Jenn Charkow, Project Runway designer, determined to stay true to herself
While Project Runway fans only saw a glimpse of Jenn Charkow and her design aesthetic, her time on the show could spark some inspiration.
In a big twist on the Project Runway premiere, Jenn Charkow was one of two designers eliminated in the competition. While this new group of designers had many accomplishments, Jenn only had a limited time to make an impression on the judges. The team challenge might not have been her strong suit, but her appearance on the Bravo fashion show could be quite beneficial.
Charkow described her fashion as modern goth. While that description might not have shined in her jumpsuit, the concept sounded impressive. After looking at her own brand, Stone Crow Designs, her look’s design perception is influenced by her eco-friendly approach.
After leaving a job in corporate design, she sought to start a brand that was eco-friendly yet had an edge. Being aware of the impact that fashion has on the environment, Charkow is committed to using eco-friendly materials but not compromising on the visual. She believes that a smart choices, intelligent resourcing and embracing technology can have a positive impact.
Looking at her various pieces, there is a lovely balance of hard and soft. While many of the pieces has a sense of flow, they showcase a powerful woman who knows who she is. It is a delicate balance that she conveys well.
Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Charkow. From her struggles in the team challenge to her thoughts on the rest of the season, she had some insightful thoughts.
Culturess: The first challenge was a team challenge. While Karlie said collaboration equals innovation, did you really feel that a team challenge was helpful in the first episode?
Jenn Charkow: To be honest I felt the first challenge being a team challenge was very hard for me. It really didn’t give me a chance to show what I can do.
Culturess: This week’s theme was space and space travel. What is one fashion item that you would pack for a trip to space?
Charkow: I would have to say I would pack my parachute jacket. It’s a very versatile piece and it just looks cool.
Culturess: Do you feel that you got a chance to show your vision in the first episode?
Charkow: No, I think between the craziness of being on the show and [that] it’s the first challenge and a team challenge on top of that, I wasn’t able to really show people that I can design something amazing. I guess the high pressure of Project Runway just wasn’t the best work environment for me.
Culturess: Based on your experience, do you think that this season of Project Runway is going to be the best yet?
Charkow: I think it’s going to be a good season and people should keep tuning in. I have a feeling it’s just going to keep getting better.
Culturess: Why do you think being on Project Runway is helpful for your brand and/or inspiration?
Charkow: I think, for me, it will help people find my very tiny eco brand of Stone Crow Designs in a sea of brands. I also hope that it will get more people involved in the eco ethical fashion movement and show how important it is for everybody to get involved.
Culturess: What piece of advice would you give a designer who wants to appear on Project Runway?
Charkow: Stay true to yourself and show off the unique artist that you are.
Project Runway season 18 airs on Bravo, Thursday nights at 9:30 p.m. ET. Stone Crow Designs is Jenn Charkow’s design company.
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