PR Designers Get Intimate!

Posted on September 22, 2017 by SMM

This week, on Project Runway, the designers were tasked to create a sleepwear look for Heidi Klum’s Intimates line. It could be any type of look, but had to be fashionable! Additionally, the designers were to create their own textile, by hand. The winning look would be reproduced and sold as a part of Heidi’s line.

But first, to provide a little inspiration, the designers had a slumber party atop one of NYC’s most iconic locations, the Empire State Building. Each designer would have a backpack, packed with PJs & their sketching materials. The next morning, Tim arrived early, but at least with breakfast sandwiches in hand! It was then back to the workroom for this 1-day challenge.

For all of the materials needed this week, the designers rushed the tables & bins, getting a little grabby!! We got to see an adorable segment of Brandon & Kentaro’s friendship, better yet bro-ship! Heidi joined Tim for the critiques, which was a mix of good & bad. But probably the funniest part of the critiques was explaining “being anal” to Kentaro! And joining the judges this week was actress/singer Demi Lovato.

This legit was probably one of my most fave runways, maybe not ever, but definitely this season, and likely even stemming back a few seasons! There were so many looks I loved. The ones I didn’t care for so much, those looks were far too safe. So certain designers should push the envelope much more! I’m not sure if I could narrow down my faves to a top 3. If I could, it would not be the same as the judges, but definitely must dole out some SHOUT-OUTS!

Amy, loved this textile creation, gorgeous color, little fancy, but very cool, great silhouette! AVON HAIR & MAKE-UP SHOUTOUT AS WELL!

Batani had one sexy look, an amazing textile creation, and again, another great color selection!

Moving onto the judges’ top 3 selection, my winner would have been Kentaro. This look was just so pretty!! The bodice design was spot on, such a fantastic textile created. The judges were right in stating consumers would want this. And it was this reason I thought Kentaro would win.

I thought his look would reach more consumers. But many other correct judges’ comments included — charming, feminine, such an ease, & happy! Another one I am glad to be mentioned was regarding it being playful. I agreed with this wholeheartedly because Kentaro struck the perfect balance, playful, but not junior!

The judges named Michael as the winner, which was not totally a shock. I was happy to see Michael stepping it up. This was just not one of my faves, but it was very nice. I did agree with the judges about it’s practicality, the luxe vibe, “Deco Cleopatra”!

Shawn too did a phenomenal job. The only reason I might have selected another designer for my top 3 was because I was picking looks that did put off more of a sleepwear vibe. Of course, wearing fashionable PJs out is a thing now! This was super nice though and the hand-painted print textile was gorgeous!

The bottom was fairly accurate. I knew Aaron was making the bottom 2, but wasn’t sure if it was Deyonte or Kenya joining. I was sad for Kenya. This look was just so sloppy. So many of the designers were super creative with their textiles, but Kenya lacked in this department as well. Practicality was severely lacking also, a hook & eye to deal with in the middle of the night — NO NO! It was nice for Zac to offer some positives!

Coming down to Deyonte & Aaron, I was torn. I haven’t been impressed at all by Aaron, but he had managed to land in the bottom only once. Whereas this was Deyonte’s 2nd trip. Why should Aaron then go? I wondered if really either could go the distance?? But the judges decided to save Aaron, over Deyonte, which despite Deyonte’s bottom 3 placements, it was still a shocker! Aaron did have this amazing textile idea, but the full concept just never came to life.

I was sad to see Deyonte go. I expected a much longer run. I wondered if Tim would contemplate using the save, but he had been in the bottom more than once. This look, was very much a bore. I actually liked the darker teal color, but the mix with silver, didn’t do this any justice. There was no shape, nothing flattering, just a very sad piece.

Sad to see Deyonte go, …….until next week…….

Best Dressed — 2017 Emmy’s

Posted on September 20, 2017 by SMM

My top looks for the 2017 Emmy Awards red carpet!!

JAIMIE ALEXANDER

Glam by Jeffrey Paul — Chanel for shimmering eyes; Narsissist dark lips, use of Kevyn Aucoin
Wearing Naeem Khan
Styling by Kemal Harris
Hair by Michael Sparks
Eva Fehren jewelry

JULIANNE HOUGH

wearing a Marchesa grecian gown with 3D tulle cherry blossom embroidery and threadwork lines trickling down into a pleated sheer skirt.
Makeup by Spencer Barnes
Hair by Riawna Capri
Forevermark jewelry
Styling by Anita Patrickson

VANESSA KIRBY

wearing a rose Marchesa gown with an embellished bodice
Fred Leighton jewelry
Styled by Micaela Erlanger

MANDY MOORE

makeup artist Jenn Streicher punched it up with the brightest lip possible: this fluorescent fuchsia hue, Laura Mercier’s Velour Lovers Lip Colour in French Kiss.
Wearing Carolina Herrera
Ashley Streicher on hair, using Garnier
custom pink sapphire Jennifer Meyer necklace
Essie nail polish
Styling by Erica Cloud

