Photographs by Kevin A. Roberts
The fourth time was the charm for local designer Laura Kathleen Planck. That’s how many auditions it took to land a spot on Lifetime’s reality-TV staple Project Runway. Finally making the cut for season nine, the 26-year-old St. Louisan is turning heads as the bubbly Midwesterner with a bite. Planck hopes the exposure will bring her label, Laura Kathleen (laurakathleen.com), to new heights.
Who was the most intimidating contestant?
Somebody who hasn’t been seen tons, but is extremely technically sound is Viktor Luna. He is pretty darn good at sewing.
Which judge’s opinion mattered the most?
For me, I really wanted Heidi [Klum] to love my stuff, because she is the person who would wear it. If I could get her in my garments, it would be amazing.
What was the most stressful aspect?
You’re getting this feedback and critique, and you have no time to process it—you had no time to really reflect or regroup. You had to stay so strong to your aesthetic, or you could get lost very easily. I think that was the downfall for many designers on the show.
Your jewelry does stand out. Who makes it?
It’s actually a local St. Louis designer. Her jewelry is Scarlett Garnet; Katie Miller is the designer. They do the jewelry for my runway shows. I own quite a collection of Scarlett Garnet.
St. Louis recently made GQ’s list of the nation’s worst-dressed cities. Name a local fashion crime you can’t stand.
The Uggs and miniskirts. It has to stop. In the winter, there is no reason to have those tiny, tiny skirts. I’m also a fan of leggings, but I like them paired with things that cover your butt. You can see through to tattoos, panty lines, whatever you may have—it’s just not a flattering look.
Does St. Louis influence your designs?
I was certainly influenced by growing up in both University City and Frontenac. Those two neighborhoods are so different. U. City taught me to be very freethinking, and Frontenac represents a luxury-brand part of society.
Ever design your own Halloween costume?
Once I was the green M&M. I made a big, round M&M where my arms and head came out of, and it was kind of a little dress. And I wore white go-go boots and nylons. I handed out M&Ms all night with big white gloves.
