FIDM's Project Runway Blog

Project Runway All Stars, Season 1: Episode V

Clothes Off Your Back

Last week the All Star designers were faced with the shortest challenge in Project Runway history, but compared to this week's challenge, it was a walk in the park. See, this week, the designers met host Angela Lindvall in Central Park where she told them their challenge was to find a muse to inspire a fashion forward look. "There is an All Stars twist," she said. "You have to convince your muse to give you their clothes off their back." To add to that, the week's budget was only $150 (part of which could be used to pay their muses if necessary). The only easy part of the challenge--two days to complete it.

Kara rips into a seam.

Armed with cameras, the designers sprinted off in all directions to find their muses. "Beg, borrow, or steal, I will do whatever I have to do to get what I need to move forward," Anthony admitted. He had the right attitude for this challenge though because it took him no time at all to get the clothes he was after. Other designers didn't fare so well. Even though they were offering to pay, the people Rami, Jerrell, and Kara approached couldn't be convinced. "I hate today's challenge," Michael said after being rejected.

Rami works it out in the sewing room.

Finally the designers finished up at Central Park and were ready to take whatever money they had left to stock up on materials at Mood. "Fifty percent of the final outfit has to be made from things we got from the park. I'm using one hundred percent," said Jerrell. "I bought no fabric from Mood." Hmmm, let's hope that doesn't backfire on him. Meanwhile, some of the designers who did want to buy fabric were having a hard time doing so. "I need three dollars," Kara pleaded. Her fellow designers had her back, of course.

Back at the workroom the designers sorted through the clothes they got off the street and got busy ripping seams and draping. None of them got too far on the first day, so the second day of the challenge they were all playing catch up (many of them scrapping their original ideas and starting fresh). Joanna Coles came in on Day Two and, as always, offered advice and words of encouragement. "Keep it edgy and have a great runway show!" She cheered as she left. Have we mentioned how much we love her?

Jerrell approves of his mixed prints. We, however, do not.

The next morning was the runway show. Everyone was feeling comfortable, even confident with their work and they were all ready to show it off on the runway. But there was one bit of drama thrown in--Kenley finished sewing Kara's pants for her. "I would never ask somebody to finishing sewing anything for me," Mila griped. "I think that's not okay."

On the runway Angela introduced the usual suspects--Georgina Chapman and Isaac Mizrahi--and guest judge New York Ranger hockey player Sean Avery (who was sporting sunglasses with pink lenses, we couldn't help but notice). After the show she called Kenley, Mila, and Kara, and told them they were safe. Makes sense because none of the ladies designed looks that were especially brilliant or bad.

Austin inspects his look before hitting the runway.

Rami was first on the judges' chopping block. " I really liked the look," Isaac told him. The other judges seemed to like his look as well, but two-time winner Michael wasn't so lucky. The judges thought his hot pants were just too short ("I don't see many women walking around New York like that," Georgina said.) and the top was ill-fitting.

Next came Jerrell's critique. "It looks like a costume from stage," Isaac said of Jerrell's mixed prints (and we quite agree). Sean Avery referenced Lady Gaga, Gwen Stefani, and Burning Man, and Georgina said she felt torn because the top was great but the rest of the look was too confusing. But there was no confusion about Mondo's look. "I would die for this outfit. I love it!" Angela gushed. "I love her whole look!" The other judges strongly agreed (the word "love" was used several times), as did we.

"I would die for this outfit!" -- Angela Lindvall

There were mixed reviews for Anthony.  The judges liked what he had done, but felt he hadn't stayed within the parameters of the challenge criteria, as far as having the street-sourced clothes make up fifty percent of the total look. There was also some disconnect when it was time for Austin's review. Georgina gushed, "It's very sweet, yet it has a toughness to it," while Sean Avery thought it had too much going on.

After the judges deliberated, Rami was pronounced safe, and after several weeks of just being safe, Angela said, "Mondo, congratulations!" (We may or may not have shrieked at this point.) Austin was the other top scorer so he was safe, but we were a little surprised when Angela said, "Jerrell, you're safe." That left two-time winner Michael and Anthony on the runway. "Michael, it's clear that you had a tough time with this challenge. You had serious construction issues," Angela told him. To Anthony, "We saw very little inspiration from your muse in your design. You played it too safe and you didn't embracce the spirit of the challenge." There was the requisite pause before she said, "Anthony, I'm sorry to say, you're out."

"No one loves a jumpsuit more than me," said Isaac Mizrahi. But Anthony didn't stick to the challenge guidelines and was sent home.

Gotta say, we're sad to see Anthony, with his fiery spirit and contagious smile, going home. We would have loved to see more from him. The other designers were extremely sad as well (there were tears). But life goes on and so does Project Runway All Stars. Besides, Anthony didn't shed a tear. "I have cute shoes," he reasoned. Until next time! -- Angel

Project Runway All Stars, Season 1: Episode IV

Good Taste Tastes Good

The Project Runway All Stars designers have dwindled down to ten and this week their good taste (or lack thereof) was challenged. "Why not be inspired by taste itself?" Host Angela Lindvall hinted before telling them their assignment: to create a look inspired by the color and flavor of a gelato of their choice. (Excuse us while we wipe the drool.)

Anthony doesn't waste a second on the challenge.

Since Michael won the Miss Piggy challenge he got to choose his flavor first. Thinking he would end up with a ruby red color, he chose Grapefruit. The color he got however was more of a blush. "I thought this color was really beautiful also," he insisted. After that the other designers started picking their gelatos (predictable Mila chose Milk and Sour Cherry which turned out to be white and red--surprise!), each one selecting a fruity flavor, until finally only Chocolate with Cayenne Pepper was left for Kara Janx, who was not at all happy. (On another note, this happens to be one of our favorite flavors. Just saying.)

Kenley gets to work.

When all the designers had their gelato, Angela introduced the week's guest judge. "She's the President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America -- Diane von Furstenberg!" And out walked the legend, looking impossibly chic in grey and florescent green. Naturally the group was extremely excited and honored to have an opportunity to design something that she would be judging. But excitement waned and mouths gaped when she gave them the details of their challenge. "You only have six hours," she said. "So it's all about how quickly you can realize something and how you are inspired by it."