RUBY MODINE

Wearing Mark Zunino dress & jewelry
Styling by Rene Horsch
Makeup by Adela-May Pino
Hair by Lea Journo

NASTIA LIUKIN

Styled by Madison Guest
Makeup by Lusine Galadjian
Hair by Lee Rittiner
Berta gown

JENNIFER NETTLES

Hair & Makeup by Ashley Donovan
Styling by Hayley Atkin
Pamella Roland gown
Jewelry by Roberto Coin
Aldo heels

MADELINE BREWER

Makeup by Jenna Kristina
Djula & Borgioni Jewelry
Berta gown
Styling by Penny Lovell

FELICITY HUFFMAN

wearing an ice blue Tony Ward lace gown with a long train and sheer open back
Styling by Linda Medvene
Makeup by Austin Evans
Hair by Dave Stanwell
Lorraine Schwartz jewelry

GINA RODRIGUEZ

wearing a plunging scarlet Naeem Khan gown with fireworks-esque beaded embroidery
jewelry by Narcisa Pheres, Butani and Dvani
Hair by Kristin Heitkotter
Makeup by Carissa Ferreri
Styling by Lauren Rodriguez

THANDIE NEWTON

Fred Leighton jewelry
Jason Wu gown

SOFIA VERGARA

wearing Mark Zunino
Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
Makeup by Kayleen McAdams
Hair by Kelly B. Kline

AMANDA CREW

Michael Cinco Dress
Tyler Ellis clutch
Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
Styling by Jessica Paster
Hair by Sunnie Brook
Makeup by Ashleigh Louer
Nails by Steph Stone

ANNA FARIS

Wearing Marc Jacobs
Jimmy Choo heels
Tyler Ellis clutch
Sylva & Cie ring and earrings.

GUGU MBATHA-RAW

blush platform Jimmy Choo heels
dangling Fernando Jorge earrings in the same color palette.
Wearing Hugo Boss

ZOE KRAVITZ

That perfect flick of eye liner you’ve been trying to master for years? Zoë’s got it, and she paired it with the perfect rosy nude lip — a look makeup artist Nina Park created used using the YSL Dessin Du Regard eye liner in black, paired with YSL Rouge Pur Couture lipstick in #59.
a rainbow feathered Dior Haute Couture gown
Tiffany & Co. jewelry, $440K to be exact!
Hair by Nikki Nelms
Styling by Andrew Mukamal

ANNA CHLUMSKY

wearing a custom Sachin & Babi gown
Forevermark jewelry

ALEXIS BLEDEL

wearing an Armani Privé gown with a velvet bustier and multicolor silk bow
Forevermark jewelry

LEA MICHELE

wearing a burgundy Elie Saab gown with monochromatic beading and a matching belt, which she said “made the dress,”
Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
Nail color — OPI
Hair by Sarah Potempa
Makeup by Melanie Inglessis — We’re playing off of a little purple in the dress, but more so using some golds and metallics [featuring CHANEL Illusion D’Ombre #RougeBrûlé]
Styling by Brad Goreski
Brow work by Kelly Baker
facialist, Shani Darden

LAURA DERN

wearing a black-and-white floral appliqué Proenza Schouler dress with feathered hem
Cartier jewelry

MILLIE BOBBY BROWN

wearing a Calvin Klein white strapless dress with a full, voluminous tulle skirt and rhine, with a tutu consisting of 170 yards of silk tulle
Calvin Klein heels
Hair by Blake Erik
Makeup by Gianpaolo Ceciliato
Styling by Thomas Carter Phillips

MICHELLE PFEIFFER

wearing a tea-length Oscar de la Renta with embroidered bodice
Stella Luna pumps
Neil Lane jewelry

EMMY ROSSUM

wearing an elegant sequin strapless Zac Posen gown
emerald jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz

TESSA THOMPSON

wearing a technicolor Rosie Assoulin halterneck gown with two straps across the back, a bold rainbow pleated skirt and patchwork bodice
John Hardy jewelry & Effy earrings
Giuseppe Zanotti heels

SAMIRA WILEY & LAUREN MORELLI

both wearing Christian Siriano
makeup by Marlaine Reiner & Gina Ghiglieri
Hair by Johnny Wright
Jimmy Choo clutch
Butani jewelry, as well as Hearts on Fire & Djula

HILARIA & ALEC BALDWIN

wearing Badgley Mischka
David Webb. jewelry
Hair by Whitney Colleen
Makeup by Victor Henao

JUSTIN HARTLEY

Styling by Anita Patrickson
Valentino suit
Montblanc watch
Christian Siriano shoes

CALEB MCLAUGHLIN

JESSIE TYLER FERGUSON

Isaia suit

JEREMY MAGUIRE

Which PR Designer took the Winning Leap!

