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In the world of reality television, full-figured fashion designers are all but ignored. Lifetime's "Project Runway" season six contestant Qristyl Frazier is determined to change that. The 42-year-old St. Louis, Missouri, native broke ground as the first plus-size designer to be featured on "Project Runway," but that's only the beginning. The "Plus-Sexy" reality star, who Tim Gunn calls "a hoot," spoke with ESSENCE.com about her plans to revitalize full-figured fashion and design for Oprah—and reveals how not even Michael Kors can get in her way:
 
ESSENCE.COM: When did you realize you wanted to be a designer?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Growing up, I was the youngest of three kids and my mom was a single parent working in General Motors. My mom got laid off when I was in high school and couldn't buy clothes for us, so I started making my own. Eventually, it became fun for me. I studied fashion at Stephens College and worked as a stylist before starting my own company, Qristyl Frazier Designs.
 
ESSENCE.COM: What celebrities have you designed for? What celebrities would you love to see wear your designs?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Angie Stone, Wendy Williams and Queen Latifah have worn my designs. I even hemmed a pair of pants for Janet Jackson when I worked as a stylist. I've also designed Men's clothes for the singer, Joe, and for Rupaul. I'd love to design for Michelle Obama, Oprah, Gabrielle Union, Halle Berry or Raven Symone.
 
ESSENCE.com: Define the new phrase you've coined on Project Runway, "Plus Sexy."
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Plus Sexy means embracing your curves and feeling confident in your clothes. Women want to feel sexy no matter their size, whether they're going to the club or out with their husbands. I am top-heavy. That's my plus sexy. If your thighs are your problem area, own up to it, accept it and love it. Make it your plus sexy. I have the great dress, pants, jumper and skirt that will flatter all of you.
 
ESSENCE.com: Being the only plus-size designer on Project Runway, do you feel limited? Do you feel pressure to conform?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Not at all, I feel empowered. The fact that they've included a plus-size designer says a lot. That's phenomenal for Project Runway to open their minds to be able to accept plus-size designers. Showcasing a designer that does plus-size shows that the industry is starting to evolve. I bet you'll see more designers in the future designing plus-size clothing and using plus-size models.  I would love to see a challenge on Project Runway where you have to design for plus-size models. It'd be exciting to see how people react to that.
 
ESSENCE.com: In the first episode, how did it feel to get your red carpet gown criticized so harshly by the judges?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: It was hard to deal with Michael Kors calling me schizophrenic, but I have a website full of designs people love.  Most people don't get the opportunity to be judged by the best. But will I let the best stop me from what I'm doing? No. Over the years, I've learned to handle criticism by seeing how I can grow from it. I'm a fighter and will keep on fighting.
 
 
ESSENCE.com: What is the biggest fashion mistake a plus-size woman can make when shopping?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Getting clothing that's not her appropriate size. Buy the size that fits, not the size you want. And don't be afraid to go up a size. It just means that the designer did not cut it correctly. In the long run, the fit is most important and will make you feel better when you wear the design. Also, know which designer's clothes work best for you.
 
ESSENCE.com: What are three key pieces that every plus-size woman should have in her wardrobe?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: Every plus-size woman should have the proper foundation. They prevent bulges and create smooth lines. She also needs a versatile jacket because you can pair it with a dress or jeans and create several different looks. And every woman should have a "freakum dress," as Beyonce' says but I called it the "Rent dress." It's a dress that you know will turn heads and no one can tell you a thing when you put it on. It compliments and flatters and you feel great in it. I've had one for years and receive compliments from men of all nationalities when I wear it. I have to make sure I don't get myself into too much trouble when I have it on. (Laughs)
 
ESSENCE.com: Why did you choose to design for the plus-size market as opposed to sample size?
QRISTYL FRAZIER: I love the plus-size market. If you really don't know a woman's body, it's challenging. Most fit models are a size 4/6. I have size 14/16 mannequins. I'm that designer that's not afraid to play with fabric or silhouette to deliver great fit. My customers love it when skirts ease over their hips and dresses zip up over their back or shoulder blades. They walk out of the store feeling confident.
 
ESSENCE.com: What's next for Qristyl Frasier? 
QRISTYL FRAZIER: I've gotten exposure on shows like BET's "Rip the Runway" and at "Full-Figured Fashion Week," but I'm trying to use Project Runway to promote my designs even more and to get my clothing in more stores. I would love to be in Saks Fifth Avenue, and even design a small line for Target. I'm a small town girl who left everything to come and pursue my dreams in NYC and I have 15 years experience in the business. I want people to know there's a designer out there who looks like you and designs for you.