Tag Archives: Clothing

A Color Extravaganza

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What a fantastic way to splash into a new season, season 19 of Project Runway that is! The incoming designers were immediately greeted by the core team, minus what it seems like former host Karlie Kloss. So yes, Nina, Brandon, Elaine, and Christian all returning. The prize package for the season, still very high caliber —

But there is a long road to that prize package being won. First and foremost the very first challenge of the season! The designers were split into 2 teams. Each team would live together and work separately from the other team. Yes, this means everything is a surprise until runway day! Each team had to create a cohesive mini collection celebrating color. The judges were looking for 8 monochromatic looks, all to be created in this 2 day challenge. The teams were made and a color wheel was brought out so that each team could pick their color.

It was going to be Team Warm colors versus Team cool colors. For the losing team, one designer would be going home. From the jump, it appeared as if Team Warm were a little all over the place, while Team Cool was playing it a little cool (no pun intended), not as much drama in the mix. It was clear with Team Warm they had different aesthetics, everything from sequins to streetwear. They were desperately trying to find unity but decided to wait to see the fabrics before finalizing direction.

In the meantime, Team Cool made a point to first try and focus the incorporation of plus size looks into the collection. Zayden was the only guy in this group and with all of the ladies being super vocal, he was displaying a lot of confusion. I felt the team had an idea, but somehow it got lost with the addition of bows. The original idea of flowers and seeing that growth or formation, that could have worked. But again, the bow focus threw a wrench into the plans.

So again, the designer teams worked separately. Everything from the trip to Mood to actually working in the workroom was all separate. Each team had 45 minutes to shop with a $400 budget for each designer. Team Warm was first up. We finally started seeing a glimpse of a theme, the idea of going out, dinner and a show. It was a celebration of color in the return of going out, hope in the future, post the pandemic craziness. Christian kept reminding them of being cohesive, which actually was a good thing.

Team warm still felt a bit more frantic, while Team Cool in Mood, there was a bit more calmness. As team warm was first at Mood, they too were first to begin working in the phenomenal work space. Christian stopped by for a visit later on Day 1. Even though the idea of the concept was coming together, Christian was doubting that in the looks he saw. Team Cool had slightly less drama, really just some tension over the sewing machines. Christian liked what he was seeing, but doubted this bow concept into the collection.

At the start of Day 2, the team warm designers gathered in their living quarters to kind of recap the first day. Bones stepped into a leadership role, which seemed to be a group decision. As they got to the workroom the model fittings began. Christian was still around for advice, but Bones was quick to jump in and say his team was doing great and they should do them and not listen to outside opinions, ie in this case, Christian. This was not a group decision, but it did come off very offensive and Christian didn’t stick around as long.

Team cool then began their 2nd day. As the models came in, it seemed as if Chastity and Caycee were struggling the most. It was quite evident for both teams that each had some designers who had it together, while others were appearing to be the weaker links. Team Warm was still having a lot of tension and doubts by the morning of the runway. Bones appeared now to not want the leadership role and Aaron was over it. Team Cool never discussed a leader for their group, and still with this bow confusion, some designers were doing it, while others were not.

By the morning of the runway, many designers were still hard at work. They had to get their models in full glam mode, so using the Tresemme hair salon and Maybelline makeup studio. Bones took a moment to apologize to Christian, but it felt very insincere IMO. Team cool had some clear strugglers, but Darren was most out of sorts for Team Warm. With very little time left, he was in full freak out mode, even trying to sneak a smoke break instead of working. Darren had nothing. Bones really stepped up and virtually created an entire new look for Darren.

It was time for the final judgments. Joining the judges panel as this week’s guest judge was acclaimed designer Jason Wu. The final runway for each team certainly included pops of colors, all standing out, but for some, standing out was not the best idea.

The judges did have to choose one winning team. I do agree with the winners being Team Warm. It was not by much, but overall, their collection was slightly better. I believe there was more cohesion and overall some strong, stand out looks. I do not however agree with the top 3. Bones being in the top for 2 looks was very confusing to me. I actually feel the look he did for Darren was far superior to his own look, which was quite odd since he spent more time on his own look .

I was shocked Coral, Kenneth or Aaron didn’t make the top. Each had super strong looks. The bodice on Coral’s dress was amazing.

Kenneth had such a bold look, including a fitting cutout in the mid region that was super eye-catching.

And Aaron also had a strong top for his look, including a separate jacket. He did a lot and it was very impressive.

I get why Octavio was in the top. I did not love his look, just not my taste, but it was still a strong streetwear look, very well constructed and a strong look.