Posted on September 6, 2017 by SMM

I have not yet seen the film Leap!, but it is on my list! And mentioning that because it of course served as the inspiration for this week’s Project Runway challenge. After watching an extended trailer for the movie and a performance by fusion hip-hop pointe group Hiplet, Heidi & Tim provided the full challenge details!

Each designer would have 1 day and a $200 Mood budget to create a fashionable, innovative look in the spirit of dance/movement. It was a chance to get creative and inventive. While creative juices flowed, Deyonte had a painful sewing mishap, and Shawn/Claire were frantically running about the workroom. Tim was very pleased during his check-ins and it showed because this was one amazing runway! Dancer Maddie Ziegler picked a great week to guest judge!

Heidi announced how fantastic this runway was, which I agreed with wholeheartedly, but my top 3 was very different! From my own top 3 and the judges’, my winner of the week was Batani!

The judges, minus Zac, really got this look and I loved that they appreciated her amazing vision. This look really captured the spirit of dance/movement, and did so without being literal, and truly encapsulated movement!

I was hopeful the judges’ lackluster top 3 meant a clear path for Batani to win, but sadly, that was not the case. Happy she made the top 3, but a few other shout-outs for me —

I loved Ayana’s look! She is really impressing me each week and I’m happy to see such versatility with her work. This sparkly, tiered look very much dazzled me!

This dress is hottttt! Samantha killed it with this look and I would wear this 100%!

SHOUTOUTS — Avon hair & makeup

This was also a top look for me, from Kenya. Love the bold jacket, and the underneath part, being a jumpsuit, STUNNING!

SHOUTOUTS — Avon More glam from the team on hair & makeup

The judges top 3 included Brandon and Margarita, which I really didn’t get. And I was even more flabber-ghasted as to how Brandon won! He notes his lack of ability to speak is due to nerves, but I believe it is because he too is shocked by the judges’ decision!

I didn’t see this as a winning look, really fitting the challenge description. And then with Margarita, her look was way too literal. I didn’t care for the stark white fabric, kind of reminded me of the muslin. I did appreciate the pop of color as the judges did and there was movement, but it straight up looked like every other salsa ensemble I’ve seen — nothing too original here! But I do like Margarita so looking forward to more from her in the coming weeks.

The judges’ bottom 3 was Kudzanai, Kentaro, and Deyonte, and this did make sense. I was so worried the bottom 2 would be the case of the designer who did too much (Kudzanai) versus the designer who did too little (Kentaro), with the designer not doing enough going home. I love Kentaro and would have been so sad had he been axed this week. Given his background in dance/music, I did expect more from him. His work does fall under the minimalist umbrella, but he should have pushed it more this week, as Nina said, it needed a punch! Glad he was safe though and that we get to see more!

And then of course Deyonte being in the bottom 2, that was nerve-wrecking. But I kind of felt given his strong previous weeks, with a win week 1, that he would not be going home this soon! Of course his injury was going to be brought up, but as the judges noted, this unfortunate look was not all stemming from his injury. He chose an unflattering color. The silhouette was a yawn. And really, the look was not finished well, bit of a messy quality.

This left Kudzanai going home this week. I had not seen much from him yet that was truly impressive. He had been so safe and wanted to get the judges’ attention with this challenge, but he did way too much. The look was bright, it had many colors, feathers, other embellishments, very much all over the place. The judges too noted the messiness of the piece and sadly, this was not the best way to capture the judges’ attention.

Until next week…..

PR — Budgets, Wabi, Tsunamis Oh My!

Posted on August 27, 2017 by SMM

I feel as if Project Runway, season 16, is going to be one super dramatic season! And starting off on that note, episode 2 brings us the first team challenge, which almost always brings some drama! The designers woke to safety gear — vests/helmets — and were off to meet Tim at the Royal Waste Services, a recycling & waste facility.

Joining Tim to lay out the challenge details was Anne Fulenwider, Editor in Chief of Marie Claire. For this challenge, there would be 3 teams. Each team would be creating a 5-piece mini collection. Each look would be made out of recyclable materials. So yes, not only was this a team challenge, but also unconventional materials. Each team would be recycling, reusing and restyling to create a high fashion transformation! The winning look from the winning team would be featured in Marie Claire for a piece on sustainability.

Team 1, aka “Wabi Sabi” — Kudzanai, Kentaro, Margarita, Michael, Deyonte — focus on structure, texture, and origami techniques

Team 2, aka “Ballin’ on a Budget” — Aaron, Batani, Brandon, Kenya, Ayana

Team 3, aka “Tsunami” — Sentell, Samantha, Amy, Claire, Shawn — translucency, seaglass focus

Tim reminded the designers that cohesion would be required. And this would be a 1-day challenge. Guest judges for the week were Anne Fulenwider and actress Maggie Q.

My ranking of the teams was different than the judges. I actually did not care for Ballin’ on a Budget. So for me, a toss up on them versus Tsunami for safety. But given the editing of the show, I think we all knew Tsunami was landing in the bottom! Since Wabi Sabi didn’t receive any accolade on the show, I will devote my attention to them here as they were my winning team! And Deyonte, Kentaro, or Margarita would have had the final win for me!

