PR Designers & PR Crew Combine!

Posted on November 3, 2015 by SMM

PR sneaks in every season the challenge where the designers have to design for real women. And by that, it means there model for the week is not a model, but rather your everyday woman. This season was a bit more special in that the real woman makeover would be for members of the PR crew. This would also be a Sally Beauty challenge as Libby Bisanz and Gregory Patterson of Sally Beauty joined Tim to hand down the challenge details. So each designer would have their woman and was responsible for their own look — no blame games! They were to create a look going from workday to runway extraordinary. And the sky was the limit in terms of the direction of the look.

Gregory was on board this week to work with each designer/woman team for their entire makeover effect — new cut & color. So with the details set forth, everyone began with excitement for this 2-day challenge and a budget of $200. The initial excitement soon faded though with Merline in jacket woes, Ashley in tears, and Swapnil back on the smoke train.

As day 2 began it was soon time for not just Tim-time, but also fittings. Tim was quite invested in this challenge because it is the PR crew. Tim advised Kelly she might need more. With Candice, he was seeing oatmeal. Did Edmond have a camel toe issue? But it was Swapnil who was again the center of attention. Tim was over the BS and then dropped the F bomb. While other designers were having issues with their looks, Swapnil was have issues with his look and really working with his model’s needs. Tim ended up telling everyone that they truly needed to rally and they could have another fitting. But even with the 2nd fitting, Swapnil was still having issues.

The morning of, Swapnil was still having troubles and as always, Merline was running around! Guest judges this week were the starts of Lifetime’s new show Unreal, Shiri Appleby & Constance Zimmer.

So my main issue this week, with this challenge, is that I only feel like 1 designer kind of stepped up to the plate here and that was the winner, Kelly. Last week was a disappointment and I don’t think these looks were much better. It seems as if too many designers as of late are resting on their laurels and not really pushing themselves. I know the heavy focus for this was put on Swapnil the past few weeks. But really, quite a few others have too been dropping the ball and I wouldn’t have put all of the heat on Swapnil.

Shout-out — Love the new Sally Beauty do, great job on a clean, natural makeup look by Mary Kay, also great accessories to the look, JustFab

I’m not sure if I could rock Kelly’s look for Ashleigh, but Ashleigh sure does. Kelly created a look that was great looking, but also what her client wanted. It was also still very much Kelly’s voice in the piece, which many other designers were looking.

Shout-outs — another great makeover look from both Sally Beauty & Mary Kay!

I guess a runner-up look this week was Merline’s 3-piece set for Katie. Although runner-up has a little meaning here since the rest were all very so-so. I think it was great Merline did create a jacket because outside of that she made a tank with a slit skirt, not much there! But really the jacket was ok, nothing to stellar. And ultimately, Katie never wanted a jacket. Merline found fortune in that everyone else kind of blew it this week, but I’m still not that impressed with her output this week.

I guess then in the standards of everyone else not stepping up, this meant too that Edmond was either safe or in the top 3, which is utterly odd with his creation for the week. It was just such a yawn and the raincoat and dress had such a disconnect. With Kelly being the winner this week, I see the standard as give your client what they want, make it be exciting, and it should represent your designer aesthetic. It seems as if Edmond pleased Desiree, but again, the look wasn’t exciting and I didn’t see Edmond in the look at all.

To start off the bottom 3, we can then move to Candice. At first glance I didn’t hate this, but upon closer inspection, the positives do start to fade. I do see what the judges are saying in that this kind of crosses a line. It’s not Candice’s best work, although Monique didn’t seem to mind. I think Candice just had a hard time thinking more RTW, just as the last challenge, but also maintaining her voice.

It was kind of clear that Swapnil was going out this week, but I think if the judges had sent 2 designers home, Ashley should have been in the mix. She has had some great looks this season, but she has also put down the runway some not so great ones. And when she is on the not so great line, it really is not great! The most disappointing aspect was this was Ashley’s challenge, among all of the others. She prides herself on designing for plus-sized, everyday women. But to see that this is what she created, it’s like really?? I believe Ashley tries to rely to much on prints, but what makes it worse is then the use of a print in an unimaginative silhouette, such as here, a fitted dress with peplum, woohoo! Poor Nicole!

So yes, this meant that Swapnil was out. My thinking on him is just that PR is not for him. I’ve seen his work pre-PR and it was super stunning. I’ve caught an eye at his decoy collection for the finale and it was too mesmerizing. This to me would never scream Swapnil. But I will say that Jennifer was quite a difficult client. I think any other designer who could have been paired with her would have run into some issues. I’m not sure she was getting the concept of “makeover”, or even that she wanted one. With a makeover, you should seek something special and really collaborate to fulfill a fantasy. Swapnil did get lost here and out of answers as to what Jennifer wanted. Such a shame, but I would be very intrigued to have seen what this girl would have been pleased with that would have been showstopping on a runway!

PR Designers Design for JustFab

Posted on October 31, 2015 by SMM

This week — the RTW, traditional design for the sponsor of our show challenge! More specifically, the designers were asked to create RTW looks that could be reproduced and sold online for JustFab. Tim was joined by Just Fab Fashion Director Yuchin Mao to provide the challenge details. JustFab has various style personas for their customers — Girl Next Door; Bombshell; Trendsetter; Modern Classic; Femme Nouveau. Each designer would be given a persona to design for in order to create a high fashion look that could be sold at an affordable price. In fact, the winning look would be reproduced and sold online!

Last week’s winner, Candice, received the honor then of not only selecting her persona of choice, but the persona for each of the other designers. All were mostly happy!

Candice — Trendsetter
Ashley — Girl Next Door
Swapnil — Bombshell
Kelly — Trendsetter
Laurie — Modern Classic
Merline — Femme Nouveau
Edmond — Bombshell

Everyone was then off to Mood for this 1-day challenge with a budget of only a $100. Ashley had to make some cuts at the register as she was over. And to top it off, she bought the wrong kind of zipper. But during Tim-time, others were a focus, as well as a little surprise!

Tim and Swapnil were not seeing eye to eye. Laurie was asked if she was really putting something new down the runway. And Edmond was being labeled as “basic.” Tim’s little surprise was another small component of the challenge. Each designer would have to create a label to print and wear on a t-shirt for the runway show. They would use the Brother printer to assist with the label-making process.

Swapnil — Swapnil Shinde
Laurie — Wanda Grace
Merline — Provoke Style
Kelly — Rack Addick
Candice — Ccuoco
Edmond — Edmond Newton

Model fittings actually presented a lot of major fit issues, leaving some designers unsure and others to start all over again. The “morning of” was just as crazy as the end of the night. Laurie had so much to do in starting over. Swapnil too had a wrong zipper and so he sewed his model into the dress. Merline even had her model assisting. This week’s guest judges were singer Ciara & Yuchin of JustFab.

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, such gorgeous, flowing locks; Natural, clean Mary Kay look; perfect JustFab accessories, black clutch & killer heels!