With just six hours to complete their garment, from conception to construction and alterations, the group hurried off to get started. Knowing they would have to impress guest judge Diane von Furstenberg weighed heavily on them as they sketched. "I cannot disappoint that woman. It's gotta be right!" Jerrell said. Kenley's approach was to stick with what would be easiest for her. "I'm not gonna try anything new or take major risks," she said. "I really just need to get something done."

Kara works on her chocolate and cayenne-inspired garment.

One saving grace for the designers was that mini Mood was set up for them in their lounge, so they didn't have to spend precious minutes traveling to and fro the fabric store. But the convenient shopping still posed a problem for one designer. "I need black jersey, and this Mood doesn't have black jersey," April complained. "I have to start a new idea and I have to start a new idea quickly!"

After sketching and shopping (thirty minutes each) the designers were left with just five hours to get their gelato-inspired garment done. Hey, these are the All Stars, people; if they can't do it, who can? Despite the pressure they were under (Diane von Furstenberg!) they group was surprisingly cheerful and even encouraging to one another.

Mondo shows off his design to Joanna.

Joanna Coles came to chat with the designers, but told them to keep working. "I know this is the fastest challenge in Project Runway history." She then handed out cups of, what else, gelato to each of the designers. "To keep you sugared up," she offered, as she checked on each one's progress. "The clock is ticking," she reminded before she left. Indeed it was, and the designers still had to fit their models!

Smiles, cheerfulness, and encouraging words flew out the window when the clock got down to two hours. Joanna had come and gone, the models had been fitted, and now the designers were in a frantic, almost robotic mode trying to complete the challenge. "It's definitely one of the most stressful challenges thus far," said Austin. 

Austin powers through to get his garment done on time.

Soon (as in, within an hour and a half) the models returned--they had to get dressed, accessorized, and have their hair and makeup done, after all. Any sewing or finishing that had to be done would have to wait, as each of the designers had to consult with the hair and makeup team. To save time designers whipped out their glue guns or just sewed their models into the garments. Austin quipped, "All's fair in love and fashion."

And time! Without even a full day to work the designers found themselves right back on the runway facing judges Angela Lindvall, Georgina Chapman, Isaac Mizrahi, and guest judges Diane von Furstenberg and Miranda Kerr. "Miranda will wear the winning designers look to an industry event!" Angela announced, before getting the runway show on the road.

Jerrell shows his model how to work it.

"Austin. Rami. Jerrell. Kenley," Angela said. "Congratulations! You're safe," she told them. That left Kara, Anthony, Mila, Michael, April, and Mondo with the top and bottom scores. The judges spoke with Kara first. "I think the colors are letting you down slightly," Georgina said of her chocolate and cayenne-inspired frock. "I'm not so much a fan of ruffles," Miranda told her. And to add insult to injury, Diane von Furstenberg said, "It's just not flattering."

Anthony's critique was next. "I like that you took a creative approach to your design," Angela told him. "But I think you went a little too conceptual." Georgina and Miranda wished he'd made it a little more simple in the back, but Diane gushed, "I love the skirt. And I love the concept."

Next the judges addressed Mila and her Milk with Sour Cherries frock. "I think this says 'cherry ice cream' so clearly," Isaac told her. "It's beautiful and the design is nice," said Diane. "But it kind of looks like it was done in little time." But Miranda was a fan. "I really like it," she said. "I like the color choice and I think that it flows well."

After winning this week's challenge, Michael is officially a designer to the stars!

Michael's grapefruit gelato-inspired gown was next. "I think it's a great dress," Isaac said matter-of-factly. He and Georgina weren't too sure about the color however. But what Diane von Furstenberg said next was the highlight of the show (and probably the biggest compliment any designer has received in Project Runway history). "I think it's beautiful; I think it's beautifully draped," she said to him. "Michael, you gotta call me after the show."

April's too-short (and a little misshapen, to be honest) blueberry dress was next on the chopping block. Georgina told her "I think you were too ambitious doing this corset. It's just all over the place." We totally agree! "The back is scary!" Isaac said, adding, "And the belt is scary! And the earrings are scary!"

Finally, the judges talked to Mondo about his cantaloupe-inspired caftan. "The back is absolutely to die for!" Miranda gushed. "I think it's great!" Diane agreed. Angela and Georgina also loved it. "I think this caftan really flatters," Angela said.

April's sloppy blueberry-inspired frock just didn't make the cut.

When the designers were brought back out after the judges' deliberations, Angela told Mila she was safe before announcing, "Michael. Mondo. One of you will win this week's challenge. And that winning designer is...Michael!" Mondo was safe of course ("All of us girls wanted to wear that dress!" Angela assured him.), as was Anthony, which left Kara and April on the runway as the bottom two.

"April, we understand you only had six hours, but your dress was poorly constructed," Angela told the designer. "Kara," she said. "You're a passionate designer, but there was no passion in this dress." Then she added, "Kara...you're safe."

So with April gone, we're down to nine designers. Is Project Runway All Stars flying or what? And, okay, Angela is the sweetest ever! "You wouldn't be here if you weren't an All Star," she told a tearful April. We can't wait to see what happens next week. --Angel

 

Project Runway All Stars, Season 1: Episode III

Patterning for Piggy

Donning a sweet 'n' sassy LBD, Project Runway All Stars host Angela Lindvall told the eleven remaining designers, "This week we want you to create a flamboyant cocktail dress for one of the most famous fashionistas in the world." Naturally the contestants' eyes lit up as they wondered who the client could possibly be. "Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga," Austin speculated. But they were in for a surprise. "The name of this demanding diva is Miss Piggy!" Lindvall announced. "You guys better impress her because you know she is gonna have an opinion," she said, before sending them off to get started.

Kara stares at her dress form for inspiration.

"I love Miss Piggy," Kenley gushed as she sketched. The others were just as thrilled about their new client. "She's like fashion's dream client," Michael opined. But once they'd gone to Mood and bought supplies, it was all business (and even a little tension between Mondo and Kara over a pair of pink gloves) in the work room. Mila quickly realized that it might be a little difficult to express her point of view in a design that Miss Piggy would wear. And April, who was in the bottom two last week, kept to herself in an effort to make sure her garment was impeccable.

Kenley shows off her pink giraffe print bodice.

