Project Runway All Stars, Episode 10: Is U.N. or Is You Ain’t?

Right off the bat, can I just spoil the whole thing and say how happy I am that Seth Aaron won? He flew under the radar the whole season, he didn’t throw temper tantrums or hissy fits, he didn’t doubt his vision or what he was setting out to do, and he wasn’t a drama queen. He made beautiful, unique clothes, his collection was coherent and exciting, and was a nice guy to the end. Bravo, Seth Aaron.

That being said, I felt sorry for Elena and Korto, because they produced some beautiful clothes, too. And were nice people who didn’t feel the need to tear down the other contestants. Elena did cry a lot, but hey, it’s Elena. The maturity level really rocketed this season from previous ones.

The episode started with Alyssa explaining that the final challenge was for these remaining All Stars to design a six-look collection to showcase their talent. They would have 4 days to do so, and the inspiration was to come from their cultural heritage: Eastern Europe/Ukraine for Elena, Spain for Seth Aaron, and West Africa/Liberia for Korto. To help them become immersed in their cultures, they were to visit the Headquarters of the United Nations, where they would meet with the Under-Secretary-General for Communications, Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal and the ambassador from their country of heritage. After their meetings, they were instructed to stay and sketch at the U.N. Alyssa also explained that the final runway show would be held at the U.N.

The three designers met with Mr. Launsky-Tieffenthal, who had the most charmingly unplaceable accent I’ve heard in a while. Korto then met with George S.W. Patten, Sr., from Liberia; Seth Aaron met with Fernando Fernandez- Arias from Spain, and Elena met with Yegor Pyvovarov from the Ukraine. It was touching to hear Korto talk about the collections she has taken back to West Africa and the local models she has used. I was surprised to learn that Elena came to the U.S. at the age of 10—what different backgrounds these designers come from!

The designers rush on to Mood, where they have one hour and $2000 to shop for material. Back at the workroom, they get cracking and surreptitiously eyeing what the others are doing.

Day 2 and here comes Zanna to raise the anxiety level, making everyone second guess themselves about their collections. Tim Gunn, where are you? You have such a light touch, leavening your criticism with solid advice. Come back to Project Runway, Tim Gunn, Tim Gunn. But Zanna does bring reinforcements—each designer gets a helper for 24 hours. It’s SO GOOD to see Christopher, Viktor, and Jeffrey again. The workroom doesn’t seem as deserted.

On Day 3, Alyssa shows up with the Expected Unexpected Twist. They must use fabric from some collection (they didn’t bother to put the name up in a banner, so I didn’t bother remembering it) in a SEVENTH DESIGN. They really do know how to bring the stress level on this show. At least half of the seventh design must come from this fabric. Elena freaks out because of the patterns in all of the fabrics, but Viktor administers tough love and she comes down from the ceiling and gets to work.

On Day 4, there are protracted fittings, visits to the Ulta and Mary Kay salons, and trips to the QVC accessory wall. Before you know it, we are transported to the United Nations—aw, and there are Mychael and Daniel and Ari and all the other All Stars from this season. And there’s Zac Posen, who is also a guest judge this week, along with Gayle King from the Oprah dynasty.

All three shows go very well, but in the end there can be only one winner, as we have been reminded time and again. Elena’s collection is lovely, but not much new there so she is second runner-up. Korto has some stunning pieces, and a unique vision, but she has some taste problems with skirt lengths and fit. In the end, Seth Aaron has the best “Wow” factor and a beautifully cohesive collection, and so he takes the prize. Champagne glasses clink, people hug and congratulate, and we’re out. Ciao, bellas!

What’s In YOUR Wardrobe 1: Winter Wonder-clothes

A suede Chanel suit–definitely the icing on the cake!

A number of customers often express confusion about what pieces they should own to have a fashionable wardrobe. There are many books written on this subject, and many different opinions. I’ve read many of these books, from Clinton Kelly and Stacey London to Tim Gunn, and I’m going to offer a consolidated view of a capsule wardrobe.

Over the next two weeks, we’ll examine the pieces that should form the core (think of them as the cake) of your wardrobe. This is not to say that you can’t add additional pieces. However, if your budget is limited, and for long wearing and stylish appearance, core pieces in classic styles and the best fabrics you can afford are a fabulous investment that will serve you well. The great news is that many of these pieces are available at your friendly consignment shop for a fraction of the original price, if you’re patient and willing to hunt them down. Are you ready to get started? Well, let’s go!

