By CJ Bomb (and Leslie)
This is it. The end. No more twists, no more twits, just four designers putting out collections that reflect who they are and what they want to say. It was a doozy people. Les was away earlier this week so she is at home texting me and I am coming in from an art show to kick my family out of the room so I can scream at the TV watch in peace. Each designer is so different, it really is going to be a matter of taste. Each designer truly deserves to be here. Even though we may not want to wear their styles, we can appreciate what they do.
It’s very hard to watch Kenya walk off again. The designers re-enter the workroom and Kentaro is chanting “cohesion, cohesion, cohesion” like a mantra. He says he feels as though he already lost, so that just frees him up to go for it and do what he wants to do. I text Les: Is this foreshadowing? She thinks the foreshadowing is Brandon taking a quick nap. Margarita seems a bit annoyed by the judges. She says, “RESORT-Y???? That’s who I am!!! It’s what I do!” Ayana thinks if she can just nail down the details and get the fit right she’s got it in the bag.
We simultaneously text we are worried about Margarita’s family because of Irma. On the phone they tell her they will swim to NYC if they have too. Obviously she had no idea how terrible it was going to be (none of us did) but we are worried about her losing focus. She felt she was attacked in the preview runway rather than receiving constructive criticism. Tim tells her is is about the prints and to own it. She wants to add MORE, not take things away. Tim tells her to go full throttle tropical. Les is worried about this. I tell her that there is no way in hell she’s winning this thing so she might as well go balls to the wall and get FREAKY tropical. Why not?
Ayana is coming up with some more avant garde hijabs for the models to wear. Tim is confident. She is confident. All is well in Ayana land. He asks Brandon what he took away from judging and Brandon says he needs to trust his gut instincts. We agree with Liris that Brandon doesn’t really have a WOW moment. Tim tells him to stay on his path. This seems to be the trend advice-wise. Kentaro is editing like a crazy man. Tim asks if he knows what he’s doing as he’s also making a new look and also has lots of fittings. He tells Tim he can make it work.
The next day Kentaro says AGAIN that he feels Ayana or Brandon will win so he’s just going to do what he wants. FORESHADOWING?? They show highlights from each of the designer’s wins and top looks and we are reminded of how much we liked this season. I’m reminded of that incredible coat Brandon did with the black dress. Kentaro’s red gown and Ayana’s double avant-garde/unconventional awesomeness. And the AMAZING shirtdress Margarita made. She’s left shirtdresses behind and has gone into serious “fuck it” mode. Her plus size model is going to rock a reveal AND a bathing suit. Les says: oh my. Rock it Mami…. Brandon is happy, confident and overall thankful for everything. Watching Margarita help Kentaro with his polaroids and the order of his looks was sweet. We are happy the assholes have left the room. We like that they like each other and respect each other’s work. Refreshing and nice. There is a commercial for all-stars and it shows everyone fighting like crazy. I guess the asylum will be back to normal for this upcoming season. Everyone packs up for tomorrow.
Runway Day
Okay, good space, Project Runway. The designers are excited and nervous. Backstage all hell is breaking loose. Fuses are blowing, irons and steamers aren’t working. Tim tells Margarita her family is trying desperately to get there. Ayana has lost a ruffle and frantic sewing ensues. Thank GOD Kentaro has dropped the samurai makeup. We are really liking his collection.
Ok, Heidi. We need to have a talk. You are a beautiful woman. We are all in agreement on this. I have told you this before and I will tell you again. At some point GRAVITY IS GOING TO BECOME A FACTOR BOOB-WISE. I ask Leslie if Heidi is catching a time portal after this runway to film a Van Halen video in 1984. Seriously. She’s wearing what the girls who were into metal at my high school (IN THE EIGHTIES) were wearing to prom. The bow, the purple glitter, the open back….Les texts: Too short, too plunging and too much color. Heidi, please look at Nina’s boobs; nice cleavage but contained with no sag. You are two years younger than me and we both have kids. It’s time sister. Jessica Alba is the guest judge. The eliminated contestants arrive. The twits are there?? WTF?? Doesn’t getting caught cheating eliminate you from everything? (according to next week’s preview apparently not).
Margarita is first and her collection is called “Fish out of Water.” Her culture is her inspiration. Leslie still wants to order the navy top that goes with the pants I’m having made for Tamara and Mark but this collection is VERY bright. It’s too much for me but Les points out that she stayed true to herself and it has a lot of variety. Jazzmine rips off her sarong and people go batshit crazy applauding. It was a very cool moment and she rocked it. Margarita went for it and it shows. Well done chica.