"What a fabulous challenge," Joanna Coles said when she showed up to check on the group. "I think this is possibly one of the best challenges in Project Runway history." (We can't argue there! Miss Piggy is the most fabulous.) As always, Joanna was extremely positive (love her!) and encouraged each one of the designers to make their garment the most special. "Don't. Disappoint. Miss Piggy," she warned, before wishing the designers look and leaving.

The next morning the group headed back to the work room to finish their looks and get their models ready for the runway show. "I'm nervous," Rami admitted. "I'm looking around the room and everybody seems to be creating something really interesting and unique." Austin was also on edge. "I'm realizing how much work I still have left," he said. To make matters worse, he and Kara both had their eyes on the same accessories (unbeknownst to each other), causing a tiny, but quickly resolved rift.

Jerell studies his work.

On the runway the designers, each of them grinning from ear to ear, were introduced to judges Georgina Chapman, Gossip Girl Costume Designer Eric Daman (filling in for Isaac Mizrahi), and of course, the incredible, incomparable, indescribably glamorous Miss Piggy. "We are honored to be in the presence of a true super star," Angela Lindvall enthused.

After the show (during which each of the designers simply raved about how Piggy would be fabulous in their look) Angela called Austin, Rami, Gordana, Kenley, Mila, and Michael. "If I called your name I have good news and bad news," she told them. "The good news is three of you have the highest scores. The bad news is three of you have the lowest." (It's really hard to tell, because all of the looks were so vastly different, but we're guessing that Mila's severe, black and white mod frock didn't make the cut. It just didn't seem like a fit for Miss Piggy.)

April stays focused on her work.

Austin was the first to receive his critique, and the judges seemed to have mixed feelings about his look. While they thought the shape and construction were fine, great even, the colors were off. "It's not really very happy right now," Georgina said of his grey and pink color choice. "I'm not really sure if it's a functional dress," Miss Piggy added, referring to the giant bows he'd planted on the hips. "I mean, can you hula hoop in that?"

Next the judges spoke with Rami. "This dress is fun. It walked out and made me smile," Georgina said. "It's a really great, fun little dress," Eric Daman agreed. "It's Parisian Hog Couture." And of course Miss Piggy had very strong thoughts on the dress as well. "This is the most garish, outlandish, ridiculous think I've ever seen," she said. "I love it!"

The designers face the judges.

"I think it's a really pretty dress," Angela said when it was Gordana's turn. "I'm just a little concerned that it may be a little understated." The other judges agreed that it was pretty, but just a little off. "'Tis a fine, fine dress," Miss Piggy told her. "I don't know if it's moi."

Michael was next on the chopping block but the judges had only lovely things to say about his garment. "Very good job," Georgina told him. "I love that dress! It looks like a present...a present for Kermie!" Miss Piggy raved, eliciting "aaahs" from the designers and other judges.

Miss Piggy and the judges strike a pose.

Mila's critique followed. "Where in your dress does the flamboyant aspect come in?" Angela asked her. (See, what did we say? It totally wasn't Piggy.) "You could have had a lot of fun with color on this one," Eric said. I'm sad we didn't get to see that from you." And our girl Piggy wasn't too much of a fan either. "It just doesn't scream Miss Piggy," she said. Eric agreed, "It does not scream Miss Piggy," to which Piggy replied, "No, it whispers it."

Finally it was Kenley's turn. "I think she would look great in it," Georgina said of the designer's giraffe print frock. Eric agreed, saying "I also think it's cute. It's whimsical." Miss Piggy also liked the dress, but she really enjoyed the oversized headpiece Kenley had constructed from tulle. "After a big night out on the town, I can just go home to clean my pots and pans."

The designers hang with international super star Miss Piggy.

After a lengthy deliberation that included an insulted Miss Piggy karate chopping Eric after a remark about her ears, the top and bottom designers were brought back out. Angela told Kenley she was safe before telling Rami and Michael that one of them was the winner. Then she asked Miss Piggy to name the winning designer. "I would be honored," said Piggy. "The winning designer is someone who made a fabulous dress for a fabulous model. And that someone is...wait for it!" (Okay, did the producers of Project Runway coach her to do the requisite pause?) "That someone is Michael!" She finally announced.

Michael's winning look.

Rami was of course safe, and then Angela told Austin he was safe as well, which left Mila and Gordana as the bottom two. "Gordana, you made a really pretty dress," Angela said to her. "And that's exactly the problem. You didn't push the envelope." To Mila she said, "We appreciate you being true to your design point of view, but this challenge was all about celebrating your client, and your dress was just not Miss Piggy." Then she told her, "You're safe." So after being in the bottom three every week, Gordana is finally going home.

The garment that finally got Gordana sent home.

We were just thinking, wouldn't it be fantastic if Miss Piggy was a regular fixture on the judges panel?
Wishful thinking perhaps. At any rate, Project Runway All Stars is down to the top ten designers, and next week they're gonna have to bring it for the legendary Diane von Furstenberg. Stay tuned! --Angel

 

Project Runway All Stars, Season 1: Episode II

A Night at the Opera

"This week is all about high-end glamour," Project Runway All Stars host Angela Lindvall said to the designers. "It's time to show us how All Stars can create show-stopping ball gowns." Then she introduced guest judges Mark Badgley and James Mischka, who were there to give the designers the scoop on their next assignment.

The designers get to work.

"The challenge is a 'Night at the Opera,'" James Mischka told them. "We want you to design a gorgeous evening gown for a very glamorous evening." Mark added, "We want you to really turn some heads with this look. This is your chance to really indulge your fantasies." Before the designers left to get started Angela informed them of their $300 budget and one day to complete the challenge. "We can't make it to easy for you," she said.

Kenley in a cloud of pink chiffon.

Remember last week when April and Michael Costello grabbed the same materials to make their looks? Well this week, as they sketched their looks, they both chose to do red gowns, a discovery that was made when they arrived at Mood to buy their fabric. A flustered Michel backed down and ended up axing his original idea and buying a black matte jersey instead. "I just saw a look in my head, right then and there," he explained upon spotting the material.

A quick dance break.