For our ideal wardrobe, let’s look at tops first. For winter, you should have one great cardigan and one great turtleneck, preferably in two-ply cashmere. Don’t like something around your neck? Then look for a V-neck or scoop neck sweater. I have a black cardigan, black, white, and camel turtlenecks, and cashmere V-necks in red and cream. I tend to go for neutrals because I can mix and match them super easily, and add wonderful scarves and accessories.

For jackets, you should have two fitted jackets in neutral colors and one in color. I have fitted suit jackets in navy and black, and an olive green jacket, for some pizzazz. When buying your jackets, consider the skirts and trousers you have and find ones that will best complement your skin tone and preferences. Also, look for a great fitted leather jacket which will go great with jeans.

Your capsule wardrobe should contain several pairs of fitted trousers in versatile, neutral colors. Consider black and navy, of course, but don’t forget camel, chocolate, and charcoal. I tend to steer clear of white or cream trousers because I usually spill something or get the hems dirty, but if you are neat and fastidious, go for it!

Every wardrobe needs one fabulous fitted black skirt that hits mid-kneecap in the front and dips just below the knee crease in the back. Pair this with a crisp white shirt, and you will be styling. This pairing is classic and sexy, especially when you add a wonderful pair of heels and some chunky gold jewelry. No wardrobe should be without these two items.

A winter wardrobe also needs a classic trench coat in a great color, a warm woolen car coat, and a black sheath dress for special occasions. Remember, you can have other color dresses, but every woman should have an LBD.

One final winter note: buy the best jeans you can afford, in dark wash. These are a versatile element for fall, winter, spring, and the cooler days of summer, and can be dressed up and dressed down. You will need to mind the hems, depending on whether you wear heels, boots, or flats with them–that’s why you need several.

Project Runway, Ep. 13: Sometimes You Win, Sometimes You Lose, Sometimes It Rains

Deutsch: Beetrose “Heidi-Klum-Rose” (Tantau 2006) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It’s the next to the last episode of this season of Project Runway, peeps, which means we are almost to Fashion Week–yahoo! The designers eagerly await the appearance of Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn, who shimmy around the screen and strut down the runway. Heidi is wearing a fabulous ruby dress the color of good claret. She tells the designers they have $9,000 and 6 weeks to create a 10-look collection for spring. One look must be created with unconventional materials. Goody! At the end of the 6 weeks, they will return to NYC, where Helen, Alexandria, and Justin will compete for a spot at Fashion Week. Go, go, go and get busy, designers.

Tim is off to visit each designer on his or her home turf. In Philadelphia, he meets up with Dom, whose collection is inspired by Blade Runner–she dubs her fashions retro futurism, and is designing her own fabrics. The patterns look great, but the clock is ticking and she doesn’t have much actually sewn. Tim furrows his brow and tells her she better get cracking.

Next up is Braden in LA. His inspiration is the clash of spring emerging into a wintry world. He talks enthusiastically about crocuses pushing up through snow and ice, the cold air, and other clashy things.  Tim loves what he has done, but doesn’t like his unconventional material. Back to the drawing board on that one, Braden. Braden and his fiancé take Tim down to the beach to throw the ball for their dog, and Tim has his suit jacket on–on the beach. Dude is true to who he is and his style, I have to give it to him.

Alexandria gets a visit in San Mateo. Her words are “edgy, strong, modern.” She is going for a neo-nomadic punk, urban warrior vibe. Ho Hum. She has a lot of pieces in the works, but not many completed looks. She takes Tim to Camp Couture, where she works with children interested in learning about and making fashion. Love the sign on the door–“Life is too short for bad fashion.” Amen! The kiddies are busy sewing and showing off what they have made. Their creations include a hilarious selection of dolls modeled after the Project Runway contestants–there’s Sandro and Sue and Karen and Miranda and Timothy–there’s even a Tim Gunn doll. And they spookily look like the humans they are modeled after. Where’s Heidi? How about Nina? I’d pay good money to see the Michael Kors doll.