Darren and Shantall were very lucky their team won. But out of luck was team cool, who did have some strong looks despite being the losing team. We really only got to hear about the weak links of the group, but I really loved some of the looks here and wish the top looks could have been highlighted. Katie had such a fun and flirty look. The intricate details really made this look. The hand-painted areas really stood out.

Kristina’s look moved so well on the runway, very eye-catching. But my favorite of this team was Anna. I mean such a stand out look, so luxe, very regal. It was a minimalist look, not overworked, very tasteful.

The bottom 3 was quite obvious — Sabrina, Chastity, and Caycee. Even though Sabrina had a sloppy look, it was even more clear the bottom was 2 were Chastity and Caycee.

This was a tough choice on who to go. I felt it could have gone either way. Chastity really had no direction in this look. She lacked creativity here and got lost in the bow concept. Her construction was also very poor.

But it was Caycee who was the first eliminated. It really was not a great look. She created a coat dress, working with a plus size model, but I don’t think she knew how to construct well for plus size. I felt as if she just put a lot fabric on her model rather than creating a look. Very unfortunate, but as the Project Runway story goes, someone must go home each week.

Next week looks like more drama and some stunning streetwear creations.

Best Dressed — Coachella Plus

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A couple of various red carpets, but mainly, this is about Coachella and all of the amazing festival fashion that was seen!

SARAH HYLAND

At the Costume Designer Guild Awards

EMERAUDE TOUBIA

At the HARPER’S BAZAAR X COSTUME DESIGNERS GUILD AWARDS DINNER

VANESSA HUDGENS

Coachella — a poolside event for her nail polish collaboration with Sinful Colors

  • Wearing a peachy Missoni maxi dress

EMMA ROBERTS

At The Hyde Away, hosted by Republic Records and SBE, presented by Hudson and BareMinerals

OLIVIA CULPO

Coachella —

House of Harlow 1960 x Revolve Goldie Crop ($158) and skirt; At the Revolve x Nicole Richie House of Harlow x Urban Decay Lunch

At Rachel Zoe’s ZOEasis Event

KATE BOSWORTH

Coachella — Dôen Yarrow Dress in Ditzy Floral ($250)

PARIS HILTON

Coachella; Rachel Zoe Suzette Lace Mini Dress; At The Zoe Report’s ZOEasis

EMILY RATAJKOWSKI

Coachella — LPA Tie Front Jumpsuit in Mixed Gingham ($198); At the #RevolveFestival Welcome Reception

MADISON PETTIS

Coachella — Revolve & House of Harlow event

JASMINE TOOKES

Jasmine Tookes — th a flowing maxi skirt and VS Wildflower Lace High-Neck Bra—plus a hat for the desert rays.

 

LAIS RIBEIRO

CAMILA MENDES

RACHEL ZOE

DEV WINDSOR

ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO

WHITNEY PORT

STELLA MAXWELL

Wearing NastyGal

 

HAIM

All wearing Zimmermann

JASMINE SANDERS

Golden Barbie opts for a crochet Lovers and Friends set

JUSTINE SKYE

Justine Skye — The Day Club event for Three Olives

PARIS JACKSON

CHANEL WESTCOAST

 

 

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2018 — Best Dressed Round-Up

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Lots of red carpet events — iHeart Radio Music Awards, Olivier Awards, various premieres, and more! Here are some faves of the past few weeks!

TAYLOR LOUDERMAN

Mean Girls premiere

Theatre Forward Gala (on the right)

MASHA

ROWAN BLANCHARD

A Wrinkle In Time Premiere

at Miu Miu show in Paris for Fashion Week

HAILEY BALDWIN

LOTTIE MOSS

AMANDA STEELE

RITA ORA

Brit Awards

KAREN GILLAN

Avengers — Singapore premiere

Glasgow FilmFest

Tribeca Film Festival

SOPHIE HUNTER

Avengers premiere (on the left)

TALLIA STORM

Brit Awards

MARSAI MARTIN

Kids Choice Awards

Wrinkle In Time premiere

HELEN MIRREN

Oscars

SHANTEL VANSANTEN

Oscars 2018

CHRISTINE EVANGELISTA

MEGHAN TRAINOR

I Feel Pretty premiere

 

PARIS HILTON

DARBY STANCHFIELD

Oscars 2018

UCLA Sea of Change Gala

ASHLEY GREENE

BRITNEY SPEARS

Hollywood Beauty Awards

AMY NOBLE

Olivier Awards

JESSICA SWALE

Olivier Awards

ASHLEY PARK

Mean Girls opening

Theatre Forward Gala (on the left)

MAIA SHIBUTANI

Apex for Youth Gala

iHeart Radio Music Awards

LESLIE BIBB

Pre-Oscars

ISLA FISHER

DANIELLA MONET SHIMMERS

Kids Choice Awards

ALEXIS REN

Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Event

NAVIA ROBINSON

At the Avengers premiere

BEBE REXHA

LESLIE MANN

Directors Guild

 

OLIVIA HOLT

Avengers Premiere

Family Equality Council’s Annual Impact Awards

SHAY MITCHELL

NYC Upfronts

MEL B.

