Exclusive interview with Project Runway's Korto Momolu

Project Runway's season 5 fan favourite and first runner up, Korto Momolu , is feeling fantastic this season, and there's no reason why she shouldn't. Famous for her use of rich fabrics and her African inspired pieces, the fierce designer was back at New York Fashion Week last week showing her stunning Spring 2011 Collection. Aside from her Korto Momolu Collection, she's launched 4 hot head turning lines and has been named "fashion designer to watch" by New York Magazine.

Here's how I caught up with the fabulous fashion designer...

1. What have you been up to since Project Runway?

I've been developing several lines and establishing my brand. The Korto Momolu brand now consists of:

-The Korto Momolu Collection (Ready to wear, custom designs, and one-of-a-kind accessories)

-Korto Momolu for Dillard's (A new line of signature handbags and accessories designed by Korto Momolu that are available at select Dillard's Department Stores and Dillards.com)

-The Saba Collection (Saba, which means gift in my native language, is an exclusive line of fashionable eco-friendly jewelry. It's a collaboration inspired by the beauty of the wood, the environmental conscience and the social history behind our products.

-Korto Momolu for SanLori, a new line of stationary and gift products targeting the fashion forward woman (Launched at 2011 Spring Collection Show)

-Korto Momolu for JHS, a collection of fine jewelry to accent everyday wear (Launched at Spring Collection Show

2. How does it feel to be named "fashion designer to watch" by New York Magazine?

It's a great honour. It shows that I'm a recognised brand, and my fashion is recognisable within the fashion industry. I still have a long way to go, but it's encouraging to know that people appreciate the work I do, and fashion editors are taking note also. I really appreciate them, and that's always why I will try and accommodate all those editors and writers.

3. Tell me about your Korto Momolu 2011 Spring Collection.

The 2011 Spring Collection is a mixture of feminine silhouettes, rich flowing fabrics and pleated embellishments that meld perfectly together to create a high fashion glam look.

4. How do you feel you've grown as a designer since Project Runway

I've grown in many ways. For instance, my Spring 2011 collection is nothing similar that people have seen from me before. And I tried to implement new ideas and new experiences every time I create a collection.

5. Do you still get nervous before you show at New York Fashion Week, and if so how do you deal with your nerves?

Yes I do!!! I deal with nerves from learning from my mother. During all that we went through in Liberia (Korto's family fled her native country Liberia, West Africa 20 years ago due to a Civil War), I saw her strength; her calmness, and how she deals with adversities. I adopted those same traits, and try to be calm before, during and after a show because if I display uneasiness, then my team will be unraveled.

Watch Korto Momolu's Spring 2011 Collection: