Jezebel: Project Runway season 5

The Ladies of Project Runway: Where Are They Now?

Dodai — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Maybe you're curious what the contestants from Season Five are up to, now that Project Runway is over? Winner and self-described "fashion dork" Leanne Marshall spoke to the LA Times and Entertainment Weekly; and EW also interviewed Korto and Kenley. So, Leanne: She won $100,000 which she says, "All has to go to the clothing line!" She muses: "Maybe I'll go and buy some crazy expensive fabrics that normally I can't go near. That's kind of my version of buying a fancy pair of shoes. It will be fun to feel like I can buy whatever I want in a fabric store." As for Ms. Kenley Collins, you're gonna love this: She's a teacher.

Kenley tells EW:

I teach sewing in New York. It's in the Fashion District, on 37th Street, called Sew Fast, Sew Easy. I teach a beginner's sewing class and intermediate pattern-making. I'm just trying to make some money right now. I lost all my money because I did Project Runway, and I'm just trying to get my money back, plus more. And it's working. I'm gonna expand my website and keep selling dresses.

Kenley swears her website, kenleycollins.com, where she sells headpieces, is doing really well, but it was down as of 11:15 this morning.

Kenley also knocks Korto's line: "Korto sent really bad, unfinished pieces down the runway, and underwear was showing, too. I don't care if you have the best line in the world, if your stuff is showing underwear, and it's unfinished, that's unacceptable at Bryant Park. That was really insulting, to have my beautiful, couture-made line come in third next to that was really insulting." Kenley also talks about the knock-off accusations (she thinks her floral dress looks "nothing like" Balenciaga) and says there's one good thing that came out of being on the show: "I came out of this competition with my two best friends, Stella and Daniel." Daniel is living with her, subletting her apartment. And Kenley talks to Stella every day!

As for Korto, who won $10,000 for being the "fan favorite," she says: "I'm still mad. I wanted to win… I'm glad that women got that I was fighting for the real women, women with curves, women that don't look like Heidi Klum. We need to go buy high-fashion stuff, and we want to look hot and sexy. Those are the people I design for. I represented for them, and I'm glad they got it." Korto is super close with Jerell, and fairly friendly with Leanne: "She's a classy lady. Kenley doesn't apologize for her statements." Korto's taking her family Liberia next year; she was invited to visit and design a gown for the president, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. "Maybe I'll make Michelle Obama's inaugural dress," Korto sorta-jokes.

As for Leanne, she is super excited that Sarah Jessica Parker has asked for clothes. "I guess she watched the show […] and she wants to be my customer. It's amazing. When I was creating my collection, I listened to music all day, but at night I would kind of feel lonely and want someone to talk to, so I watched every episode of Sex and the City."

'Project Runway' Winner Leanne Dishes On Kenley And Her First Big Splurge [LA Times]
'Project Runway' Exit Q&A: Kenley Collins [EW]
'Project Runway' Runner-Up Q&A: Korto Momolu [EW]
'Project Runway' Q&A: Season 5 Winner Leanne Marshall [EW]

Project Runway: And The Winner Is…

Dodai — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Last night's episode of Project Runway wasn't just the season finale. It was the end of an era. With the show (maybe) moving to Lifetime, an association with Marie Claire instead of Elle and a move to L.A., it will never be the same. It was interesting that there were three ladies as finalists, since there's only been one female winner in the previous four seasons: Chloe Dao. Most of the episode was actually rather dull: Model castings, dog poop, hair, makeup. Then the runway shows, which Bravo peppered with fake applause: Trust me, no one was clapping during each show, for any particular garment. And if you watched carefully, you could hear applause but see the crowd just sitting. In any case, the judges — Michael, Nina, Heidi and J. Lo-replacement Tim — had high praise for all three remaining designers. Clip above; collections after the jump.

(Click on any image to begin galleries)

Kenley's collection was first. The judges liked the bright color palette and the fact that each piece was unique and different. Michael Kors said it was "full of charm" and had "a lot of personality." Tim Gunn pointed out Kenley's "impeccable construction." Nina Garcia was worried that the floral dress was very Balenciaga and Kenley admitted: "I realized now maybe I need to do some research." Finally: Something got through that hard head! That said, I reluctantly admit that I liked Kenley's the best. It was whimsical and made getting dressed look like fun. Oh. But. At the runway show, when Kenley said, "No one touches my clothes," I was quoting Nell Carter. Gimme a break!