Tim shows up in Union City, NJ to visit Helen. Helen’s family seems normal–I expected to see free spirits with tattoos and out-there garments. No go. Put your assumptions to bed without dinner, Nancy. Helen is a little fuzzy on her inspiration–clairvoyance? Knowing the unknown? If you can’t articulate it, how can you design to it? She has this blue fabric she designed the features the iris of her boyfriend’s eye, and that budgie blue is juxtaposed against a violent red. Ugh, not chic or forward at all. I see a lot of the same silhouettes that she’s shown all season. Tim is not wildly impressed, but Helen is showing a bravado unseen most of this season. She likes her collection. Okay….

In Raleigh, Tim meets Justin’s family and reviews his collection. Justin is inspired by sound waves, and is using 3D printing for elements in his looks. Tim is impressed. His unconventional look will be made of test tubes–I can’t wait to see how he pulls this off.

Back in New York, everyone is hard at work, and casting glances over at the other designers’ collections. Tim comes in with Raquel Rozas from Tide. He tells the designers they have to create one new look using fabrics that can be cared for at home (ahem, Tide Pods, ahem). As if they don’t have enough work to do.  Those going to Fashion Week can hop on it now, those competing should stay focused on their three designs they will show anon.

Poor Tim comes back and has stitches in his forehead and a fat lip. He says that he had an altercation with subway stairs. Man, those stairs can be rough customers. He looks around at what the three semi-finalists have to offer, and I have to say that Helen’s red/blue print dress is hideous–just hideous. Helen announces that it’s doomsday as they prepare to go to the runway, and she has it nailed.

Alexandria’s collection does look cool, but all of the neutrals are a bit bland. Helen’s collection is painful to look at. Justin hits it out of the ball park–his collection is sophisticated, well executed, and exotic. His test tube dress is amazing. At the Q&A portion, Helen shuffles around nervously, and has lots of excuses for the problems in her designs. When she says “I’m still learning,” Zac looks absolutely pained. Nina has concerns about the lack of color and wow in Alexandria’s collection, but Heidi is a steadfast supporter and argues for her designs.

In the end, Justin sails through, and Alexandria is selected to go on to Fashion Week.  When Alexandria comes into the waiting room and says she’s in, Dom exclaims, “No! I mean, congratulations, but….” Surprisingly, Helen doesn’t have a meltdown. Maybe she’ll wait until she gets home to do so. She came close, but no cigar.

Next week–Fashion Week, baby!

Project Runway, Ep 12: Butterflies are Free, But This Show Sure Isn’t

English: Monarch butterflies (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

And then there were five! On Project Runway, that is. At the runway, Heidi (in a scary floral top) and Tim greet the designers and announce that this week’s challenge (which is actually last week’s, I’m running late, so what else is new?) will determine who will go to Fashion Week. Everyone sits up, at attention. Using a cliché in a new way, Heidi tells them that the sausage is dangling right in front of their noses. That’s a new one on me. Tim clarifies that it should be a carrot, and Heidi says she prefers sausages. Okay.

She tells the designers that they are taking a field trip to Sweetbriar Nature Center on Long Island for their inspiration. Once there, they meet Tim and Billy B. from L’Oreal at the Butterfly House, Helen is all giddy about the butterflies, telling us that she has an awesome butterfly tattoo. I’ve never noticed–guess I’ve been too busy studying the dagger tattoo that goes in one side of her neck and comes out of the other.

Tim introduces Billy B. to the gang–I would think they would know who he is by now. I sure do, with the dozen L’Oreal commercials on Ombre hair coloring and the Color Riche pallets and various other products that prance across my monitor during the show. Billy B. reminds me of a hobbit. Any who, L’Oreal has a new mascara–the Voluminous Butterfly Mascara. Oh, goody, a new commercial coming soon! The challenge is for the designers to create an avant-garde look–this is the L’Oreal Paris Make-up Challenge (I’m looking forward to next season’s Pringle’s and Preparation H challenges). Tim tells the designers that they have 2 days for this challenge, and 30 minutes to sketch.

It’s no surprise Alexandria is drawn to the dark butterflies, while Justin watches an albino butterfly. Bradon is so busy watching the movement of the butterflies that he doesn’t have time to sketch. Which means, when he arrives at Mood he just pulls everything that catches his fancy off the stacks. Everyone is blowing their budget on this challenge, but it is a make or break moment, so it makes sense.

Back in the workroom, Bradon is hand-sewing these silk noodles he is creating. He’s not certain what he’s going to do with them yet–hopefully it will hit him. Dom has a whole crazy quilt collection of fabrics, but knowing Dom she will create something spectacular.