Brandon’s collection is called “Layers of Love” which was inspired by his girlfriend Dina. Collective awwwwww. We love the shapes and it’s very cool but the fabric has made it too uniform- something that would seem impossible to do with his work. I text Les that I wish that all these layers were in black, white and khaki with maybe a pop of color along the way. She agrees and says the fabric takes away the drama and innovation of the shapes for her. This is not a great runway show for Brandon.
Kentaro on the other hand…. Kentaro says this wasn’t about winning or losing, but showing something beautiful. He was inspired by Japan and composed the music to go with the collection. We think uh-oh…but it sounds beautiful and LOOKS beautiful. He DID do neutrals with color. The first look is dramatic. I text Leslie that the red looks are giving me life. She thinks is is very McQueen: bondage and ethereal at the same time. I’m now obsessed with the white dress AND the last look. I LOVE this. Well done sir. This was a show. This was what I wanted from Brandon (I have to remind myself he’s only 24).
Ayana says her collection is entitled “Evolution” and it’s inspired by her personal journey. Les texts me that she isn’t feeling it. I write back that I don’t love the shiny tunics as they are highlighting parts of the model (or any woman) that aren’t very flattering. After look three it improves tremendously. Those jeans are killer. Leslie thinks the color palette is very blah. The last dress, however, is one of the best things I have ever seen on this show. Les agrees; it is STUNNING. That could be in W or Vogue- screw Marie Claire.
We discuss who we think is going to win. Les thinks it might be between Margarita and Brandon. I tell her that if Brandon had mixed up the fabric it would have been a no-brainer but I’m not feeling this. I think he has incredible talent but it didn’t resonate here. She says that Kentaro’s amazing avant-garde vibe might pull him through. We both agree Ayana will not win. We really don’t know how this is going to go. I tell her she has to decide and she says, if thrown to the wall, Kentaro. Then Brandon, Margarita and then Ayana. She says this is only with a knife to her throat. I ask her what the hell sort of 50 Shades of Buckhead is going on over there? I’m picking Kentaro for the win. Nothing exciting is going on a my house so I’m not picking the rest of the places because I truly have no idea.
The Judging
We still cannot get over Heidi’s droopy boobs. Les says Nina never looks bad which is why she has two of her books and none of Heidi’s. I guess they convinced Jessica Alba to do this so she could plug her Honest products company. They don’t even bother with a real commercial. Just Jessica randomly applying makeup. And in another coincidence, Zac is wearing HK men’s underwear. Which he shows to Heidi. Are we done plugging people?
The judges are all in agreement that Ayana’s final gown was breathtaking. Zac loves that she shows that modest clothing can still be cutting edge, cool and seductive. Nina loved the collection but wishes there had been more color. Jessica thought the tailoring was exquisite and wonderful she was able to honor her culture this way. Zac points out that you wouldn’t even know that this was a factor. Heidi says the first three looks were a throwaway for her (one of the few times I agree with Heidi) but she LOVED the modest dresses and that is saying something as Heidi likes to show a lot of skin (ANOTHER one of the few times I agree with Heidi).
Nina tells Margarita that there was so much passion, energy and color in her collection and Zack says is was spectacular and joyous. Jessica thought it was fun, sexy and sensual and loves that she celebrated her Latina background. She also points out that there were flowy pieces and very tailored pieces. Heidi loves the glitter and feathers. She says she might as well be a Latina. I wish they had panned to Nina’s face. She can tell it was a lot of work and tells Margarita it paid off. Nina says that even though at points it was a bit much, Jazzmine whipping off that skirt was an amazing runway moment and Jazzmine says it was awesome to get the response she did as a plus size model.
Nina tells Kentaro that you know when a runway is incredible, it is either very loud and full of applause, or people get very quiet. Heidi, keeping it classy, tells him: you could have heard a mouse fart. She says it was stunning, beautiful and different and she loved it from beginning to end. Even the silhouette of the first look before it came out had them intrigued. Nina KNEW he had it in him and is completely blown away. Zac says he didn’t love the two red looks next to each other and the other three interject to tell him he’s an idiot. He does say that it blew his socks off and it was an excellent collection, the likes of which he had never seen. Jessica thought it was poetic.
