I can’t believe it, the eighth episode! And this one looks like it will not disappoint! The designers have free reign to create whatever they want inspired by the Broadway show “Finding Neverland.” I love when challenges evoke an emotion from the designers. I also like that this challenge is based on real world designer 101: drawing inspiration from outside influences.
Ashley was moved by the death in the play, and it hit a personal note for her. Talk about foreshadowing… Swapnil took the inspiration from, “Let your imagination run free.” Candice had a strong emotional connection to a scene in the play and how she grew up with parents that were drug addicts. I love seeing how the play speaks to each designer in a unique way. Therefore, I am really excited to see how the pieces come together.
After a successful trip to Mood, armed with a healthy $250 budget, our designers return to the workroom and begin to create their designs. Minutes (hours) later Tim walks in and instantly harshes the mellow. He reminds the designers that they are down to the eight best and someone is going home. The awe of the play starts to wear off for our (now) hapless designers, and reality starts to creep in. Some designers start to shine while a few look to be in big trouble (cough, cough Ashley).
Swapnil finally starts to put his nose to the grindstone, as he sets to create a stand out structured top. After running into some static issues (Love how the Rowenta irons can handle chiffon! Swoon!), he reboots, and returns to constructing his piece.
I am also surprised by how complimentary the designers are of each other. We don’t have any really snarky comments or tense interactions to talk about this week! Possibly a “Project Runway” first?
Swapnil – I definitely believe that this look belongs in the top. I love the balance of the structured top with the flowing skirt. He did a great job on the oversized pleating so that it didn’t overshadow the model. I also love the contrast of the peach chiffon with the plaid wool. Well done, sir. Well done.
Ashley – Wow…this is a total surprise coming from Ashley, and NOT in a good way! The hem is a disaster and the whole dress looks like a bad mummy costume. She is a great designer and one of my standouts this season, but you can tell that she let this one slip away from her! I have faith that the judges will have mercy on her due to her success in the past challenges. Been there, done that.
Candice – This is another favorite of mine, and I believe that it belongs in the top. The coat was beautifully made. You can tell that she had an emotional connection to the piece. Her creativity was also visible and impressive in addition to the garment being well constructed. Kudos, Candice.
Kelly – I have to say this piece is something that I would expect from Kelly. It is a little tacky and not uber creative. That said, I do not think that it belongs in the bottom because it looks well-made and certainly moves well. I think this piece puts her right in the middle.
Laurie – While I do not hate this look, I do think there are some major construction errors. I do love the drape of the oversized jacket though. It was a bit odd and had the same off the shoulder effect as Candice’s piece. The fabrication is interesting and the color pallet is clean which helps balances the dramatic shape. I can’t help but wonder why she didn’t make a simple bandeau top to go under. It was interesting to me that her inspiration came from a Baptist church and her childhood.
Merline – I really think that Merline has been overlooked this whole season so far. She consistently puts out interesting looks and hasn’t gotten a lot of respect from her peers, nor from the judges. This week her piece was artistic and structured. I love the detailing she did at the shoulder as well as the long open back. Ans as always her styling was on point. I got your back girl, and we’ll see you next week.
Lindsey – I don’t think it is going to be any surprise “for whom the bells toll.” It tolls for thee, Lindsey. This look is worlds behind the other designers. It isn’t exciting or interesting and to add to the litany of missteps, it doesn’t even look well-made! She has been struggling for a while now and I think this challenge she hit her breaking point. I don’t believe we’ll be seeing Lindsey next week.
Edmond – This was a great look. I love that he did a really sleek, well-made pant and bra top opposed to the many dresses. I also think that he showcased a lot of restraint in the jacket by making it a big statement without being too costume-like. For me that is the sign of a good designer, the ability to self-edit. His look was also the most on-trend of the group. This is without a doubt my favorite look from Edmond. He continues to show why he is a top contender!
Overall, a really impressive group of designs and this challenge did not disappoint! Candice wins and Lindsey gets sent home. No big surprises on the runway this week!