Hard as it is to believe, Helen freaks out again and starts crying. Bradon shares my feeling with the camera: “Drama, drama, drama.” Tim tells her to snap out of it, and pull it together, and she does. Tim is uncertain about Bradon’s noodles, but as Bradon begins placing them about the mannequin, Tim gets a chill and starts to see the possibilities. Carry on!

Did I mention there is a hair and nail consultation with L’Oreal where we’re introduced to more products? Billy B. is helpful and offers some great choices to the designers to enhance the looks they are trying to create. The day goes along, and it’s time to go.

The next morning comes the curve featured in last week’s previews, where everyone stood in the workroom with dropped jaws. And it is a brilliant ploy–lined up against the wall are the losing garments from this season. Tim appears and tells them that as part of their challenge this week, they must also take one of the losing looks and turn it into a winning look. Dom selects Jeremy’s jacket and dress, while Helen goes for Kate’s hankie dress. Bradon selects Sue’s place mat gown, Alexandria picks Miranda’s plaid pants ensemble, and Justin–well, Justin has a moment. I really was touched at how difficult it was for him to confront the dress that got him voted off–and how brave it was for him to select it.

Fast forward to the runway: this week, Zac and Nina are joined by Emily Rossum. What has she done lately? I don’t know. The show begins, and the avant-garde looks are first up. I love Dom’s peppy jacket and jumpsuit, but Bradon’s gown is stop-the-presses gorgeous, and captures the movement of the butterflies that he was trying to mimic. Helen’s orange gown is ho-hum, Justin’s gown is interesting but sort of sloppy, and Alexandria’s is dark and really not very innovative. When the repurposed looks are shown, Dom has done a great job with Jeremy’s jacket, and Bradon has turned Sue’s long mess into something chic and sophisticated. Helen does the same short top and skirt with bared midriff that she did for last week’s challenge. Justin’s looks MUCH better, and Alexandria’s looks like she’s channeling Alexander McQueen‘s tartan period.

The judges are impressed by what everyone has done. Zac tells Dom he sees branding possibilities with her work–the World of Dom. He also tells Bradon how proud he is of what he has created. Bradon wins the challenge, and a spot at fashion week, as does Dom. The judges can’t decide on the remaining three, so they are sent away to create a collection which they will present to the judges. The winner or winners will be selected and will move on to Fashion Week with Bradon and Dom. Get working, people!

Project Runway, Ep. 10: Superfans are Superfun

What a charming episode of Project Runway! This week, PR invited the eight women who won their “Superfan Contest” to come to New York and participate in an episode. We see a double-decker bus (the kind that ticket salesmen are always trying to tug me onto whenever I visit New York) travelling down 7th Avenue, towards Parsons, one assumes. On the top deck are a group a uber-enthusiastic women snapping pictures and pointing out sights with glee. Tim tells us these are the winners of the contest, and that they will be an integral part of this week’s episode.

It is so cute to see how excited these women become when they spot Tim waiting out front for them. While the opening credits roll, we learn snatches about how much they love PR, and how happy they are to be there. One woman has designed costumes for her various Barbie dolls. And they’re not that bad.

We learn that these women are going to be made over, and part of their make-over will be a garment designed by one of the contestants. The contestants are paired with their superfan, and the fun begins. It’s interesting to hear how each designer approaches the challenge–some ask questions, listen and absorb, and make suggestions; others ask questions then go ahead and do what they want anyway. Alexandria is in this latter category, and her poor client confesses that she is a little afraid of her. Don’t blame her.

Before the sewing gets too frantic, the superfans and designers are whisked away to the L’Oreal hair salon for consultations and make-overs. It seems like one long commercial for the latest and greatest L’Oreal products, but to the sponsors go the spoils. I am not loving that Ombria hair dye–it looks like the 60’s are back with a vengeance. Everyone will be having a cut or color–most will have both.