Jessica thinks Brandon’s looks are refined streetwear with a feminine edge. Zac says the shapes and looks were very strong but he was missing a variation of fabrication. Heidi agrees, saying she loved it but it needed more color. He tries to explain that designers he loves do a similar thing in a 30+ look collection, but Nina tells him in a ten look collection he needs to amp it up. She does say it was interesting and cohesive and she loves his signature details. I’m realizing Brandon is 9 years older than my oldest son. Let’s just says he’s very young rather than me being very old.
There is a sweet moment where Liris cries, telling the judges how appreciative she is that Project Runway highlighted all body shapes this season. She notes that Fashion Week is not normally part of a plus-size model’s career and she hopes that this will be the fulcrum for that change. This woman is a supermodel.
Heidi asks each designer why they should win. Ayana wants to be a leader for the modest market. Margarita thinks she has an edge business wise and will have a long career with this kick-start. Brandon is very sure of the clothes he wants to make and who he is designing for and Kentaro just wants “to share his stories.”
Margarita is let go first but there is a wonderful surprise waiting for her as her parents are there to console and congratulate her. It was a lovely moment. So glad they are safe. Brandon is let go next and he cries in his disappointment and apologizes for letting everyone down. His girlfriend and family comfort him and assure him they are very proud. It is down to Kentaro and Ayana. Kentaro wins!! Wow! Did not see that coming. Les says we got it right even though it was a tough puzzle. We wish great things for all of these people. Kentaro’s family comes out and in a Monty Python moment his father fall off the stage. Did they really have to show that?? He recovers and awkwardly hugs his son. His mother is smiling and wearing a glorious kimono. Obviously very traditional and reserved but also proud. He gets a lifetime supply of pens and A TRIP TO JAPAN! That’s like telling me, A TRIP TO CONNECTICUT! Maybe they can switch it to another country….
Well I’m spent. I do think the right person won and we were impressed by all of the collections even if we wouldn’t wear some of it. I think we had better challenges this year and hopefully this will be a new leaf in terms of bringing Project Runway back to the glory days. One can dream. Thank you all for reading us and we hope to see you soon. We will try and get a guest to come and recap the follow-up show in which the twins rear their ugly heads once more reminding us why gimmicky casting and unnecessary drama suck. Do you think the right person won? Can’t wait to hear…..until then xoxo Court and Les.
*deep breath* Where do I start…?
1. I told you so.
2. Haha, I told you… I jest, let’s get serious. 😉
My initial thoughts going into this were, ugh, lacklustre series. Margarita = bleugh, Kentaro = crazy and is possibly going to be a shitstorm, Ayana has nice tailoring and the concept is quite “of the current climate” or whatever and everyone bloody loves Brandon (Obv in different ways from me) so one of them will win. Thank god, for the first time I’ve been commenting here the judges agreed with ME! Kentaro and Ayana were the clear top two. Lets start with the worst:
Margarita:
1. Eugh.
2. Ugh.
3. Childrens clothing that children shouldn’t even wear.
4. If I were a judge I would have said, “Oh, Sweetie. Just go and make sure your family is OK. That’s more important than being in the bottom. Just go. Now.”
Brandon:
1. Still don’t see it.
2. Seemed to struggle even with Goddess Lyris of Themiscyra.
3. OK I’ll appreciate he has a “look.” I’ll give you that. To be fair he could have pulled it off had he showcased some different silhouettes and didn’t use sundamaged curtains for the entire collection.
Ayana:
1. Knew she had some good ideas.
2. Did not expect her to pull it off like that.
3. Stunning, bar one or two pieces.
4. DAT FINALE DRESS THO. OMG.
Now on to Kentaro. He don’t get no numerics. He gets a blurb, because he basically singlehandedly saved this entire season for me and made sure I will watch in the future.
Don’t get me wrong here. I’m still not convinced he is not a tiny serial killer. But the boy made me FEEL.
Yes, that’s right. I basically hate everything, everyone, and the concept of emotions in general. And as I said I was fully expecting a shitshow. What happened was me, sitting here with a glass of Chablis, almost WELLING UP. The only word I could use to describe it: Haunting.
So, in summary, the judges agreed with me, my opinion is best, I am the true winner of Project Runway and I should take over from Zac Posen and his creepy little smile. You’re welcome.
*fin*
Also please recap the finale. Gimmegimmegimme.
I think YOU should join the two ladies and recap!!! It would be epic. Please
Get your own blog Mark.
Mark, sundamaged curtains sums up Brandon’s collection. I think Ayana’s final look stunned everyone. Wow. Glad that the little serial killer won, he did have the most interesting collection.