Back at the work room, the designers worked silently and as quickly as possible ("Couture can take weeks, sometimes months," Austin had said.). By the time mentor Joanna Coles came around to check on everyone, many of the designers already had dresses draped or patterns cut out to show her. April, however, had decided to hand-dye her fabric, so it was sitting (soaked!!) in a bucket. "Is that a good use of your time?" Joanna questioned.

April plans to hand-dye an ombre print on her red fabric.

When their work day ended the group headed back to their apartment, where conversation quickly turned to the absurdity of completing a "couture" challenge in one day. "It's insulting the world of couture by even using that word to describe this challenge," said Anthony. "We're just gonna say really, really, really pumped up Prom dresses!"

The next day the designers used what precious little time they had to finish up their gowns before the runway show. They were even more silent and worked even more quickly than they had the first day, and before long it was time to face judges Angela Lindvall, Georgina Chapman, Isaac Mizrahi, and guests James Mischka and Mark Badgley. "If I call your name please step forward," Angela said, before calling Anthony, April, Sweet P, Austin, Kara, and Michael. "You have the highest and lowest scores." (Judging from the Sweet P's frumpy, flower power frock, April's unfinished, hot mess of a design, and Kara's pale, safe gown, we'd say they were the three with the low scores.)

Guest judges James Mischka and Mark Badgley.

The judges spoke with Anthony about his white, Grecian design first. "I love the new context for white that you've created," Isaac gushed. The other judges agreed, each one stating what they loved about the gown and how Anthony styled it. Next was April. As predicted, the judges weren't fans. "It just looks a teeny bit tortured," Mischka told her. We were also correct about Sweet P's gown--they liked the color, but didn't feel it was for the opera. They did love Austin's gown. "You definitely know how to cut a beautiful dress," James Mischka complimented. "I think you did a fabulous job," Georgina added. Kara's critique followed. "I think it's a good dress but it could've been spectacular," Mark Badgley said to her. The others agreed, saying they didn't feel her personality was in the dress. Finally they spoke with Michael. "I can't believe you made this dress in a day," Isaac said. "Because it's perfect. It's shockingly perfect!" "I certainly wanna wear that dress!" Angela told him.

"I certainly wanna wear that dress!" Angela Lindvall on Michael's bead and feather embellished gown. 

After the judges deliberated the designers were brought back out to the runway, where Angela wasted no time telling Anthony he was safe and announcing Austin as the winner (it was between Michael and Austin and I can't even imagine what a difficult decision that must have been for the judges). Next, Kara was safe, leaving April and Sweet P in the bottom two.

Austin's winning couture look.

"April, we appreciate that you stepped out of your comfort zone. Being ambitious is great as an All Star, but in order to execute something flawlessly you have to learn how to manage your time," Angela told her. To Sweet P, "No one does color like you do! But you lost your way in this challenge." There was a long pause before she said, "April, you are in."

Sweet P's look just wouldn't cut it for a glamorous night out.

Next week the designers will have the challenge of designing a cocktail dress for Miss Piggy (did we mention we looove her?). We can't wait to see what the eleven remaining contestants come up with for her. --Angel

Project Runway All Stars Premiere

Return to the Runway

Unlike Project Runway contestants in seasons past, the thirteen designers competing now have already been around the block--and they all brought their egos. The group, ranging from Austin Scarlett of season 1 ("Of course I'm here. Someone had to put the star in 'all star!'") to fan favorite Mondo Guerra of season 8, met up at The Limelight and were thrilled to see Angela Lindvall as their host.

The 13 all star designers.

"You are competing for the biggest prize in Project Runway history!" She told them. "The winning designer will receive their own exclusive boutique featuring their designs in select Neiman Marcus stores and NeimanMarcus.com!" She went on to tell them that the winner would receive a spread in Marie Claire magazine, as well as a role as Guest Editor for a full year, not to mention getting completely hooked up to run a fashion business with $100,000 in technology, production equipment including industrial sewing machines, fabric printers, surgers, and $100K cash!

Anthony preps his model for the first fashion show.

After hearing what they were competing for, Angela introduced judges Georgina Chapman of Marchesa and Isaac Mizrahi, and said, "We asked you to bring a recent creation that you think represents you as a designer." Then she sent the group backstage to dress their models and get ready for the first Project Runway All Stars fashion show. (And by the way, this was all just seven minutes in!)

Kara and Jerrell make sure their models are runway ready.

The next day the group met back with Angela to get details about their first challenge (but not before spending the night in a gorgeous penthouse suite and watching a recorded message from one of fashion's greatest, Valentino!). "This is the challenge that the designers love to hate, but the fans love," she warned them. "The unconventional challenge." The group had to create a look using only materials from the 99 cent store. The true challenge was that the look had to be inspired in some way by the look they'd presented at the fashion show the day before. "Had I known my 99 cent dress had to reflect the first design I showed, I might have brought something different," Kenley of season 5 said.

The first Project Runway All Stars fashion show.

Here's where egos started to deflate. As the designers shopped (they had $100 budget and 20 minutes to spend it), they started noting what their competitors were getting and it seemed to hit them that, yes, this is the all stars. "She's like really good," Michael said of April when he saw that she had purchased the same materials to work with that he had. "I'm terrified!"

With materials in tow, the group headed to the design room to get to work, each in their own way (Elisa, under a table). Soon Joanna Coles, EIC of Marie Claire magazine and the group's new mentor, came in to check on things. She was encouraging ("This is fascinating! I can't wait to see your outfit," she told Mondo.) and excited and positive, reminding the designers that they really needed to bring it and surprise their judges.

Rami examines the possibilities at the 99 cents store.

All seemed to be going well until the clock read 9:45pm (they had until 10pm to work) when Austin gasped in horror--his glue gun had touched his plastic dress and burned a hole in the front of his gown. There was nothing he could do in what little time was left so the designer who "put the star in all star" was forced to go home and sleep on it.

The next day was runway day. The group arrived back at the design room where they finished up (or in Austin's case, fixed) their garments and got ready for their first runway show. Host Angela Lindvall introduced Georgina Chapman, Isaac Mizrahi, and guest judge Ken Downing, Sr. VP and Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus. When the show was over Angela called Austin, Mila, April, Anthony, Kara, Kenley, and Michael and congratulated them--they were all safe. That left Rami, Jerrell, Elisa, Sweet P, Gordana, and Mondo with the highest and lowest scores.

Kenley pays for her supplies.