America’s Got Talent season 13 premiere

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PRAS — The Finale

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It’s been a great season! But sadly, we are coming to a close on this standout season. We have our final 3, and as we learned at the end of the previous episode, the final 3 designers now had to create a 7-piece collection, again, making their mark in fashion history.

We started off with Day 3 of the 5-day challenge. The designers were excited to have some helpers over the next few final days. Helen was back to help Fabio, Candice for Anthony, and Amanda for Stanley. Plans were immediately made, figuring out what needed to be done and who was doing what. And of course, planning for the newly needed 7th look.

(Anthony Williams)

As the episode progressed, we got to see flashbacks and the journeys of the final 3. Stanley came in 3rd during his season. But with the not freshest ideas, he was not the winner. He has done far better on this season. Anthony didn’t make it far on either of his previous seasons and was left wondering had he learned enough for “third times a charm.” But he clearly has surpassed expectations. And finally with Fabio, he was recalling being cut right before the finale in his all-stars season. But again, such a different story with him on this go round.

Getting back to Day 3 of the work, Anne was also there for a visit. For Fabio, she focused on his color story, stating the need to infuse color. With Stanley, she questioned where was the standout piece(s), the drama. The colors were all so muted. And finally, with Anthony, she started off fully impressed. But as Anthony talked about painting, prints, ostrich feathers, etc., she worried about edits. All in all, she told 2 designers they need to amp up and one to reign it in some.

(Fabio)

By the end of Day 3, Fabio and Stanley were looking good on time, lots completed. Day 4 started off with the additional trip to Mood. Each designer was allocated an additional $250 for their budget. Model fittings had to be done. And we also saw Anthony scrapping lots of completed work. While he was tossing, the other 2 were making lists on final details. Anthony was clearly having time management issues, but Fabio and Stanley were able to take some time to themselves, have a nice quick dinner!

(Stanley — Shoutout for Umberto BH on the gorgeous ponytail here!)

It was soon enough the final day. Stanley had 1 look to do and some final finishings, hems, zippers, etc. Anthony was finally beginning his painting work, very Pollock-esque. Glad he scrapped the feathers too! The helpers left with 1 hour to complete the day. But luckily for them, as time wound down, they were able to enjoy a celebration with cake and champagne!

(Anthony — Love the Intermix heels here!)

The guest judges for the final runway were actress Catherine Zeta-Jones and designer Zac Posen. And with so much to see and discuss, the final critiques were done individually.

(Anthony)

I could not have been more pleased with Anthony being named as this season’s winner. I usually critique/recap winners first, but I will start with my least fave first, Fabio.

Fabio focused on the concept of time, merging the past, present and future. I loved his music — accordions! I still missed the bird top with his signature look, but I thought the yellow mixed in nicely with the creme and navy blue color palette. But with lots of oversized bottoms and long short looks, Fabio lost me. The judges raved over the jumpsuit, but I didn’t care for it. This was very RTW, but the drama was missing for a final runway. I also didn’t like the oversized sleeves. Too much repetition of silhouettes in that regard. The weaving on the white skirt was a pretty cool part of this collection. And the final printed look was a great ending, but more amp was needed throughout. I felt underwhelmed. I love that Fabio has a clear vision for his girl, but if you don’t fit that mold/aesthetic, this work is a hard sell.

Moving onto Stanley, a valiant effort, but I was not a fan from start to finish. His take was on a bold, modern, yet classic American woman. His vision read thru, but his collection read very heavy for me. On top of heavy fabrics, he made use of hard embellishments. I loved the embellishments, but not the fabric choices. The button look, the 1st look, I mean that was sublime. But starting off so strong, I never got back to that climactic point. The 2nd look, the mod mini-dress, it was super cute, but I agreed with the judges that it didn’t fit the best with the rest. The red look the judges loved, but I was not a huge fan. The nude/tan look would have been great if not in a suede fabric. And back to his final black and white look, still not my fave. I didn’t think his collection was super cohesive either. There were some great details, but I didn’t see everything come together. Zac was right in noting a regal quality to his work, very sharp. Stanley probably made the best overall quality of work, but even the judges seemed focus on only a few pieces.