Heidi announced this would be the last immunity given out for the season. Somehow, amidst all of the craziness with judging, Edmond was declared the winner. I’m not sure what really happened here, with the designers, with the judges. But this was pure craziness and chaos. The fact of the matter here is no designer had a great look. Edmond winning was really like the best of the worst. This is not to say Edmond’s dress was bad. I agreed with Heidi in that it’s a great red dress, super sexy, and I’m sure people would buy it. But I also agreed with Nina & Zac. This was just a basic, red dress. There was nothing special to it. I didn’t see Edmond in it. And if I saw it hanging on a Macy’s rack, it would blend in. We’ve seen this before.

Shout-outs — Such a cute hairdo from Sally Beauty and love the beauty look, Mary Kay

If there was a top 3, I guess Ashley would be there. I mean really I think JustFab would have just sold this jacket and called it a day, but the look here in its entirety was just ok. And really Ashley didn’t do much to hype up her look. The back of the crop top was very cute, but we only saw it during the judges up close critiques. The jacket was great, but with a basic crop top & flare skirt, where a so-so print is doing all of the work, how can you get all that excited.

I wouldn’t know who to put as the final member of the top 3. The judges were really all over the place. I guess the safe crowd was Kelly & Candice. I would likely wear Candice’s look over Kellys’ so I will discuss her next. Candice had a few finishing touch issues, which is unlike her. But I think she got bogged down in RTW. I don’t think this is her design forte and so she showed some struggles. She really needed to edit here.

Moving on to Kelly, her look was not bad, but it just wouldn’t be for everyone. This was like Kelly to the max and I don’t think it would fit the JustFab clientele, or at least the masses. This would be for a very specific customer and I think that was a major issue here. And really the pale blue furry vest was not a fave of mine. Nina was for sure not a fan!

But compared to the bottom 3, Kelly’s look was top notch! I’m not sure what Swapnil was thinking here. Firstly, mass production, online, JustFab — that is not this dress. And I’m not sure what the deal was with the outer portion. Did he not get that Edmond’s odd outer vest the week before had not gone over well??

Merline has had some ideas all season, but her construction has been very questionable all season as well. But here, even some okay ideas really weren’t that great. Even if this look was fully executed, I wasn’t seeing a winner. I’d rather Laurie have not been eliminated. For me, Merline has had far too many passes on poorly crafted looks.

Shout-out — Love the accessories, sexy heels & black clutch, JustFab & this chic updo is spot on, Sally Beauty

The week before, Laurie’s look at least had some direction, whereas Lindsey, who was eliminated, went too basic. That was Laurie’s downfall this week. Merline appeared to have had some promise with her look, some ideas, whereas Laurie’s look was far too basic — a halter and pencil skirt — not very imaginative. The top was also sheer, showing some side-boob, which was also an issue for her the week before. With that, Laurie was out.

PR Designers’ Broadway Inspirations

Posted on October 30, 2015 by SMM

This week was all about the magic and glamour of Broadway. The designers were invited to attend the musical, Finding Neverland. And from that visit, the trip, the show, the atmosphere, it was all to serve as an inspiration for each designer to create a look. The designers were joined at the theater by Tim and star of the musical, Matthew Morrison.

So with a “sky is the limit”, 1-day challenge, and a $250 budget, the designers were off to work and to Mood (which oddly enough this season, I feel as if they haven’t been to Mood that much!). Swapnil opted for a smoke/work balance this challenge. Lindsey began her work in fear as she really did not want to land in the bottom again. Merline began her work in doubt as she was drawing a complete blank. Candice came out of the gates strong however, really wanting to own her darkness, to celebrate it and feel hope.

Tim reminded the designers that at this point in the competition, it was anyone’s game, so to remember no one is safe. He urged Swapnil to aim for the win. While others he made sure to remind them to edit. Clearly, the pressure was on!

The morning of was the usual time crunch. A lot of the designers seemed like they could be in trouble! This week’s guest judge was supermodel Coco Rocha.

The top/bottom 3 breakdown made perfect sense here. And of course, by a landslide, Candice was the clear winner. Candice always impresses me with the sheer amount of pieces she can put together in such a short amount of time. And the thing is, I very rarely see any fit or quality issues with the pieces. And to top it all off, she is not just making basic, plain, boring pieces, but rather a look that is uniquely designed and truly showcasing who she is as a designer.

Kelly put out another great, stunning look. I really feel as if she has been a dark horse this season and the other designers better watch out! I’m not sure if I’m completely in love with this look, or at least the pairing of the intricate outer pieces with the LBD. But I know one thing is that it’s hard to take my eyes off of the look! This emerald, sheer, outer piece is just so exquisite. The judges seemed to be a bit split on this as well, but compared to the actual bottom this week, this was top notch!

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, such gorgeous, wavy hair & Mary Kay, love that bold red lip!

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, love the updo, Mary Kay, beautiful cat eye & nude lip!

The way I felt about Kelly’s look is similar to how I feel about Edmonds’. I’m not 100% in love with it, but there is still something intriguing about it. Coco was clearly not a fan, but the judges did have some positives to offer. I think the confusing part here is this outer vest — what is it, why did he make it, what is the purpose? Not sure of the answers, but the black pants and top were well made. And the look did need more than just those pieces, so I guess he thought, blob of color maybe??

Swapnil and Merline were definitely deserving of the middle, but still with okay looks. Swapnil’s look had such a disconnect for me. I didn’t love the pairing of slate grey & baby pink. And with Merline, it was very pretty, but felt more like a costume than a wearable look.

Shout-out — Sally Beauty, love the waves!!

Ashley’s look was just a mess and truly, quite disappointing. My issue with this is more so that Ashley can and has done better. But when she misses, she really misses. It’s like, why so inconsistent??

Shout-out — Lovin’ these Sally Beauty hair looks this week!

Laurie has had some highlights for me earlier on this season, but a very slow decline the past week or so. I’m just not sure what happened here. It seems as if there is no direction and the fabric choice, very mind boggling!

Another gorgeous Sally Beauty updo!

But for the judges, they saw at least some design and ideas with Laurie. On the other hand, for Lindsey, it was just not enough. Her look did have a pretty color, but there was not a lot here in terms of design. It was kind of basic. Lindsey’s aesthetic is very minimalist, which is hard to make work on PR. And if you do go the minimalist route, it has to be done so well. That was the case here. So with a few constant bottom placements, Lindsey was sadly out.

ArtsBeat: With Kelsey Grammer Still Away, ‘Neverland’ Finds a New Hook

PR Designers go Dumpster Diving

Posted on October 27, 2015 by SMM

Ok, well not exactly, but they definitely hit up a rather organized looking junkyard for the challenge and were pulling some items out of the dumpsters! This was the 2nd unconventional materials challenge of the season, and this go round, the designers would be working with recycled electronics. Their goal was to merge the worlds of fashion and technology — take yesterday’s technology and turn it into modern fashion.

The designers were joined by Tim at Editor in Chief of Marie Claire, Anne Fulenwilder, who would also serve as one of the guest judges this week. Each designer had 1 shopping car to fill up with wires, old computers, circuit boards, mouse pads, and the like. So after some fun dumpster diving, the designers were back to the workroom to quickly begin on this 1-day challenge.

