Courtesy of Jennifer GrayIf you are one of the many Washington University students devoted to Bravo’s Project Runway, if your Wednesday nights from 8 to 9 were spent heckling Santino Rice or imitating Andra‚ Gonzalo, then you will be pleased to know that on May 20th, you have a chance to meet Project Runway finalist Kara Janx, see her new current spring collections for men and women and get the inside scoop on Project Runway.
You may remember Janx as the talented South African designer with long, dark hair and a unique design style.
A native of Johannesburg, Janx came to the United States eight years ago to study architecture. She began studying fashion four years ago through night classes, and in that short amount of time she has established herself as an up-and-coming designer.
“Project Runway happened at a time that was perfect for me,” said Janx.
The show’s success has been an incredible jumping point, resulting in appearances, trunk shows and meet-and-greets across the country.
As a Project Runway contestant, Janx had to find inspiration according to the challenges presented every week. From the clothes off their backs to the wares of New York’s flower shops, the designers had to create the beautiful and original under severe time constraints and a limited budget.
One of Janx’s standout pieces – and her personal favorite – was created for the Garden Party challenge, in which contestants were required to forge a dress from actual leaves, flowers and moss. The dress, made entirely of flowers, leaves and twine, earned the judges’ respect for its innovation and beauty.
While the flower dress may not be the easiest to mass-produce, Janx has a slew of other pieces, both one-of-a-kind and mass-produced, on display at her shows.
Her kimono dress, a favorite of Project Runway judge Michael Kors, is on sale for $210 in a variety of colors.
Janx is passionate about making her clothing available to everyone, while also setting trends and continuing to grow as a respected designer.
Her fashion inspirations include both designers and architects, but her sister is also a great source of ideas.
“She is an amazing dresser, with a great design sensibility,” said Janx.
Despite the recent skyrocket in Janx’s career, she has still remained very close to her family. Janx is also engaged and plans to start a family.
Throughout the long and sometimes ridiculous process of filming Project Runway and getting her collection off the ground, Janx has continually found help and inspiration from her siblings, and especially her mother.
“She’s just an amazing woman. She had six kids, and she’s an incredible positive inspiration in my life,” said Janx.
For a chance to meet Kara Janx and see her collection first-hand, take a trip to TheTime, a new boutique in downtown Maplewood at 7298 Manchester Road, on May 20th.
And if you’re lucky, she might elaborate on the accents and antics of Andra‚, whom she confirmed to be as “cuckoo and quirky” as he seems on reality television.
The jury is still out on Santino, however; you will have to ask Kara about him.