Christian Siriano is a very busy man. The youngest winner in Project Runway history has designed full runway collections, dresses that have wowed on the red carpet, a cosmetics collection for Victoria’s Secret and a shoe collection for Payless that has women swooning at the malls. With celebrity fans like Christina Hendricks, Whoopi Goldberg, Tori Spelling, Rihanna, Heidi Klum, Victoria Beckham, Lady Gaga and Becki Newton and a fabulous style tome burning up the literary charts, we’re lucky the designing dynamo had a second to chat. Here’s a record of our talk with this “ferosh” force of nature:

RWH: First of all, we’re so amazed at what you’ve accomplished since Project Runway: multiple showings at Bryant Park, a book, a reality special, a makeup line, and some extremely successful collections for Payless. What’s your perspective on everything that’s happened?

Christian Siriano: It’s been a wonderful experience and it continues to be one each and every day. I’m so lucky to have worked with some of the most talented people in the business, and it’s been such an honor to have dressed such great, diverse number of artists.  Sometimes it’s hard to feel successful because the business is tough, but then some days I feel very successful, so it really just depends. I think in the next year or so I will be very proud to have accomplished so much by age 25.

RWH: Can you tell us a little about the amazing fall ‘10 collection for Payless? What was on your mood board? What inspired you?

Christian Siriano: For this collection, I really wanted some classic shapes that were sexy and chic. I also wanted to create a heel that had a French 18^th-century feeling but was also modern and sculptural, so I took ideas from photos of French antique furniture, old claw foot bathtubs and Louis XVI chairs. We also used small filigree details and fabrics that reminded me of old leather trunks and suitcases. There was a lot of inspiration on the board, but I think the design team and I came up with something cool, cohesive, wearable and chic.

RWH: What is/are your favorite items from the upcoming collection?

Christian Siriano: I have the most difficult time choosing my favorite piece in the collection because I love the details in everything. I typically love one shoe or dress at the beginning of the process, but then by the end of the show and market week I love other pieces I wasn’t previously as interested in. I guess when you see people in the clothes and shoes you change your mind about everything.

Running With Heels: Who is the Christian Siriano woman? Who wears your clothes and accessories?

Christian Siriano: I think what’s great about the Siriano woman is that it’s actually a group of very different women. Coming from a TV show, my fan base is not only young girls but also their mothers and grandmothers (who are usually my Saks customers.) I think my collection for Payless is so perfect for my customers who are fashion-forward, confident and stylish but on a budget. That’s really how most major brands grow – through accessories. I also love that I’m able to have so many customers, even down to the celebrities I dress. I’ve dressed everyone from Rihanna to Christina Hendricks to Whoopi to Melania Trump; such different women who love style. I love to create whatever makes them feel powerful and elegant.

RWH: What do you believe are the essential shoes every woman should have in her shoe wardrobe? What about for this summer season?

Christian Siriano: I think for summer you must have a great flat in a soft color like blush, nude, and/or khaki embellished with a pop of color. I love prints for this season as well, inside the shoe or out! Also, a classic pump is always a must, no matter what color or style.

RWH: What shoes are less than ‘j’adore’ for you? What are some mistakes that make you want to give a woman a full-on makeover right there on the sidewalk?

Christian Siriano: I think there are a lot of mistakes women make because sometimes it becomes soooo much about comfort and a lot of women feel that comfort means sacrificing style. There are so many great shoe options out now that you can be on trend, stylish AND comfortable. Sometimes the big clunky shoe isn’t at all flattering: it draws the eye downward for all the wrong reasons. Just a little something to consider next time you’re shopping for shoes or getting dressed.

RWH: Can you give us a sneak peek or some hints as to what we can expect from you for spring 2011?

Christian Siriano: Spring 2011 is going to be all about various cultures mixed with bright, strong color. I think the shoes will have a lot of texture, and you’ll see a variety of cultural influences from other countries and regions throughout the collection.

RWH: What’s next for you as far as projects? More fabulousness with Payless?

Christian Siriano: The next few collections we have been working on for Payless really are amazing, and I think they keep getting better and better each season so I’m excited for that. Otherwise, it’s bridal season and we’ll be wedding crazy for the next two months.

RWH: If you could give your fans any advice, whether they’re aspiring designers or fierce fashionistas, what would it be?

Christian Siriano: My advice is to just love and own your look.  If you are having fashion issues or doubt your style, look up to someone you admire: it can be a celebrity or even just a friend that’s fashion-forward. Sometimes the best ideas come from keeping your eyes open and watching others around you. That’s really how trends are made!

Visit the Christian Siriano for Payless Collection here.