Work shots began with a montage of past clips where Joseph had been labeled as “matronly”, clearly would be a heavy focus of the episode. However, it was very clear right from the get go that Swapnil was too a heavy focus of the episode and his taking constant breaks to chat, smoke, or eat. PR might as well have called this the “Swapnil hour.” But of course before all of this, Jake asked to speak to Tim privately. He found out that his family pet was not doing well and that his dog needed to be put to sleep, very sad! Jake decided to leave the competition at this point.

The designers were back to work as Tim-time was soon approaching. Tim applauded some, but not all. Swapnil asked about using muslin for his skirt, which of course Tim quickly answered with a resounding “No!” But overall, Tim seemed pleased. Model fittings were next, which brought lots of fit issues and Ashley was in tears.

The morning of the runway was filled with typical chaos. Swapnil decided he would be using muslin, while Edmond was being even more innovative with the challenge and made his own accessory. This week’s other guest judge was Paula Patton.

My top 3 were right in line with the judges. And I guess since Merline couldn’t have been eliminated due to her win last week, I was okay with the bottom 3 as well. However, Heidi has been quick to tell safe designers in the past that they should feel lucky. I’m not sure how Merline escaped that critique. Her look this week was quite sloppy. In fact, the back was open and coming apart to where you could see the model’s underwear. I’m not sure she would have been sent home this week, but a warning I felt would have been justifiable.

I was happy for either Kelly or Ashley to win. But being that this was Kelly’s first win, it seemed more fitting. This look was detailed, intricate, and super luxe looking.

Shout-outs all around — Sally Beauty for sleek chic hair; gorgeous Mary Kay makeup look & love that JustFab clutch!

Shout-out for Ashley, love the metallic silver JustFab pumps!

Ashley was definitely a close 2nd. This look, made with negatives of film, was really inspired, super nostalgic, but really just downright fashionable, fun, and flirty!

Edmond rounded out the judges top 3 and I was fine on this decision. This look was super polished. The front was so sexy, loved the deep V. But the back was too quite intriguing with an intricate detailing of straps.

Laurie & Candice made up the middle of the pack. Laurie’s look was a little all over the place for me. Had Swapnil not used muslin, I think she could have ended up in the bottom. It just seemed a little floppy & messy. Shoutout for her Mary Kay makeup look, gorgeous smoky eye!

I really liked Candice’s look. There was definitely something sexy about it, just very eye-catching, with lots of intricate detailing all over the dress.

Shout-out — Sally Beauty hair, super sweet & chic ponytail!

Lindsey landed in the bottom 3. I don’t think she deserved to go home over this look, so I am happy she didn’t. But I do think her skirt was kind of a throwaway. I liked the top, but clearly way too much time was spent on it and her skirt suffered.

I think it was clear from the Swapnil-centric episode that he would not only be in some trouble, but be at risk of elimination. Of course the main reason he was in jeopardy was because he used muslin. I don’t think the judges really disliked his look. Had the skirt been made of anything else, I believe he would have found himself safe. The top was very sculptural and architectural. This was not Swapnil’s best, but was more or less not great because he didn’t follow the challenge guidelines.

Shout-out for Joseph — Striking updo, Sally Beauty, killer heels, JustFab

This left poor Joseph on the outs, in the bottom yet again. It was really his time to go. His look was not matronly, but it really wasn’t much of anything. It wasn’t too creative or exciting, just very bland.

Project Runway Live Thread

PR Designers Design for Heidi

Posted on October 25, 2015 by SMM

Fashion Week and a crazy month or so has definitely put me behind in terms of recapping these Project Runway episodes. But as I love the show, I am making the time to catch up! So slowly but surely I will catch up!

So going back, this is the episode where I left off. The challenge was to create lingerie for Heidi’s line. The winning look would be reproduced for Heidi’s brand. The designers had lots of lingerie samples to sift thru, but were not expected to replicate, rather use her previous pieces as guidelines to make their own lingerie set. With that, the designers were off to work on this 1-day challenge.

Lindsey had an unfortunate early mishap as her day began. She cut herself, pretty deeply, and had to go to the hospital to get a tetanus shot. Everyone else was of course hard at work, but were they ready for Tim-time??

Tim was of course joined by Heidi as she was the client for this challenge. She certainly had lots to say! Edmond was quickly dubbed as captain tacky. And while Joseph was again labeled as “matronly”, Jake was on the other end of the spectrum with a look that was more junior. Tim reminded the designers that they had a lot of work to do, but first, a quick surprise as Heidi asked the designers to join her on the runway.

Heidi had good news and bad news. The bad — there was a twist! Everyone had to design another piece, a sexy cover-up. The good — they would have more time to work and were even sleeping at the studio — Project Runway sleepover! With that, everyone was off to get into their PJs and get back to work. This was a crazy challenge, very surprising that everyone was having so much difficulty with the time constraints. At 3am everyone was still hard at work, but it was ultimately time for bed.

The morning of proved no differently in terms of work chaos, right from the moment Tim went to awaken the designers. Joseph found some time to help out Jake. And many, namely Blake, pretty much just thru something random together for the cover-up. Time was running out, but it was time for the runway. This week’s guest judge was actress Bella Thorne. Who knew someone that was barely legal could have so much to say about lingerie!!

Candice would have been my winner this week. I am not so shocked that every judge didn’t agree with my pick, but how she didn’t even make top 3 was beyond mind boggling. Her look had the same sexy spirit as the judges’ winning pick in that of Merline. But, for me, Candice’s look was better constructed and would have worked for a more body types & sizes.

Merline still did good work this week and was certainly deserving of some appreciation though. This was a very sexy and very well-designed lingerie set. But I found her loo, especially the top, to be rather limiting on the type of woman who could pull it off.

Hair shoutout — Sally Beauty, gorgeous waves!

To join Candice and Merline, my top 3 would have included Kelly. I thought her looks so different and very unique. I really thought she put forth her designer POV the best.

Heck, even her cover-up was one of the actually designed ones. She put forth great effort and amazing work on this challenge.

Swapnil was in the official top 3. I didn’t dislike his look, but I definitely had some critiques, as did the judges, which was surprising then in how he landed in the top 3. There was certainly a showstopping quality to his top, it was quite eye-catching. But I felt a disconnect between the top & bottom.

Ashley was the final member of the judges’ top 3. Actually she was in competition for the win, so with that, I am glad Merline won. The top here had an odd shape to me. And I really didn’t see anything unique or interesting about the underwear here.

As far as the middle of the bunch, there was Joseph, Edmond, and Lindsey. Joseph’s top was okay, but the bottoms were either not constructed well or they just didn’t look good. Edmond’s look was quite sexy, also love the color choice of royal purple. He did a good job this week as well. Lindsey’s bottoms were a bit on the higher side, but I thought she had a great color combination.

The judges were right to call out Laurie on her high bottoms, but Joseph’s look had some wonky construction issues. I think he was more deserving of the bottom 3 than Laurie. Laurie’s top received a good deal of compliments and this should have at least made her safe. I too thought she had great color choices. But lucky for Laurie she was only in the bottom 3 and not the bottom 2!

There was no way Jake was going home over Blake’s messy disaster this week. Although Jake clearly stuck to most of what he has been this season, boring or severely lacking in originality.