Sorry Mark, but the true winner of the season was Liris Crosse. She is a superstar!
This season was a real joy (minus the twins) and the outcome was perfect. All of the finalists deserved to be at NYFW. And as a wonderful bonus, they were all really nice people.
One other thing to add…
Where the hell was Tim at the very end? His absence was strange. Or did I just not notice him?
This is true. To me Liris is a true model. She big? Model. She skinny? She’d still be a model. She is not a “plus sized” model because she’s plus sized like so many are. She is a plus sized model because she’s a MODEL.
That bitch is the one designers want in their SHIT clothes because they know she would make the clothes look good. Shes a chunky Naomi. She will blow up because of this, i guarantee it.
Oh, and the combination of Liris and Kenya, the only person who could apparently dress plus size ladies? Fuck me. I was pretty sure I was a gold star gay until I saw that. I’m just saying. ?
Marry me!!!! Lol! Seriously. This is why I like it here. Kindred spirits.
Enjoyed your entertaining, detailed recaps all season!
You were right, I was wrong. Thought for sure it would be Ayana first (for catering to a huge, untapped market, for her stunning dress and for that cool denim outfit, despite the few unattractive looks); then Brandon (since his consistent, youth-targeted, unique designs were hurt by the blah repetitive print); then Kentaro; then Margarita.
I still can’t believe Kentaro won. I especially loved his short red and black dress, and the music was riveting (even knowing the dead cat inspiration), but I thought the judges still would fault him for lack of cohesion. Margarita helping him set the order may have made the difference.
Margarita redeemed herself in my book. After several episodes of nastiness and narcissism, her compassion and humility started to shine. The wow moment deserved the standing O (but I respectfully caution against saying “Rock it Mami” –though maybe it’s just me).
Wish you two would cover the reunion! It’s in two weeks. We’ll be craving your take on the twins and the fallout from TapeGate, and more.
Ha! That was supposed to read “Rock it Miami” – ”twas very late 🙂
Ohhh! When I googled the word to see if it meant what I thought it might, the first option autcorrected to Miami– after all the “Do NY, not Miami” warnings to Margarita, I should’ve figured that’s what you meant.
Yes – When I read CJBomb’s recap and saw Mami – I thought – Oh Shit! I would never say that unless it was quoting from a movie like Gone With The Wind. So when I re-read it today, I realized it was missing a significant “i”.
O for fucksake! Mami has nothing to do with Gone with the wind. Have you never listened to any Latino music in your life? Mami is a term of endearment for a sexy woman.
Well then in that case I totally meant it that way 😉
You both can do no wrong. Come back for the reunion and PR All Star. Please bring Mark with you.
Mark will NOT be recapping.
I have noted that your “kindred spirit” is the guy who talks about being a sexual predator though.
Wow! I missed the sexual predator element of what he said. I can be naive in assuming most people are harmless as i am. I also believe having come to your space for years you limit people’s access to posting if they were saying things that were harmful. So I thought if i can see what he is writing you approved him. Anyways I hope I haven’t caused offense.
I’m all sweetness and light, promise. I just don’t appreciate random telling me to “go look up words.
Like bitch please. Save your condescending attitude for someone else. I am NOT the one. Sorry if I offended a snowflake ffs. ?
I don’t really give a shit if you tangle with commenters. But it’s the more serious posts that we unfortunately have going on right now where your dick twirling is offensive and just not the time for it.
Also I’m super snowflakey with all of this me too shit going on. Like not doing well. So just try to behave for a few days, Mark. TIA.
Consider my behaviour curtailed, Tamara. For a few days. 😉
I promise I’ll be good.
Yes the right person won. Kentaro’s collection was breathless. The collection was advanced and sophisticated IMO.
Brandon’s collection was the product of not being critiqued effectively by the judges during the season. They liked everything he did. He had no reason to push himself. His collection did not feel like it was part of NYFW. It just didn’t translate well on my screen.
Thank you CJ Bomb and Leslie for the great recaps.
Satisfying season coupled with your spectacular recaps makes me sad this is over.
Margarita celebrating PR couldnt be more timely, and I loved show. Exhuberant!
Ayana’ first three looks, yuk, but after that, stunning and so thoughtful.
How sad for Brandon that he inspired the others to step it up, and yet he rested on his triumphs. But we will see more of him, for sure.