Loved Margarita’s silhouette here and the bottom portion was nicely detailed.

SHOUTOUTS FOR THE TEAM — JC Penney, love the red heels & Avon for gorgeous beauty look and I love the chic ponytail!

Simply stunning & beautiful work by Kentaro — love this guy!!

Love the volume and something different by way of silhouette than the repetition seen by some of the other designers. Another great job by Deyonte. He was clearly not resting on his laurels and relying on immunity!

Kudzanai’s look — nice show piece for the runway!

Probably my least fave of the collection, but the bodice detail embellishments were nice — Brandon

Team Wabi Sabi had a cohesive collection, but each designer still had their own POV. The judges, however, loved Ballin’ on a Budget. I thought the pieces read more arts and craft than recyclable fashion. The group said this was meant to be fashion on a budget, but all I saw was the budget part. I agreed with the judges naming Ayana as the winner of the group though.

Ayana’s look

I was too happy to see that Batani did better than last week!

But it was Tsunami who landed in the bottom. There was very little transformation. Example, trash bag dresses still looked like trash bags. I liked the color palette though. And there were some positives here. Amy’s look did not fit in as much with the rest of the collection, but I loved her look.

Amy impressed me week 1 and so did this look.

Also, shout-out for the group here. Loved all the choices, JC Penney’s heels, braided ponytail, gorgeous makeup from Avon.

Samantha too did a standout job here. The bodice of this dress was super sexy and the belt detail was a great touch. It was not enough to save the team though. I was confused on the bottom 2, except for knowing that there was no way PR was letting go of one of the twins this early. And seeing Shawn with Sentell in the bottom, I knew Sentell would be going.

The reason I stated confusion on the bottom 2 was because even though Shawn did not fair well under pressure this week, it was Claire’s look (above) that was one of the worst. I did love her look so much though last week, so glad she was not at risk in the bottom 2.

I guess Shawn was not feeling the vibe of the collection, but had she focused a bit more on this, it could have been much better!

But sadly, Sentell’s uninspired garbage bag dress was the loser of the week. Sentell did stand up for himself by stating what he did for Shawn’s look. But truth be told, each designer is responsible for their own individual design and final look. But another truth, even another hour on this was not going to to save it. I then remembered his look from last week and it was too unimpressive. I am just not sure Sentell was quite ready for the challenge of Project Runway!

Until next week…..

PR’s Super Sweet Sixteen!!

Posted on August 26, 2017 by SMM

Excited that once again, it is Project Runway time! We were able to see many previews for this upcoming season — looks to be a dramatic, 16th season! The designers met each other during their welcome session, sipping on some Grey Goose “Espresso” martinis. Tim & Heidi soon joined, entering in super big style, specifically in a super gigantic RV. Heidi reminded the designers to expect the unexpected, and with that, we were in store for our first surprise!

This season, the models being used range from size 2 to size 22. The models also will get some airtime thru the use of a confessional mirror. Each week, the models rotate. Tim & Heidi wasted no time getting right into the first challenge. Each designer had to create a red carpet look, demonstrating their point of view as a designer. This was a 1-day challenge, with a $300 budget at Mood.

Huge sponsors for this season — PILOT, with the use of Friction erasable pens for sketching; Brother sewing & embroidery studio; JC Penney accessory wall; Avon for makeup & hair. Prizes for this season include the chance to collaborate with JC Penney to create a limited edition capsule collection; $40k prize pack thru Brother Sewing, including 2 industrial machines; a 2018 Lexus; all expense paid trip to Japan; a spread in Marie Claire; $100k, and more!

The Tim Gunn save is in play this season. And rounding out this week’s judging panel of Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, and Zac Posen was actress Olivia Munn. The judges raved about the 1st runway. I thought there were some highlights, but I saw that many had an upwards trajectory for improvement ahead. Additionally, I don’t think some hit the mark on creating for the red carpet. But all in all, still an excellent runway!

I’m still wavering on my final top 3, but it would have been very different than the judges. But ultimately, I was 100% in agreement with the winner of the week, Deyonte. I could see his bold aesthetic coming thru in this look. Would this look be loved by everyone? No! But I could guarantee seeing it on red carpets now and it would make many best dressed lists.

Deyonte said Cannes, but I could see more. The flower placement perfection comment was spot on. This would be a look for a strong, confident woman.

Avon SHOUT-OUT — not for the hair, little matronly, but the makeup was beautiful!

Here are my other faves of the week, giving them a little shout-out!

So I actually know Shawn & Claire’s label and had no clue they would be on this season! I was not impressed this week with Shawn, but Claire’s look was gorgeous! Little more of a departure from the work I am used to from this design team, but if this is her solo voice, I LOVE IT! AVON SHOUTOUT — all around for beauty here, perfection!