Shout-out — Luscious red locks, great work from the Sally Beauty team

Blake has done some outstanding work this season. If the judges had sent Jake home instead, I wouldn’t have seen much of an injustice. I believe Blake is far more talented than Jake. But sadly, this was the worst look this week and very little could have been done to save Blake.

Shout-outs — Hair, love the waves, Sally Beauty, and great job on the makeup, courtesy of Mary Kay

PR — The Smurfs v Barney

Posted on September 6, 2015 by SMM

Project Runway threw in another group challenge this week. And for this episode, it was a battle of the teams, 2 teams that is. Heidi & Tim delivered the challenge details in paintball-esque style.

Blake, as the winning designer from last week, got the ball rolling on the team building. He would select a designer and then whomever was next selected would pick the following designer until no designers were left. So for the blue team, Blake picked Swapnil, who picked, Joseph, who picked Jake, who picked Edmond, and who then lastly picked Merline.

The button bag selected who got the ball rolling for the other team, the red team. The blue team was comprised mainly of guys, which meant the red team was all ladies — Candice, Amanda, Kelly, Lindsey, Laurie, and lastly Ashley.

With the teams completed, it was then time to play some fierce paintball! Each team would defend a barrel of fabric with 2 paintball guns and paintball grenades. Ashley showed she knew how to handle the gun, while Blake decided to kind of sit this one out and hide.

The fabric captured would be the supplemental material for the challenge. Tim later revealed the actual material for the challenge would be what the designers were wearing, their paintball jumpsuits which had just been splattered with paint. Each team was to create a 6 look mini-collection. Yes, that meant cohesion must be in play! The designers then headed back to the workroom to start on this 2-day challenge.

The blue team made great decisions right from the get go. They formed a clear concept, assigned tasks, and really worked great together. Their inspiration was the 50s, to have a Jackson Pollock vibe. They also decided to use a unified textile, which Jake created.

As the designers arrived back to the workroom, Tim told the designers they could make use of extra white canvas and paint that had been provided. Blake too added to the creativity of the textiles by creating a hand-painted floral print for the fabric.

The red team pretty much went the exact opposite route. They did not work as a team at all. Everyone was kind of doing their own thing, just creating their own look. They did not ever form a clear concept, even though several attempts were made. Ashley made it clear since she was the last picked that she felt the least welcome. The ladies in making their textiles were hoping to gain inspiration for a concept, but instead ended up with a complete “easter egg festival”, as Tim latter dubbed it.

All of the white canvas fabric was gone and the ladies were worried as to how their collection could be saved from this color explosion gone bad. Candice attempted to take some form of leadership over the group, but the other ladies were not feeling it. The other designers might not have wanted a leader, but if the women were not going to work as a team, I actually feel as if some leadership was needed here. But the reigns should have been taken to direct the ladies toward cohesion, not just crossing fingers that a concept would arise naturally.

Tim-time made it clear that he saw what we all were seeing at home. He was quite pleased with the blue team, very excited to see cohesion and that they were all working so well together. Tim was rightfully concerned with the red team, telling them they should feel a little scared. The ladies finally decided on a purple supplemental fabric to be their cohesive thread, in hopes it would also save their looks from being amateur hour to chic fashion.

Tim later brought in Sally Beauty consultant Liddy Bisanz. Sally Beauty had their mobile nail studio right outside, with over 750 nail colors, for the designers to have at their disposal. They would each visit with a consultant to create a nail design to give each of their looks additional dimension. As the end of the 2nd day was winding down, the blue team was still going strong, while the red team was still all over the place. Laurie and Amanda even had some drama in the sewing room as tensions were all over the place. The ladies hoped to leave the negative energy behind for the morning of the runway, but that was not the case. Laurie told Ashley the other team members were planning to throw her under the bus, and both were over their group dynamics. But at this point nothing more could be done and the runway show was about to begin.

This week’s guest judges were designer Lisa Perry and Kelly Osbourne.

It was clear from the episode which team was going to be on top and who was not. The blue team made wearable art, whereas the red team created arts and crafts projects. There were a lot of great looks that the blue team put out. Blake and Jake offered a lot to their team with textile creation, but the judges rightfully awarded the win and immunity to the best design. And their pick was Edmond. I agreed, but had they picked Swapnil, I would have been fine with that decision as well. It was a close race for the top.

Edmond’s gown was effortlessly and breathtakingly stunning. It was a win from all angles, including a gorgeous back.

Sally Beauty shout-out for hair, such a beautiful bun updo, also for Mary Kay, great choice of a bold red lip

Swapnil was a close 2nd here and this dress looked very fun and fashionable. He used a lot of creativity here, even making use of the shoes the designers wore in creating the back of this dress. It was clear he paid great attention to detail, including putting in pockets!

Sally Beauty shout-out — lovely flowing waves

Blake would have rounded out my top 3, creating a very clean-cut, minimalist dress. The open back was divine. Blake proved he doesn’t always need bells & whistles to shine. The splashed Pollock paint vibe was great, but I thought the floral hand-painted escalated the prints. I am proud of Blake for doing a great job with that work.

The judges chose Jake as part of their top 3, but I don’t get it. It was great what he did in creating a fabric, but fabric design doesn’t really show me what a great designer he is. Jake has yet to stand out for me and in my opinion could have gone home on earlier challenges. This look was some of his best work, but that is not saying much. And I can’t help but think back to his previous group challenge and how he didn’t work well with Lindsey. Yet all of a sudden he worked just fine here. Does he have a problem working with women?

Sally Beauty hair shout-out also for Joseph, more gorgeous waves

It was great to see continued signs of improvement from both Joseph & Merline though. I thought this look was quite different for Joseph, still very ladylike and regal, but not so matronly. Merline too also created a beautiful piece, filled with structure and flare.

As mentioned many times above, the red team was clearly on the bottom and the critiques brought out even more drama. The fabric here was not a plus, but even stronger designers such as Candice and Ashley, had looks that were just not great. Bad fabric should not lead to bad design, which is what happened here. All of the looks just kind of fell flat. There was really nothing special. And even though there was drama and fabric issues, the ladies had always planned on doing their own thing. With that I would maybe have expected 1 or 2 decent looks, but overall, it was very eh. And really with the additional drama on the runway, I was over it at this point. I actually blame all of them and do not feel overly bad for Ashley. Added note though, I do like Ashley, did not think she should go home and knew it was not going to happen. But any of these ladies could have helped in making a change to better the group dynamic here and none chose to take that route. No true leadership was seen and the little bit that was attempted was chastised. It was great Laurie stuck up for Ashley at the end, but she didn’t show any support when Ashley was trying to have her voice heard earlier on in the episode. Being picked last sucks. But Ashley has won 2 challenges and she could have sucked it up and tried to make the best of it. And rather than constant complaints from Candice, Amanda, or whomever, focus should have gone on better planning right from the get go. I’m sure these designers have watched PR before and knew the route they were taking was a recipe for disaster. These are some very talented ladies here who have done some great work this season. I will definitely continue to root for them and hope to see better from them in the future. But this work, this episode, these looks were a hot mess!