Korto's collection was inspired by nature. Michael Kors declared it "great." Tim Gunn said she "hit a bullseye." Heidi Klum thought some pieces were "overworked." My mom said she was the only one who made clothes women who are not stick figures could wear. I love Korto, but I didn't love this collection. I did feel awful when Korto did not win, and said, "My heart is bleeding."

Leanne, the slinky little Leanimal, was named the winner of Project Runway. Michael Kors said her "workmanship looked divine." Nina Garcia appreciated that her collection had diversity, showing skirts, jackets and long dresses. And honestly? Leanne created stunning, innovative pieces. Congrats, Leanne! And thank you, Project Runway, not only for being entertaining, but for showing the passion, craftsmanship and artisanal skills involved when people really love fashion. Get your shit together and come back in January.

Photography by Alex Wright.

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway: And Then There Were Three

Dodai — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EDT

On last night's episode of Project Runway the contestants had $8,000 and 2 months to create a collection — and a wedding dress to represent that collection, which the judges used to decide who went to Bryant Park. Tim Gunn visited each designer: Korto in Little Rock, AR, where she treated him to some drumming; Leanne in Portland, where they went riding on a bicycle built for two; Jerell in L.A., where he talked about growing up in South Central; and Kenley in Brooklyn (she cried). Anyway, when the gang got back to NYC, there was still a three-against-one feeling, but it defrosted a little when Kenley poured booze for everyone. The designers were given a last-minute challenge: To design a bridesmaid dress to accompany the wedding dress. Results were mixed, though Kenley actually redeemed herself. She went from being snippy with Heidi Klum to telling her, "I love you!" Clip above; dresses after the jump.
Okay, so Bravo usually puts up posed photographs of each ensemble from the challenge for its Rate The Runway feature, but this time around, the network just used blurry video stills. What's up with that? Are they already over this show? It's not on Lifetime yet! And this is part one of the finale! Ugh. Anyway. Crappy pictures = not my fault.
Kenley's wedding dress was a frothy, feathered confection, but Michael Kors frowned and proclaimed that Alexander McQueen had already done it. Looking at this dress from McQueen's fall 2008 collection, it's obvious. Oh, and this one:
Anyway. Here's Kenley's bridesmaid dress:
Heidi Klum said it was "crazy good."
Leanne's wedding dress was weird and divine; she was inspired by the architecture of waves. Too bad you can't see shit in this picture! (Get a better look here). Nina Garcia, Michael Kors and Heidi Klum all loved Leanne's dress.
Here's Leanne's bridesmaid dress, or what you can see of it.
Oh, Korto. This wedding dress was crazytown. Michael Kors called it overworked, I call it fugly. Sigh.
Korto's bridesmaid dress was grody too.
Here is Jerell's wedding dress. Michael Kors no likey. He thought it was "overwrought." I thought it was sort of a mess.
Heidi Klum called Jerell's bridesmaid dress "mumsy." In a crazy twist, Jerell, who'd actually won two recent challenges, was booted from the competition. As we all know, he showed at Bryant Park anyway, as a decoy. Click here if you want to see his show.
So yes, the final three are women: Leanne, Kenley and Korto. If you want, get a sneak peek of what you'll see next week: Project Runway Fashion Show: Leanne Project Runway Fashion Show: Kenley Project Runway Fashion Show: Korto Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway's Kenley Cries On Regis & Kelly; Gets Group Hug

Dodai — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EDT

The final four contestants from Project Runway appeared on Live With Regis & Kelly this morning, and when producers showed clips of Kenley crying, she, well, cried. Korto tried to soothe her with a little side-hug, but Kelly suggested that all the contestants get a group hug from Regis. Regis (who is clearly not a fan, since during the show he called Jerell "Gerald") did not look thrilled. The designers hugged him anyway! Clip above.

Project Runway: The One Where Everybody Cries

Dodai — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EDT

The challenge for the final four designers on last night's episode of Project Runway was to design an evening gown inspired by nature. There was a field trip to the New York Botanical Garden, and the contestants took pictures of flora. Then the tears started to flow! Kenley cried while talking about growing up on a tugboat, and also, no one would give her any tulle. Leanne cried because she's wanted to show at NY Fashion Week since she was 12, and because she had a lot of work to do. Jerell cried because he was living all alone in an empty apartment in the sky. (He also cried while ironing.) Korto cried because she is married, with a kid, and this is her big chance! On the runway, everyone's dresses were crappy, but the big drama occurred when Heidi Klum asked each contestant why he or she should go to Fashion Week, and which other designers should go. Jerell spoke first, and Kenley totally interrupted him while he was talking. Clip above; hideous dresses after the jump.