I was surprised Amy impressed me this much on Week 1. I know she is known for quality and I saw that in this look. But I wondered what would set her apart from other minimalist designers? The ability to transform this look sold me! With more money and time, perhaps the top bra could have been a bit more elegant or sophisticated, but overall, job well done! AVON SHOUTOUT — love the bun, gorgeous makeup as well

A stand alone photo for Kentaro’s look doesn’t do it justice, but the movement here, the fascination attained as it walked the runway, deserves accolade! His previous work with drama and feminine beauty was a clear read in this first piece.

I was wondering what Ayana would, working with her cultural influences with each given challenge. I was impressed. A woman who wanted to don a head covering could really be a stand-out on the red carpet in this look. But additionally, even if this look was sans head covering, it would be super gorgeous. The floral embellishments were captivating.

Moving on to the judges’ faves. I was not surprised Kenya was in the top. I was surprised to see her more shock value aesthetic tamed in this challenge. Overall she did well, but it was not my fave. There was an elegance to this, but I had 2 reasons for keeping this out of my top, both of which the judges mentioned oddly enough! The bodice was a little wonky. And then something with the fabric choice perhaps, wasn’t making this dress look super high quality. But job well done for the 1st challenge!

Brandon struggled this week, so color me shocked that he was in the top. This was more on the bottom of my list! I think you could see it in his face he was confused on making the top as well. I wasn’t sure what red carpet I would see this on and really, this just lacked sophistication for me. Since he is safe, landing in the top, maybe this will give him confidence to forge ahead and impress me in future weeks.

The bottom 3 made more sense than the top. It seems as if Shawn & Claire will get much airtime this season, so I knew she wouldn’t be going home week 1. But this was disappointing to see from Shawn given her experience. She is all about being bold and modern, so I am hoping for more from her in weeks to come. The shorts were such a throwaway here, not making this fit for any red carpet. One of the judges said “club-by” and that was a good label for this.

Leaving ChaCha and Batani in the bottom 2, I was happy Batani was safe. I was so impressed with her previous work as well, so seeing this trainwreck was very disappointing. Even despite the mistakes seen/made, why was this her goal for the week. The color, the use of lace, doesn’t really seem like her forte or aesthetic. The back was worse than the front. And why did she lie about the hidden mistake/tear/hole!

This sadly left ChaCha out first, which anyone leaving first is always sad! He had such a great spirit. And with a wacky, interesting aesthetic, I would have enjoyed seeing a little more. Not sure he would have had the ability to stay for the long-haul, but seeing the fun exuberance wouldn’t have been bad for another week or two! But this look was not that exciting, very much a hot mess!

Until next week……

Tony’s & CMT Awards

Posted on June 16, 2017 by SMM

Double the pleasure, double the fun, as is the case with my recent best dressed list, featuring my fave looks from both the 2017 Tony Awards and the 2017 CMT Awards. Enjoy!!

Carrie Underwood

a crystal-covered Elie Madi mini
Atelier Swarovski clutch
Kimberly McDonald jewels

Sara Bareilles

Naeem Khan shimmering gown
H. Stern jewelry
Hair by Rebekah Forecast
Makeup by Ana Marie A. Salamat
Styled by Monty Jackson

Liu Wen & Zac Posen

both wearing Zac Posen
Tiffany & Co. jewelry
Hair by Marc Mena
Makeup by Asami Matsuda

Clare Bowen

Sally Field

Wearing an elegant Christian Siriano

Denee Benton

Oscar de la Renta dress & heels
Hair by Vernon Francois
Glam by Its Matin
Styling by Erin Walsh
Fred Leighton jewelry

Rachel Bay Jones

gorgeous Christian Siriano gown
Cadar Jewelry

Tina Fey

Tina Fey in Sally LaPointe

Carly Pearce

Cynthia Erivo

black Chris Gelinas gown
Fred Leighton jewelry
Hair by Vernon Francois
Makeup by Joanna Simkin
Styling by Sarah Lutsky

Cristina Ottaviano

Cristina Ottaviano

Taye Diggs & Amanza Smith Brown

Amanza is wearing a stunning floral lace Jovani gown

Cobie Smulders

Schiaparelli printed gown
Irene Neuwirth jewelry
Styled by Erin Walsh
Makeup by Brigitte Reiss-Andersen
Hair by Rheanne White

Amy Brown

Glenn Close

Bee Shaffer & Anna Wintour

Bee is wearing an Alexander McQueen dress with Irene Neuwirth jewelry
Anna is wearing a Maison Margiela Artisanal look

Lady Antebellum

moon-and-star print Rixo dress
strappy black Sophia Webster sandals
shoulder-duster Swarovski earrings & Nourdar Jewels
yellow Tyler Ellis clutch
Styling by Cassandra Dittmer
Makeup by Lindsay Doyle
Skincare for the gents — Evolution Man

Ben Platt

Navy blue David Hart suit

Hunter Hayes

ASOS blazer & shirt

Jacob Davis

2017 CFDAs

Posted on June 8, 2017 by SMM

The Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards (otherwise known as the Academy Awards of the fashion world) took place this pat week at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. The 2017 CFDAs, in partnership with Swarovski for the sixteenth year, was hosted by funny man Seth Meyers, who previously hosted the award ceremony in June 2012.