Amanda did not have the best look this week, but she didn’t have the worst. At least there was some flare and great movement with her piece. Clearly the judges chose to send her home based on their view of her body of work rather than sending home designers who have been on the top. I’ve disagreed with the judges placement of Amanda in the bottom, but this is where they’ve put her. Ultimately it led to her elimination this week. She may have not made it to the PR show at NYFW, but I’m happy I will get to see her with House of Perna as she is still showing during fashion week.

Candice was in the bottom 2, which also made no sense to me. It was not her best work, but it was not the worst of this bunch. It was not perfectly executed, but it had direction. It was more than just a basic, boring top or skirt.

Ashley & Kelly were too in some danger here as the judges brought attention to their looks. This was definitely not Ashley’s best work. It was clear the judges were not sending her home as she has had some winning looks. Kelly too didn’t fair well with the judges here. There were definitely some execution issues here, but just as I said with Candice, I at least appreciated a sense of direction here and thinking outside of the box. The top was a bit crazy, but for these looks, the crazy outweighed the safe, boring pieces.

Laurie & Lindsey were in the middle of this bottom pack. And just like the rest, nothing overly impressive or to brag about. Two basic tops, culottes, and some capris, whoopee! The girls had a tough week here, all of them. So here’s to hoping the ladies get back in it next week. I know they’ve done better and know most will get back on track.

PR Designers Order Classics with a Side of Modern Twists

Posted on August 30, 2015 by SMM

So before the designers headed off on their 1st trip this season to Mood, they met with Tim & Mary Kay global makeup artist Luis Casco on a NYC dock. Why?!? To receive their challenge of course! The challenge this week was to take a classic design and add a modern, unique twist to it. Meeting on the dock was to allow the designers the chance to take in the gorgeous city views as inspiration. In addition, as Luis was there to provide the challenge details, this of course meant it was a Mary Kay challenge. Each designer would receive a makeup consultation to give their modern designs a modern beauty amplification. And finally, to incentivize the designers (which I think was needed!), the winning design would receive a cash prize of $5k and their look would be featured in a Mary Kay ad in Marie Claire magazine.

The designers had 30 minutes to sketch and then it was off to Mood with 45 minutes to shop and a budget of $250. Tim reminded the designers as they got back to the workroom to be mindful of time as this was a 1 day challenge, but they also had to do meetings with him, consultations with Luis, and of course do their model fittings. As the designers started working, we saw Gabrielle anxiously awaiting for Tim to come by and Amanda in doubt. I totally got where Amanda was coming from with being in the bottom so much. I stick by what I’ve said in previous recaps though, Amanda should not have been in the bottom 2 for the Hallmark challenge and her bottom 3 placement last week was ridiculous. Not being in the bottom would have been a much needed confidence booster for her!

Tim-time highlights, Swapnil going from Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Breakfast in Vegas! Also, Blake was baffling Tim! But overall, Tim was energized about the work he was seeing! For model fittings, Laurie was given a new model — not sure why?? But much sooner, rather than later, the morning of the runway came about and it was chaos as usual. Gabrielle was having sewing machine troubles, while Blake was dealing with cuts and blood stains on his garment. Yikes!

This week’s guest judge was Mad Men’s Kiernan Shipka!

I was actually quite impressed with the runway this week. I had a hard time myself picking a top 3. Most of the judges’ top 3 was understandable, but my top 3 consisted of Candice, Ashley, and Laurie.

I saw Ashley’s look come down the runway and I was like, Wow, so pretty! This was feminine, fashionable, and the back was GORGEOUS! I think the skirt could have worked a tad shorter, but overall, this look was super impressive! Shout-outs — JustFab for the stunning accessories, killer heels & coordinating white clutch; Sally Beauty for hair, lovely side-swept wavy do; & Mary Kay for the beauty look, very natural, slight cat eye, love it!

Laurie’s look was also a stand-out for me. I loved the volume on the top and the eye-catching print for the pencil skirt. Heads would definitely turn as this look walked the streets! Shout-outs — JustFab for the sexy heels and oversized envelope clutch

The judges top 3 differed from my own, as did their winner. Hands down, Candice should have won this week! How the judges picked Blake’s look over this one is mind-boggling to me. This look was bad ass, phenomenal jacket, and what a fit!

The best part, not only was it a great look, but it was also well-made, unlike the winning look. Come on judges, let’s reward execution as well as design!

Shout-outs — JustFab, love the heels! Also Mary Kay, love this bold red lip!

Even though Swapnil was not in my top 3, he still did an amazing job this week. And with the judges’ top 3, this should have at least came in 2nd! I love a LBD and I would for sure rock this one. It was super sexy and the back was quite alluring. I love when a look is captivating from all angles.

Blake rounded out the top 3 and was the winning look. I’m still not sure how this happened. I don’t think Blake should have gone home, but he even thought his look was in the bottom. That should kind of tell you something. If he couldn’t even be confident at first, how should we as viewers buy that this was not just in the top 3, but also the winning look??

The judges even admitted this look was poorly constructed, which even further confuses the result for me. I am eager to see more from Blake and I’ve loved a lot of what he has done this season. His look last week was my winning look and was far more deserving than this dress. I’m sure it will photograph well and the color use was great, but still not a winning look for me.

Shout-out, Sally Beauty, spectacular fishtail braid!

Before getting to the bottom, let’s look at the rest of the safe designs. Kelly’s look was quite interesting this week. I was impressed that she made a great pair of pants, especially after seeing so many horrific ones last week. But the more I look at her top, the more I love it. The styling threw me a bit, but this top had such great details, making it more than just a shirt & a pair of pants.

I will give Joseph & Merline some credit this week for showing signs of improvement. They really needed to at this point. Joseph’s black look was well-made and had a great fit. It wasn’t overly brilliant, but better than his previous work so good for him. Merline did amazing work with this jacket. I couldn’t fully see what was going on underneath the jacket, so not sure of my feelings there, but again, a vast improvement from not just last week, but all of her previous work.

Shout-out — Sally Beauty, love Joseph’s messy updo

Edmond did a good job, little short, but much better than last week. Not top 3 material, but I appreciate a comeback. Jake’s look on the other hand was was a trainwreck. It was way too short and there was nothing innovative or original about this look at all. Hello, Tom Ford!! Shout-out to him with Sally Beauty though, love the sexy, gorgeous waves!

Lindsey came in third from the bottom. I pegged this as a bottom look as well. I don’t think she should have gone home, but my notes here were that the skirt could have been shorter and more of a crop for the crop top. I didn’t get the pairing of these 3 pieces. If the focus was on the inner pieces versus the outer, then I say ditch the outerwear. The judges were correct in saying that this ready as thick and it did swallow the model. Shout-outs Mary Kay for this stunning burgundy lip & Sally Beauty for another pretty side-swept wavy do!

I actually feel bad for Amanda at this point. Clearly the judges, producers, or someone does not like this girl. Why did they put her on the show then! I mean 3 weeks at the bottom, that is a lot. I think of all her bottom 3 placements, this was the most deserving, but seeing Jake escape the bottom then in light of the judges’ critiques this week, I’m baffled. I have seen Amanda’s previous work and I know she is better than this look. I actually plan to see her presentation with the House of Perna for NYFW in a couple of weeks and I can’t wait! I will continue my support of her despite the judges’ misguided bottom placements.

