Christian Siriano O-Cel-O "Clean With Style" Sweepstakes Winners!


Ever wonder who wins these contests? Fans like you and I!

The lucky winner, Diane, brought along her 13-year-old daughter, Emma to attend Christian Siriano’s spring 2011 runway show and got to meet Christian backstage before the show to receive a sneak peek at the fashions that inspired Christian’s O-Cel-O sponge designs.

Jay McCarroll Documentary, "Eleven Minutes" Now Available Online



Click here to watch for free.

News from Christopher Straub, Joe Faris and Emilio Sosa

Photo: Stacy Schwartz

Click here to see Christopher Straub's Spring 2011 Collection.

Season 5 designer Joe Faris is bringing a much-needed boost to the economy in Michigan by establishing "Motor City Denim." Click here for the press release.

Joe is also participating in Project Little Pink Dress. Click here for more information.

Project Runway season 7 finalist, Emilio Sosa will be at Iowa State University this weekend. Click here for more information.

Episode 8 Trivia Contest

The prize for this week's trivia contest winner is a Season 8 Finale Gift Bag. There was one on every seat at the show. Honestly, I believe this is the most generous gift bag we have ever received.



There is a copy of Marie Claire, an optical mouse, some hair and make-up products, and a copy of Tim Gunn's book. Of course he signed it for you!

1. Where do the designers meet Tim to receive the Jackie Kennedy challenge?

2. What two letters appear on Valerie's sleeve?

3. Ivy declares that Michael Costello's and Christopher's designs are both very ________.

4. April describes Andy's pants as s____ s_________.

5. Who styles April's hair in the morning?

6. What type of pants is Tim wearing with his seersucker jacket and madras tie?

7. Which designer is "Captain Outerwear?"

8. Which of these adjectives did Ivy NOT use to describe her design? Stupendous, Original, Beautiful, Expensive, Amazing, Different.

9. Who is "confused" by the "ankle boot?"

10. Whose design does Heidi describe as a "dirty old rug?"

Please send your answers to Team BPR.


UPDATE: We have a winner - congratulations to Rachel P. I will post the answers in the comments. Look for another trivia contest next Tuesday.

Sewing for Granddaughters












Life has been crazy this summer. My father was in a serious car accident and when he left the rehab hospital he came to stay with us. He finally was well enough to go home last week so life is much calmer now. I've sewed some during the last three months but not much. So I've been going to town the last week. Here's a couple of things I made the Granddaughters. I made Emma two gymnastics outfits the brown skirt set was two Jalie patterns 2006 is the top and 2796 is the skort. Love the little skort it has a pocket in the side for a ipod and you can put shorts or panties under the skirt. I also made her Jalie 2797 but left off the skirt and cut the body of the leotard as one piece instead of putting the seam at the waist since I wasn't adding the skirt. Just used some swimsuit material left over from a past projects for both. I'm working on some little A-lines for Hailey and Alyssa. The pattern is Burda 3026, I changed the back from a button closure to a back zip and lined it so the applique wouldn't be scratchy. Hailey has very sensitive skin. I got the jungle prints from fabric.com a year or two ago. I appliqued the lion from Planet Applique and the monkey from Sewing for Sarah. I've finished Hailey's but haven't gotten a picture of her in it yet. And last but not least is a little dress made from scraps from a project my daughter Nicole made for Lucy for baby Sophie. I wish I had a picture of her in it but still waiting on it. It's Simplicity 2572, I just used three cordinating prints in lieu of using all one fabric. I also used bias turned to right side in lieu of suggested method. I'm glad my Dad is home and doing well with help from a friend from church. I'll be starting on Judy's wedding dress soon and want to make her some things for the honeymoon also. So lots and lots of sewing needs to get done in the next few months. She's getting married Novemeber 20th and it's creeping up quickley.

Tim Gunn's Vlog: "I'm NOT An Idiot!"


Note: See latest updates at bottom of the post.