It’s a long day at Parsons, which must mean drama back at the Refinery Hotel. Sure enough, Braden and Alexander have to move into Justin and Ken’s room, now that Jeremy is gone. Ken tells the camera that he is not looking forward to “sharing his home” with these men. What a tool. Alexander appears at the door where Ken is ironing in the entryway, blocking him from coming in. Alexander says beep-beep, I’ve got a big suitcase here. Ken mumbles that he’ll just be a minute and keeps ironing.  It’s late, everyone’s tired, and Alexander pushes his way in. Ken starts screaming and throwing a hissy fit of epic proportions. Braden runs away, and Justin just shuts down. We’re left with Ken cussing and screaming at the coordinator. Nice.

The next morning, Tim meets Ken and tells him that he’s reviewed the tape and that Ken’s reaction was over the top. He also says that Alexander was totally in the wrong. I hate to contradict Tim Gunn, but I’m on Alexander’s side here. Ken was rude, and then he lost control. Everyone meets in the post-judging waiting room, where Alexander and Braden look like they haven’t slept all night. Everyone kind of apologizes, and it’s on with the show, except Tim tells Ken he has anger management issues. And puts him in his own room at the hotel. Nice. He gets rewarded for his bad behavior. Alexandria sums it up best by saying that the superfans are so excited, they can’t let them down. When the designers return to the work room, they all throw Ken these tentative looks as if to say, “What is that psycho going to do next?”

The superfans come in for fittings, and they all look amazing. The color and cuts are very flattering, and everyone is all aglow. I’m not liking that puke green for Susie’s dress, nor the stripes that Ken is working around it. And I think Dom’s print is too overwhelming on Jane Sarah. But let’s see what the judges think.

After the runway show, Braden, Justin, and Helen are in the top three, while Alexandria, Alexander, and Ken are in the bottom three. Justin’s dress looks amazing, and Tristan is so happy she just glows. I really thought he should have won–after all, he put a corset together for her, too, to help the dress fit right, given her weight loss. But Helen wins for her gown.

Alexander’s suit looks awful, and it’s unfinished. But it’s not as hideous as Ken’s dress, and so Ken gets the boot and goes home. I thought it was interesting that Tim did not hug Ken as he left the room, so I’m wondering what went on behind the scenes that we didn’t get to see. At least the guys will sleep easier tonight.

Quote of the Week: “I’m always on boob patrol.”–Heidi

Project Runway, Ep. 8: Field of Dreams

At the Refinery Hotel, ominous music plays before Tim walks into the girls’ bedroom. And blows a freaking whistle. The other week it was Heidi sneaking in, and now Tim. What’s up, Project Runway? Time to get the locks on the room changed, contestants.

Foot Locker Geschäft in Darmstadt (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Tim is in a referee’s uniform–please, don’t tell me Foot Locker is sponsoring this challenge. And then Alexander asks if they are going to Foot Locker, hee. Tim tells everyone to get dressed, they are meeting Heidi out at the athletic field. Ken looks like he is going to hurl.

Out at said Athletic Field, Heidi announces that it is time for the contestants to get their blood flowing–they have been spending too much time in the sewing room. They are put into teams of two to do four activities: 3-legged race, tire run, wheelbarrow, and flag grab. Oh, Sandro, I miss you! Whoever wins gets another hour in the sewing room, and the first crack at selecting fabric from Heidi’s collection. Which is important, because this week’s challenge involves creating fashionable performance wear, and it’s a one day challenge. Thanks to the evil button bag, our teams shake out to Dom and Justin, Jeremy and Alexander, Helen and Braden, Alexandria and Kate, and Karen and Ken. Ken snarks, “This is like me trying to be something with my grandmother.” Karen states, “Ken looks miserable. Good!” Double hee.

The race begins and Braden and Helen take an early lead, but forget to do the wheelbarrow. Damn you, wheelbarrow! Justin and Dom win. The other teams look pretty sad.

Back at the workroom, you will be absolutely shocked to learn that Ken develops an attitude and swears at Helen. I know, people, I am just as surprised as you are. Seems Helen asked Tim outside of the room if she could use the garment of Heidi’s which was displayed on her dress form, just like everyone else’s dress form, for sizing reference. Alexandria asked Helen what she asked Tim, Helen said never mind, and boom! Ken has an attitude. Helen gets a little scared and tells Tim what Ken said. Tim tells her to get back to work, he’ll look into it.

