Ken Laurence

We were holding our breath last week as Project Runway Season 13 aired, waiting to see which former Project Runway designer would be chosen in the Runway Redemption campaign.  Alas, the brilliant Ken Laurence did not make it onto season 13, but as Twitter fans talked about how much they loved Ken, we suggested perhaps he should have his own show.  Ken’s designs have a clear point of view of elegance, structure, and luxury, and we loved seeing everything he chose to put down the runway in Season 12.  Ken presents himself in a chic and classy way, a perfect representative for his brand.  His time was cut too short on Project Runway, but since his participation, Ken has been careful in choosing which opportunities will propel him on his path to design success.  We caught up with Ken recently to find out what he has been up to and where his focus and determination has led him since the show.

HOW KEN LAURENCE MAKES IT WORK

 2.  Please give a brief description of your design style.

The brand is acknowledged for using luxurious textiles in classic silhouettes with a touch of modern aesthetic to create dynamic dresses, structural jackets, and wearable separates.

Ken Laurence Dress Design

Ken Laurence Structured Top

3.  What was the most challenging thing about the Project Runway experience BESIDES the challenges themselves?

Let me start by quoting Michael Kors, “Project Runway is not for sissies!”  The competition is harder than it appears to be on television. But personally, the hardest part for me was adapting to the production schedule; 18 – 20 hour work days bought the pressure, stress, and meltdowns.  However, overall the experience was amazing!

4.  Who have you met or worked with during or since the Project Runway experience that you are most proud of or excited about?

After Project Runway, I’ve had the chance to dress a few celebrities, but I declined the opportunities.  After filming, I had a meeting with investors for the clothing line Baby Phat, and I was enlightened by the business side of the fashion industry on how to keep my brand afloat when I re-launch. So, that’s where all my attention has gone.

5.  Besides the basics, what sewing notion or tool could you NEVER do without?

Well, I could not live without my rotary cutter. It makes cutting so much faster at times.

Fiskars Rotary Cutter

6.  How has social media impacted your life after Project Runway?

After Project Runway my followers increased greatly on Facebook and Twitter. (Find Ken on Twitter at @_KenLaurence_ , and on Facebook at DesignerKenLaurence)

7.  What are you currently working on or excited about professionally?

I am currently working on a few projects. I just re-launched my new website,www.kenlaurence.com. I am currently working on my non-profit organization, The GLAM Foundation. My Pre-Spring 2015 collection has just been photographed (awaiting the finished images).  I will be designing a collection for Spring 2015, and showing at Philadelphia Fashion Week in September.

Ken Laurence Designs

Special Thanks to Ken for taking the time to talk with us.  Ken we wish you all the best as your brand re-launches and grows! -C. Scott

All text and images provided by Ken Laurence unless watermarked, linked, or specified.