"I think you have an edge over the other designers in terms of execution," Isaac complimented Rami. The other judges agreed, stating that they couldn't believe his creation came from the 99 cent store. Sweet P didn't fare as well. Isaac said her cutout looked more like a "chew out" and Ken Downing said it made the model look large. Next was Jerrell. "I thought this was a very wearable look," Georgina said of hiss dress. But she wasn't too sure of Elisa's look. "Personally this isn't a look that I would usually respond to," she told her. Mondo won her over though, as well as the other judges. "I think the dress is flawlessly executed," Ken told him. Finally it was Gordana's turn. Isaac thought her use of steel wool was divine, but Georgina thought maybe she'd incorporated too many ideas into one garment.

The 13 designers face the judges.

After the judges deliberated the designers were brought back out. Angela told Jerrell he was safe, then she said, "Mondo, Rami, the two of you had the highest scores, which means one of you is the winner of this challenge." "Rami!" She announced. Both he and Mondo were safe, as was Gordana, leaving Sweet P and Elisa on the runway.

Rami with his winning design.

"Sweet P. you have a lot of talent, but you need to listen to your instincts and not second guess yourself," Angela told the designer. To Elisa she said, "Your designs really need to speak for themselves, not be explained." Then after a long pause she said, "Sweet P. you're in."

Elisa didn't get the memo: let the designs speak for themselves, without a story written on them.

The season just started but already it's a good one! We can't wait to see guest judges Pharrell Williams, Diane von Furstenberg, and the fabulous Miss Piggy on upcoming episodes. But more importantly, we can't wait to see what Project Runway's fiercest competitors bring to the table. Stay tuned! --Angel

Project Accessory, Season 1: Finale

"You're our final three," Project Accessory host Molly Sims greeted Rich, Nina, and Brian, before giving them details of their last challenge. "You will each create a collection of nine accessories. You must present your collection on three different looks." Then she presented some "special guests" to help the final three complete their collections in time--the previously-eliminated designers. "You will each get to pick one to help you finish your collection," she told them. "I think there's no one that would pick Nicolina; that girl is crazy!" Brian remarked. He was right--Rich chose handbag expert Diego, Nina went with Kelly, and Brian picked shoe guru James.

Brian shares his vision with James.

The designers and their "special guests" headed to the work room, where Eva had more specifics about the challenge. "You're gonna have two days to complete your looks, we've assigned you models, and Amanda Ross is gonna come in tomorrow with looks for your models." Without knowing exactly what the stylist would bring for the models to wear, the designers got busy sketching accessories. Then it was off to Mood with $1,000 to spend on materials, and back to the design room.

Nina and Rich share a laugh.

They jumped right in, braiding leather, molding shoes, and hammering metal. Nina and James had no problems delegating work to their helpers, but Rich had a hard time with Diego. While he wanted one look, Diego wanted (and created) something else. "This isn't my style," Rich told him of the tote he'd completed. "The bag needs to be classic," Diego argued. But the fact that Diego had finished a handbag had the other designers worried.

The next day the group was back at work when Eva came in and introduced Harry Josh, Creative Consultant for John Frieda, who was there to meet with each designer individually and conceptualize hair looks for the final runway show. Meanwhile, Rich was still struggling with Diego. "If it's gonna look like something you're just gonna grab from your garage, I don't do it," Diego said to Rich, who replied, "I know that you have a hard time getting your head around that; it's not your style, I understand that. It's totally my style!" Finally Rich just said, "Well, we're going for it. That's just the deal."

Rich and Diego work on Rich's collection (though not very collaboratively).

Before long, stylist Amanda Ross came in with a rack of clothes, enough for each designer to have several options for their three looks. Soon after, Eva arrived and headed straight to Nina's work station. After seeing Nina's jewelry and handbags she told the designer "There isn't much of a differentiation for me, between your casual, your day-into-night, and your night." Next Eva chatted with Brian. "You think it's too much?" Brian asked, laughing. "More is not more," Eva responded. "This is not the time to get lucky or lose," she warned.  Finally she checked on Rich, where she immediately noted that the tote Diego had finished on the first day was all him and no Rich. "Make sure that your point of view is clear," she stressed.

Nina and her models.

Runway day arrived, the end of the journey for the designers. "We're at the finish line," Nina remarked. "Now it's time to see who crosses it." The three finalists and their helpers jumped into their work to get their collections finished. But, as is always the case, mistakes were discovered when the models arrived for their fittings. James, who'd designed shoes for Brian's final collection, had made a pair of pumps far too big for the model who was to wear them, so Brian had to make the executive decision to switch looks on his models. "I trusted James and he messed it up," said Brian. Meanwhile Kelly told Nina that she wouldn't have time to do the linings for her handbags, while Rich couldn't get Diego to get off the couch to help at all! Eventually Diego did get off the couch--to help Nina and Kelly though.

Rich and his collection.

Finally the moment of truth arrived and the designers hugged and thanked their helpers and headed out to the runway to face the judges. Molly introduced the usual suspects Ariel Foxman and Kenneth Cole, along with guest judge Lorraine Schwartz, jeweler to the stars before saying, "I am excited to see your work. I hope you made this a very difficult decision." Then it was on with the show.

When the show was over the judges spoke with Nina first. "I love your necklace. It can be a signature piece for you," Ariel started. "But the piece that disappointed me the most was your tie necklace." Kenneth Cole added, "The jewelry continues to be extraordinary." Molly loved her shoes and Lorraine Schwartz thought her bronze leather clutch was brilliant.

Brian explains his point of view.

Next the judges addressed Rich. "I love the cuff!" Lorraine told him. "I think it's super chic." Molly said, "I love the pendulum. It was one of my favorite pieces." But the two men were slightly disappointed with Rich's collection. While Ariel gushed about the clutch, he wasn't a fan of Rich's belt. "It doesn't feel fresh, it doesn't go with this look, and I don't think it's you." Kenneth agreed saying, "Unfortunately we've lost a little bit of the Rich that I love. I don't think that the Rich signature carries throughout your three models." (Hmmm, perhaps because Diego wanted to design in his own way, instead of helping Rich out. Do I smell sabotage?)