Ken goes snitting off to call his spiritual mother from church for some guidance. Wait! The way he talks and carries on, and he has a spiritual mother? She must be so proud of his words and actions. Good grief! He tells the camera that people should never judge a person, but isn’t that what he does, week after week? Oh, well, this is getting too heavy for me, back to the world of fashion. Tim asks him what’s wrong, tells him to hang in there, and says he believes in Ken. I heart Tim. He’s such a good, decent person. Ken goes back and apologizes to Helen and asks for a hug. All’s good in Design Land, at least for the next 15 minutes.

Heidi comes in with Tim to review the designers’ work. It’s cute that Justin is shy around her, confiding that she’s a supermodel and all. Poor Karen is sent back to the drawing board, with not much time remaining. Cue the ominous music again. A one day challenge is a bear in and of itself, but to go back to the beginning? Ugh. Alexandria has designed yet another pair of droopy drawers. Why? Heidi loves them. You have to have the figure of a preying mantis to look good in something like that. I keep waiting for Hammer Time.

On the runway, Michael Kors is back, and boy does he have a lot to say, most of which is not good. Alexandria gets raked over the coals for her droopy pants, but even worse is Karen’s sad, sad outfit, which her model did not want to wear (ouch). Helen wins for a black jacket. Whatever. I thought Kate’s entire outfit was much better thought out, more utilitarian, well executed, and really attractive. But Heidi and Nina were all gah-gah, goo-goo over Helen’s jacket, so she wins. And looks very happy, so good for her.

At the end of the evening, Karen is out. To no one’s surprise.

Favorite lines (all Michael’s):

“It looks like Tina Turner’s dress rode up a bit.”

“If you want guys to leave you alone at the gym, just wear that outfit.”

“Are those pleasure-me pockets? They’re creepy.”

“Her activity looks like she’s going to a buffet on a cruise.”

Sigh. I miss you, Michael. Come back and visit soon.

 

Project Runway, Ep. 6: “If a Designer Falls in the Forest….”

Project Runway opens with Ken still steaming about Alexandria’s “betrayal” of him during the runway judging the previous week (day? night? time is wacky on PR). He says he sees Judas’ face every time he looks into Alexandria’s face. Dude, get over it—it IS a contest, after all, and you haven’t exactly kept your disdain for other designers a big secret.

On the runway, Heidi and Tim greet the designers—and Tim is in a camouflage suit, and looking very sheepish. Not a good look, Tim, but a clue as to what this week’s challenge is about. Whee! They’re going camping. Ken looks horrified, and starts whining to the camera. He is such a tool, and not a very useful one at that. After their wilderness adventure (in luxury tents, no doubt), the designers will create high-end, editorial looks inspired by their activities in nature.

What follows is a montage of video clips of designers whooshing down zip lines, rafting, canoeing, and semi-tolerating nature. Some look like they are enjoying their time out and about. Others look so out-of-place that it’s hard not to feel a wee bit sorry for them. But just a wee bit.

Back at Parsons, the designers set to work on their garments. Dom’s material is amazing—I can’t wait to see what she’s going to do with it. Bradon is struggling—come on, boyfriend, pick it up! Jeremy is writing a love poem onto his gown—it’s an interesting technique, but what it has to do with nature eludes me. Justin is making lace with glue—it looks messy, and the result is amateurish (and will result in Nina’s astonishing comment that the model looks like she has a foaming vagina). Ken opines that it looks like a 5-year old girl’s princess dress, and he’s right. Dom, Karen, and Helen are having a great time making their outfits, and are laughing and whooping it up. Alexander calls them the Witches of Eastwick.

Alexandria is going out on a limb (Get the nature reference? Get it?) with a pair of outsize pants and a structured top. Ken declares that it’s a mess, and that Alexandria needs to go home. That is pretty funny, considering that Alexandria used to be the one in the first several episodes who said different designers should be sent home. Ken is the new Alexandria.

The runway show is pretty boring—no Sandro to liven things up. Miranda’s dress looks like her model just stepped out of the Copa Cabana circa 1977. It’s so shapeless and blah. Dom’s dress is lovely, but it does make her model look heavier. Karen’s dress resembles a muumuu, and Kate has made her model look like she has a baby bump. What happened to form-fitting garments, people?

The judges love Alexandria’s, Alexander’s, and Jeremy’s looks, and Alexandria wins. They are not so hot on Karen’s, Ken’s, or Justin’s outfits. Justin is voted out—I guess we won’t need the interpreter anymore. Back in the waiting room, Braden signs “I love you”—awwwww, I heart Braden even though his dress wasn’t that hot this week.