Kentaro’s looks were ethereal and do tell a story. The shapes were, indeed, lyrical. He deserved the win.
Agree on why PR had to show his poor dad falling off the stage.
I know. Couldn’t they have edited that out?
CJ you hit it out of the ballpark with your recap. What a fantastic writer you are. Sew creative! You clearly are the winner.
Thank you both for the great recaps. I haven’t watched the episode yet. I’m happy to hear Kentaro won. I started watching mid-season and the first design I saw if his was the beautiful red dress. He’s been my pick ever since. Brandon’s designs were above my head so I was never a fan.
Hi Daintyfeets. Hope you are doing well. Glad to see you up and commenting.
Good thoughts always. ??
I loved Margarita’s collection but not so impressed with Brandon’s. I loved Ayana’s collection, but I am a little tired of the idea that a modesty collection is specifically meant to target Muslim women. Not all of us are Heidis. Some of us actually want to cover up a little. I thought Kentaro was the clear winner. He composed the music for his show, and that really added something to his show. He clearly is more artistic than the rest of them and although I would not wear all of his stuff, I think it was great.
Yeah, I noticed the boob drop on Heidi. The woman might want to consider covering up. Yes, I know she is a super model, but she ain’t a young chick anymore. Frankly, I am getting tired of Heidi.
Thank you so much for doing these recaps. I always watch this show alone and wish I had a Leslie to share thoughts with. Reading your recaps always help.
Thanks!!!
So sweet! I’m lucky to have CJBomb as a good friend and close neighbor with similar passions.
Recap was on point. Both Anaya and Brandon suffered from fabric choices. I think Brandon’s youth worked against him. He really didn’t think runway and the effect of repetition. Using the same color palette and similar style made it seem like oatmeal. I hated Anayas ruffly dresses, the color choices and poor fit on some garments. Margarita was a surprise. I thought it would be gaudy, but it really was fun. Loved her yellow fish dress and the swimsuit. Kentaro had some real winners. Held my breath when the music started, praying he would keep the dead cat story to himself
LOL – I think the cat story had autocorrected itself bc the music didn’t seem anything like what we heard on the Tim Gunn visit.
Thank you for the great recap. Thank goodness I have the recap since during the show, I’m wondering if the twins are talking through the whole thing annoying people around them.
Thanks again for a great season of recaps. ??
I think the twins just being there was annoying!
I am good with the outcome.
Thanks so much for the narrative!!!
I did manage to stay unspoiled. I record Project Runway on Thursday nights.
I watch the repeat show, erase that wretched person who inserts herself into the show, watch the little recap episodes.. Last night that was the last 10 winners.. which was fine other than Gretchen and Erin of the bananas.
Then I was the new episode.
The reunion could be good.
Margarita did not surprise me except there was something missing. I had hoped for flowing subtle printed dress or two as statement pieces. She is ready to open a small boutique .
Brandon’s outfits might be on point but with the same print I lost the design and just saw a flock of flamingos coming at me.
Ayana’s first three outfits took her out of contention especially looks two and three. She might become a younger Vera Wang of gowns if she were to specialize. Awesome last dress.
Kentaro is who I thought might win if he designed from his heart and could edit himself. He did and his collection is what I want to watch on a runway.
Had Brandon tossed in a statement piece in a solid color and used a few solid colors, teal or black or ? I think his designs might had stood out.
I don’t recall one of his outfits in full except a few of his details.
CJ & Leslie I learned to accept and appreciate you two, now don’t abandon us with one show left.
Either way, I enjoyed your witty insightful, unapologetic recaps.
Best finale in years! I was able to watch the entire episode w/o having to ff.
Kentaro was gracious throughout the competition and deserved to win but…..why did Tim not come out and congratulate him ? It seemed odd to me.
On another note…Kentaro’s family….so beautiful with the traditional garb.
Dad’s stumble should have been edited out.
Brandon’s sobbing at the end had me cringing and feeling sorry for him at the same time.
Awesome recap CJ. As soon as I saw Kentaro’s show, I told myself that he won. It was pure artistry. I loved Brandon’s looks, but the color palette messed him up. Ayanna, after the first 3 looks, beautiful. I loved the casual, and especially the ruffly dresses. I didn’t like how modesty was only equated to Islam by the spectator and judges. There is a modesty market out there, I’m sure it’s not always based on religion. Ayanna’s finale dress, pure art. Margarita shocked me. I liked many of her looks. It was colorful but not tacky. The feather appliques, eh no. But overall good show for her. This finale was much better than last year. The Applique Queen wouldn’t have made it to the finals this year.
