finding inspiration in men’s wear, mixed with Grecian accents the resort collection is to die for. I’m a huge fan of monochromatic looks and the ones in this collection are dope! A personal favorite of mine is the fuschia powersuit with light blue shirt. Like many of the pieces in this collection it is timeless, but styled more fashionable and structured more relaxed yet remains sophisticated. All the elements of what embodies resort in a single look like a pantsuit.

5. Stella McCartney
PETA supporter and designer Stella McCartney took the most contemporary approach to resort-wear out of all the collections. The pieces are trendy, soft and very feminine. The looks remind me of something either Joy Bryant, Zoe Kravitz’s or Rachel Bilson would wear. Once again it’s a totally relaxed look, that looks put together but not overdone. Its cute, it’s easy, and it’s comfortable. The stiletto booties, bows and soft fabrics give it that extra fab factor!

Resort Accessories
Because no outfit would be complete without them, here are some great resort accessories.
Moschino: Cheap & Chic , Electric Blue Strappy Peep Toe Platform
YSL: Fuschia Platform Mule
Tory Burch: Green Patent Doctor Bag
Burberry: Burberry Prorsum, Light Blue Jewel Necklace
Donna Karen: DKNY, Yellow, Flat Strappy Sandal

Unfortunately, the pain we endure to look fab seems to be incurable, but our shoes now have Smart Heel! Smart Heel is smartest and chicest invention for a fashionista’s feet. What are Smart Heels, they are sleek plastic heel protectors that you place over top of the heels of your shoes to guard against the harsh elements of concrete.

Smart Heels “save your favorite high heels from embarrassing and costly tears, scratches and nicks,” says Smart Heel founder Stacie Urbach.

Their company motto, slip them on before you go out, slip them off when you reach your destination. Smart Heels fit most stiletto heels of about 3-4 ½ inches highs and come in clear and black. Don’t think this can get any better, they are currently having a summer sale. Purchasers will receive a 25% discount decreasing the cost from $11.95 to $8.95 a pair! And what girl doesn’t love under $10 deals!

The downside is that they are not recommended for patent covered or round post heels, but they are still a great investment. I’m investing and so should you. Love your shoes and nurture your stilettos with Smart Heels.

To find out more information or to purchase a pair visit their site at www.smartheel.com.

At first glance the looks seem to be a mesh between Phillip Lim and Alice + Olivia, but the details and uniquely crafted accessories are what truly sets them apart. When you’re all dressed up it shows, skirts are statements and necklaces become art not decoration. The Francesa V collection is a little bit more deliberate, more put together, the fabrics grab more attention than the actual look(s). Their current spring 2008 collection is colorful, fresh, and inspiring. It makes you take risk, which is what having style is all about. They mix flouncy with sleek and balloon with bubble, breaking all the rules. One of the two most interesting aspects about the collection is its emphasis on scarf’s and their versatility. The other is their play on shapes and silhouettes and more importantly their beautiful and luxurious execution.

To find out more about the getting All Dressed Up visit their site at www.alldressedup.com.

The fashions of spring and summer were filled with bright colors, bold statements, and sex. The trend, create the thought of the act as well as the anticipation, giving the illusion of a nude woman. In most cases the idea was tastefully executed, showing illusions that were more illustrious than vulgar. Sex a deliciously human act is apart of us all, but I couldn’t help but miss the romance of innocent spring kisses in the park being translated onto the runway.

Luckily, spring 2009 seems to be getting back to basics starting with the newest collection from esteemed designer and Detroit native Tracy Reese.

Much different from her 2008 spring collection, which seemed to be inspired by the eras of the 30′s and 40′s, her new pieces are soft, adorned, refreshing and strong.

For starters, the collection focuses on watercolors like Aegean blue, apricot and Monet floral. The pieces continue to exude femininity with airy structures and sexy silhouettes. Like most Tracy Reese originals each piece makes a statement and tells the story of a beautiful woman. From the power-suit to the tea dress the each look can complement any women’s wardrobe.

Tracy Reese Pre-Spring 2009

Plenty by Tracy Reese Resort 2009

Tracy will be showing her entire spring 2009 collection at New York Fashion Week this September. Can’t wait till then? Get the full sneak peek at www.tracyreese.com.