Kenley's dress was inspired by purple leaves. Jerell said it looked like "Kenley the dragon slayer" or a "purplezilla costume." Tim Gunn thought the bottom of dress looked like fish scales, which Kenley took as a compliment. I wanted to smack Kenley when she said, "I wasn't going for elegance, Heidi." You do not get snippy with Heidi Klum!

Guest Judge Georgina Chapman (sure, she runs evening gown company Marchesa, but she's also conveniently married to producer Harvey Weinstein!) loved Leanne's gown, which was inspired by a blurry picture of lavender flowers. But Michael Kors thought there was no "joy" in the elaborate ruching.

Michael Kors thought Korto's evening gown contained "every cliché." Nina Garcia seemed angry, and Georgina Chapman looked disappointed.

Jerell was the winner of this challenge, even though his hem was totally unfinished, messy and wonky. Still, his gown inspired by layers of rose petals was one of the better ones on the runway.

So: The "twist" is that all four designers will go home and create collections, even though only 3 will "compete" on the runway at Bryant Park. When I was watching the shows during Fashion Week, I felt sure that the three ladies were the three finalists; now I'm not so sure!

In case you want to see the collections again, find them here:
Project Runway Fashion Show: Jerell
Project Runway Fashion Show: Korto
Project Runway Fashion Show: Leanne
Project Runway Fashion Show: Kenley

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Can Project Runway Be Saved?

Dodai — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:30:00 EDT

Friday night, New York State Supreme Court judge Richard Lowe blocked the Weinstein Co. from moving Project Runway from Bravo to Lifetime. The Weinstein Co. is appealing the decision, so the show could end up at Lifetime after all, but meanwhile: Production on the sixth season of PR has begun. Despite the fact that the show doesn't have a network.

What does this mean for Nina Garcia? For Tim Gunn? For Marie Claire, the magazine taking over the role previously played by Elle on the show? What about guest judge Lindsay Lohan? What about the contestants??? Lately, the show seems a little… uninspired. But the concept: To showcase emerging talent in the fashion world, to give the designers "challenges" in a way that allows the audience to witness a garment go from thought to sketch to runway — is still really powerful entertainment. It's too bad all the product placement and money troubles cloud the vision. Maybe the show should go to a pay channel, like HBO, where, ironically, it could really run free? Let's just say you were Harvey Weinstein: How would you save Project Runway? Do you think it can be saved?

Bad News All Around... [WWD]

Project Runway: Kenley's "Classy, Expensive" Hideous Hip Hop Jeans

Dodai — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EDT

The challenge on last night's episode of Project Runway was insane: The contestants had to design outfits for each other, inspired by musical genres. Kenley's genre was pop. Suede's? Punk. Korto's was country, Leanne's was hip hop, and Jerell's was rock and roll. In the workroom, Tim Gunn approached Kenley with his trademark diplomacy, saying, "Correct me. I'm an old fart." He was concerned about her "hip hop" ensemble. Kenley quickly became a defensive whiney bitch; Tim gave her the talking to we've all been waiting for. It was even more amusing when Jerell was all, "Kenley's ass is ridiculous," and totally agreed with her anytime she asked if anything was "hip hop." (So is a Beastie Boys track called "Sabotage"!) In any case, Kenley was also huffy with Nina Garcia on the runway, and seemed to blame everything besides her own shitty ideas and sewing for her icky high-waisted pants. Plus! She argued with guest judge LL Cool J. About hip hop. Clip above; all of the outfits from the runway after the jump.

Leanne designed this country look for Korto. Nina Garcia didn't love it. Michael Kors thought it was like "a woman going out to eat ribs."

