Shows like Project Runway, Fashion Show, and even America's Next Top Model have proved to me that just because someone knows how (or claims they know how) to dress others doesn't mean they know how to dress themselves (we addressed this topic a bit last week, but no worries, there is plenty more where that came from later!).
Some designers, on the other hand, not only know how to dress themselves and others, but they also know how accessorize with mad style. Today's subject: Korto Momolu from Project Runway's Season 5 (PR returns in 2 weeks! AHHH!). From the start, I found myself digging Korto's style, both on and off the runway. 
Having lived in Liberia, Korto definitely has an African influenced wardrobe and design sense (ie: bold, chunky, colorful, etc). She also has an amazing comprehension for fit and flattery when it comes to her clothing - and somehow manages to make her jewelry only flatter the figure even more! Love, love, love her style (click on all the pictures in this post for their sources!)
Let's look at some of Korto's jewelry from Fashion Week in Bryant Park last fall:
Holy mother that is one hot necklace. The dress is of course beautiful, but I must say, the necklace MAKES IT. I am a bit in love with teal/emerald this summer, and wish I had a reason to indulge in a dress like this (anyone else think it would make a FAB bridesmaids dress?)!
This necklace totally steals the show of this outfit (which is a bit too eclectic for my personal wardrobe, but totally within my taste. Although, I am thinking it could look a bit 80's prom dress if you take away the necklace...?). I am spotting Thai silver and genuine gemstones on this beautifully and culturally styled piece. And who else recognized the model from America's Next Top Model, Cycle 9 contestant, Biannca Golden?
This one isn't just some necklace on top of a dress - it's part of the dress! I will admit, I have been collecting big, bold wooden beads in hopes that one day I will have the time and courage to attempt to make a halter with the beads as the straps. I'll get to it, ya know, when I have 36 hours in a day and endless energy and creative gusto (right, one of THOSE projects!).
It's no surprise that Korto's jewelry was as big of a hit on the runway as her clothing itself. Of the experience, she says, "I get a lot compliments on my jewelry and handbags and it's actually something that started as a hobby. I took this jewelry class here and I started making earrings for myself and so many people asked about them, so I decided to start making them to sell and that kind of took off like that. I didn't want jewelry in my collection that looked generic. I wanted to use African beads, I also used Thai silver... I felt it really represented who I was as a designer. The judges weren't all the way impressed with it but I stood by my jewelry and I put them on those models and I figured somebody out there would love it. You just have to do what you want in the final, that's your one chance to do and if you hold back you will always regret it. I spent a lot of time making that jewelry so I wasn't going to not put it in just because the judges didn't like it and I'm glad a lot of people took to it so that tells me that the people who matter will buy it." (see the full interview here).
Korto has thus added jewelry design to her collection, and is selling lots of it online. But, I am finding myself torn on her online collection. On one hand, I am super proud that she is insightful enough to see that her jewelry collection was a big enough hit to warrant it's own line, but the stuff for sale on her website isn't really as amazing as her jewelry as featured on her final runway show, or even my favorite Project Runway source, ProjectRungay. (The one on the right is one of the better pieces from her collection that actually resembles what she made before, but I feel that the rest of them miss the mark. Check them out here). The following pieces, however, were showcased in an interview with Korto. One word: breathless.
Of her work, Korto told Zimbio: Inspiration: "I tried to do a follow-up on the few pieces that I got to show at Fashion Week. They’re very much Asian and African inspired and it’s a fusion between these two ethnic cultural backgrounds that I really love. I found myself always doing things that are Asian inspired." Colors: "I used a lot of the bright colors that I love to use. The ocean greens, really beautiful yellows, purples, and hot fuchsia pinks. Very vivid colors, fun colors, happy colors…those are the colors I really love."
Materials: "I use a lot of African beads as well as a lot of things made out of resin because my necklaces tend to be chunky and bulky, so I try to use materials that are not as heavy as using the actual stones and metals. A lot of glass beads. Some of the beads are from Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania. I love texture, there’s a lot of texture, my variation of textures, in all the pieces. I love turquoise. I also used feathers in some of the designs, I’ve always loved feathers and there are many different variations of feather earrings, so I thought “How can I make mine different?” I like the chains and the feathers. It has a soft and a hard feel to it. They’re made out of silver."
So, who wants to go on a trip to Kenya with yours truely to buy some African beads? Anyone, anyone?
Have a great weekend, lovies!
When I first saw the image on the left, I though "Ugh." It looks like an industrial cloudy day. But when I click on the alternative view (the product shot), my grey heart softed up to it! Especially considering the cute ribbon cord and the possibilities of wearing it with a simple black or pink dress! Come to think of it, I have some grey oval beads JUST like those (though I am sure my plastic version doesn't hold a candle to the glass, resin, and metal of this necklace - or COULD it?!).
Example #2: Bugle Beaded Necklace, $590
Much like #1; love the ribbon of the product shot and could totally see this at a Christmas party with a little red dress, though it looks like a mirror poo-ed all over the remainds of a USB drive on the model (and what's with her Bride of Frankenstien hair?)
Example #3: Silk Corded Necklace, $850
It looks like a hot mess on the model. Maybe it's one of those necklaces that shift from either side of your chest thanks to, ya know, girl parts that can seperate long necklaces. According to the product picture, the clasp is in the center, suggesting to me that it's supposed to be worn semestrically. I could also do without the hair-looking braided cord, but other than that I dig it.
There were a few others that didn't even offer a product photo, and I think I can see why:
Gold Loop Earrings, $290
These SERIOUSLY look like something my mom would make out of random pods lying around the back yard and spayed with gold. Don't forget to add Mom's leftover curtains for the finishing touch! Oh, on second thought, it could also be that guy from India's really long, Guiness Book of World Records golden fingernails! Vomit.
Resen and Lucite Chain Necklace, $390
The Bride of Frankenstein showing off the latest torture device.
You be the judge.
Lesson of the day? If you are on a budget like the rest of the world, stear clear of this supposed "High Fashion" and stick with Etsy homemade! ;)