Then it was Brian's turn. "I love your bangles more than anything," Ariel told him. He wasn't entirely thrilled with Brian's resin necklace, but he didn't hate it either, and he loved his bag and colorful, leather bracelet. Kenneth told him, "I love the shoes. I don't mind that it's very matching with the bag." Lorraine liked the necklace for his evening look best, saying "What makes it work is the necklace." Finally Molly told him, "I see your point of view in your entire collection." Then to all three she said, "We have to talk. One of you will be the first winner of Project Accessory!"

The judges panel, including guest judge Lorraine Schwartz.

The judges deliberated, once again making it impossible for the audience to tell who they favored. Fortunately we didn't have to wait long to find out. When the designers returned to the runway Molly addressed each of them. "Rich, you are an amazing designer, but it really came down to Brian and Nina," she said. Then she said, "Nina, your accessories were beautiful and elegant and they really conveyed your point of view. Of all the designers, your pieces were the most sellable." To Brian she said, "You took risks with your collection. Some of your accessories were hits, others were misses. But like all the work we've seen from you so far, there was a surprise factor and we love that."And without the lengthy pause she said, "Congratulastions. Brian you are the winner of Project Accessory!"

Winner Brian hugs it out with Eva.

And it's done. The first season of Project Accessory is over-- what did you think? Will you watch next season? And how do you feel about Brian winning--agree or disagree? We want to hear from you in the comments! --Angel

 

 

 

 

 

Project Accessory, Season 1: Episode VII

Bugging Out

"This challenge is a big one," host Molly Sims warned the final five designers. "You will be creating accessories for the red carpet." Then she sent them off to the work room where Eva was waiting with more details, as well as five amazing Elie Tahari gowns. The designers selected the gowns they wanted to accessorize before Eva led them on a trip to a store called Evolution.

The final five designers (and lots and lots of insects).

"Designers, are you inspired?" Eva asked the group, as they walked among skulls, mounted insects, and jars of unidentifiable fluids. (Rich in particular was extremely pyshed about being there. "That store is inside of my brain. My apartment and workshop look like that store," he gushed.) Eva went on to explain the challenge: the designers were to choose one insect to inspire three different pieces, with one accessory incorporating the insect. 

With insects chosen and materials purchased from Mood, the group headed back to the work room to get started on their red carpet accessories. The stakes were higher than ever (and there was no immunity for last week's winner Brian), so they were all feeling the pressure to pull out all the stops, which for some meant pulling their insect apart. "A beetle head ring, that's a total no brainer," bragged Rich.

Nina drapes her spider web-inspired body jewelry.

Eva returned to the design room to check on the designers. "Safe's not gonna take it home, baby," she said to Diego, encouraging to step out of his comfort zone and give the judges something they've never seen. She also warned Brian about doing too much, but both he and Diego decided to continue as planned (hopefully not to their detriment). But one thing Brian didn't plan for was a massive, messy beetle explosion when he poured resin over his insect. And with no more time left in the work day, he had to go home and figure out a way to save his piece. "I might have just made a $100,000 mistake," he stated.

A beautiful design by Elie Tahari. And a beetle.

The next morning the group had to get ready for the last runway before the finale. They had to finish up what they'd started, get started on what they hadn't, and somehow Brian had to find a way to remedy his hot mess of a necklace. And poor Christina, who'd had big plans to do a fabulous minaudiere, ended up having to create a simple pair of earrings instead (but hey, at least she finished!).

"Before we begin I just wanted to say how proud I am that you guys made it to this point," Molly told them when they went out to the runway. "But as you know, only three of you will make it the finale, where one of you sitting here will win the competition." {chills!} She introduced judges Ariel Foxman, shoe designer Brian Atwood, the studded six-inch Brian Atwood heels she was wearing, and fashion designers Rachel Roy and Kenneth Cole, then started the show.

Rich and his winning designs.

The judges didn't waste any time getting to the critiques when the show was over. "I feel like your model was in Hurricane Irene," Molly said to Brian. The other judges agreed, except for Rachel Roy. "I love your necklace," she told him. "I think she looks very, very interesting." But they all loved Rich's pieces (Ariel told him, "You knocked it out of the park.") and Nina's as well ("I love the body art; it's so effortless," Molly said). The judges liked Christina's work, but seemed to have had higher expectations of her. "It's crafted beautifully," Kenneth told her. "I'm a little underwhelmed because I know how good you are." Finally they spoke with Diego. "It's a great bag," Brian Atwood told him. Molly and the others loved his jewelry.

Christina was the first to be eliminated.

"Rich, congratulations! You are the winner of this challenge," Molly said to the designer after the judges deliberated. Then she said, "Christina, you're out." {Okay, we're disappointed with this decision.} She congratulated Nina and told her she was moving on to the finale, leaving Diego and Brian on the runway. "Our only concern is if you play it too safe," she said to Diego. To Brian, "We love the risks you take, but sometimes we worry if it's too much." And after a painfully long pause she said, "Brian, congratulations!"

Diego's "safe" designs were a let down to the judges.

We gotta know, were you as disappointed as we were to hear Molly send Christina home? And what do you think of the three finalists--who do you think should win? Sound off in the comments! --Angel

Project Accessory, Season 1: Episode VI

Fall for Kenneth

They've sourced materials from abandoned storage units, a Swarovski crystal store, and Coney Island, and now the Project Accessory group has dwindled down to six. This week they met host Molly Sims on the runway where she announced that they had a special meeting at Kenneth Cole headquarters with the designer himself.

Kenneth Cole explains the challenge to the designers.

"I have personally chosen six looks from our current holiday collection," the fashion designer told them when they arrived. "I have assigned a look to each of you, and you will be asked to accessorize those looks." Naturally the contestants were extremely excited about the challenge. Then he added, "We're requiring that you create a clutch and any other accessory you so choose." He announced that the winning designs would be sold in Kenneth Cole stores and 100% of the profits would go to the label's awareness fund in support of AIDS research. "Good luck," he told the designers before they left. "Don't screw it up."

Diego gets to work.

Back at their own headquarters the designers found their Kenneth Cole holiday looks waiting for them. "I'm in love!" Nina exclaimed, hugging her dress form to her. The others were equally infatuated with their looks. "Really, truly beautiful," Diego said of his black gown and pumps. Eva arrived shortly thereafter with more details. "The most important thing is for you to reflect your personality, your point of view, and your vision, while respecting the Kenneth Cole brand," she told them. Then it was off to Mood with $150 to shop.

