By CJ Bomb
Here we are folks! The end of the road. The final three are it. No more surprises. No more gimmicks. Seven looks and we are done. We also have three very different designers so I’m excited. The final collections will be diverse and unique to each designer. Thank you for riding this out with me. I know I have bitched a bit but I truly believe in the talent of these guys and am excited to see what they come up with. That being said, I will miss you Zen Ken. May we have a moment of silence, please?
The designers walk into the workroom and there are three LADIES waiting for them. Everyone hugs each other. Helen, Candice and Amanda are there to help. Either these people are the best actors ever, or they genuinely seem to like each other. Candice is helping Anthony, Helen is helping Fabio and Amanda is with Stanley. I would have definitely put Fabio and Helen together but I would have switched the other two.
Anthony is happy to have Candice. She is a modern day woman who will give him the edge he needs and he thinks she will work well as a muse. Stanley thinks Amanda is modern and efficient in her work aesthetic and is also thrilled to be working with her. Fabio and Helen are two peas in a pod. I think they’ll make an amazing team. Everyone is loving on everyone. Let’s hope it lasts since we had to deal with the dramatic nonsense of the last runway. They only have three days for seven looks, of course.
Everyone gets to work. Fabio and Anthony are editing their signature looks. We get a recap of Stanley throughout the season. He thinks he is due. Anthony thinks he’s Audrey Hepburn to Candice’s Rihanna. I have to say, like Fabio, I like this workroom of everyone joking and getting along.
Anne comes in and kicks the girls out. She is worried about Fabio’s impact and wants him to be FABIO. She also wants him to use more yellow throughout the collection. Stanley emphasizes his “modern bold and classic theme”. She wants some color and more standout pieces. She tells him he doesn’t get points for classy, tasteful and wearable. He thinks about turning up the volume on his seventh piece. Anne wants more color from Anthony. He is like bitch, PLEASE! I have colors AND feathers! AND paint! Now she’s worried for a different reason. She thanks them for allowing her to be their mentor and looks forward to working with the winner. She says that two of the designers need to amp it up and one needs to turn it down. No one is confused as to who she is talking about.
I want Helen and Fabio to have a company together. The designers get to go to mood to shop for their seventh look. Fabio and Stanley look for something bold. I’m assuming Anthony is looking for something demure when he mentions black velvet. Then he mentions painting it. We get the recap of Anthony this season. There is squealing. The girls are worried about Anthony’s timing as he has never made an entire collection in this time frame. Now we get Fabio’s recap. He’s very happy with everything he’s done and wants his family to be proud.
The models come in and chaos ensues. Stanley is happy everything looks very tailored. Anthony worries me. He has scrapped his signature look and his time management has gone out the window. Candice is desperately trying to catch up but she is pointing out the amount of infrastructure is crazy.
On the last day in the workroom everyone is putting the final details in. Zippers, hems, et al. The women are serious help. Even helping each other’s contestants. Anthony is splatter painting again. The women have to leave and the men are so grateful that they were there to help. Again, it’s lovely. Fabio and Stanley are in a good place…..Anthony? I’m not so sure. The room looks like a bomb went off. There is champagne and a cake and a lovely recap of how the boys had each others back. Stanley in particular, really came out of his shell.
On runway day, Anthony is desperately missing Candice. Everyone is going as fast as they can. Fabio grabs every single ring he can from the accessories wall. Anthony wants pixies cuts for his models. “God gave me a mind that thinks, and it thinks about pockets”. Word, Fabio. That’s deep. There is one last hug and they depart for the runway.
The guest judges this week are Zac Posen and Catherine Zeta Jones. To me, she personifies sexy broad. She always looks fabulous and isn’t a stick figure. Alyssa is wearing a dress that would look great on Catherine Zeta Jones. She looks wrong as always. The audience is full this show. Who are these people? Rockettes are there?
Stanley is first and I want this white pantsuit thing. He amped up the color with a pink dress. I’m getting very Paco Rabanne crossed with Chloe, crossed with Halston. And Marni. This is a compliment. Very modern and very Stanley. Looks EXPENSIVE. Well done sir.
Fabio puts a better shirt with the smocked skirt. This is is beautiful and subtle. The shapes are awesome. I want that white coat. Badly. I have to say, I got Modern Stanley And this is modern Fabio. I like it a lot. For me it’s a toss-up between these guys.