But wait! In a not-so-dramatic twist, Top Gunn uses his magic power and Justin is safe for another week. So, stop the crying, everyone! Except for those who are crying at the thought that Tim can no longer save one of them. And the poor interpreter, who has to stay and witness all of this drama.

Project Runway, Episode 5: Choose Your (Weird) Materials

Once again, our designers are put into teams–of three. Lots of unhappy faces. Ken looks positively bilious. Kate, Jeremy, and Karen are one team; Justin, Dom, and Helen another; and Alexander, Braden, and Miranda a third. Which leaves Ken, Alexandra, and Sue–a recipe for disaster, echoed by the comments of the other designers who seem to be saying special prayers of thanks that they were not put on this team with Ken and Sue.

Top Gunn tells the teams they are to design a luxurious, high-end mini-collection of three looks–but the collection must be done using unconventional materials. Designers are advised to use $1,500 and they may select materials from two of the following sources: a vintage wallpaper shop, a food store, and a home goods and party store. Each team gets to use this week’s product placement, a Lexus IS sedan with the E-destination program, to shop and retrieve their supplies.

OMG, while the teams are busy sketching and planning and pinning, Tim escorts Sandro into the room. He apologizes rather nicely to the designers for his behavior and wishes them well. Awww, Bradon comes over and hugs him. I heart Braden.

During Tim’s critique, he goes ballistic over the Team of Doom. Sue is draping a curtain on her dummy, and Tim asks incredulously, “Have you seen what the judges do when you use a conventional fabric during the unconventional fabric challenge?” Ken sneers in a superior manner, and, God love him, Tim turns on him: “You think you’re going to rise above it by smirking about it?” You go, Top Gunn! Sandro was right!

The day of the challenge, Jeremy is quite pleased with his garment. Meh, I think it’s pretty blah myself. I like Karen’s a lot better–she really got into this challenge, and her dress is a great crazy quilt of mixed media without looking crafty. Once again, I love Braden’s gown–he has a way with materials, conventional and unconventional. Sue’s gown is not done–ruh roh. Sue appears incapable of sewing conventionally. The designers are out in the hallway finishing her gown, while Tim pronounces this another Project Runway first. Project Runway, the Failure Edition.

At the runway show, all of the teams’ work looks great and receives praise, except for the Team of Doom. Jeremy’s team wins, and Jeremy wins. Whatever. Heidi does tell Braden that his team was a very close second.

When the post-mortem is done on Ken’s team, Ken and Alexandra throw Sue under the bus. Nina, however, calls them on it and points out that they whole collection is bad. In a pretty funny sequence, they ask Alexandra about the collection and she answers in this teeny, tiny voice so that the judges have to say, “Huh? What? Speak up, we can’t hear you,” not once but several times.

In the end, Sue goes home, as she should. But I strongly think they should have sent Ken home, too. He is just toxic dealing with other people–his rudeness to Alexandra and Sue was apparent to the judges this week. However, he was saved, so he could go back into the waiting room and glower at Alexandra. Watch your back, girl!

Project Runway Ep. 2: It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Bling

This episode begins with armored trucks pulling up to Parsons, and guards emerging with large cases. Gotta be jewelry, I think, because I’m so perceptive. And I saw the preview for this week.

Sure enough, Heidi comes out with the models, who are sporting $30M in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings (I didn’t see any cocktail rings, but I might be wrong). This week’s challenge is to create a look glamorous enough to hold up to the jewelry. Timothy bleats that he’s inspired by the jewelry, but not by money. What. Ever.

The designers pick the models and jewelry they want, using the tried and true button bag to decide the order of selection. And great news–it’s a one day challenge. Gulp.

It’s off to Mood–and I love that we get a shot of Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible in the background–it’s a great book, in case you haven’t been exposed to it yet. While others run for the racks, Timothy sprints for the remnants a.k.a garbage bags. Tim asks him, “Is this sustainable you? Because they do have organics.” I love Tim. Kahindo goes for this print that looks like a TV test screen gone berserk. I’m wondering why this print, which will compete with the jewelry?

Back at the workroom, Sandro and Ken are arguing. Does Sandro get along with anyone? Justin takes out his hearing apparatus. Wish I could. Karen sings out, “Hugs and kisses, guys,” and then Ken exclaims, “He’s on his period.” OK, it’s 2013 and we still have to have this kind of sentiment bandied about? Bleh.