Kenley said, "Being sexed up by Jerell is a little scary." But she looked amazing, when she kept her mouth shut! Coworker Jessica wrote an email to me: "So I was watching with my friend Leah tonight, and she freaked out because Jerrell said his outfit was like the 'budussy cat dolls.' Apparently in and around DC, budussy means a rank combination of butt, dick, and pussy, otherwise known as the 'after sex smell.' I think it got past the censors because they had no idea what it meant." Hahahaha, ew! Anyway, the judges loved this look. Nina Garcia said it was revealing without being trashy, and Michael Kors agreed that it was not "vulgar." Guest judge LL Cool J looked like he wanted to eat Kenley up with a spoon. I liked it without the blue vest but whatevs.

Here is the "hip hop" fiasco that Kenley created for Leanne. Kenley tried to say that hip hop is all about attitude, and Leanne didn't bring any to the runway, and that's why the outfit didn't work. Sure, sure.

Korto was the winner of the challenge with this punk look she designed for Suede. LL thought it was "authentic."

Suede made this "rock and roll" outfit for Jerell, which Nina thought was too safe. She's right: It's rock and roll, but like Lenny Kravitz on laundry day. Suede was auf'd, so we no longer have to hear Suede talk about Suede in the third person. Bye Suede!

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway: Suede's Disaster & Joe's Becky Home Ecky

Dodai — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EDT

The "makeover" challenge on last night's episode of Project Runway involved creating a look for recent college graduates entering the workforce. The young ladies showed up in the workroom with their mothers, which was supposed to bring some mama drama, but, as always, the true tension came from the designers themselves. Kenley talked shit about Suede, declaring his design aesthetic "horrible." Jerell also had nasty things to say about Suede, calling him "so 1992." But things really got ugly when the judges turned on the designs Suede and Joe had created. Guest judge Cynthia Rowley called Suede's garment a "disaster," and Michael Kors proclaimed Joe's pinstriped skirt suit was "full Becky Home Ecky." Clip above; all of the ensembles from the runway after the jump.

Michael Kors thought Leanne's ensemble was old-fashioned, but I thought her little dress/jacket combo was super cute. Maybe the jacket shouldn't have been so boxy?

While creating this dress, Kenley said, "I know I'm gonna be in the top three. I should!" She also proudly explained that she never heeds the advice of wise éminence grise Tim Gunn. Sigh. That said, her Mini-me looked adorable and ridiculously happy in this retro confection.

The judges liked Korto's ensemble. Guest Judge Cynthia Rowley thought that this jacket looked expensive.

Nina Garcia on Suede: "I don't like this kind of printed dresses with this shape of a jacket. I have a lot of problems with this, basically. You know, that's just the tip of the iceberg. I will say no more." Suede: "Ouch." I cannot believe he did not go home.

Jerell was the winner of this challenge. He did make something really elegant, cool and appropriate for his client, but I wish they'd deducted points for that horrid Jolly Green Giant vegetation on his head at the judging. Look for his outfit in Elle magazine.

Did anyone else laugh out loud when Jerell said, "Come on, Joe, you can work on Nancy Regan tomorow?" HA! Joe's clichéd, "out of touch," Becky Home Ecky look sent him home. See ya, Joe!

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Inside The Tent At The Project Runway Fashion Show

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Hey guys: We've got some random shots from inside the tents at the Project Runway fashion show this morning: See Leanne, Jerell, Blayne, Jay McCarroll, Suede and more.

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Earlier: Live From New York: The Project Runway Fashion Show & The Case Of The Missing J. Lo

Project Runway Fashion Show: Leanne

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EDT

Twenty-seven year-old Leanne hails from Yuba City, California, although she was born and raised in Portland. She's a graduate of FIDM in San Francisco and calls her line "Leanimal." When she walked out onto the runway this morning at Bryant Park, it was clear that the crowd loved her: She received a warm round of applause; and people were clapping as her garments came down the catwalk, as well. Her collection — almost entirely in blue and cream — is really in a different league. It's structured, yet ethereal; dreamy, but defined; whimsical yet wearable. She toys with ideas and shapes and repeats themes but twists them so that each piece is completely different, fresh and new. And, in a word: Gorgeous. You know you want to see for yourself! The show starts after the jump.

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Project Runway Fashion Show: Korto

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EDT

Originally from Liberia, Korto went to fashion school in Canada. But now she lives in Little Rock, Arkansas with her husband and daughter. This morning when she presented her collection at Bryant Park, she said she was inspired by nature, and there certainly were a lot of green dresses on the runway. But Korto's genius is in the details, and while you may not be able to tell in the pictures, she folded, pleated and twisted her rich fabrics in interesting ways to create a series of hot, tropical looks. Check it out: The show starts after the jump.