There were some notable presenters including Karen Elson and Amber Valletta, as well as Jon Bon Jovi’s giving the first-ever Swarovski Award for Positive Change to his good friend, designer Kenneth Cole.

According to Council of Fashion Designers of America’s site, the awards, which began in 1981, are the “highest honor in fashion and recognize the outstanding contributions made to American fashion in womenswear, menswear, and accessories as well as journalism, creative vision, personal style, and lifetime achievement.”

Sprinkled throughout this post are all the winners of the evening, as well as my top red carpet looks for the night!

Menswear Designer of the Year

WINNER: Raf Simons for Calvin Klein

Nominees: Robert Geller; Thom Browne; Tim Coppens; Todd Snyder

Meg Ryan

Kate Bosworth

feminine, hand-beaded Brock Collection dress
Irene Neuwirth jewelry
Aquazurra heels
Makeup by Hung Vanngo
Hair by Josh Harry thru Fourteen Jay

Accessory Designer of the Year

WINNER: Stuart Vevers for Coach

Nominees: Irene Neuwirth; Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel for Mansur Gavriel; Paul Andrew; Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen for The Row

Diane Kruger

a strapless electric blue Monse gown with gold sequin embellishment
Delfina Delettrez jewelry

Lily Aldridge

nude slip Jason Wu gown covered in gold polka dots
Ana Khouri jewelry
Gianvito Rossi heels
Styling by La Marque
Hair by Bryce Scarlett
Makeup by Quinn Murphy

Swarovski Award for Emerging Talent

Nominees: Laura Vassar and Kristopher Brock for Brock Collection; Gabriela Hearst; Virgil Abloh for Off-White; Sander Lak for Sies Marjan

WINNER: Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia for Monse

Olivia Munn

custom, cutout Tanya Taylor dress
Judith Lieber clutch
Delfina Delettrez earrings
Christian Louboutin heels
Makeup by Patrick Ta
Hair by Bok Hee

Joan Smalls

a slashed one-shoulder, high-slit Michael Kors Collection gown
Makeup by Patrick Ta
Hair by Kayla Michele

Womenswear Designer of the Year

WINNER: Raf Simons for Calvin Klein

Nominees: Marc Jacobs; Joseph Altuzarra; Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler; Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen for The Row

Haim

striped Diane von Furstenberg midis
Hair by Candice Birns
Makeup by Gloria Noto
Styling by Rebecca Grice

Sailor Brinkley Cook

blue Zac Posen halter gown

Erin Foster

a silver embroidered bias cut Markarian NYC dress featuring a satin ivory bralet
jewelry by Stephen Russell
Sarah Flint heels
Styled by Jordie Foswood
Makeup by Aliana Lopez
Hair by Rod Ortega

Inaugural Swarovski Award for Positive Change: Kenneth Cole

Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award: Rick Owens

International Award: Demna Gvasalia for Vetements and Balenciaga

Elizabeth Chambers & Armie Hammer

both wearing Tom Ford
Bulgari jewelry & clutch
Styling by Ilaria Urbinati
Makeup by Masako Kizuki
Men grooming by Joanna P. Ford
Hair by Tony Kelley

Jac Jagaciak

Wearing Kobi Halperin

Elsa Hosk

Philosophy dress
Valentino heels
Hair by Danielle Priano
Makeup by Carolina Gonzalez
Styling by Elizabeth Sulcer

Alexi Ashe

The Founder’s Award: Pat McGrath

Board of Directors’ Tribute: Cecile Richards, Gloria Steinem and Janelle Monáe

Fashion Icon Award: Franca Sozzani, Italian Vogue editor-chief, posthumous

Proj. Runway — Who Won $50K!!

Posted on November 17, 2016 by SMM

Well it’s more like not just who, but which two! In the setup for this week, an overall $50,000 was awarded and yes, that is actually half of the cash prize the winner of PR receives. Of course the winner gets a host more of other prizes, but $50K is still a pretty hefty prize!

Tim met with the designers to provide all of the details and joining him in the workroom was Barbara Shipley, Sr. VP of Brand Integration from AARP. AARP was the challenge sponsor, and ultimately who awarded the prize. As part of the challenge, the designers would be creating a look for a very special client and this look would be a part of representing that client’s next chapter. The special client turned out to be for each designer a family member or friend.

The winning look would not only awarded $25K to the designer, but another $25K to the client. This I believe was the first 2-day challenge of the season. And with that, the designers were off to Mood with a $250 budget.

