We’re so thrilled to once again bring you our infinitely talented friend, designer Kara Janx . 2012 has been good to Kara. As if her successful run on Lifetime’s Project Runway All Stars wasn’t accomplishment enough, Kara has managed to add another illustrious notch on her belt: Fashion designer, television personality, wife, mother, entrepreneur and now, newly minted bridal designer.
With looks perfect for every occasion, Kara’s new bridal collection gracefully takes us from the engagement session to the rehearsal dinner, and then to the big day with stunning versatility and dynamic pops of color…
We’re thrilled to be sharing exclusive insight to Kara’s new venture with Merci New York’s chic and stylish readers. So without further adieu, feast your weary winter eyes on a selection of looks from Kara Janx bridal line and make sure to catch Kara’s tips on finding “the dress,” as well as a sneak peek of the designer’s {and newly minted New Yorker’s} own big day! Enjoy!
Merci: Kara, we must congratulate you on your Project Runway success and new bridal line! Wife, mom, designer, reality tv contestant… what inspired you to add a bridal collection to your already full plate?
Kara: The Ready to Wear line translated so easily into Bridal that after numerous requests from brides, it was an easy and wonderful transition.
Merci: What differentiates Kara Janx from other bridal collections?
Kara: The line feels current and relevant and the wearer can truly wear the dress again. The collection is subtle and contemporary.
Merci: What advice do you have for brides-to-be looking for “the dress?”
Kara: To be true to who you are, too often brides get swept up in the whole idea of ‘the day’ that they loose site of their own personal taste.
Merci: How did your wedding influence your bridal designs?
Kara: Comfort and confidence, in that I mean that all brides should not have to worry about a thing on this special day. Everything they envisioned should be elevated and naturally they should feel comfortable, confident and of course GORGEOUS.
Merci: What was your bridal style? Has it changed since you’ve began designing bridal?
Kara: Simple and chic, it hasn’t changed but it has certainly evolved. Bridal opens the gateway to a whole new world of fabrications and silhouette and I love that I can explore all my options when it comes to design.
Merci: Jumpsuits are taking over the bridal runway. We were thrilled to see your take on the trend. Stunning! Who is the jumpsuit-wearing-bride? What would you say to the women torn between dress and suit?
Kara: When you get married, I think it’s important to express yourself, the jumpsuit is so non-traditional and if that’s what you opt for it’s a great alternative. It’s fantastic that there are choices out there. I have had a lot of my brides wear the jumpsuit to their rehearsal dinners. They are saying, “I am fashion forward,” but on their wedding day they are really traditional, it’s a great way of mixing things up.
Merci: We are in love with the prints and pops of color in your line. What considerations should a bride take when incorporating pattern and color into her wedding?
Kara: Brides want to explore more options. I always recommend brides send me a swatch of color and then I try to find a print or color that doesn’t overwhelm the ceremony, but rather enhance it. Some of my 50′s style brides are going with a cheetah print dress with red lips and heels. Honestly if the proportions are right and the print or amazing pop of color feels like an extension of yourself, it’s a great way to freshen up the wedding and make it feel super current.
Merci: So we’ve all heard, “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue,” what reccomendations do you have for a bride when creating her wedding look?
Kara: Think about the whole picture, try always to be true to who you are and what you represent. The sincerety will translate and you will live with this amazing memory forever. Take your time and enjoy the process, this really is your moment to be the most beautiful bride in the world.
Merci: What is your best piece of advice for the fashion loving bride?
Kara: Go there, take a chance, be risky. Trends come and go and when we look back at our pictures they will always set the tone of the time and place, it’s great to be your own trendsetter.
Merci: Though your native home is South Africa, we selfishly love that you’re now a resident New Yorker. What affect has living in New York had on your collections/style?
Kara: Street fashion in New York is progressive, relevant and so stylish. People express themselves through their style and it is so apparent on the streets, I love seeing a girl rocking something unexpected, it totally inspires me.
To purchase pieces from Kara Janx bridal collection {or ready to wear} visit Kara’s website . To learn more about Kara “friend” her on Facebook , or follow her on Twitter .