But congrats again to the winner, Anthony, very well-deserved. I think he had the clearest vision, able to articulate well each time, if Audrey Hepburn had lived long enough to become Rihanna. I didn’t love the bodice on the 1st look, but loved the paint work. The polka dots on the 2nd look were super cute and chic. The 2-piece pants look was utterly amazing. The overlay piece, it was okay, very reminiscent of Kentaro. Probably a tie on my 2 least faves with that look and the next one in the black dress. I mean it was a great black dress, but I am thinking he knocked out something like this for the sake of time. The judges loved it. I thought the jumpsuit was a great way to use the print he chose more than once. And obviously seeing it in the final gown, that was just the best way to end his standout collection.

Anthony’s collection was maybe the least cohesive in some ways, I didn’t get the jump from the black/white pieces to that of the print. But I actually didn’t care. He showcased some amazing work here and I think he created the most pieces that the most women would want to wear. Fabio to the most extent, but even Stanley somewhat too, they have more limited client bases. Anthony designs for all! I get where the judges came from in questioning some of his fabric choices. And this print was definitely a hit or miss. Luckily most of the judges fount it to be a hit. But with his collection, there was just so much to discuss, so much to rave about. The eye could gravitate all over the place.

The judges had a hard time in deliberations. But the right decision was made. I felt like Isaac was saying if you want to show nod to the past, you would go with Stanley, for the future, it’s Fabio, but for the now it’s Anthony. In fashion, no one is looking backwards. And really, Fabio’s work is not that futuristic. I see work like his style all the time. HAPPY FOR THE WIN FOR ANTHONY!

 

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PRAS — Nearing the End!

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Almost the end time for Project Runway All-Stars and with that, the final 4 were off to this next challenge. The went to D.C., visiting the Smithsonian, house of over 3 million artifacts, all with national significance. I think deep down this final 4 thought all 4 would show for this “final” challenge, a 6-piece collection, making their own mark in American fashion history. However, the designers were surprised to learn that there would be one last “challenge in a challenge” to truly determine the finalists.

Of course first, what seemed to be a total waste of efforts, all 4 designers were of to Mood, but not just any Mood, the Mood warehouse, to shop thru Lord knows how many fabric options, with a $2000 budget. They learned this would be a 1-week challenge.Prior to shopping, the designers did their sketching at the Smithsonian, looking thru iconic pieces showcased there, using the past to make their mark in the future. Also completed in this day were all of the model castings. And again, this was all 4 designers, who finally landed back in the workroom, for the 1st day of work, doing lots of prep-work, drawing patterns, draping, organizing, etc.

But Day 2 hosted the big surprise, with Alyssa there 1st thing, toting the phrase “expect the unexpected.” The designers learned there would be an exclusive presentation before what they thought was the final runway. Each designer would showcase what they considered to be their signature look, a representation of their full collection. They would also receive input to steer work on their full collection. This left 1 day to finish, really for most, a full start on this look.

Anne came by later for her check-ins. She could feel the tension, feeling all the nerves. She reminded each designer to make certain they had a clear vision for their collection to best execute this one look being shown. So with a lot of work on day 1, certainly out the window for 1 designer, I am still amazed at another complete waste we found in this episode.

After the runway, the designers learned of another challenge, having nothing to do with this final 6-piece collection, just a fun surprise I am sure added for dramatic effect. I think a decision could have been made without this extra runway, but leave it to Project Runway to do all they could with drama.

The basics of this challenge was that the designers were shown to a backspace at their work studio, at Skylight Clarkson. As Skylight is the hottest venue to re-invent space, the designers learned they would be re-purposing fabric. Their were bins of all of the discarded fabrics from the eliminated designers this season. And another surprise, they only had 1 hour to work! We’ve seen this setup when judges can’t decide between 2 designers, but to make all 4 do this, REALLY?? With 2 runways, this was a lot to take in. Guest judges Dita Von Teese and Zanna Roberts Rossi had their work cut out for them! Lots of work in recapping too, so in critiquing each designer I will do both pieces at the same time.

SHOUT-OUT — Rodial & Umberto BH

I wasn’t in love with Stanley’s signature piece, but I didn’t hate it either. He did really create such a sexy look for the 2nd runway, it was clear he was making the final. He has excelled all season, so was certainly deserving of a final spot. Stanley’s signature take was on classic styles/icons, such as Jackie O. But with this black and white throwback piece, I was intrigued, but not in love.

It felt unfinished to me with the skirt, which I later read was intentional, but it took away from Stanley’s normal work quality in creating superb finishings. The bodice was gorgeous, very Blair Waldorf-esque, of which I am a huge fan. The collar was a little large, but good to know it was removable.

