Bryant Park Hotel celebrated New York Fashion Week by presenting women’s wear designer Korto Momolu’s collection entitled “Monaco.” Korto Momolu (pronounced Cut•Toe – Mo•Mo•Lu), recently recognized by The Grio’s 100 as ”One to Watch,” is a fashion designer originally born in Monrovia, Liberia who was raised in Canada after Liberia’s civil war. Korto’s rise to fashion stardom came with her participation on Bravo TV’s Project Runway Season 5, in which she was named Fan Favorite and Runner Up. Expanding on the designer’s vision of femininity, elegance, and futurism, this Autumn/Winter 2012 season draws inspiration from starlets, fashion icons, and jetsetters whose wardrobe would include glamorous evening gowns, stylish jumpsuits, warm yet sophisticated sweaters, and day dresses in opulent silks. Grace Kelly and Brigitte Bardot epitomize the chic quality of Monaco and encompass the theme of this season’s inspiration. Korto’s pieces allow any woman, of all sizes, to feel comfortable, sophisticated, sensual, and feminine.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images/Mari J. Brooklyn

During the presentation Germany’s Next Top Model, hosted by Heidi Klum, recorded their final episodes and contestants from the show were presented as models.

Go to www.KortoMomolu.com to check out more of her creations or if you want to get a hold of some of her amazing pieces!

Blaire Brown started a purse business at the age of 16, designing and creating purses to sell online at www.fashionflamingo.etsy.com. It first started out as a hobby, and then it flourished in her hometown so she decided to pursue fashion as a career in college. She is currently a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology and is continuing to chase her dreams of running her own business and writing in the Big Apple. Throughout the 6 years of being in business, her purses have been recognized by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Next In Fashion blog, and other publications.

Tags: Fashion Week, Heidi Klum, Korto Momolu, MBFW, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Monaco, New York Fashion Week, Next Top Model, NYC, NYFW, Project Runway, shopping