Anthony’s collection is very Anthony. The tailoring is lovely. I’m having a hard time getting over the splatter paint and I don’t love the blue and black print. The white jumpsuit is fabulous. Hmmmm. I’m not sure about this one guys. I feel as a child of the eighties I should like it more. I love the LBD.
Stanley is first. Isaac tells him he did an amazing job. Georgina thinks there is incredible beauty in his simplicity which is not an easy thing to do. Zac wrote: stunning, sophisticated and beautifully executed. Good words. He is especially blown away by the first look. Catherine is in awe of the first look and wowed by the final outfit. She looks forward to watching his career.
Georgina is pleasantly surprised by Fabio’s painting skills. She loves the jacket. She wants it to go a little more street. Isaac thinks it should be FUCK YOU in it’s oddness rather than as delicate as it is. Catherine thinks it’s a wonderful collection and wants the jumpsuit and wants the coat Fabio is wearing. Zac thinks it has a interesting edge and Alyssa wrote down that it feels like something she had never seen before. Modern and relatable.
Alyssa loves the back of his LBD. Anthony points out how much he has learned from each judge. Georgina loves the finale look even though she doesn’t love the fabric. She also doesn’t love the fabric on the white pencil skirt. Riri is a good friend of Zac’s and he totally gets what Anthony is trying to do with the classy with a wee bit nasty. Isaac loves the last look and even loves the fabric. He gets brutalism from it. Giacometti and Anthony are not two people I would normally put together, but ok! Catherine loves the train and wants to buy the LBD.
The designers are sad that it is over. This season did feel very long, but the camaraderie at the end is nice to witness. ANTHONY WINS! Wait….what??? He shrieks so hard my dog barks for five minutes. Well Tamara, a hometown boy brought it home for the ATL!. I have to say I would have chosen either Fabio or Stanley but I’m not horrified. I don’t know…..what do you guys think?? I will miss you all but thank you for sticking with me on this long ride. Thank you to our fearless leader TT and as always to the Lady Cocotte. Do yourselves a favor and read her recaps. I will see you all next round!! XOXOXO. CJ.
Thank you CJ for recapping this season. I was okay with any of the top three winning, but I was pulling for Stanley. I loved Fabio’s personal style, and would probably want to see more of his work than Anthony’s.
What a great finale. My stupid DVR crapped out just as the winner was announced, so had to look it up and missed the squealing.
As you said, CJ, it could have been any of the three and I would have been fine, but I really thought it was a tossup between Fabio and Stanley.
These men bonded in a joyous way, and their work kept getting better and better. So nice to see Stanley exhale.
Thanks for the stellar recaps. TT is lucky to have you.
I haven’t even read the recap yet but I just finished watching this episode. And I have to say that this was the best finale of any reality show EVER! I haven’t felt this moved by anything in many months. I almost wish I was a woman so I could wear any of these beautiful garments, lol. The harmony between all of the finalists was inspirational. All 3 designers deserve incredible success! I actually don’t even care who won.
The only thing that could have made this better… the designers could have thanked their helpers during their critiques. Each of them could have had a month to create their collections but they wouldn’t have been nearly as good I without their collaborators. And I wish Ken could have been included too. He deserved it as much as the other 3.
Also, it would have been nice if they had some diversity in model size. The previous season of PR was so special solely because of that reason. I really hope that wasn’t just a one time deal.
Most surprising to me was that Alyssa look phenomenal! Who would have guessed that green was he color. She was an adorable little pixie leprechaun. And Anne’s critiques were spot on! Tim Gunn who?
Now I have to go read the recap to find out where I was wrong, lol.
I was so excited that I didn’t proof read before posting. Please forgive my errors. 😋
I’ve finally read the recap and CJ was as exceptional as always! My only disagreement was our opinion on Alyssa’s look. The full length shots of Alyssa in her gown were, I thought, very flattering to her figure. In tight shots it wasn’t so great. The finish on her gown was a little clunky. But I thought her silhouette was gorgeous.
Other than that, I thought Anthony was, at worst, tied for first place. I might have liked Stanley’s collection a tiny smidge more. But it was too close to call.
I’ve suddenly developed a major crush on Fabio. I love a big full beard on a guy but I didn’t really find him sexy until now. He suddenly looked very confident and peaceful this episode which I find irresistible. He’s always been very zen but his confidence was really striking and sexy.
Drat! I forgot about Project Runway being on tonight! I was too consumed by Southern Charm and trying to get my tax stuff together. So grateful for your great recaps of this show!