When designers typically work with real world clients to that of models, sometimes issues or drama arises. This time there was not much of that with the exception of Jenni and her mom as their seemed to be confusion on the direction of the look. I wondered during Tim’s critiques though if he was being a little extra hard on Erin and Dexter? It was clear he thought Cornelius should not have gone home, only then assuming Erin or Dexter should have. He certainly didn’t hold back on critiques!

I believe the biggest workroom issue of the week however was Nathalia and really biting off more than she could chew. This week’s guest judges were fashion and beauty trendsetter Olivia Culpo and co-founder of Birchbox, Katia Beauchamp (who also is on the new Lifetime show, Project Runway: Fashion Start-Up).

The safe designers of the week were Laurence, Cornelius, and Dexter. I pretty much agreed with this result, but Dexter would have been in my top 3. His look was a knockout and really fit his client well. I thought he gave his friend exactly what she wanted, while still ringing very true to his designer aesthetic.

SHOUTOUTS — Sally Beauty for a gorgeous, chic straight look & JustFab, love these killer blue booties

The judges’ top three was Roberi, Mah-Jing, & Rik. All were very deserving, but my winning look was Roberi. I got why they chose Rik, but Roberi, just as Dexter did, stuck true to his designer POV, all while giving his client a very fashion-forward look. I thought Rik’s dress was super great as well, but I’m not sure I really would have known it was his work in the midst of some very strong designer aesthetics.

Roberi’s choice of prints and the ability to mix them together was genius. The look was fun and the pops of color were spot on!

JUSTFAB SHOUTOUT — More cute heels!!

Rik was certainly deserving of accolades though. His dress was very cute, perfect for his mom, not about the bells and whistles, but rather conveying a story, with very intricate details. It was very much age appropriate, but didn’t come across as a mature, mumsy creation.

SHOUTOUTS — Sally Beauty, love the hair & Mary Kay, love the bold red lip

Mah-Jing certainly stepped it up though this week. His look was bad-ass. I didn’t get the same vibe as the judges that his mom was really working the look. I kind of thought it was wearing her and not the other way around. Perhaps in the right setting, but Mah-Jing really did give her what she wanted and he designed the look beautifully.

The bottom 3 was Erin, Nathalia, and Jenni. All who have been in the bottom before and all who unfortunately had the worst 3 looks of the week. Erin was again saved from the bottom two. If I’m not mistaken, every time she has been in the bottom, she has escaped the bottom 2 — very interesting. I wonder if she can find her way back to the top. I’m not seeing much by the way of improvement or growth from her the past few weeks, and she really is doing the same coat over and over again. And with this being a 2-day challenge, I would have expected her dress to have looked way better since we know she can do a coat easily in a day, if even that.

JUSTFAB SHOUTOUT — Gorgeous killer heels!

Nathalia escaped elimination this week, I believe her ideas were her saving grace. She attempted to do a lot and pretty much each article of clothing was poorly constructed. Everything read too oversized. She listened to her mom and the idea was there, but not fully conceived with regard to execution. I wish her coat had been longer and more fitting. I didn’t love the concept of a bell-bottom pant either. Jenni has had some success in the top so I would have picked her to stay in this scenario, but with 2 friends making up the bottom, sadness was inevitable.

SALLY BEAUTY SHOUTOUT — Lovely waves!

So yes, with that, Jenni was out this week. Her look too had some construction issues, but a more major issue here was this look was not at all suited for her mom. It read “Jenni” 100%, but there wasn’t any adaptability to the client. I really wouldn’t see her mom wearing this at any of the events she mentioned. Jenni does have a strong aesthetic, but in terms of it being expansive and having the ability to be molded to different occasions, I’m just not sure she is there yet.

Proj. Runway & Swimwear

Posted on October 13, 2016 by SMM

This week, the Project Runway designers took on swimwear. With Tim being all decked out in a special ensemble, he & Heidi joined the designers on the runway to further show off more details on the challenge!

Each designer would create their own fabric to use in designing a stylish swimsuit & cover-up that would fit in with/be inspired by Heidi’s line, Heidi Klum Swimwear. The winning design would be sold as a part of the line.

To create the print, the designers would work with technical & digital experts. The designers would then head to Mood, with a budget of $100 for supplemental fabric, all for this 1-day challenge.

The episode began with a little hate-or-ade being spewed on Erin. Natural jealousies of course since she has won 2 challenges. Moving onto a little workroom drama, we first saw Cornelius having some difficulties with this swimwear challenge. Of course, as the episode progressed, we saw other designers were too facing trouble.

Heidi soon popped in, alongside Tim, for some critiques. Naturally, she had some pretty choice opinions. I was certainly ready to get the runway started! This week’s guest judge was model & author Lucky Blue Smith. So who rose to the occasion this week, and which designers sank?

Before the judges top & bottom 3, here are a few personal shoutouts of my own —

Nathalia J — I thought the swimsuit was pretty cute, interesting print, Also, SHOUTOUT to both Mary Kay & Sally Beauty here, love the entire beauty look!!