Tim Gunn's Episode 8 video blog is a must see. The behind the scenes story on the production of "A Rough Day On The Runway" is far more entertaining than what we saw Thursday night. Something seemed amiss about this challenge and the way the judges acted on the runway and now we know why. It was simply flat out incompetence by Bunim-Murray. A few bullet points:
  • The challenge started out as a period piece costume that was going to be worn by Katie Holmes, but the designers would not be told!
  • After the Katie Holmes/Jackie O angle went away, it became a dancewear challenge and Tim showed up on shooting day at the assigned studio, but no one was there. He had to find the shooting location on his own.
  • Tim: "The whole notion that we would even associate Jackie Kennedy with American sportswear is a stretch."
  • Tim stepped into the judging circle to clarify what the designers had been told the challenge was since it was clear they had a different idea.

Tim's frustration with the production of Project Runway grows with each successive season. Kudos to him for sharing this fascinating peek behind the scrim. We are "hot and bothered" right along with you Tim!

UPDATE: The video has been taken down. Was Tim being too honest? We imagine the Bunim-Murray brass could not have been pleased. Memo to B-M: take care of your talent!

UPDATE #2: Gina Carbone took a few more notes! Click here for her summary of Tim's Vlog entry.

Project Runway Designers at MidSouth Fashion Week Oct. 3

Gordana Gehlhausen, Korto Momolu and Jerell Scott are all showing their latest collections at MidSouth Fashion Week in Memphis.



Click here for more information.

What Mondo Wore - Episode 8



As part of her weekly recaps, Kenda offers us this new feature! Click here for the post. Thank you Kenda.

Episode 9 Preview Video - Race to the Finish

Interview with Michael Costello from The Desert Sun

BPR at MBFW - Christian Siriano

Photo: New York Magazine

Although there are plenty of celebrities at Christian Siriano's show, for me it is more fun to see Christian's family and other season four designers and models.

Christian's sister Shannon, whom we first met in line waiting to enter the tents for the season four finale is always in the front row wearing one of Christian's designs.



Season Four designer Victorya Hong is always there to support Christian as well.

You'll recognize season four model Lea Rannells modeling for Christian in the photo above and we also spoke with Jackie Miranne. (Who could even forget her modeling the "Ice Princess" design for Elisa Jimenez?)



The super-talented Brad Walsh not only composed the music for Christian's show, but he designed the jewelry as well.

Click here
for more photos of Christian's collection.

Team BPR is thrilled to be invited to this show each season. Thank you Christian!

Recapalooza!


Uncle Nick provides a little fashion history lesson...
Eric3000 does his best to figure out the challenge...
Maxthegirl is getting all fancy with her screencaps...
Red Poppy gives us an uninterrupted soliloquy...
Ms.Place found herself nodding off...
Laura Bennett has fashion psychic powers...
Carol Hannah loves her some January Jones...
Jordan Baker, oh yes they did...
Katnap has great lists on her sidebar...
Second City Style didn't think the runway was rough...
Democracy Diva knows a snoozefest when she sees one...
Brian is already looking forward to next week...
And Toyouke closes it out.


Update: Don't miss Choco Chanel, Dishin' Dat, and Girly Shoes.

Thank you recappers - see you next week! If you have a recap to share, e-mail the link to Team BPR.

BPR Interview with Michael Drummond



Project Runway season 8 designer Michael Drummond talks about his experience on the Lifetime show.

Click here for the podcast.

Click here to see Michael's Finale collection.

Poll - Episode 8 - Your Turn to be the Judge

Photos: (top, l-r) Andy, April and Christopher
(middle, l-r) Gretchen, Ivy and Michael C.
(bottom, l-r) Michael D., Mondo and Valerie
Photos courtesy of ProjectRunway.com. Click to see a larger view.

You've seen the designs on the runway and now it's your turn to be the judges. This week you are Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors and January Jones.

Click here to tell us who you thought should have won the challenge.

Click here to tell us who you thought should have been auf'd

Video - Tim Gunn on Access Hollywood

Did you miss Timm Gunn on 'Access Hollywood" last night? Here's some highlights:

Tim says that Taylor Momsen acted like a ‘spoiled sour puss’ on The ‘Gossip Girl’ set:









Tim takes aim At Michaele & Tareq Salahi.