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Project Runway Fashion Show: Kenley

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:40:00 EDT

Twenty-five year-old Kenley from Pompano Beach, Florida is the daughter of a tugboat captain and the youngest of three girls. This morning when presenting her collection at Bryant Park, Kenley said she was inspired by Alice In Wonderland and had designed her "dream wardrobe." She played with ruffles, feathers, color and volume — showing skirts both full and sleek. Quirky party dresses for girls who like to play dress-up! Judge for yourself: The show starts after the jump.

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Project Runway Fashion Show: Joe

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:00:00 EDT

Hailing from Detroit, Michigan and being the show's only straight guy, Joe has actually worked at Bugle Boy and Ralph Lauren. His collection is inspired by "Americana," which means bustiers and skirts in denim and leather, with turquoise belts. Kind of like Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger 16 years ago. Even if his pieces were not terribly innovative, they were quite wearable. The leather bustiers had interesting details. There is a woman who's the perfect audience for some of this stuff, and her name is Jessica Simpson. But that's just my opinion: Judge for yourself. The show starts after the jump!

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Project Runway Fashion Show: Suede

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:20:00 EDT

On the Bravo site, Suede claims his "fashion must" is a "great hoodie." This "edgy" and "alternative" designer from Seven Hills, Ohio presented a collection at Bryant Park this morning that was pretty much just like cotton candy: Sugary, pink and tacky. Some of the ideas — like kicky little car wash skirts or frothy tulle party dresses — were fun, in theory, but none of it seemed to fit or flatter. Judge for yourself: The show starts after the jump.

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Project Runway Fashion Show: Jerell

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EDT

Jerell was the first Project Runway contestant to show a collection this morning at Bryant Park. He is a former model from Houston, Texas, and his collection was sequin-heavy, with layers of sheer tulle. There were some stripes and some jackets that added a military or pirate vibe, but the final gown at the end — a whipped cream confection with yards of tulle peeking from underneath — was the best piece. Judge for yourself: The show begins after the jump!

Photography by Alex Wright.
(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Live From New York: The Project Runway Fashion Show & The Case Of The Missing J. Lo

Dodai — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:20:00 EDT

This is it! The moment every Project Runway designer dreams of: a moment in the spotlight during Fashion Week at NYC's Bryant Park. Who will show a collection? Who is an actual finalist? Who is a decoy? Where is Jennifer Lopez??? The live blog begins after the jump.

8:43: I'm on line. Jennifer & Kelli from the current season came together.

9:08: Rachel Zoe is here of course. At least, I think it's her.

The hair and the big glasses...could be anyone, I guess.
9:09: Here's Heidi's seat:

9:10 I am in the tent in my seat now. I saw Heidi and Michael Kors' seats; they will be facing me so I can see their reactions.
9:11: Breaking rumor: Matt Sullivan says that Jennifer Lopez bailed.
9:13: Ooh, Christian Siriano! He is so wee!
9:15: There's Fern Mallis. She has such groovy glasses.
9:16: A voice keeps repeating: "Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats." But there's so much hubbub.
9:17: Christian just took a pic with a little girl who looks to be about 6 years old. I could die...so cute.
9:18: The usher who showed me my seat said, "I love Jezebel".
9:18: I see Jay McCarroll.
9:19: STELLA!
9:20: She is wearing a leather top and skirt, very retro. But studded.
9:21: Um, Rachel Zoe IS here, but it's not the person I thought it was.
9:22: Okay, the rumor is confirmed: No Jennifer Lopez. We're supposed to call her publicist if we want a statement.
9:23: Aw, Michael Kors' mom in front row. Harvey Weinstein is sitting between Rachel Zoe and Fern Mallis.
9:24: Tabitha from Shear Genius is in the front row too. Go, Bravo, go.
9:25: Michelle Trachtenberg in front row. I think I see Korto's family!
9:28: I see Blayne in a black turtleneck sitting in second row with Terri, Stella, Keith & other eliminated designers.
9:30: Okay, Padma Lakshmi just sat next to Christian Siriano, who is next to Rachel Zoe, who is next to Harvey Weinstein. Is Padma the J. Lo replacement? That would be okay by me!

Nina Garcia and Michael Kors walked out. Applause!
9:33: Nina, Michael and Heidi - who came out of nowhere - stood at the end of runway for pictures.