This left Gabrielle being eliminated this week. If I had it my way, Jake would have gone. So for everyone being upset over her early elimination, I believe the better answer or solution was not Amanda then being eliminated, but rather Jake. Gabrielle’s jacket was not that bad, but it was not a saving grace for the overall look.

The white dress was so basic and to then not be well-made was not a good thing. I hate seeing her go at this point, but I’m eager to continue to follow her work outside of the show. But from her body of work, I didn’t see her making top 3.

Shout-outs — JustFab for the metallic silver heels; Sally Beauty for the beautiful loose updo and Mary Kay for a stunning beauty look, nude lip & smoky eye.

PR Takes a Vacay!

Posted on August 23, 2015 by SMM

Well….not exactly! But with time spent on the Celebrity Cruise line this week, as well as designing exotic location inspired looks, everyone was definitely embracing the vacation spirit. The designers met Tim aboard the Celebrity Summit (great little brand promos here!), as well as the President & CEO of Celebrity Cruise, Lisa Lutoff Perlo. I’m sure the designers were hoping for a small break in the craziness after the unconventional materials challenge last week, but no such luck as this week was the dreaded team challenge!

Each duo was called upon to create 1 look, a luxurious, high-end piece that could transition from day to night, all while embracing the spirit of the destination which would serve as the inspiration for the design teams. The button bag made it’s return to name the teams. Each team would then pick their suitcase, naming their destination inspiration. Inside each suitcase were fabrics capturing the spirit of that particular destination. Here is the breakdown for each pairing —

Amanda & Gabrielle with the South of France
Ashley & Candice, Venice
Lindsey & Jake, Hong Kong
Laurie & Swapnil, India
Kelly & Blake, Greek Isles
Edmond & Hanmiao, the Caribbean
Joseph & Merline, St. Petersburg

After snacking on some delicious cruise treats and sketching, the designers were off to the workroom to continue work for this 1-day challenge. Back in the workroom were some additional fabrics the duos could make use of, solid fabrics courtesy of Mood. There was a quick squabble between Amanda/Gabrielle and Blake/Kelly over some fabric, but it was clear from the get-go which teams would lead in the awards for drama in this episode!

The underlying problem for these teams, as well as for almost every other PR team challenge episode, was COMMUNICATION. Edmond was encouraging Hanmiao to actually communicate, but all she seemed to know how to say was “Shut-up, let me think.” They truly could not agree on a direction. Joseph took charge on his team’s look and Merline kind of sat back, let it happen, and really didn’t do much else. And with Lindsey & Jake, since early chats weren’t being received properly, all communication just kind of halted completely. More on this later, but for now, let’s check out Tim-time!

Tim applauded a few, but his main critiques were on the more troubled groups. For Edmond & Hanmiao, it was Edmond who wanted to go the swimwear route. Tim seemed to encourage this, although he failed to mention this during the judges’ critique, who didn’t really love the idea! Go figure! He warned Joseph & Merline about their look being too matronly, which clearly this advice was not taken. And for Lindsey & Jake, by Tim validating Lindsey’s ideas, I guess Jake couldn’t handle being shut down. Jake had spent most of the day talking down to Lindsey and shooting down her ideas. However, he came up with nothing to add in return. I don’t think Jake could handle Tim being more in agreement with Lindsey and he shut down. Boohoo! Had he been able to actually then re-group and work with Lindsey, maybe their look could have won.

Guest judge this week, Tracee Ellis Ross

The morning of the runway probably showcased the craziest bit of drama in the entire episode. Hanmiao’s bathing suit was not looking good, not finished and not great quality. With no discussion, Edmond started whipping up a new swimsuit. When Hanmiao caught wind of this, she quickly took the model into the bathroom to sew the model into her swimsuit. With time running out, Edmond was left with no choice but to send Hanmiao’s suit down the runway. CRAZY!! Both were in the wrong here, but this trainwreck of a duo really had no sign of hope!

Moving onto the runway, I will begin with the only safe look, Blake & Kelly. I was SHOCKED at how this look was not at least in the top 3. This was actually my winning look. The looked screamed destination or resortwear. I could easily see with the change of accessories how this jumpsuit would transition between night & day. What’s even more baffling was pretty much every top look this week had some criticism. So I’m curious to know what 1 judge hated this look so much because that is my guess as to how it missed being in the top! Shame, shame!

Sally Beauty hair shout-out — gorgeous up-do!

Ashley & Candice not only landed in the top 3, but both were this week’s winner. Usually in a team challenge, there is only 1 winner. Both did work so well together and couldn’t choose a winner themselves, so it was a pleasant surprise that the judges didn’t either. As soon as I saw this was in the top 3, I figured the judges would pick the look as the winner.

The judges called out Amanda & Gabrielle for having too much going on, so I’m not sure how that critique was overlooked here. You have mixed prints, oversized bottoms, cowl neck top, a huge one at that, and a jacket that covered everything all up! For me, I loved the pieces individually. A more simplistic, solid top would have worked just as well for this look since there was a bold, floral jacket. I just wasn’t a fan of it all together. But with all the drama in this episode, I very much loved seeing two strong, confident women work so well together and not be afraid to take some risks!

Of the judges’ top 3, I would have picked Lindsey & Jake. It was a little literal for me with Hong Kong and I wasn’t head over heels for the shorts, but the look just worked for me. The shimmering gold was a runway stand-out. The look had such great movement. As the judges pointed out, the fabrics were a huge benefit here, but I am still a fan! Lindsey had a breakthrough moment here and it was such a shame that the Jake drama had to pull away from that!

Shout-outs, Sally Beauty for the beautiful top-knot bun & Mary Kay for the stunning makeup look!!

I will say with Lindsey & Jake, it was such a nice “in your face” moment for Jake that this look landed in the top. He was so dismissive to Lindsey at first and then decided to let her do all the work. He thought the look would for sure land in the bottom and I’m sure he planned on blaming it all on Lindsey. Well ha, in yo face and not so much!!

Shout-outs — Another gorgeous bun, courtesy of Sally Beauty, and bold beauty look from Mary Kay!

Swapnil & Laurie rounded at the top 3. I am going to bring up Amanda & Gabrielle again. So it seemed the judges didn’t like their top, fine with the pants, putting them in the bottom. Yet the judges with this look, liked the top and sari, but not the pants, and this somehow means top 3?? Let’s face it, the pants here were not great, not at all! To me, the pants threw off the entire vibe of the look and were not made well at all, so I just couldn’t get behind this look.

I will say the sari was done in a great print and the top was exquisite. But I look back to Tim’s words when Swapnil conveniently picked India as an inspiration for the challenge. He said the standards would be higher at that point. I expected more from him and I didn’t get that from him with this look.

Gabrielle and Amanda were in this week’s bottom 3. I didn’t see this as a bottom look at all though. The judges’ focus was on the top, which the top portion was a bit wonky. But I thought the side bit with the underlining print was cool. And with all the pants that came down the runway this week, these were the best IMO. Also, the judges thought a little too much was going on here for just a top and a pair of pants — really?? I’m not sure about that, but seeing the other bottom 2 looks, it was clear these ladies were going to be safe so it all worked out in the end.