Margarita and Jazzmine won it for me! Kentaro’s was good but the dead cat story has me on the serial killer train with Mark.
I agree that Brandon was done a disservice by not getting any constructive criticism from the judges all season. They blew him full of compliments and he was just sure he had won halfway through the competition.
Ayana’s dress was stunning.
I can’t believe we have the twits back next week. Thanks Lady C for getting the post up in the wee hours. And to CJ and Les for the awesome recaps all season.
I hope there are fights with the twins next week.
Somehow having Kentato’s designs on JC Penny in cheap fabric for $32-35 is heartbreaking
Exactly my thought. I shudder to think what JCPennys is going to do to his meticulously crafted clothes. I could look them up online but I don’t want to see it. What a horrible twist of fate for a new designer.
Ayana’s stuff looked JCPennys-ready to me.
I just watched the finale On Demand, and then looked up the Kentaro-inspired clothes on JCP. I only recognized the transparent pleated maxi skirt and a red top. The rest of the clothes would be a stretch describing as inspired by Kentaro’s clothes. Disappointed in the selection. But I didn’t expect much being that it was JCP.
Brandon was told far too many times how great he was and his collection was evidence of an overconfident designer. He showed Tim the tank top he was working on for Liris with such pride; it was sad. He even admits to the judges that he made the same looks like other fashion runways he has seen. Ouch. Brandon got his first taste of constructive criticism from the judges at the time when the winner is crowned. I thought I saw the same look walk down the runway twice. I was too bored to rewind and find out. Maybe this is the season that will end the crop top,… please.
Margarita had a couple of pieces that were good and a nice roaring wow factor. Will this collection get her the recognition she needs? I don’t think it will. However, I’m glad she got to show and like Kenya, i hope she connects with the right people to help polish who she is as a designer. I think she can transition beach wear to New York street wear. Her collection was stuck in the 70s.
Ayana lost when the 1st look, apron, appeared on the runway. Then the fabric choice for many of her looks was horrible. Loved, loved her final look. It was fabulous. She has a great voice and I think she will expand beyond the limits of modest wear.
I like to apologize to Kentaro. I wrote him off. He delivered and perfected his music for a great runway. He stayed true to himself. His critiques were tough which gave him the momentum to be creative and take huge risks. I’m happy for him and I loved his family.
I am looking forward to the reunion and the next season of all stars. Twin gate, cheaters should not enjoy anymore privileges of the show but this is the year of rewarding bad behaviour.
I was really torn during this episode. Agree with everyone that Brandon became far too confident and failed to get enough tough critiques, but it was ultimately his idea to showcase such a boring collection. Boring only because of the same color palette, time after time after time. He screwed himself out of the win. Margarita’s looks mainly leave me cold, although there were a couple I like. Jazzmine rocked the runway – what a beautiful woman!. Ayana’s final look was beyond fantabulous and belongs in the Project Runway Hall of Fame. She has fantastic skills and much more talent than I realized in the beginning. Kentaro? When his first model walked out, I thought it was a bantam rooster walking backwards towards me. Didn’t like it at all. Overall, thought he deserved to win. Ironic that he won a trip to Japan! Still, all the other gifts are amazing and well made up for it. Heidi’s boobs definitely need a little help – surprised she doesn’t see it. Maybe she just wants to be natural, but if she does, she should choose a slightly less revealing wardrobe. Love this show and can’t wait for the reunion, although having the cheating, lying, obnoxious, clueless twins there is like rewarding them for being horrible people. I suppose it’s because they’re controversial – makes for good TV – but I would much rather never see them again. Great recaps all season – thank you!
OHHHHH – I would love a PR Hall of Fame! CJ and I should work on how to vote for that through this blog. Great idea!
Going to miss your recaps. Please try to do the reunion! I’m happy Kentaro won. He was a delight to watch all season, modest, gracious, kind and funny. I’m so happy the twins were further punished by having to be in the audience. I can just hear their snarky remarks about how much better they could have done if only they had some talent.
Unpopular opinion here. Margaritas WOW moment in the Monday was purely because of her model. The WOW was, “look at this body confident, beautiful plus size lady baring all on the runway.” That was JAZZMINES wow moment, not hers.
That is not a fashion wow moment if it’s about the model. The models bathing suit was bloody hideous. Now a REAL fashion WOW moment was Ayana’s finale dress. Or most of Kentaros stunning Serial Killer Couture.