Tim sounds off On Lady Gaga’s 2010 MTV VMAs meat dress:






Reactions To Episode 8

Photo: Barbara Nitke/Lifetime Television

It was indeed "a rough day on the runway" as the Project Runway designers took a swipe at American sportswear and another one bites the dust. The judges were especially brutal. What did you think of the challenge? What about the decision? Post your reactions to Epiosde 8 here.

BPR Live Play By Play/Party: Epiosde 8

Congratulations, Tim!



Hi everyone! I just received some incredible news from my book agent and publisher and I couldn't wait to share it with you. The New York Times bestseller list for September 26, 2010 was just finalized and my new book will make it's debut appearance on the list at #5. I am so thrilled and want to take this opportunity ...to thank all of you who took the time to purchase a copy for yourself. I'm so grateful....We did it!

This doesn't surprise me. Last week I was frantically searching for copies of his book so he could sign them when we met him for lunch. I couldn't find a copy anywhere, they were all sold out! I finally snagged the last of the stock at Border's on 32nd and 2nd just in the nick of time.

It's a really fun and dishy read with plenty of Project Runway scoop from seasons past. You can order your own copy here. Congratulations, Tim!


Click here for Tim's Book Tour Dates.

News From Tim Gunn

Tim and Tbone!

Click here for an excellent interview with Tim Gunn from the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

A highlight: When he was here Tuesday, I asked him about Vogue editor Anna Wintour infamously averring in 2009 that after a trip to Minnesota she could "only kindly describe most of the people I saw as little houses."

Gunn's response was the only time he looked even mildly perturbed during an exhausting evening that ran beyond its defined time because he signed every book brought forth by those with wrist bands.

"Repugnant, irresponsible, unkind, hideous comment," said Gunn. "I'm sorry, it is."


Tim will be on Lopez Tonight - tonight - and on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson tomorrow night.

Diana Eng Fashion Show September 25th



Project Runway Season 2 designer, Diana Eng will be presenting a fashion show at World Maker Faire in Queens NY on September 25th.



Click here for more information.


Tonight On BPR

Photo: Barabara Nitke/Lifetime Television

Tonight on Project Runway "the workroom is a war room" as Betty Draper herself (aka January Jones) takes a turn in the guest judges chair. As the designers attempt to pay homage to the timeless elegance of Jackie O, Team BPR will have all of our usual episode night fun in store. "It's a work room you won't want to miss." Well, we won't! Here's the plan:

  • Tbone and (maybe) suzq will be hosting the live play by play/party room beginning at 8:30 p.m. All are welcome to participate as we watch Epiosde 8 "A Rough Day On The Runway" together.
  • After the show, visit our weekly reactions thread to share your thoughts on was in and who was auf.

It's Thursday on BPR - we'll see you on the runway!

Results In - You Were the Judge Episode 7


Our polls for Episode 7 are closed. You disagreed with the judges and felt that Andy South deserved the win. Click here to see the results. You also clashed with the judges and felt that Ivy should have been the 'auf.' Click here to see the results.

Check back with us tomorrow for our Episode 8 poll.

There is Still Time...



There is still time to bid in the episode 7 auctions. Right now, Michael Drummond's design has the highest price. Click here to see all of the garments.

There is also still time to vote in our episode 7 poll. Did you agree with the judges? Click here to vote.

MBFW - Part 2 -Project Runway Season 8 Finale Show

Photo: WireImage/F. Harrison

On Thursday morning we headed to Lincoln Center for the Project Runway Finale show. We weren't sure how the new venue would be different from Bryant Park, but honestly, I think it's better. Chloe Dao texted me early and we arranged to meet her at the entrance.

It was a lot of fun to reconnect with many of the designers from former seasons and also to meet the season 8 designers at the show. The Scarlett was busy posting updates for you. The first thing we checked was the guest judge's seat.