Next up for the bottom 3, Joseph & Merline. I was fine with the judges sending Hanmiao home, but really Joseph or Merline could have been eliminated and I would have saw no great loss. This lavender look was not only boring, but also not well-made. And if I’m not mistaken, was this fabric not the same as the lavender fabric from the 1st challenge. Mood must be really trying to get rid of this one!

This was definitely more of Joseph’s look than Merlines’, but neither designer gets a pass from me. Even if this dress was perfectly made, it would have been nothing special. And to say it wasn’t the best because you had to help your teammate, I mean really, what more were you going to do here!?! But Merline had some issues too. She sat back and said nothing to benefit the creative effort. And if Joseph had to help her that much, it makes me question her capabilities then as a designer. She wasn’t making anything that complex, just a cape.

This leaves Edmond and Hanmiao rounding out the bottom. And of course with Edmond having immunity, he was not in danger of elimination. Hanmiao was the eliminated designer. Even if Edmond could have been eliminated, I didn’t see that happening here. He’s been in the top twice, just a better body of work. I know the swimwear concept was his, but it didn’t seem as if Hanmiao wanted to do anything here unless it was her idea — her way or the highway. She drew the sketch, yet didn’t want to execute the look. She didn’t care for the fabrics. Edmond was right though, had they used a bunch of solids and nothing out of the suitcase, they would have been called out. And clearly she was out of her element in making the swimsuit. Edmond should have mentioned making a new one, but her going behind his back and forcing this swimsuit to go down the runway was not the best of ideas. Two wrongs do not make a right!

Sally Beauty shout-out — luscious waves!!

I actually thought the swimsuit Edmond was working on would have been better, but what was with this skirt!! It’s a surprise these 2 got anything accomplished. Time must have really been an issue here. I do think they spent a lot of time arguing and trying to figure things out. Clearly, the work suffered. Zac pointed out that Edmond stopped work on his skirt to create another swimsuit. But more work was not going to change the fact that this was a boring yellow skirt, nothing special! But as I said, it didn’t bother me that Hanmiao went home. Edmond made attempts to work as a team and she did not. Had she tried I believe a different outcome would have resulted!

PR, Ep. 2, Another Clear Winner!

Posted on August 16, 2015 by SMM

For Project Runway’s 2nd episode, we not only had the traditional unconventional material challenge, but by the runway’s end, another clear winner had been announced. Before all that, let’s hash out the episode details.

The designers met Tim at Hallmark, alongside Amy Merchant, Director of Branding for Hallmark Signature. Amy explained that just as with fashion, cards too can be pieces of art with stories to tell! In that spirit and for this unconventional materials challenge, it was only natural that the Hallmark Signature greeting cards be the materials used for the designers’ looks. The designers ransacked the Hallmark store, very quickly with only 2 minutes to shop, as they looked for inspirations and card embellishments that would potentially assist in embellishing their own creations this week.

It was then time to head back to the workroom for this 1-day challenge. There was some sorting and even designer sharing of the greeting cards. Although Edmond wasn’t quite so keen on sharing his thoughts or vision for the challenge. He even hesitated in sharing his plan during the behind-the-scenes interview! There was no singing this week in the workroom, but there was a little drama with Swapnil and Blake. Okay boys, to your corners!

Next up, Tim-time. Overall, Tim was thrilled with the designers’ ambition, but he cautioned the designers to watch their time. He worried more with time for some, such as Amanda, while others, he was worried about too much muslin or looks being too busy. Model fittings then seemed quite rushed, with focus on tight fits and worry over shortness.

By night’s end, Amanda was still in struggle-mode, while others were over the glue gun burns! The morning of seemed just as chaotic, with Hanmiao not sure what direction her look was supposed to go on, Gabrielle’s dress not opening, and Amanda calling out a manatee penis! It was then time for the runway, and joining Nina, Heidi, and Zac this week as guest judge was actress and producer Ashley Tisdale.

This week the judges named a top 4 and only a bottom 2. However, being that the judges weren’t all in agreement about this top 4, or at least one of the looks, I think they should have and definitely could have named a bottom 3. I’m not sure it would have changed the results, but a couple of designers could have too used stern warnings.

Ashley definitely got a word of warning from Heidi. It seems as if she did the same thing that sent one designer home this week. If Ashley didn’t have immunity, would she have been in the bottom? Yes. Sent home? Who knows?!? But Joseph for sure could have easily landed in the bottom with this oddly shaped, boxy skirt.

Merline too could have been a bottom contender. This look was sloppy, very arts & crafty, and even a bit in shambles. Gabrielle’s look too seemed to have some workmanship issues, definitely a short look! I see the work and vision here though, but I think she got caught up in it. But compared to her grey bland look from last week, I was happy to see more creative vision here, even if the vision wasn’t fully realized. (Great JustFab heels though, shout-out!)

Lindsey had a great start here as well, a vision, but I didn’t totally buy it. This look seemed a bit stiff, but I saw more here than the basic romper from last week so I’m hopeful. Jake’s look was a pretty, sparkly look, but not much more than a LBD. I wanted a little more here. This look just seemed a little safe. But I did love the fabulous JustFab accessories, metallic silver heels & a black clutch.

Candice had a little disco-ball fever with this metal-esque look. I thought it looked well-made for this type of challenge. Hanmiao too had an intriguing look. I thought the shape & fit was off, but the way she utilized the cards and organized them, it made her look very eye-catching.

Laurie was actually in my top. I loved this gold, shimmery frock. The top/bodice was exquisite. I thought it was fun, playful, and flirty! Keep up the good work Laurie!

But onto the judges’ top and to the clear winner of the week, Edmond. This bridal look was divinely elegant. It was as if art was coming down the runway. And way to help with pushing the brand Edmond; I’m sure Hallmark loved this! Heidi was right to point out so many great things about this ls look, such as the volume, proportions, and yes, even sexiness.

Shout-out for the nude heels, courtesy of JustFab. And Nina was 100% right here, this was such a special moment!

Blake may have been blunt earlier on in the episode, but going from last week to this look, it was massively impressive. Yes it was glitter mania. And you will either love it or hate it. But you have to look at this dress for what it is. It’s a fun party dress. You could rock it for a birthday, or even as Nina suggested, New Years. I’m sure you would stand out and sparkle all night!

I can see why Swapnil was in the top. I think both the top and the bottom here were phenomenal. However, I disagreed with the judges’ love of these 2 aspects as a combo deal. I felt such a disconnect. But I am head over heels about this crazy, cool floral embellished skirt.

Kelly rounded out the judges top 4. I still say a bottom 3 would have been better. But Kelly did do some great work here with this detailed crop top. The hoodie on the back, it was all just so stunning! I wasn’t crazed over the fringe skirt, but Kelly was another who took a big leap from the previous week’s look, so Kudos to her!

So in the bottom, only 2, Amanda and David. We all know Amanda was struggling with her skirt, meaning time was not on her side this week. The skirt was a little crazy, but I don’t think this look was as bad as the judges were going on about, especially in light of at least 2 other designers who I mentioned earlier, Merline & Joseph.

