Did your experience on Project Runway change you as a designer? If so, in what ways.

My experience on Project Runway made me very conscious of my design aesthetic... I have always made an effort to express my point of view in my work, and now more than ever I feel I am really able to focus my ideas into beautiful garments.

Throughout the show (even up to your departure) you seemed to keep your cool. How hard was it to stay focused on your art and craft during the competition?

I have a great ability to compartmentalize my stress and work load. It helps me keep my stress level down, and thus I can stay calm and focus my energy into the garment itself. I believe that stress and "freaking out" is a waste of valuable time and energy that can be put into constructing the garment. It was hard to stay focused due to the constant Project Runway surprises but with the limited amount of time, I knew I had to tune out the work room distractions to get the job done.

Tell about the ready to wear collection you are working on.  When can we expect to see it in stores?

The ready-to-wear collection is so thrilling for me because this is the first time I have done production on my pieces. Coming from a made-to-order background, I am really excited to see my designs on more people and have been working hard to design garments that are wearable daily yet intriguing. Pieces that you keep forever and can wear often. It is my Fall 2008, so it should be in stores by the summer!

What inspired you to start designing hair accessories?
I always wear a bow or something in my hair, and I love hats. However, it’s not always easy and convenient to wear a hat everyday, so I started wearing hair accessories to add the finishing touch to my outfits. Also, I lead a very hectic busy lifestyle as a stylist and designer, so I don’t always have to do my hair every day, wearing a bow is my way to have fun, cute hair and still be able to throw it up in a bun.  i wanted to make my own so that i could share fun hair accessories with other rad ladies.

What advice can you give aspiring fashion designers seeking to start their own fashion lines? A solid education is the first step and paying attention to what is going on in the industry and the marketplace. And most importantly to stay true to one’s personal vision and stay inspired by art and culture.

What is your biggest fashion trend for Spring 08?
I am hoping the biggest trend for spring will be the end of disposable fashion... I think designers are getting back to constructing more elaborate pieces that are not so easy to trickle down. Like the layering pieces and silouhettes at Marc Jacobs. I am equally as obsessed, as many others are, with the ombre tights at the couture shows.

What "IT" item in your closet can't you live without?
I cannot live without Hanes tank tops boys size XL