You may know him as the Fan Favorite from Season 3 of the hit design show, Project Runway and from his return to TV for Lifetime’s Project Runway All Stars Season 3 but designer Mychael Knight continues to navigate the fashion scene in New York, Atlanta and now Los Angeles. Along with being commissioned by Fortune 500 brands such as Coca-Cola, Knights designs are requested by major networks such as BET and he often tours the U.S. sharing his industry knowledge with aspiring designers through his affiliation with Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). In addition to his custom design work, Knight has recently taken on the role of celebrity fashion stylist for actress, comedian and television personality, Sherri Shepherd whose new show Trial & Error debuts March 14th on NBC. We caught up with Knight to get the exclusive on what has been developing for his brand and to get his expert opinion and style tips for curvy body types! Here’s what he shared:

Sherri Shephered. Photo provided by Mychael Knight
Sherri Shepherd. Photo provided by Mychael Knight

EB: What were you working on leading up to your new stylist role with Sherri Shepherd?

MK: I relocated to Los Angeles (two years now). I’m still designing my own collections and for celebrity & corporate clients. I relaunched my secondary line, MYKA.Mychael Knight (available on www.mychaelknight.com) and I’m in the beginning stages of developing a line of dresses for a mass retailer. I’ve also been venturing into wardrobe/costume for TV and film.

EB: What’s your approach to styling celebs?

MK: My approach is to always find something special, but still approachable. The pieces pique interest but still read as wearable and relatable. Beyond that, I am really adamant in addressing my celebrity clients’ body types. An amazing design doesn’t mean amazing for the client. It’s always my mission to create looks that address their individual body and not the trends.

MYKA.Mychael Knight Photo: Jerris Madison
MYKA.Mychael Knight
Photo: Jerris Madison

Where can readers keep up with your work and designs?

My website, www.Mychaelknight.com, has all things MK and via social media: @mychaelknight on IG and @themychaelknight on FB. 

Mychael Knight Runway Photog: Faze | Rafael Jackson
Mychael Knight Runway. Photo: Faze | Rafael Jackson
Mychael Knight Runway Photog: Faze | Rafael Jackson
Mychael Knight Runway. Photo: Faze | Rafael Jackson

Mychael Knight’s style tips for curvy body types:

TIP #1 – Accentuate the positive, de-emphasize the negative.

It’s not necessary for curvy body types to “eliminate” the negatives; it’s important to be happy with the skin you’re in. But downplaying a less desirable attribute, while celebrating another creates harmonious, body balance.

TIP #2 – Skin is in! 

Shapeless silhouettes and extra layers do more harm than good. Don’t be afraid of shorter hemlines, youthful sleeve lengths, or a peak of décolletage. Flashes of skin will give curvy figures focus & proportion.

TIP #3 – If it doesn’t fit, you MUST acquit.

Never confuse a good-looking garment with a well-fitting one. View off-the-rack garments, especially for curvy body types, as templates, ready for you to make the fit your own. Keep a seamstress/tailor on hand to make the fit of a good garment, a GREAT one!