This top was pretty special. I’m not sure what was so special in certain other looks that kept them out of the bottom. But Amanda should have kept it more simple with the skirt. I’m glad she didn’t leave this week though!

Shout-out for this lovely side-swept updo, courtesy of Sally Beauty.

This left David going home. For almost any other challenge, I’m not sure the decision would be the same. But he really showed very little creativity with putting text on sparkled muslin. This is the same as when in the past judges have called out designers for using table cloth and shower curtains. The whole point is to use unconventional materials and David failed to do that.

I will give a shout-out though for David on all fronts — love the JustFab heels; Sally Beauty luscious waves; and natural, minimalist Mary Kay make-up look.

This might be one of the best bottom looks ever eliminated, but by not following the challenge guidelines, not thinking outside of the box, the judges could not ignore these facts.

Project Runway is Back in Action!!

Posted on August 9, 2015 by SMM

And as always for the 1st episode, there is lots to report! Lots of designers. Lots of looks to grace the 1st runway. And lots of other show details from designer intros to workroom beginnings. So let’s get right to it with the 1st challenge of season 14!

Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn met the group of 16 designers at Madison Square Garden to give them their challenge details. It was nothing out of the ordinary, very typical for a PR 1st challenge. The designers had 1 day to create any garment of their choosing, as long as it represented their designer POV. There were a few tiny catches — limited fabrics (courtesy of Mood) and only 3 minutes to shop, and by shop I mean to run around Madison Square Garden as the fabrics were scattered over the arena, draped over the seats. Each designer could only take 4 textiles. And since the designers were only provided with a limited number of fabrics, these choices could be ones the designers would not typically work with or might not be familiar with using.

The designers got a little crazed running around the arena, lots of snatching and definitely some aggressive behavior. But it was then off to the workroom where everyone got settled into their workstations with some friendly hellos and getting to know each other a little better. The mood of the room came down quite a bit though with some of the designers questioning their fabric choices and a major PR first!

Three designers, David, Swapnil, and Merline, did not bring their designer kits. Needless to say, Tim was shocked as this had never happened before on PR. Those designers were left to the kindness of their fellow castmates. I’m assuming everyone was given a helping hand as nobody seemed to have any further issues. A bit of other drama from this 1st episode, #projectmusical. Merline was singing about the workroom, definitely being dubbed as the season chatterbox. All fellow designers seemed quite annoyed to say the least!

The fun and laughter came to a quick end as Tim Time came around. There was a mixture of nervous designers, questions from Tim, and even some praise. Notably Tim had a disconnect with Edmond and some disagreements with Hanmiao. But overall, Tim left the designers with some firm notes. He was very disappointed and wanted the designers to turn their lumps of coal into diamonds!

As time for the first runway rolled around, it was also time for some of the season’s intros. The entire runway and set for the runway had been re-invented. Accessories this year were provided by JustFab. Mary Kay Cosmetics were back to provide makeup services. And new for this year, Sally Beauty was on board to work as the hair team.

As in previous seasons, the runway was being judged “anonymously” and the Tim Gunn save would return. The 1st guest judge of the season to join Heidi, Nina, and Zac was Hannah Davis, model and soon to be host of PR Junior.

With regard to the massive 1st runway, I was not in total agreement with Heidi’s statement that it was so spectacular. There was definitely some highlights, but I kind of agreed with Tim’s earlier sentiment of disappointment. Many of the safe designers were just that, lucky to be safe. The bottom 3 I couldn’t say I disagreed with, but I believe a few other designers could have easily found themselves to be in the bottom. I will give one honorable mention that was in my top, but forgotten by the judges, and that was Swapnil’s sassy royal blue frock. I love this color choice and the bodice was intricately created and detailed. In the midst of mediocrity, Swapnil certainly stood out for me.

Another quick honorable mention, Amanda. The more and more I look at her design, the more and more I like it. But what I wanted to point out was a shout-out for her work with Mary Kay and Sally Beauty. We see a lot of updos on PR, so to see a fresh, gorgeous hair look that is down, I had to give some props here. But also, I thought the sunkist, bronzed beauty look was a great pairing with her flirty, girly, fun look.

Ashley was the clear winner though this week. This look was so chic, very fashionable. I can’t imagine any young fashionista wouldn’t be over the moon to wear this piece!

Ashley not only created a rave look, but she stood out with hair and makeup as well. This lovely chignon updo by Sally Beauty was spot on. And the bold burgundy lip by Mary Kay was a great touch.

I was 100% in agreement with the judges here, top 3 placement and winning look. I loved that Nina pointed out the texture. This was so impressive for a 1st look and I’m happy Ashley was given immunity for next week. But I would hope she doesn’t need it!

The other 2 designers in the top I was more on the fence about. Edmond’s black tube dress with a train, showcasing a bright neon color, was very much a turnaround from Tim time. But I’m not sure about the neon fabric on the train as Hannah pointed out as well. In fact, several of the designers made use of a yellow under-fabric so I’m guessing it might have been the most prevalent of the fabric choices at Madison Square Garden. Clearly Mood was trying to get rid of this busy color! I believe it was Nina that was quick to remind her fellow judges that this was not overly innovative, a tube dress with a train. I might have responded differently without the neon color, maybe a royal purple or cobalt blue, but I get that Edmond was working with what he had. I appreciate his ability to “make it work”!

Merline rounded out the top 3 this week, but I was not so gaga over this one. I loved the use of color. And there were some nice details, but I just wasn’t over the moon here. Just as with Edmond though, I know Merline did a lot to make this work. I would just hope for the future we see less chat and more work. It will only serve to improve her work.

Nobody wants to be the first to go, but this is PR and each week there is a bottom 3 and one must go. Of the bottom 3, I was so surprised to see Blake become a part of this, so I’m happy he was saved. I loved Blake’s audition pieces, so I certainly didn’t want him axed first. This print could be a lot to take, but I think it was a bold, daring choice, which I applaud him for. However, there was a lot going on here and with such a busy print, too much wasn’t going to work. And again, we see this god awful yellow color as part of an under-fabric, which really didn’t make much sense. So I don’t disagree with the judges on this one, but I’m hopeful we will see better from Blake in the future!

This left Hanmiao and Duncan in the bottom 2. The judges felt Duncan didn’t do enough and when it comes down to designers not doing enough versus doing too much, the one who doesn’t do enough generally goes home. What saved Hanmiao was the judges did get her aesthetic, which was not a vibe they received from Duncan. I actually believe if Hanmiao had ditched the jacket she would have been safe. The dress on it’s own wasn’t altogether terrible, but with the matchy-matchy coat, it was too much. The dress still had some issues, but I’m guessing with sole focus on the dress, it might have been better. I know she demonstrated a stubborn side with Tim, but Duncan firmly stood by his design with the judges. On top of doing too little, it just wasn’t going to clearly work out in saving Duncan.

Duncan selected a stunning bun updo, which I loved for this look. I also liked the back. But other than that, this gown was a hot mess. If you are going to just drape, you have to do so superbly. And this wasn’t it. Duncan accepted his elimination well though; he left with his head held high.

Fashion Nexus

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