With his 2nd look, I really loved his use of mixed media. The color block effect was gorgeous! It was a very sexy look that I would rock any day. He was super quick thinking on his feet. The judges noted this look felt disjointed from Stanley’s normal repertoire of work, but it was still a top notch look nonetheless.

Fabio’s signature look, inspired by his grandma, was not fully received by the judges. They loved the skirt, but not so much the printed top, minus Isaac. I was actually the opposite. This top was super stunning in my opinion. The skirt was too long for me. Even with some critique for him, I still don’t think the judges were eliminating Fabio and they certainly loved his 2nd look even more.

I would have been fine had Fabio been eliminated and Ken got to show, but again, I knew the judges were keeping Fabio, especially after their gush-session on this 2nd look. I wasn’t a fan of Fabio in previous seasons, but I really liked his work this season. However, these 2 pieces were kind of a nod to the Fabio of old and the long shorts or skirts look, boy chic, very streetwear, just not my personal aesthetic.

Anthony and Ken seemed to be the final 2 for either chopping block. But having Anthony go would have been such a shame. His first look, conveying his take on if Audrey Hepburn had lived long enough to become Rihanna, was gorgeous in many ways, but not an A+ knockout situation. I loved the color. Royal blue is my favorite. But with the fabric choice, it read very heavy to me.

I did like his 1st look over the 2nd creation though. Asymmetry is not my favorite silhouette. The glam was there, as always. But again, I wished for a different fabric and color, but also the silhouette.

But with Anthony safe, this unfortunately did leave Ken out. I would have loved to see his entire collection. I wonder how it would have fared amongst the final 3. I hated he had to waste the initial efforts. But Ken did a great job this season. His final piece was based on a Harriet Tubman lace bow tie and handkerchief. But I think he got a little lost in the concept on this signature look. I liked the gold accents, but I was not sure about the sash/train.

And with his 2nd look, the judges loved it, but it was not a saving grace for him. It was a basic black dress. It just didn’t seem enough compared to what everyone else did. And with a unresolved, misguided 1st look, there was no saving Ken for this go-round.

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PRAS & Candy Crush!

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This would be a week of fun-filled, color excitement, right? Especially given that Candy Crush was involved! The actual runway may have not showcased all of the fun and color Candy Crush has to offer, but it was a standout showing nonethless! Nina Garcia was joining the ranks this week, initially along with Alyssa, to lay out all of the details.

Each designer would be assigned a Candy Crush land to gain inspiration in order to create a resortwear look. Narrative designer, Yonna Ingolf, was also along to further elaborate. She also announced the prize for the week in that the winning designer would be able to work with Candy Crush for a future fashion collaboration.

Each designer played one level and the highest scores got to pick their land inspiration first.This would a 1-day challenge with a $200 Mood budget. As the designers got going with this challenge, beginning their work process, it was clear they were all designing to that of a pants look, some in jumpsuit form, others a pant/short.

The designers welcomed back to the fold this week their regular mentor, Anne Fulenwider. She offered to be the Nina whisperer since she knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. At the end of her sessions, she reminded the designers that resort is a state of mind — the looks should not be too fussy!

Nina would of course be on the panel to judge, but along with her, as a guest judge, was Kelly Osbourne.The designers also found out they would be going to DC next week for their challenge. So who just missed that opportunity?!?

Ken one the chance to pick his inspirational Candy Crush land first, choosing Brulee Bay for a beach resortwear look. And choosing first gave him what he wanted, as well as this week’s win! I was in love with this gorgeous marigold, strapless jumpsuit. The color popped. It read high-end, fashionably chic. It fit with beach resortwear perfectly. The judges had a few comments, nitpicking if you ask me, but overall there were positives and he deserved the win!

Fabio actually was able to pick his inspiration land right after Ken and go figure, what a coincidence, he came in 2nd in the rankings. I support this top 2 ranking! Fabio had Taffy Tropics, for a tropical resortwear feel. I think he hit the mark spot on.. The colors were great, color-blocking being an excellent choice. This was not the most perfectly constructed look, but the vision was there and I would rock this look any day.

Rodial Makeup/Glam SHOUTOUT!!

Actually, the rankings this week all came in exactly how the designers picked their inspirations. Stanley was safe, having chose his land third, selecting Lemonade Lakeside for a lake resortwear piece. He went with a print dress over a pant. The judges were right in that this look had too much going on. And it read heavy as well, which doesn’t comport to resort in my eyes. But he did a phenomenal job on creating a well-polished look. The print he chose was kind of hit or miss, but he took risks and got the reward of being safe.

Umberto BH, Hair look, SHOUTOUT!!