Adrian studies to his Kenneth Cole Holiday '11 look for inspiration.

After the shopping the designers wasted no time getting to work. Handbag designer Diego was of course confident about his skills, but Rich wasn't as sure of himself. "I made a horrible bag in the handbag challenge," he admitted. To make matters worse, Brian was busy carving a bag handle, which created a ton of dust and was a huge distraction for the other designers. "I don't really care what anyone else thinks," he said. "I need to focus on what's in front of me and making sure that that's executed correctly."

Eva returned to check on the group and, as always, brought tons of positive reinforcement with her. She praised Brian on his offending horn handle; encouraged Rich and Diego to wow the judges with their own expertise (Diego with his handbag and Rich with metal); and reminded Adrian to incorporate his point of view. Before taking off she said to the group, "Bring something to the judges that they're not expecting! Good luck!"

Brian creates a distraction and a nuisance with his shaved horn.

The next day was runway day and each of the designers still had quite a bit of work to do. They managed to get jewelry and handbags completed, get their models all dolled up, and get to the runway, where Molly introduced judges Arial Foxman, guest Alexa Chung, and of course Kenneth Cole. When the show was over the judges spoke with each of the six designers.

"That necklace I think is terrific," Kenneth Cole told Rich. Alexa Chung agreed, calling the piece dangerous but really nice. Adrian didn't fare so well with the judges (Molly felt his pieces were dated and the others didn't like his jewelry at all) and Diego's "chandel-earrings" (as Alexa dubbed them) were a disappointment, as was his clutch. Brian, Christina, and Nina all got rave reviews, making it extremely difficult to guess who the winner would be, as we do each week.

Runway day for the designers.

The moment of truth came quickly though (sighs of relief!) when the designers were brought back out to the runway. "We're going to announce the winner right here and now," Molly told them. Then she allowed Kenneth to do the honors. "At the end of the day that what would probably make the most compelling presentation would be Brian's accessories," he announced. After Brian left the runway Molly told Nina, then Christina and Rich that they were safe.

Brian's horn may have offended in the design room, but it wowed on the runway!

"Diego, this challenge was a complete miss for you," she told the designer. To Adrian she said, "You edited yourself, and we appreciated that, but your execution continues to be a problem." After the requisite pause, she announced that Diego was safe.

Next week we'll see the final five try to out-design one another, as two of them will be going home to make room for the top three to compete in the finale. Which two would you like to see get the boot? Sound off in the comments! --Angel

Project Accessory, Season 1: Episode V

Beach Blanket Blingo

After designing handbags in their last challenge the designers wondered what would be thrown in their direction next. And for Shea in particular the pressure was really on. "I've been in the bottom for two consecutive challenges," she worried. They met with host Molly Sims who joked, "You guys don't look excited; you look scared," before bringing out a group of bikini-clad women. "For this challenge each of you will pick your model and create three accessories for her--a pair of sandals, a piece of headwear, and an accessory of your choice."

The designers get ready for their beach-themed challenge on Coney Island.

They selected their models (with Diego going first, then the others in order of their scores) then the group hopped on a bus to Coney Island to meet Eva. "Coney Island is a very fantastical, sensational, quirky, cheesy, tacky freak-show. I think it's fantastic!" Brian commented. Eva reminded them of their challenge then told them they had to source their materials from the beach and the stores along the boardwalk. "You can repurpose, reuse, or deconstruct anything you find," she told them. The designers were given $100 and thirty minutes, and when Eva gave the go, they sprinted in all directions to collect materials (driftwood, sea glass, and shells, plus beads, T-shirts, and whatever else they could find at the boardwalk shops).

Rich gets to work.

Back at the work room the designers unloaded their findings to start working. "Look at all this neat stuff," Eva remarked. Surely she was referring to an abandoned pair of shoes someone had snatched up, or maybe all the sand the designers brought back with them. "I'm excited, I hope you are," she said before leaving the group to their work.

From the start the designers found the challenge to be a bit of an odd one. "It's hard to make accessories for swimsuits because you're not really wearing clothes," Nina noted. "It's weird to wear accessories in the water." Shea agreed, saying "I would never design jewelry from seashells on the beach or crap at a souvenir store, so this is a real big challenge to express my aesthetic." But whether they wanted to work with seashells and tchotchkes or not, that was the challenge given to them, and with the group dwindling down week after week, they knew they'd better bring it!

Nina works on her Miami-inspired jewelry.

But not everyone was having a hard time. Brian immediately got to work on a tinfoil and resin bracelet (that looked amaze!!) and hat designer Adrian found a way to make a headpiece that wouldn't take up too much valuable time--he simply embellished a store bought beach hat. "I can't believe that he embellished a hat that was store bought!" Christina ranted. "I really wanted to see him do his thing from scratch!"

It wasn't long before Eva came in to check on the designers' progress. "Find what can make this your masterpiece," she encouraged Shea, after the designer confessed that she was a bit all over the place. Then she moved on to Adrian. "Really?" She asked of his hat. "This is a cop out!" The other designers agreed with Eva--as a hat designer, Adrian should have been working on something that would knock the judges' socks off, not just an embellished, store-bought straw hat! Eva left the designers feeling re-energized and inspired, and they quickly resumed work or started new projects.

Brian concentrates on getting his designs completed.

The next morning was a mad dash to get everything done. Brian, who'd shown so much promise with his cool foil and resin bangle, realized that his headpiece was hideous (a fact which his fellow designers knew, but kept to themselves) so he figured out a way to fashion embellished, oversized hair pins. Shea also figured out how to make her designs work, although not before injuring herself with a drill. And Rich decided to ditch any ideas he had for a headpiece and just covered his model's hair with a scarf.

On the runway Molly announced that there would be no more immunity moving forward before introducing judges Ariel Foxman, J. Crew Creative Director/President Jenna Lyons, and Fashion Designer Rachel Roy (who was on hand to fill in for Kenneth Cole, and who we absolutely adore). When the show was over Molly called Adrian, Rich, Shea--the three designers with the lowest scores. The other designers (Christina, Nina, Brian, and Diego) had the highest scores and the judges spoke with them first.