Judith Light in front row.

The lights went down!

9:34: Heidi came out and said 'welcome'. She is wearing a green, tight dress.

9:35: Just spotted Chris March.

9:36: Heidi is saying "We had a great 5 years at Bravo and thank you for putting this show on your network...it's come to an end. She is thanking the magical elves the production company.

She introduced Nina and Michael and gave Harvey a kiss.

9:39: She says Jennifer Lopez had a foot inury so she could not be here.

The guest judge is Tim Gunn!

He promises not to have any bias.

9:40: Okay, Jerell is the first out. He thanks his mom and dad and his boyfriend.

His first dress is glittery and strapless.

9:42: Next dress is sleeveless and black lace.

9:43: More sequins, more sheer, with a pirate chic aesthetic. And by that, I mean, stripes.

9:44: Gold lame dress is fug.

9:46: He layered sequins over sequins. :(

9:47: This ballgown is nice!

Okay, that show is over. Nina is frowning.

9:48: Well now she is smiling. So tricky, that one!

Okay, now Suede is out. I can't believe he is showing. Is he a decoy?

Suede's gonna rock it, he just said.

9:49: Apparently his Mohawk matches the clothes or some shit.

Plaid dress.

9:50: Dress with silver sequins on top and multicolored tulle on bottom.

Candy pink.

9:51: Braided dress with car wash skirt.

Bustier with trousers.

9:52: This one blue dress has a thread hanging from it. If I can see it from the 7th row then Nina can see it.

9:53: Okay, the wedding dress (???) is kind of adorable. Overall, everything was pink and blue and shimmery and tacky like cotton candy.

9:54: Okay, JOE is on the runway. He is the token straight guy. I did not think he would be here.

9:56: He says his collection is "Americana". The first piece is a brown leather bustier with a denim skirt, kinda Ralph Lauren.

9:57: A denim bustier and leather jeans.

9:58: A really pretty floral strapless dress.

...A midnight blue slipdress with stars embroidered on it.

9:59: A black leather bustier with a red quilted skirt; actually quite nice!

10:00: Nina and Michael having heated discussion.

Okay, that one is done.

10:01: Kenley is out. She says she was inspired by Alice in Wonderland and made her dream wardrobe.

10:02: The first piece is a strapless dress long in front, short in back.

The models have feathers in their hair.

10:03: Bubble hem party dress in blue.

...strapless dress with huge tulle skirt.

10:04: Black sheath with feather collar.

10:05: Peach swingy dress with embroidered flowers.

10:06: The last dress is a cream, feathery tulle ballgown like a wedding dress from Swan Lake. This is the best so far.

10:07: It's over. Korto came out! She says her collection is inspired by nature. "Everyone knows I'm from Africa."

10:08: But she says Arkansas has beautiful landscapes too.

10:09: First dress is a vivid teal stretch column.

...the next is neutral and more voluminous.

...the next is super short, bright green.

10:10: A lot of pleating details.

10:11: Another short green dress with interesting neckline. Fabric is folded and pleated and twisted.

10:12: Overall, it was hot and tropical and pretty.

10:13: Korto walked the runway with her daughter, aww.

10:14: Next is Leanne.

10:15: She says she has lost millions of hours of sleep over this collection.

10:16: Leanne's first dress got applause. Cream on top, blue on bottom, exquisitely pleated and folded.

She has skirts with oddly-shaped pleats and huge collars like folded paper. But everything is soft and dreamy.

10:17: One dress has a different color on the inside of the pleats. So when it moves you see flashes of color.

10:18: The last cream colored gown is divine. She is clearly the crowd favorite.

10:20: Okay, so Heidi says guess what? That was it! Now I have to try and get out of here so I can go home and put up all the photos of the runway looks. See you guys in a bit.

Project Runway: A One-Legged Monster & A Voodoo Princess In Hell

Dodai — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EDT

I'll be the first to admit I was drunk when watching last night's episode of Project Runway. Blame Anna. But you didn't have to be under the influence to feel like you were tripping out of your mind: The show was straight up Crazytown. The "special guests" were eliminated designers from earlier in the season. I'd totally forgotten about that Asian guy! And the challenge was for the contestants to work with their former rivals, in teams of two, on an avant garde look based on one team member's astrological sign. It only got trippier when the designers had to take their ensembles to a party at the planetarium. In any case, the judging after the runway show was a big ol' mess, with two designers getting eliminated. Michael Kors hated Blayne's "Libra" outfit in which his model was "pooping fabric." And Kors really hated Terri's dress, which he dubbed "Voodoo Princess In Hell." Even the model wearing the garment was offended by that. Clip above; all of the outfits from the runway after the jump.