Coming down to Anthony and Edmond in the bottom, I was worried that Anthony might get cut. I am so glad that did not happen and if it had, it would have been the incorrect decision. Anthony created a gorgeous white, short look for his Savannah Safari resortwear piece. Was it the best he has done all season — no. But it was well made, certainly wearable, and really just looked great. It had such an ease about it and was quite chic.

Intermix SHOUTOUT for these uber cute wedges!

This meant Edmond was out. Edmond did well last week, but has certainly not been the most memorable designer all season. And he really did not do justice in creating a look for Marshmallow Mountain with a resort piece. I do think it skimmed the line more on athleticwear than resortwear. The crotch area was an eyesore, so glad this was pointed out. All in all, it was just his time.

Next week is going to be impossible if one more is indeed cut — can’t wait to see!

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Project Runway for Betty Boop!!

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So firstly, I am a huge fan of Betty Boop. Given that, I was definitely excited for the runway this week, but really cared a lot more than I usually do because, hey, it’s Betty freakin’ Boop! The designers joined Alyssa and Betty herself on the runway for all of the challenge details!

Each designer had to create a young, chic Hollywood look, fit for a modern day Betty Boop. This would be a 1-day challenge, with a $200 Mood budget. It was so surprising given Betty’s classic red dress that nobody went with red. But a fresh take is not necessarily a bad thing!

During Anne’s check-ups, she had some strong suggestions for certain designers. She told all of the designers that she was seeing chic, but not a lot of youthfulness, so a reminder to keep that in mind. The judges later seem to echo this same sentiment. Anne also said a later message would be coming and of course the designers panicked, thinking of a twist! It ended up just being good ole’ Popeye, with another reminder to keep in mind of Betty’s sexiness.

So happy when runway time finally rolled around. Huge fan of this week’s guest judge, designer Rebecca Minkoff!! I was in pretty much full agreement with the judges’ assessments. I thought a couple of the safe designers had some interesting looks, but maybe not for the modern day Betty Boop — Kimberly & Ken. I thought Fabio had slipped a bit from his highs in the weeks before, but so even an off week for him still lands him in the safe zone — good to know! And then just a little shout-out for Anthony because I love polka dots!

But this week’s winner was clear, it had to be Joshua! This was very much an elevated streetwear look, but so fitting for Betty Boop! The top/tee was a winner in my book and I want it now. I did like that you could still see her signature garter. Overall, it was just such a fresh look and I did see youth in it. The judges hit it spot on that it was racy, yet not vulgar, which to me perfectly encapsulates Betty’s look.

Shoutout — Intermix for the cool heels

Shoutouts all around — Intermix on the yellow heels, love the straight locks from Umberto BH, also chic makeup look from Rodial

Helen was also in the top 3, very deserving. This was such a fun look, mixing prints. I did agree with Georgina that perhaps the color choices did give this more of a serious vibe, but it was still on top for me!

Shoutout — Umberto BH on the wavy hair look

Stanley rounded out the top 3, with his very cute romper look. I didn’t love the color choice, which I think took away from a youthfulness aspect, but it was well made and such a fun look.

I think the bottom 3 was pretty accurate as well, although Merline constantly being on the bottom and never going home is becoming quite irritating. However unlike when Amanda went home, Char’s elimination did have some understandable logic to the decision. The look was just so boring, so bad, not her best work.

With Merline, we still keep seeing the same mistakes, and really nothing new from her. I wish the judges would stop giving her so many free passes!

And Edmond rounded out the bottom 3, and certainly needs to step it up in the coming challenges if he wants to stick around. I didn’t mind the print, but maybe with print placement it hurt the look. I don’t think it fit the challenge very well and maybe he just got lost in his head for this challenge.

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Project Runway’s Rodial Challenge

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Every Project Runway season, whomever the beauty/makeup provider is, we always have a challenge. This season, it’s Rodial! Joining Alyssa on the runway was founder of Rodial, Maria Hatzistefanis, to lay out the full challenge details.

This week, the designers had to create looks for a woman’s inner superhero. Each were given envelopes with a Rodial beauty product, which would serve as the designer’s inspiration. The winner of this challenge would receive a year’s supply of Rodial beauty products.This would be a 1 day challenge, with a $150 Mood budget, a shock to the designers!

Anne’s check-ins for the week were very cautionary; she definitely pointed out her distinct opinion. It seemed a couple of designers disagreed. Joshua was clear of his disagreement. But also, Ken & Anthony let Fabio know of their opinions. Another interesting fact from Ken, Anthony, and Fabio in this episode was that they have formed a great bond, “The Sister Wives.” Very interesting as well that that these 3 landed in the top, granted some of the other designers were curious of this new bond!

