Korto Momolu Designs Custom Gown for Miss Universe Leila Lopes for the Miss Universe Competition

Dec. 18, 2012 - PRLog -- February 17, 2012 (Washington, DC) - Fashion Designer, Korto Momolu, who was the first runner-up on Project Runway's fifth season and recently appeared on "All on the Line" with Joe Zee, was commissioned by the Miss Universe Organization Fashion Director, Alisha Crutchfield, to design a custom gown for the current Miss Universe Leila Lopes.

The signature gown will be worn during the live telecast of the 61st Annual Miss Universe Competition, Wednesday, December 19, 2012, at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on NBC (Check Local Listings). Lopes will crown her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour telecast.

Inspired by traditional tribal attire, the gown's fabric is canary yellow with black accents, which represents Korto's and Leila's proud African heritage of Liberia and Angola. "I am honored to have one of my custom pieces showcased and to share a bit of my roots and personality with a global audience. Yellow has always been my happy color, and the choice of flowing materials was important to show movement and youthfulness. Both Leila and I claim the color yellow as a favorite," states Momolu.

During her reign as Miss Universe 2011, Lopes wore several pieces from the Korto Momolu Collection for media tours and special appearances. As she prepares to hand over the crown, she will once again be wearing a signature look from one of her favorite designers.

For more information about Korto Momolu, please visit www.KortoMomolu.com, or please email El'Jay DeShield at deshieldenterprisesllc@gmail.com.