Suede and Jerry worked on this hideous "Libra" outfit.

Leanne and Emily designed this "Scorpio" ensemble together, and seemed to "get" the concept of "avant garde."

Korto and Kelly made this beautiful "Aquarius" dress that was even prettier in the back.

Joe and Daniel worked on this volcanic "Aries" gown, which actually is not terrible, considering the competition.

There was a part in the episode when Kenley said, "I'm just having fun and some girls don't like that." But what Kenley needs is a heaping spoonful of shut the fuck up. She is so argumentative on the runway, it's embarrassing. Because it's ultimately disrespectful! Anyway, this dress is "Aquarius." See the water-bearer influence? Me neither. Unless the sleeves are canteens.

Jerell and Jennifer worked together on this "Sagittarius" outfit. See the arrow in her hair? Previous ProjRun contestants picked this as the winner. Desperate times.

Blayne's garment is like a Cirque du Soleil performer had a terrible accident and fell in a vat of cotton candy. Bye, bye, Blayne.

I actually liked Terri's "Leo" ensemble better when it had a fur collar on it, but maybe that's because I like The Wiz. So long, Terri. Ease on down the road.

Note: I'll be liveblogging the Project Runway Fashion Show from the Tent at Bryant Park tomorrow morning! I don't know which contestants are showing collections, but they always throw in some decoys. Stay tuned…

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway: Kenley Sobs, Then Declares: "I Pretty Much Nailed It!"

Dodai — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EDT

The challenge on last night's episode of Project Runway was to create something for fashion legend Diane von Furstenberg. Of course, challenges are never easy or product placement-free, so Marlene Dietrich's 1948 film A Foreign Affair was involved. (The winning ensemble will be sold exclusively to American Express cardholders, since AmEx sponsors ProjRun. Didn't you catch the two AmEx commercials — featuring Diane von Furstenberg — and the same fabric Korto used on her dress — during the show?) Anyway. There were two themes in this episode, one of which was picking on Terri. Blayne said something about how he wasn't going to design "another pair of pants like somebody else does." Then he wiggled his eyebrows. Joe called Terri a "One-trick pony." Theme two involved Kenley's delicate psyche. She spent most of the challenge crying, only to act completely self-inflated and argumentative on the runway. Clip above; all of the ensembles after the jump.

Coming down the runway, I thought Blayne's knickers looked a little insayne.

Korto's pop of yellow: Divine. The judges approved. Diane von Furstenberg was eyeing it like she wanted to add it to her collection, for real.

Somehow this cobbled-together Frock De Fug™ didn't get Suede kicked off. Michael Kors was all, "Did she get dressed in the dark?" Notice how Suede does not speak of himself in the third person on the runway? Suede knows better.

Jerell loves jaunty little hats. Maybe he's inspired by the Summer 1986 International Male? In any case, this ensemble was a wee awkward, no?

Terri, Terri, Terri. I am rooting for you! Step it up! This was meh.

Here is Kenley's dress. The dress that drove her to tears! The dress she argued and fought for on the runway. Yawn.

Leanne was the winner of this challenge. She did a cutesy little spy thing in the workroom, and it wasn't even annoying. Her midnight blue gown is totally Dietrich — and the ruffles on the back are exquisite.

I hated, hated Joe's Shanghai surprise. The back was jacked up beyond belief. The good news is that it looked better on the runway than it did in the workroom, where the top was a belly shirt. Joe very nearly went home. I really thought he would.

It was Stella who was sent home. As CDFA prez Fern Mallis said, "Stella was not stellar." The best was when Stella was auf'd: She said, "My ego was way to big to be here anyway." Wait, what? Oh, well. She and Ratbones will live happily leather after.