In one sense I agree with you, but … Margarita was the only designer who gave a bigger model a wow moment. She also could have chosen to put that design on someone smaller. She didn’t. She made that for Jazzmine, and she understood that she was celebrating Jazzmine’s body.
I just feel that it was a bit exploitative, you know? It was an just an ugly swimsuit. It wasn’t even like.. *dramatic reveal of beautifully cut swimsuit*, it was simply all about the perceived “shock” value of a half naked plus sized girl.
Why not create a stunning finale piece and put that on your plus sized girl. Liris stomping in a bloody goddess creation. THERE is your best of both worlds.
Quite frankly I don’t think it should be about the models anyway, butthats my idealism. And I’ve yet to see one designer successfully dress a plus size women to perfection consistently, even those who claim it’s their “thing.” The closest we’ve had was Kenya.
What happened to Tim? Where was he when the winners were announced?
What happened to Tim? Where was he when the winners were announced?
Amazing finale! Kentaro’s runway was ethereal and compelling. And credit to the other designers for amazing shows as well. What a season!
If you looked past the too-repetitive fabric choices, there were some pieces of Brandon’s that wowed me.
Ayana had exactly two looks that I liked, and only one that any contemporary woman might wear. To me her designs are way too Muslim/middle eastern inspired to be appealing to a broad market (with the exception of the one look). Ok, I went there. On the whole, a drab show from her. The last dress was ok.
Margarita’s collection certainly grabbed attention. I liked some of them, but you couldn’t wear most of that stuff but once, or people would whisper “There she is wearing that fish dress again.” Tim was successful in dissuading her from using the gold rings and crocheted sections.
Kenyaro’s collection was such a lovely surprise. I knew it was going to win.
” I liked some of them, but you couldn’t wear most of that stuff but once, or people would whisper “There she is wearing that fish dress again.”
God forbid.
It’s resort wear. It’s not for the Met Ball. Most people rewear clothes and don’t just toss them out after one outing. I’d rock that fish dress to every resort in the Caribbean.
I would wear the shot out of her stuff. Why would every designer have to accommodate NYC streetwear?? Plenty of winners did resort wear. For Margarita to come in fourth was a travesty.
I never thought about this but… technically, Resort is a mid season collection right? As in, everyone has a resort collection but it doesn’t tend to be the one they show at the main NYFW? Do they not give specifics?
Like it may be a bit unfair to let someone present pufferfish bikinis for the autumn/winter 2019 show? Or am I just picking at things here.
You are just wrong.
It was the NYFW for Spring 2018. Christian Sirano had very bold patterns and things that looked like resort wear as well. I just mention him because he seems to be the IT BOY of this group of commenters.
Resort wear. Rich people buy a lot of it. So do poor fat chicks that spend time in the Caribbean. Or did before they got a big mean dog that no one wants to be around.
I have no idea where he got that disposition. 🙂
Bwahahahaha!
I always thought it was like a inter-season collection. Am i thinking about a Cruise Collection? Is a Cruise Collection and a Resort Collection not the same thing?
I stand corrected. But in that case, should the WHOLE THING be Resort? Probably not. Did I mention I didn’t like it? I didn’t like it.
Also not unfair as in she had an advantage. As in she had a disadvantage. I was actually sticking up for Margarita there. God knows why, I’ll go back to being mean about her so people understand.
Kentaro was a wild card, talented but unpredictable. In staying true to his process of just doing what he felt like doing, he could just as easily have made a mess as much as he eventually hit a home run. I like his process, though: just going by instinct and going by his emotions. Like he said, he just wants to show something beautiful. He’s eccentric, but lovable eccentric. He loves the sound his nude dress makes when it walks, he listens to the ground after burying dead cats, he translates music into clothes. He’s a poet and an artist. That man does not have a mean bone in his body.
I love how you described Kentaro and his creative process – I totally agree! He makes me think of that Disney Pocahontas song, Colors of the Wind. Kentaro’s collection was ethereal and I was blown away.
I don’t understand why Tim didn’t come out for the finale. He always has in other seasons. Maybe he wanted Brandon to win? Maybe the dead cat story was just too much? I thought that was rude of Tim and I’m one of his biggest fans!
Showing Kentaro’s father falling down was mean-spirited. And yes, Heidi’s boobs need to be put away.
I LOVED Margarita’s collection, stuff I would wear. Which is why it was the first collecting auf’d.