Cornelius — SHOUTOUT again for both Mary Kay & Sally Beauty, another stunning glam, beauty look!

Dexter — SHOUTOUTS — All areas, JustFab, killer heels, Mary Kay, love that pop of red on the lip, & Sally Beauty, curl-icious!

On now to the judges top 3, getting right to the winner, since I was certainly in agreement with both the top 3 and the winner, let’s discuss Rik. The swimsuit, the cover-up, all super chic, and in black & white, LOVE! Also, SHOUTOUT to Mary Kay for this beautiful makeup look, very natural & fresh.

The judges almost gave the top spot to Alex, however my close 2nd would have been Roberi. I loved this print, it exuded such fun in the spirit and with all the colors.

And then of course, as mentioned above, Alex was also in the top 3. I do think Alex did a great job. The cover-up here seemed more than just a cover-up, so I appreciate the effort he put into that piece. The overall look was very Grecian, and the trim of royal blue was the perfect pop of color!

Moving on now to the bottom 3, sadly, I don’t think Sarah should have been the one to go this week. I say sadly, because of this bottom 3, my choice would have unfortunately been Tasha. I just don’t think she did much here. Sarah’s print was a little more inventive and unique. I figured Jenni would be in the bottom because she dismissed Heidi’s suggestions, but this bikini was barely wearable. I do like Tasha, so I’m hoping she will bounce back!

Jenni, again, in the bottom, basically not listening to Heidi. I thought the coverup was interesting, and given the off coloring of Jenni’s print, I think she did her best to make it work.

SHOUTOUT — Mary Kay, lovely beauty look

So that means Sarah was out and I do think that was unfortunate. She did a pretty decent job the week before, and I don’t think of the entire bunch, her swimsuit was the worst. The cover-up was not great, but let’s get real, a lot of other cover-ups were throwaways as well. And this print, it was very vintage, definitely something I can see as a print being used today.

SHOUTOUTS — Mary Kay for the makeup look & Sally Beauty for the luscious curls!

2016 Emmys — Best Dressed

Posted on September 25, 2016 by SMM

Took a bit longer to get this Best Dressed list out than usual. But of course, I had to do one for the 2016 Emmy Awards. Here are my faves —

KRISTEN BELL

Zuhair Murad couture floral gown
Harry Winston jewelry

SARAH PAULSON

Prada deeply green fully embellished dress
custom Wilfredo Rosado earrings

Makeup artist Adam Breuchaud emphasized Paulson’s created a metallic eye look using Eye Tint in Cold Copper topped with Eyes to Kill Intense Eyeshadow in #6, both by Giorgio Armani.

NEVE CAMPBELL

Makeup by Coleen Campbell Olwell
Marc Mena for hair
Black fitted Christian Siriano gown with lace bodice
Judith Lieber clutch

CONNIE BRITTON

Talbot Runhof fiercely red gown
Hearts on Fire bracelet
Beladora jewelry
Hair by Christopher Naselli
Makeup by Katey Denno
Styling by Alyssa Sutter

ALLISON JANNEY

black Badgley Mischka gown with slit & wrap bow around the waist
Fred Leighton jewelry
Badgley Mischka bag and shoes

MEGALYN ECHIKUNWOKE

White Georges Hobeika gown
Hair by Larry Jarahsims
Makeup by Joanna Simkin
Ivory Rauwolf clutch
Simon G jewelry
Sorellina Jewelry

EMILY RATAJKOWSKI

navy Zac Posen look with structured bodice
H.Stern jewelry
Hairy by Christian Wood

Makeup artist Hung Vanngo re-imagined the classic cat eye in iris-brightening jewel-tones. To get the look, try Line PRO Eye Pencil in Navy and Aqua, both by Lorac.

CARLY CHAIKIN

Reem Acra black look with sheer effects & polka dots
Ileana Makri jewelry
Giuseppe Zanotti heels
Charlotte Olympia clutch
Styled by Jeff K Kim

ABIGAIL SPENCER

Jenny Packham navy blue sparky gown with polka dot bodice
Irene Neuwirth jewelry
Judith Leiber clutch

EMILY ROBINSON

gold Carolina Herrera tiered dress
Ileani Makri jewelry
Charlotte Olympia heels

SHIRI APPLEBY

Diane von Furstenberg dress
Piaget jewelry

HOLLY TAYLOR

White Theia gown with slit and embellished neckline
Hair & makeup by Donna Gast
Gabriel & Co jewelry

PADMA LAKSHMI

Styling by Cristina Ehrlich
Metallic silver, full on shimmering Naeem Khan gown
Lorraine Schwartz ring
Makeup by Patrick Ta
Hair by Antonio F. Diaz
Skincare — Tracie Martyn

Makeup artist Patrick Ta proves that fuchsia lips are more than a summer staple. To get the look he mixed two shades of Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks, bright lavender and hot pink.