Kate Pankoke should most definitely ring a bell when it comes to the fashion industry. She was on season 11 of Project Runway, aka the “dreaded teams season.” Fortunately she was then back in action on PR for season 12 as a redemption designer winner. And now, she is ready for “third times a charm” as she is competing on PR All-Stars, season 4. Kate was kind of enough to provide Fashion Nexus with an exclusive quote regarding her current time on PRAS —
“I’m not going to lie, I was very reluctant to go on Project Runway All Stars. This is my third time in a row and it is a big emotional roller coaster, not just for me, but my family as well. Everyone was very supportive of my decision to go back on. I think that All Stars was great because it felt less like a competition and more like a design conference or something. You will see the occasional catty remark, but for the most part, everyone was pleasant to work with.”
I know I can’t wait to see how Kate does on this season of All-Stars. But reality competitive TV aside, she has also launched and been focused on her burgeoning luxury bridal and accessories brand — Elaya Vaughn.
Since the line’s launch in 2010, it has gained international prestige, earning praise for its high quality materials & construction, luxurious embellishments, and unmatched fit. Elaya Vaughn caters to brides around the world who want a couture experience without having to pay couture prices. All of the gowns are made-to-order and manufactured in the United States. In addition to highly praised collections, Elaya Vaughn gowns are frequently featured at red carpet events & galas (including the Oscar’s red carpet), charity functions, and acclaimed media publications.
It was such a pleasure speaking with Kate and featuring her exquisite work for her 2014 collection last year on my fashion blog. And now with the most recent launch of her 2015 line and some amazing accessories, I am more than happy to showcase this recent stunning work with my Fashion Nexus readers! The 2015 collection is entitled “Behind the Gilded Veil.” It features clouds of light-as-air tulle, crystal encrusted illusion necklines, and brushed gold accents.
Pankoke describes the collection as being the “first collection where I feel that we didn’t have to compromise on anything! I had so much fun selecting all of the textiles for this collection from the delicate beaded Chantilly to our custom beading along the necklines and trains of the gowns. As a designer, it is so exciting to see your vision come to life.” Eleven gowns comprise the collection, but here are some of my fave standouts. Make sure to check out the entire line here!!
Lanier is a voluminous silk taffeta A-line gown. The skirt is generously bustled in the back. Intricate beading highlights the illusion neckline and the train. The back of this dress, the way it lays, STUNNING! I also am a fan of the intricate beadwork seen throughout this collection, amazing work!
Ella is an ethereal tulle ball gown. The strapless sweet-heart neckline is draped in silk organza that continues into a delicate peplum. This silhouette is a classic style with some Kate touches. The fit, every subtle detail is gorgeous!
Bella is an ethereal tulle ball gown. The Kate Pankoke signature corset bodice is draped in tulle that falls delicately off of one shoulder. I enjoy this off the cuff twist on bridal, with that of nude coloring — always great to have more than just white options!
Alana is an elegant lace gown. The delicate scallop of the Chantilly lace accents the strapless neckline and the wrapped drape of the skirt. Very understated, yet elegant option. And of course the lace detailing is divine!
Ana is a brushed silk charmeuse column gown. The sloped-shoulder illusion neckline is covered in intricate beading. Flawlessly executed gown, very angelic and breathtaking work! I love the back, a little sheer, but open, still with a hint of beading.
Georgina is a classic A-line tulle gown. The signature Kate Pankoke corset top is covered by a beaded lace bodice. The romantic sleeves are fastened with brushed gold stud buttons. The delicate lace grows into a keyhole in the back.
So again, make sure to check out the entire 2015 collection, “Behind the Gilded Veil”, online! But a recent development with Elaya Vaughn, is that now, the brand also carries bridal accessories! This is a great extension of the bridal line and I hope you all are as excited as I am to see what additional Elaya Vaughn touches a bride-to-be can add to her bridal look!
April Veil
Aubrey Belt
Darla Belt 
Evangeline Veil
Kate Garter
Kate Veil 
Luelle Belt
Marianne Veil/Cape
Theresa Comb
Here are a few stellar press recognitions for Elaya Vaughn —
For various information on where you can purchase Elaya Vaughn pieces, click here. For the USA, there are locales in CA, GA, IL, IN, IO, NY, & OH. Purchases can also be made internationally in Japan. To contact the Elaya Vaughn team, check out this page, or you can check them out across various forms of social media — Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, & LinkedIn.
I can’t wait to again see how PR All-Stars plays out, especially with how Kate performs. And of course, I eagerly await Elaya Vaughn’s future collections!
All these dazzling pieces are handcrafted with finest crystal and Swarovski elements and inclusive of 18 carat gold plated chains.
I can’t wait for more glam-great things to come for Glam Confidential!!