I'd like to go on record as stating that I believe that Jessica Simpson is a brilliant choice as a judge. According to Forbes, (July 2010) her shoes and accessory designs bring in $500 MILLION a year. That's a lot of success and experience in fashion. I'm looking forward to hearing her insights.

The Scarlett continued to give you updates, posting from her cell phone. Tbone set up his laptop to "Cover-it-live." I relaxed and enjoyed the show. Thanks Team

Valerie's collection was wonderful. I loved the color and the shapes and the fun. I didn't love the wigs, but that's a small issue.

Gretchen is super tall, thin and prettier than she appears on screen. I asked if she had ever modeled and of course she has. Her line is made from sustainable fabrics. Gretchen definitely has a future in fashion.

I have always liked Andy. From the first time I watched his audition video and saw his clever sleeve detail I was enchanted and declared him "my favorite." His finale collection is strong and a definite contender.

I also think April's collection is strong and very original. I loved her inspiration and the timing for this sort of look is perfect. Her collection also read clearly as a "spring" collection with the dusty-doll pastel-ish colors and I really liked it.

My favorite finale collection though, was Mondo's. I enjoyed the whimsy and the bright cheerfulness of his collection. I also kind of love him. He was completely charming and adorable when we met him, and I think he would be a great representative for the Project Runway "brand." What do you think?

Transcript of Casanova Podcast


Great news, BPRs!

Kenda at PASS ME de REMOTE has transcribed Casanova's podcast for us.

This is a lot of work and we really appreciate it. Thank you Kenda!

Click here for the full transcript.

All Tim Gunn - All the Time



BPR reader Allen B and Tim Gunn at Tim's Mall of America book signing last night. Allen reports that the line was long, but "worth it!"

We are looking forward to Tim Gunn's appearance on Gossip Girl. What was it like for Tim? Click here for the dish.

Tim will be signing books at Borders on Santa Monica Blvd. tomorrow. Click here for the schedule.

Tim's Video Blog - Season 8, Episode 7

Rami Kashou at Papyrus for "Fashion's Night Out" in Los Angeles



Rami Kashou created a paper gown for "Fashion's Night Out" in Los Angeles. There is lots of press, but I really like this blog entry from Giovanna as well as her great photo of the gown.




This video shows Rami's inspiration, materials and process.


Team BPR at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week - Part 1

Photo: Mark Hall

After checking in to our hotel on Wednesday evening, and enjoying a delicious meal with Jennifer Eolin we headed to Nicolas Putvinski's very provocative "Madame" presentation.



We were thrilled to see that Heidi Klum was also at the event!

Congratulations Nicolas!

From The Mailbox


Please welcome a new recapper, Kenda!

Tampa's Creative Loafing looks at the Project Runway Finale Show. (Purists beware, there are photos of the finale designs.)

CBS New York reviews Malan Breton's SS11 Collection here.

Tim Gunn is at The Mall of America tonight. Click here for more information.

Click here for a new interview with Casanova.

Win a Tim Gunn Original! Episode 7 Trivia Contest



Tim added an original "TimDoodle" to this autographed copy of "Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making it Work" making it extra special. This is the prize for the winner of this week's trivia contest. Please send your answers to Team BPR with "Trivia Contest" in the subject line. Good luck!

1. What did the girls place on April's bed to welcome her?

2. What was the budget for this challenge?

3. Tim tells the designers, "What's critically important in this relationship is _____________."

4. Michael Kors tells Andy and Valerie that, "We judges are ___-________."

5. Kristen Bell's upcoming movie is titled "___ _____."

6. Michael Drummond says that Ivy's model "...kinda looks like the ______ __ _______."

7. The top three designers in this challenge are April, Andy and __________.

8. What color is Mondo's bow tie? (Worn during the judging of this episode.)

9. How much was Casanova disappointed?

10. What is the name of the boat featured in this episode?


UPDATE: We have a winner! Congratulations Ann L. I will post the answers in the comments.

More From Malan Breton


Nancy T sends us two more videos from backstage at Malan Breton - thank you Nancy!





Click here for more behind-the-scenes scoop from snowflakebebe.

