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Photo credit: Barbara Nitke/Greg Endries

“Project Runway” Beauty Talks Reality Show Win, Her Dating Life, Keeping Fit Over The Holidays & More

Liris Crosse broke barriers earlier last month when she became the first plus-sized model to win the “Project Runway,” modeling competition.

Viewers and judges alike were taken with Crosse’s beauty, her Instagrammable quotes, her no-nonsense attitude and the way she showed out on the catwalk. As the Season 16 winner, Crosse will get to pose in her own full fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine.

“It’s been an amazing ride,” the Maryland native told BOSSIP. “To be a black girl from Baltimore who had a dream. I’ve had this dream for years, of seeing all this model diversity, and I’m living it out loud on TV.”

Photo credit: Barbara Nitke/Greg Endries

We sat down with 5’11 size 14 stunner to talk about her win, dating and her life after “Project Runway.”

BOSSIP: How has the public reacted to your “Project Runway” win?
LC: “I’ve been amazed by the response from fans all across the globe. I had a girl reach out to me who was 12 and said ‘thank you for being so vocal and so confident. It helps me feel confident.’ You just never know how much you being who you are can be received and provide inspiration and motivation.”

BOSSIP: How do you keep fit during the holidays?
LC: “Drink lots of water. I’m the type of person who likes coquito, don’t deprive yourself. If you can commit to 30 minutes of activity, it’ll keep you balanced during the season. Balance everything out. Maybe have your leftovers at lunch and a salad for dinner.”

Photo credit: Barbara Nitke/Greg Endries

BOSSIP: Are you planning to cook this Christmas? If so, what will you make?
LC: “My family loves my string beans, and they like what I call a ‘Liris Salad’: mixed greens, arugula, candied walnuts, diced rotisserie chicken, crumbled blue cheese. And I’ll probably make a ‘Not You Mama’s’ banana pudding with chestnut cookies.”

BOSSIP: What’s in your purse?
LC: “An IMAN compact, ‘Fenty Beauty’ glow, A Kind Bar (dark chocolate and mocha), Dwayne Wayne-style sunglasses, Trident Layers gum, Avon ‘Goldenberry’ lipstick and my portable hard drive.”

BOSSIP: How would you describe your style?
LC: “I always say it’s the Beyonce/Around The Way Girl (look). Sexy, classy with a pop of trendiness.”

Photo credit: Barbara Nitke/Greg Endries

BOSSIP:Are you dating now?
LC: “I’m dating. I have someone I like right now, but I’m not in a rush. I think it’s key to take your time and get to know them. I’m not locked down yet, but I’ve got my eye on someone.”

BOSSIP: What’s next for you?
LC: “For 2018, I want to get more into TV and film. I’d love my own show and I want to do more public speaking, especially for women and young girls. I’m also thinking about (launching) a fitness workout. Just because you’re plus size doesn’t mean you are unhealthy.”