Former fourth-grade school teacher Kara Laricks won the NBC fashion competition, Fashion Star . Laricks always told her students to be true to themselves, and she finally took her own advice and pursued a career in fashion. She designs androgynous clothing for men and women, inspired by her love of menswear and an avant-garde Japanese design aesthetic. Best known for her hoodie scarves and collar-and-ties, Laricks puts a spin on what is deemed traditional women's fashion. She considers her partner Melissa to be her biggest supporter because she encouraged her to pursue her passion. Everything She Wants caught up with the designer after her win via email: How has Fashion Star changed your perspective of the fashion industry? Kara Laricks: I have always thought of myself as a "high end" designer -- in other words, one that dreams of creating a mood and experience for my customers through a runway show -- telling a story through my collection with a clear be...