There are lots of familiar faces in her flickr set here.

BPR Interview with Casanova



Project Runway season 8 designer, Casanova talks about his experience on the show.

Click here for the podcast.

Click here
for Casanova's Finale Collection.

Thank you Casanova!

Malan Breton Spring 2011 - Field Report from Nancy T

Malan Breton Spring 2011 Fashion Show from Nancy T on Vimeo.

For his Spring 2011 collection, Malan Breton returned to classic film and music. This time, the muse was "An American in Paris." The Chelsea Symphony performed Gershwin's symphony as men, women, and a poodle paraded or danced down the runway. Side Note: I was in Paris this summer. I WISH the Americans or the Parisians looked so cool, collected, and classy. When I wore a skirt there, I felt overdressed. Ah -- to live in older days, or in the movies!

Malan's womenswear designs were timeless and ageless, appropriate for anyone who wants to look stylish but not fussy. The colors were simple and spring-like, with blueberry, yellow, and red mixed in with the classic black and white. Menswear was more flamboyant and daring. And typical for Malan, almost everything was made of a luxurious silk.

Two classic Hollywood-style dance performances provided smoothly transitions between menswear and womenswear sections of the runway show. The models, dancers, and orchestra maintained their carefree personas even when the fire alarm went off during part of the show.

I could say more, but the video will better convey the beautiful simplicity of Malan's creations. My apologies that the color was not rendered as brilliant as on the runway, especially for the yellow attire. Note: two of the looks (two onyx Audrey Hepburn-style dresses including the next to last runway look) are scheduled to be available at fashionstake.com on September 29, 2010.

The front row audience included actress Denise Richards. I sat just behind Project Runway alum Diana Eng, who will have some new items available this fall.

Tim Gunn in Chicago Today


The Project Runway mentor will be making several local media appearances and will be signing his book, Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making it Work tonight at Borders 830 N. Michigan Ave at 7:00 PM.

"Staffers recommend stopping by the store early for an event wristband (Borders opens at 9 a.m.) and grabbing a copy of the book for $23.99. The signing and a short discussion start at 7 p.m., but you may want to arrive at the store about 5:30 p.m. for a better shot at gaining entry, as it's not guaranteed."

Click here for more information.

Monday Mailbox - News from Daniel Vosovic, Heidi Klum and Alison Kelly

Photo: JP Vim/WireImage

Our friends at Second City Style look at Daniel Vosovic's Spring 2011 Collection here.

Season Three designer, Alison Kelly is featured in etsy's Storque blog here.

Heidi Klum is introducing another fashion collection. This time is it for New Balance and will be sold only at Amazon.com. Click here for the press release.

Episode 8 Preview Video

Weekend News from Seth Aaron Henderson, Tim Gunn and the Season 8 Finale Show

Photo: SolarWorld

Click here
for a sneak peek at Seth Aaron Henderson's solar-inspired collection.

Click here for a new interview with Tim Gunn at "Fashion's Night Out."

Coquette picks Andy South as the Project Runway Season 8 winner!

Recapalooza!


Uncle Nick is on fire this week...
Eric3000: the Fox News of Project Runway recappers...
It's so great to have Ms. Place back...
Laura Bennett is throwing people out of moving cars...
Carol Hannah writes little letters...
JordanBaker continues the Swatch watch...
Maxthegirl says April is Molly Ringwald...
Katnap saw April on a very specific vacation...
Democracy Diva cannot support the panty...
Miz Shoes calls it the best epiosde ever?
Elisa: yes, you were the only one...
Brian does a little catching up...
Gina would totally wear Casanova's look...
C(h)oco Chanel loved the challenge...
Second City Style has all the quotes...
And Toyouke figures out why April is lonely.

Thank you recappers, see you next week!

Have a recap to share? E-mail the link to Team BPR. Deadline is Saturday at midnight.

Episode 7 Online - What's Mine Is Yours


Click here to watch Epiosde 7 "What's Mine Is Yours".

At Piperlime

Andy South loves his fans.

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