The judges examine the designs up close.

"You took chic and you made her cool," Rachel Roy told Christina. "I would wear the necklace," Molly added. Next they talked with Brian. Molly loved his bangles (just like me!) and Jenna told him, "I love that you did your own thing and really showed who you are as a designer." Of Nina's simple jewelry and sculptural headpiece Rachel Roy said, "The necklaces are gorgeous;" and to Diego Jenna said, "I love the shoes!" Molly added, "I should have something negative to say but I don't."

Then it was time for the bottom three designers to face the judges. Adrian's look they thought was a bit too costumey and needed to be edited, though they didn't necessarily have anything negative to say about each of his pieces individually. But Shea was less fortunate. "The hat doesn't work for me," Ariel said, adding, "It doesn't look human." And there was very little about Rich's look that they could say was spectacular or even interesting. "One of you will be going home tonight," Molly told them.

A last minute change helped Brian win the challenge.

The moment of truth arrived after the judges deliberated. Nina and Christina were both safe--surprising because they'd gushed so much about Christina's look we thought for sure she was the winner. Then Molly said, "Congratulations...Brian!" (Lucky for him he axed that monstrous headpiece, huh?), and of course the other top scorer, Diego, was safe. After Diego left the runway, Molly told Rich he was also safe, leaving Adrian and Shea as the bottom two.

"Shea, we see your point of view in how you put yourself together but not what you put on the runway," Molly said to her. To Adrian, "You failed to edit. It was just too much!" Then she said, "Shea, you're out."

It's the end of the road for Shea.

So another designer goes home and we're one week closer to the finale. With no more immunity the designers will all have to bring it. Stay tuned! --Angel

 

Project Accessory, Season 1: Episode IV

It's in the Bag

The morning after two fellow contestants went home the designers woke up wondering what would happen next. When they met host Molly Sims on the runway she told them, "I have a tiny, tiny surprise for you. It's waiting in your work room." Curious, the group headed to the design room where they were greeted by mentor Eva Lorenzotti and Andrea Linett, Creative Director of eBay Fashion.

Nina meets her client.

"As you can see there are eight piles of belongings on this table," Andrea started. "All eight come from handbags of women who have been featured in an eBay Style Story." Then Eva went on to explain that the challenge was to create a handbag for the women who owned the contents of each bin. "I breathe handbags," Diego bragged. "No one is gonna take this from me." After the designers chose their piles (with last week's winner, Christina, picking first), Eva added, "So each of you now has a pile of belongings that need a new home." Meaning, the designers would have to create handbags big enough to fit everything in their bin. Shea's bin had a laptop inside. "That laptop's as long as my thigh!" She joked.

Shea works on a GIANT bag for her client.

Before shopping, the group was introduced to their respective clients, then it was off to Mood with $100 to shop for materials. When they returned to the design room they jumped right into their work. But jewelry designer Rich felt completely out of his element and kept having to consult with handbag designer Diego. And Nina and James were first time bag makers as well.  "Metal doesn't scare me," Nina said. "Leathers, fabrics -- all of that is terrifying!"

Christina, hard at work on a luxurious creation for her client.

With only two hours left in the work day the clients showed up to check the designers' progress. While many were happy with the work so far, Brian's client was a little disappointed that he a) hadn't gotten black material as she'd asked for, b) hadn't designed a way for her to close the bag, which she needed, and c) wasn't willing to do a strap in the colors that she wanted. (He'd said before he was less concerned about pleasing his client than he was about pleasing himself.) Fellow designer Nina noted, "I see Brian not listening to his client, which is absolute suicide in this challenge."

After everyone had met with their lady, Eva had another announcement. "Your fabulous clients have decided to part with their old handbags in order for you to create for them an additional fabulous accessory made out of their old handbag." At that point the designers started to freak about the time, and a plethora of expletives and the whir of sewing machines could be heard throughout the work room.

Brian works on his design, his way.

The next morning was just as chaotic. Nina hadn't made a pattern for her bag and left out the tiny detail of an opening, James was far behind and had a ton of sewing left to do, and Rich realized the stitching was off on his bag. And all of the designers were feeling the pressure because they still had to design another accessory from their clients' old handbags--and do all of it before the runway show. When time was up James hadn't even started the second part of the challenge. "I hope the quality of my bag is enough to impress the judges," he said.

Rich attempts a utilitarian bag.

On the runway Molly introduced Ariel Foxman, Accessory Designer Kara Ross, who was filling in for Kenneth Cole, and guest judge Rebecca Minkoff. Then it was time for the show. When it was over, Molly called out Diego, Nina, Brian, and Christina--the four designers with the highest scores.

All the judges loved Brian's handiwork. "It looks handmade but it has that artisan feel," Rebecca Minkoff noted. None of them had any idea that he hadn't listened to his client at all, and fortunately for him, the client kept mum. They also loved Christina's tote and necklace ("You did a very, very, very good job!" Molly gushed.), Nina's messenger bag and ring combo ("She nailed it," her client said, agreeing with the judges.), and Diego's handbag and cardholder ("You did a great job," Rebecca Minkoff told him.).

The eight remaining contestants strike a pose before the runway show.

Next, the designers spoke with the low scoring designers. "It almost looks like a briefcase without a handle," Minkoff said of Adrian's oversized clutch, a fact he'd noted himself when he saw it on the runway. Of Shea's extremely oversized tote Ariel Foxman said, "I think that she would have chiropractic issues if she carried that bag." To James, who didn't complete the challenge, Molly said, "I know you're better than that. And you know you're better than that." And before the judges even had a chance to lay into him Rich admitted of his utilitarian bag, "It's poorly made!"

Diego, his winning design, and his very happy client.

Once the judges deliberated the designers were brought back out to the runway. "Nina, Brian, you're safe," Molly told them. Then she announced the winner: Diego! "It was chic; it was elegant; it represented your client; it was very well done," Molly told him. Christina was next to leave the runway, followed by Adrian and Shea. Only Rich and James were left, and one of them would be going home. "Rich," Molly started. "Your handbag was...it was just plain bad." To James she said, "Your handbag didn't work and you didn't complete the challenge." Then she added, "James, you're out."

So the lucky seven remain. Who will be next to go? Thoughts? --Angel