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway: Gay Mormon Meltdown

Dodai — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Last night's Project Runway started on a high-larious note, when Kenley said she was sad that Daniel was gone because he was her "best friend." Honey, you laughed him off the runway! On to the challenge: Cars, aka product placement HELL. Fat little Saturn hybrids were stuffed with car parts and the designers had to create "innovative" garments from carburetors and seat belts. Raise your hand if you'd rather just sit through additional commercials. This crap has zero effect on my vehicular buying habits, marketing people. Zero! Anyway, I laughed when Terri was like, "I don't have a blow torch." I also laughed when Jerrell said of Terri: "She has 2 faces and 4 patterns. Don't trust the bitch." But the high(low)light of the episode was when Keith The Gay Mormon had a total meltdown. It started in the sewing room; he got agitated at a machine. Then he snapped at a model. Then, during the runway critique, it all came crashing down. Clip above, and all the ensembles from the runway, after the jump.

Terri's outfit: Inspired by Stella?

Stella's outfit: Inspired by a Ramones tea party? It was funny when Michael Kors said, "This does look a little random," and Stella said, "Thank you."

Special guest judge and rumored gelfling Rachel Zoe (again: product placement HELL! She has a new show on Bravo) really really wanted Korto's elegant seat belt coat. How come Korto always looks so depressed on the runway?

Kenley's handmade zebra print kept her safe, despite the fact that her model dropped out at the last minute (this is a replacement model, heh).

The judges really loved Jerrell's bustier, which was made from car seats turned inside out to the suede side and dashboard panels. It reminded me of the Thierry Mugler motorcycle bustier seen in George Michael's 1992 video "Too Funky". Which is to say: I liked it.

There was a moment in this episode when Suede said, "I have blisters from sewing rubber." He totally forgot to call himself Suede! Therefore I can admit that I love this flashy little party dress. Perfect for New Year's Eve!

Joe's motocross mini: Meh.

Despite making an ill-fitting dress embellished by a broken mirror that Heidi Klum swears will give him "seven years no sex," Blayne lives to licious another day. Sigh.

Leanne was the winner of the challenge with this Balenciaga-esque frock. Rachel Zoe thought Leanne could take the dress "straight to Paris."

Is Keith The Gay Mormon frustrated because he's gay and Mormon? Because he can't get out of Utah? His crying jag at the end of the ep was truly painful. But clearly he's got issues. Did you hear him talk to his model? "Did you sit down? Did you sit down? I knew you were gonna sit down." Keith was auf'd for this hideosity, which was much, much worse from the back. But he was probably also eliminated because he's so frustrated. Good luck, Keith.

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]

Project Runway: Hiding Your Candy Is Such A Drag

Dodai — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EDT

Last night's episode of Project Runway featured special guest star former contestant Chris March dressed like a disco Valkyrie. The challenge: To design a look for a drag queen. And the larger than life personalities took over! Annida Greenkard! Hedda Lettuce! Sherry Vine! The contestants had a $200 budget, and the ensembles were to raise money for Broadway Cares AIDS charity. Token straight guy Joe seemed flummoxed by his client, Varla Jean Merman, especially when she took off her bangs right in front of him. But he ended up turning out a dragtastic candy-pink sailor number that the judges loved, and special guest judge RuPaul found perfect for "hiding the candy." Clip above, and all of the ensembles from the runway, after the jump.

Suede's ensemble for Hedda Lettuce involved lots of drama, but hello, drag queens! The whole thing about his grandfather spreading seeds on the outfit and planting baby lettuce creeped me out, to be honest.

Kenley's Old Hollywood getup was Mae West-esque. Not terribly innovative, but befitting her client.

I am not a fan of Jerrell's color choices. This is the second time he has used putrid green and I find it nauseating. Poor LeMay looked puketastic.

Leanne's techno paper airplane thingie was okay, I guess. Whatevs.

The judges thought Keith's "wookie onsie" looked like a "sad chicken" or a "puzzle."

Stella does what Stella does best: Grommets.

Blayne's outfit made me sing, "Take… these broken wings… and learn to fly again, learn to live so free…"

I quite liked Korto's hot flash woman. Those sculptural flames are awesome.

You guys, Terri was robbed. ROBBED. I thought this was epic. Amazing. Mythic. Blade Runner meets Galliano. McQueen on acid. J'adore!

Joe was the winner of the challenge. Even though I liked Terri's outfit better, I did think Joe's client looked great and seemed super happy. Plus, there's a kind of beautiful irony in the straight guy winning the drag challenge. Congrats!

So long, Daniel. We'll miss you and your exquisite taste.

Project Runway Season 5 [Bravo]