Thank you CJ for recapping this season. PR is one of my favorite things and you made it even better. I was loving all three of the finalists but I think I was pushing a little harder for Stanley. I do have a question though: The beautiful white dress with the leather collar that Stanley made seems to have hem issues to me. When I first saw it as his signature look, there seemed to be little threads hanging off the skirt and thought it may be because of the time issues they had for that look, but they were still there for the final runway. Was that somehow intended to be that way?
I noticed that too. The frayed non-hem was actually worse on the finale than it was on the previous episode. It frayed even more.
One of the things that I love now about regular season PR shows is when Zac gets to examine the garments up close. I just love the way that he loses his cool, drops to the floor and handles the fabric. THAT is a man who loves his craft!
I love Zac looking at the workmanship too.
I love how seriously Zac takes his role as a judge too.
I thought the same about Stanley’s hem. And he even said he fixed it! I thought, “It doesn’t look finished to me!”
Wonderful recap!
This season was so dragged down with Merline but the final four and final there brought redemption (even with Alyssa and Anne).
I was happy with Anthony being the winner. Yes it was very close, but Anthony made a great case for his growth and for being willing to learn from critiques. I think that was the judge that caused the judges to go for him.
And they didn’t announce who was second, which backs up his close it really was.
Fabulous season. I loved the vibe. I love Stanley’s style and Stanley but I think they chose correctly. Anthony’s collection was gorgeous. I wish Fabio put more of his own clothes on women- seems like he holds back. Those pant lengths were just wrong even on the models.
Yes!! The pant lengths!! So wrong!
For me it was a toss up between Anthony and Stanley. What I think put Anthony over the edge was his speech to the judges. He was able to say that not only was he listening to their critiques, he was implementing them. What a great finale though! Thank you so much for recapping.
Thank you for the recaps, CJ. I’ve enjoyed each and every one, and your take on the designs.
I was eagerly awaiting this episode and it didn’t disappoint. Georgina Chapman looked beautiful and I loved her dress – sad thinking of all the terrible things that were about to be disclosed regarding her husband. Still, she’s a winner and she’ll still be one without him. Hope she comes back as a judge on future shows. Catherine Zeta Jones was, as usual, elegant under-stated and gorgeous. Timeless beauties.
One thing that did confuse me was Anthony saying he wished Audrey Hepburn lived long enough to be Rihanna. What? Audrey Hepbury was 63 when she died. Did he mean he wishes she had lived in the present time? Didn’t quite get that reference. Other than that, he wowed me. As outspoken as I’ve been against his squealing and squawking, and his occasional cockiness, I thought he was humble tonight. His collection was FABULOUS. I haven’t always liked his designs throughout the season, thinking some of them ranged from costume-y to tacky, but the little black dress, which could have been very “Oh, I’ve seen that before” was beautifully tailored. Each outfit was stunning, and the final gown was mind-blowing. Watching it go down the runway and then getting the view from the back, actually made me gasp with the beauty of it. Probably my favorite dress of all time on Project Runway. Anthony, you little devil – I wanted to hate your work, but I loved it all. Good job! Bravo!
Even though the judges were impressed with Stanley and Fabio’s collections, I didn’t think they stood a chance after Anthony’s models walked down the runway. I’m usually wrong though, so I couldn’t tell which way the judges were leaning.
Anthony won!! Yay! I had a feeling it was going to go to Fabio, but so happy it went the way it did. It was a well deserved victory, and he pulled out all the stops. I feel bad for Stanley and Fabio, but tonight the best man did win.
I’ve been a Stan for Stanley all season. I also love Fabio and would love to wear the clothes HE WEARS rather than the clothes he makes I felt like Anthony was in over his head but improving by leaps and bounds and had some real stand out moments.
At the Runway I loved Stanley. Then I thought Fabio’s collection was quite good. It was definitely a toss up until I saw Anthony’s collection. That final dress was amazing, The LBD was amazing. I cracked up when I heard Anthony say “There is nothing more beautiful painted velvet.” while visions of velvet Elvises danced in my head. But I even liked the painted velvet. I knew he had won the moment I saw the collection. I was not surprised at all.
I had some problems with Stanley’s collection. I did not like the color block dress with the red ribbon. Although I would be most likely to wear Stanley’s clothes they did tippy toe right up to matronly at times. I didn’t think he had the best collection. I loved a lot of things about Fabio’s collection including what he did with the shoes. It was a cohesive collection. It was out there. But I liked Anthony’s the best.
So I am happy that Anthony won and even happier I never have to hear him say, “If Joan Crawford (was it Joan?) lived long enough to turn into Rihanna.” Because that annoyed the fuck out of me.
