Who is Mychael Knight? If you watched the third season of the Bravo TV series Project Runway, you know exactly who he is. This German born, Atlanta based designer became a household name after making it to the finals of the popular reality show. Though he didn’t win the title, Mychael won America’s respect as an innovative designer.

I didn’t discover Mychael until this year’s BET fashion show, Rip The Runway. This tall, tattoo wearing, 29 year old, quickly caught my interest. After his segment, I said to myself, “that man sure knows how to design.” Every ensemble presented on the runway was captivating. Take a sprinkle of couture, mix it with a touch of hip-hop and you’ve got a Mychael Knight design.

The next day, I “googled” his name and came across his website. I was pleasantly surprised to see a variety of clothing ranging from swimsuits to glamorous gowns. He designs clothes for the “sexy, sophisticated, secure woman.” If this sounds anything like you, be prepared to become a Mychael Knight aficionado. The use of exotic colors and fine fabrics are perfect for anyone who wants to feel like they are the “baddest chick” in the room.

Mychael Knight went from a struggling designer to a household name. Designing for the likes of Ciara, Queen Latifah, and Jagged Edge was just the beginning. He is currently creating a men’s clothing line and a fragrance. Most recently he has made headlines with the launch of a new t-shirt project for the ever-so-popular Starbucks. Basically, don’t be surprised when you see Nicole Kidman at next year’s Oscar Awards wearing a Michael Knight design. Will he be the next Karl Lagerfeld or Gianni Versace? Let’s wait and see.

By Dorielle Hammonds

*Go to www.mychaelknight.com to get more information about this week’s “Designer Spotlight.”