I am just thinking that Bradon and Sue seem the most mature and grounded of the contestants when Sue has another melt-down over the sewing machine. Make that Bradon seems the most mature.

Tim comes in to critique the designs. Justin blows him off–he is not going to remove any of the layers on this gown. Kahindo is having a terrible time with the silk charmeuse she purchased. Gentle readers, I don’t sew much, but even I know that silk charmeuse is a very difficult fabric–it’s bad juju.

Alexander remarks that Kate’s gown is very derivative, very Vivienne Westwood. OMG, he’s right. I can see Carrie Bradshaw floating down her hallway in that gown. Timothy’s dress is a hot mess again–looks like it’s on the model backwards. Ken keeps making his something-smells-bad-in-here face while Tim critiques Timothy’s gown. Alexandra opines that Timothy needs to go. She is very sour and superior.

Tim tells the room, “Keep your critical eye acutely aware of what’s happening,” but judging by what finally makes it to the runway, not too many are listening.

On the runway, Helen starts weeping when her dress appears, and Heidi sends Tim over to give her a pep talk. This is a new Project Runway moment, at least for me. Alexandra smirks while Tim consoles Helen.

Kate wins the challenge with her gown (oh, well, Alexander), which is a beautiful color and well constructed given the challenge time. I’m surprised the judges like Sandro’s gown, but he’s in the top three. Bottom three are Helen, Timothy, and Kahindo. Helen gives an impassioned speech about how she will continue to design couture until she gets it right, which probably saves her bacon.

Back in the waiting room, Sandro actually gives Timothy some good advice, telling him to keep his mouth shut and not give up so much information during the Q&A portion of the runway. I have to agree, given the judge’s reaction when he says he went through the garbage to get his fabric.

When the judges get to look more closely at the designs, Tim confesses that he advised Kahindo to put the black fabric over her print. When they look at the print, the judges are gob smacked, and Zac thanks Tim for his intervention. Houston, we have a problem, and Kahindo goes home.

Favorite Line: “Little elves don’t come out at night and finish your dress. It’s not bibbity, bobbety, boo.”

Project Runway, Ep. 8: It’s Raining Men, Hallelujah!

Before I recap this episode, can I just get this off my not-so-substantial chest? On Tim Gunn‘s Facebook page and mylifetime.com, folks are gripe, gripe, griping about the team concept. Having just followed the Fall/Winter fashion shows, I keep wondering–when DON’T you work in a team as a designer? You have investors, major fashion houses (many owned by conglomerates looking for name recognition and return on investment), vendors, and other players. You have to work collaboratively or you won’t succeed. I keep thinking of the recent shows by Proenza Schouler and Rodarte–teams, people–and how fresh and lovely their creations were. So, the team concept is here for the season. Can we just see how it plays out?

Thanks! I feel so much better!

This week, the challenge is to create a collection of tear-away clothes for male strippers. Really, I could not make this stuff up. And the designers have one day to do it! Menswear is hard enough, but it has to be tear-away and done in a day? Thanks, Heidi and creative team for dooming us to a pitiful collection. Tim tells the duos that each collection must include a suit–“suave, sophisticated,” both modifiers I associate with strip shows. Why not dress them up like cops and Indians and sailors, like the Village People? I mean, that would be fun.

The designers really seem lost struggling with menswear. Stanley and Richard have done some beautiful, well-fitted pieces, but can’t seem to tailor these clothes to save their lives. I LOVE that Daniel does a trench coat–I mean, isn’t stripping sanctioned flashing?

In short, the clothes look horrible, all the judges are gravely disappointed (although Nina has a giggling fit the whole runway show), and Heidi lectures them sternly that there are no winners, but oh, are there losers. Team Shades of Gray is not on the chopping block; Team Slick and Hip gets read the riot act. Amanda is out–finally! And Layana whines and whines and whines. This was a very sad episode. Isn’t it time for a road trip, powers that be?

Best lines of the night:

“I smell chaos and bedlam,” Tim

“Michelle’s vest looks like the Lollipop Guild from the Wizard of Oz,” Daniel

“It looks like something that might have fit but was sent to the wrong dry cleaners,” Richard

“This is like a weird dream,” Zac Posen. And so it was.