Just read Wendy Pepper died last sunday.
One of the original PR designers. I always liked her name. Far too young. RIP.
Wendy Pepper and Michael Knight. So sad.
Per usual, I’m usually one of the last to comment, and always late, late at night, sigh. Early on I was excited and had hoped I would see Kentaro grow as a designer though out the season. He did and thankfully he excelled at his highest and best on the NYFW runway. This is the first time I remember ever tearing up (twice!) during a PR finale. The individuality of each designer made the show personal and that always translates to the audience (and we viewers). Quite special. The judges failed Brandon last week when they basically rubber stamped his spot at FW. They poo poohed his horrible crop top, but offered no guidance for change or alteration on anything else. Consequently he changed one top and took a nap. Of course it’s not their fault, but in his mind he believed the judges thought he could do no wrong. He ended up doing 10 too many looks of wrong in a row, one after the other fading into the next. Such a shame from a talented designer. He’ll learn and grow and obviously be invited back to compete again. Thank you CJ for writing enjoyable and informed recaps and thanks to Les for her well informed opinions and commentary. Aufiderzein.
Oh thank God. I thought I was the only one who was about to bubble up in front of the telly. Do you think it’s because the whole season was so bad in general it was just a shock to the system? Hahaha!
Thank You for the great recap.
I liked the fish dress but I couldn’t wear yellow in white with the fish now that would of been a wow moment for me.,I didn’t see any pieces of Margarita’s I cared for,, ,Jazzmine made her runway look good even though I agree with Guest Appearance the clothes are 70;s inspired, knock off’s sorry she did not create new shapes or designs.so she should not of won.. I did love the shirt dress she made a couple of episodes ago. I loved the jacket she was wearing it should of been on a model.
Anaya I just can not get into the blah fabric or the 5 year old ruffles . I just think she is an ok designer you can only do so much with long sleeves ,pants and long skirts . I guess what drives me nuts is change up the shoulders do something to change a woman shape…with her winter look she should of been done and gone and Kenya should of been showing
Brandon I agree with the comments he needed them judges to say hope every outfit isn’t flamingo other wise he would of given Kentaro a run for his money.. I just see Star Wars ..He made unique clothes … The dress he made in picture above loved it would wear it.. Does anyone else think that he did nothing to celebrate Liris .
Kentaro the first not my fav at all but after seeing his whole collection it was obvious he won. I loved his winter top buy the shorts were too funky for my taste.
I am so glad I missed the cat story or I would of been prejudiced ,that is just creepy. I felt bafd for his dad.
Damn where is Tim ? maybe the cat story creeped him out.
I agree with Lucy Loo that it was odd we did not see Tim Gunn coming out to congratulate Kentaro.
I have spent quite a bit of time in Japan, and there cats are almost holy to people. There are cat-symbols everywhere and Kentaro to me seems like a very normal man for being from there, even making a song about the dead animal he found.
I do not get why the judges specifically said that Brandon inspired the other contestants for their designs, I thought all the best ones in the show inspired eachother.
Tim Gunn looks a lot older than he actually is. He’s only in his early 60s. I’ve alway felt that the reason he stopped having sex was because he was HIV positive in the early 80s when it was a death sentence. The treatments over the past thirty years or so could be taking a toll. He looks quite pallid.
Ahhh the shakes. I noticed he was shaking rather a lot this season. OH NO! Someone wrap him up in a big Truvada-infused bubble immediately. I cannot lose Tim from my life. He is my only source of positivity and calm in the black hole that is my heart.
We don’t want to live in a world without the calming center that is Tim Gunn.
I would squeeze out a small, black tear if Tim died. I want him to live forever.
I’m pretty much all alone here. I liked Margarita’s even though I knew she couldn’t win. Guess I just like the bright and bold.
I did love Kentaro personally. Glad he won.
All has been said about finale n comments are great. U guys Have to cover the reunion especially w twins being called out. Remember advertising is $ so of course twins are back. Heidi , u have 4 kids. From one frank German to another. : u have the $ to get the girls lifted. Don’t be embarrassing sent w gentle effect. Tim’s first book is excellent n a keeper. He is our Northern Star. Though I watched every episode, The recap was so hilarious ; LOL literally. Plz keep it coming. I have watched PR from the beginning. Good bad sad whatever. That’s family
Kentaro’s collection was a piece of art!
AND, I just loved Margaritas collection, it spoke to my Caribbean sensibilities ☺️