Karolina Kurkova, super top model, was this week’s guest judge! Lots of interesting product designer pairs, with of course several designers landing in the safe column. I loved Stanley’s “smoky” heroic inspiration, and wish he had been in the top this week over his last week’s win. This look was beyond better!

Helen bounced back this week with her 24K luxe gold inspiration. I could see this look on the red carpet today. It was amazing!

Char had bee venom, creating an interesting black & white printed look. Not top material, but certainly a good effort on her part.

Shout-outs — Umberto for Hair & Rodial for beauty

Joshua had concealer, and he certainly disagreed with Anne’s assessment, but I think he lucked out this week. His look was daring, but it bordered with a taste issue. I’ve seen him do better. Kimberly was paired with illuminate, and I think she too lucked out on some worse looks in the bunch. Her “gimmick” treatment, I was not a fan of this.

I think overall, the designers did amazing this week. My top 3 looked different. But based on the judges’ picks, I agreed with Fabio’s win. His look was modern, with an edge. He took a print that could have read matronly, but he certainly made it work. I’m not sure it read “snake”, but it was very kick ass.

Shout-outs — Umberto on the awesome braid!

As I mentioned above, the rest of the sister wives trio comprised the top. I think they all did great work, but I was not a fan of the over-sized sleeves. I loved that Ken went with red, choosing such a bold, super color, mimicking in a way I guess super acids. The fit and quality were too spot on.

Anthony had dragon’s blood, but as he mentioned to Anne, he was not going so much with the name of the product for inspiration, but rather the product itself. Another super well-made look, very luxe and expensive looking. Again, just not a fan of the puffed up sleeves!

Shout-outs — Intermix for the pop of color with the heels

This bunch of designers is amazing, so almost any week, whomever goes, it will be sad. For Edmond, with his contouring inspiration, I could see where he was going. But the dress and the cape did not pair well. Edmond designs in a very sexy way, so he just needs to be careful in not crossing the line from sexy to sleezy.

I am still perplexed as to how Amanda got the axe this week over Merlinne. A designer who constantly makes such rookie mistakes as Merlinne does, should not be here this long. The judges pointed out all of the flaws, yet completely ignored them, sounding super hypocritical in sending Amanda home. Yes Merlinne has a vision, but if you can’t execute your concept, why are you on the show! But this look from her this week, it wasn’t even that visionary. The dress was bland in silhouette, as well as color. And the sleeves, nothing overly exciting there! Merlinne had magic gel, but there was no magic in this look, just in her ability to again brainwash the judges!

Amanda is such a classy person, so she of course left without saying one negative thing about Merlinne. That, for me, was impressive! And her look, in all honesty, was not that bad. I’m not even going to dignify her look with a critique because the judges made the wrong choice this week and more senseless critique on Amanda’s look just adds to the delusion that the judges made the right choice!

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Project Runway Ball-Mania!

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Starting right off the bat this week, Alyssa met the designers on the runway, informing them of a visit to a castle for the rest of the challenge details. However, she didn’t say what type of castle! The designers arrived to find they were at an inflatable bouncy castle, filled with all types of balls — toys, rubber, sports, etc. They were tasked to create a modern day ball-gown with the use of these unconventional materials, the balls!

The designers had 5 minutes to gather their supplies. An interesting note was that it seemed almost all of the balls were taken from the castle, yet the designers were later told they didn’t get enough materials?? Either way, it was a “make it work” moment for this 1-day challenge.

The designers upon arriving back to the workroom were excited to get creative! Helen whined a bit, but most of the bunch were having fun with this challenge. A lot of the balls to choose from were similar in color, so naturally, there were similarly colored looks being created, multi-colored rainbow and gold for example. So who would win those individual duos and who would just plain win out for the week! To help judge, this week’s guest judge was country singer Kacey Musgraves.

For those safe with the week, I felt there was a reason for this. There was some good and some bad aspects within a given look as a whole, so overall, just the need for a bit more of a push from certain designers. Having seen the next week’s episode already, I know Ken landed in the top, but I would have rather seen him on top this week because I did really like his look a lot! It was super sexy and I loved the color!

Shout-outs — Intermix on the killer heels

But onto the judges’ top 3, we have Stanley, Fabio, and Kimberly. I actually think the judges were not all in agreement with Kimberly’s look. It read a little “barbie princess” to me, more junior than modern ball gown. So certainly for the win, it had to have been Fabio or Stanley.