The painted velvet dress was lovely except for one unfortunate long white blotch that looked like pidgeon poop.
I hope I didn’t ruin that dress for anyone, lol.
No, my eye was stuck on it. The dress was beautiful I just would have picked that bit off..
TT, I agree: Fabio should design menswear. He always looks remarkable. Even though he’s a quiet fellow, his clothing speaks volumes, and I wish more men (I’m looking at you, Jim!) wore skirts.
Anthony has been one of my favorites since his first season. I was pulling for him since the first episode. He produced beautiful wearable clothes every week. He deserved the win and it doesn’t hurt my feelings that a fellow southerner finally took the prize. First time I ever teared up at the win. Go Anthony!!
Yes Me too love Anthony
I liked Anthony’s the most, which is why I was so surprised he won. I thought Fabio would actually be the winner since his was less mainstream. I love PR and your recaps.
I haven’t watched the episode yet, and this review is giving me goosebumps! CJ, your recaps are wonderful, and I especially love that you know what you’re talking about when it comes to fashion! I’d love a peek into your closet.
TT, thanks as always for your fabulous blog. It’s a daily go-to for me. You’ve made very smart choices with your guest writers–hat’s off to all!
CJ thanks for recapping a fav reality dhow of mine !! Anthony Won Yipppeeee
I loved Anthony all season and have seen him grow Stanley can sure make a classic dress she is an excellent tailor .
I am very happy Anthony I never thought judges would like who I liked ever never have before
I do think Alyssia had gotten a little better clothing wise last couple episodes
She really needs Stanley to design for her she needs to hire him !!
It was a good episode, but the outcome disappointed me as I found Anthony’s collection to be the most conventional. It was rather cocktails-at-the-country-club, and I didn’t understand the bunching in some of the fabrics, esp across the hips and down the side seams below the waist. The judges seem to favor evening looks and special-event looks, and I admit that I don’t. I also prefer s little more ease in garments than Anthony offers. So those are biases of mine. I would have given Stanley the edge to win, because his collection was so visually clear and struck a balance between sophisticated and wearable, but I thought Fabio was the most inventive. The judges saying they don’t understand Fabio’s work is bizarre to me, as it’s their job to understand it, and I don’t think it’s really even all that far out there.
Can we just let Anthony and Ken have their own show?
Yes, please!!
I am livid that they sent Ken home after buying the fabric and creating all of his patterns. YES to your idea; those two are a delight to watch and Ken has grown so much personally and professionally.
I wish Anne would have had that energy in the workroom like in this finale episode, it almost looked to me as if she was entusiastic because the show was going to end soon.
I would be surprised if she will be back mentoring again..
Thought ANTHONY TOTALLY DESERVED THE WIN!
His collection was what he said it would be: Audrey morphs into RiRi. Loved the outfits, loved the short pixie hair, loved the LBD, loved the final dress, loved the pants, loved it all.
All 3 designers did well, but Anthony really deserved the win. Yay Anthony!!
Great season, though I do wish there had been 4 designers in the finale so Ken could have been included.
(Also: I actually liked Fabio’s bird shirt—did not like that bizarre yellow blob shirt! And though his smocked skirt was interesting, who could look good wearing that??)
CJ thanks for your great recaps!!
I think the shocking was about 2-3 inches too deep.
SMocking, not shocking!
Shocking smocking! Too deep and would have been better with thinner stripes and drapier fabric.
The visual effect was great, but would make even a stick thin human look chunky.
…
Are they not going to do a reunion show?
I think the shocking was about 2-3 inches too deep.
Another season of great recaps CJ – enjoyed so much, thanks!
I was rooting for Stanley, but was ok with Anthony. I didn’t find him as entertaining as many of you have commented but liked him and his finale.
Ready for regular Project Runway. It was good to see Zac.
CJ … are you going to recap the final All-Star season? I hope so. It looks good so far. Even Alyssa looked decent for a change.
CJ’s currently locked to the radiator, working hard on the recap. I can’t wait, either. It looks like a great season.
Thank you for answering Lady Cocotte. (I didn’t realize until I copied it that in my head I have been calling you Lady Cocette — as in sweetie, not trollop or female hen. I thought it meant flirt, I still think it does but my grandmere is gone, alas.) Have a very happy new year.
My pleasure, Nanette. Cocotte is a nickname from my tante Nadette. It’s an affectionate term for trollop, as you thought. ❤️