Shout-outs — Intermix, Rodial, & Umberto

I didn’t love Stanley’s look, and certainly not enough for a win. I got this candy-esque vibe from it, but as always, he did do some high quality work. For me, the winner was Fabio. I have been much more impressed with Fabio this go-round than on his original season. And this look was just another check mark in the book for me with him (picture above, Stanley below)!

Shout-outs — Umberto for Hair!!

In the bottom 3, we had Amanda, Helen, and Candice. I am not sure how Helen landed in the bottom. Her look was a basic silhouette, but it was so well-made, great color palette, this just made 0 sense! There were some other options that could have taken her bottom 3 placement.

Amanda and Candice were also in the bottom. Amanda, granted her look had fit issues, it was a little costume-y, but there was an interesting quality to it that I appreciated. It was so different than the rest and really stayed true to Amanda as a designer.

I think from this bunch, it was obvious Candice would be out. The bottom part was just so bad. It sucks to say, but it felt like a let-down. I know Candice is better than this, and it was just one where the challenge won out. I’m very excited to see Candice very soon with NYFW!

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PR All-Stars Double Up

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Project Runway All-Stars this week went for a pairs challenge. In the first episode, Alyssa said that would be the only team challenge of the season, but I guess pairs’ work is still a possibility! We also later found out that this runway would be a double elimination, sending the bottom 2 team, both designers, going home.

The designers met Alyssa at fine dining restaurant in NYC, Daniel. Joining her was the establishment’s head chef Jean Francois Bruel and Head Sommelier Raj Vaidya. The designers appeared to have randomly sat with a companion of their choosing, but it was soon discovered their dining companion was also their challenge pair. The challenge would be for each pair to receive a food and wine pairing. From that, this food/wine would serve as an inspiration to create 2 looks, fine dining for elegant creations. The winning pair would be invited back to Daniel for a full 5 star dining experience.

The designers were off to Mood, $400 budget, ready to get started on this 1-day challenge. Versus being in LA, the designers were in NY, so working at NYFW home Skylight Clarkson Square. During Anne’s check-ins, she noted being thrilled about how well the partnerships were working, but pushed for more creativity, and of course, a bold reminder of the pending double elimination.

This week’s guest judge was actress Whoopi Goldberg.Overall, I thought this was another great runway. I found in most pairings that one look really stood out over the other. I loved Joshua’s sexy black number, a perfect result with an inspiration from the black sea bass. His partner, Amanda, her look was very safe, but I thought it complimented Joshua’s look well, given a more RTW pairing to that of a more upscale piece. Edmond and Helen were paired, but I wasn’t seeing a clear inspiration from their Minted pea soup & Chenin Blanc pairing.Helen’s look was nonetheless stunning. Even though Char’s look seemed relatively safe too, I thought her and Stanley did well, receiving inspiration from their Lobster & Rose of Pinot Noir pairing. Stanley’s look was also amazing, a real stand-out. I believe they should have been in the top!

The judges’ top 2 teams were Kimberly & Anthony, as well as Fabio & Ken. I didn’t fully dislike the winning pair of Fabio & Ken. I wasn’t the biggest Fabio fan during his season, but I have been surprised at liking some of his work so far. I will remain optimistic. And this week, his look was very modern thinking, fashion forward. I also liked Ken’s gown, but did think that the mid-area made the look too boxy.

I would have gone hands down with Kimberly & Anthony. Anthony was the stronger of the 2, but his Jackson Pollack inspired work looked phenomenal. I am not sure how either pair really worked with the food/wine pairing of Lamb Chops and Syrah, but loved the color palette here and the work made.

This season is full of some strong contenders, so almost any given week, whomever goes home will be a shock. As much as I really thought Merlinne & Candice should have been sent home, I hated that Candice would be going. Her first 2 looks were knock-outs, and even though the judges failed to note this, I am at least happy we get to see her again. Merlinne on the other hand as received undue accolades the first 2 weeks and this look was just such a travesty. Her skills are nowhere near the all-star level and I will be highly disappointed if undue judges’ praise continues.

Shoutouts — Umberto for Hair, Rodial on Glam, Intermix on heels!

I guess given the safe designers’ group, finding another bottom 2 pairing was not the easiest. Candice and Merlinne were a given, but joining them was Melissa & Ari. This was such a surprise given how strong Ari had started out. Compared to the mess of Merlinne & Candice, I don’t see much justification of how Melissa and Ari were ultimately axed. And really, shouldn’t some consideration been given for Ari’s 1st two strong weeks! Melissa really steered off course, but I think Ari’s biggest misfortune here was beading placement. With a bit more time, this look could have been such a knockout!

Shoutouts — Umberto for Hair, Rodial on Glam!!

Sad to see both go because this was not the right decision in my book! Hoping for better results from the judges in future episodes!

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