We shouldn’t relish in the designers’ anguish but we we can’t help ourselves! As soon as Heidi told them there were special guests, we saw each and every one of their hearts drop down in their stomach. Lucky, or unlucky for some, the guests for the challenge were the eliminated designers from the season. Naturally the first question we had, and are sure you the fans did as well was: ‘How are they are going to pair them up?’. Would they let the designers pick? Of course not! That would be too easy.

It was interesting to see designers confess who they wanted and who they didn’t want. We found it a sorted twist of faith that Blayne would get Stella after he teased and teased her about her “leatha”. Terri hoped one minute she did not get Keith only to have Tim announce a mere second later that they would be paired together. Korto was pleased with Kelli and was confident with her design capabilities, as was Leanne with Emily whom she hoped she would get.

If having to choose whose astrological sign would serve as muse for their designs wasn’t quirky enough the designers were thrown a curveball when they received a note inviting them and their models to the Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space . Naturally stress ensued and the designers arrived at the Planetarium both anxious and fearful at what would happen next. Surprise! The Planetarium was filled with old designers from various seasons of Project Runway including season 1 winner Jay McCaroll, and Season 4’s winner Christian Siriano and designer Carmen Webber,  as well as Daniel Vosovic and Kara Janx of Season 2. At the end of the night the PR alumni voted on their favorite piece and gave the designers some input on their pieces that could help them on the runway.

We were not surprised that Kenley, Terri, Blayne or Suede ended up in the bottom. Kenley and Wesley’s piece was not avant-garde but rather over-the-top and just as “costumey” as Tim warned. Which is precisely why Leanne and Emily were skeptical about her confidence. Of course, Kenley got defensive again on the runway and swore her design was inspired by Aquarius regardless of the judges comments. Terri disregarded all input by Keith and ended up making a piece that was totally “her” but looked cheap to both her partner and Nina. Blayne and Stella’s piece was whimsical as expected but failed to wow the judges; especially Micheal who delivered one of our favorite lines of the show when he said: “She’s pooping fabric!” Finally, rounding out the bottom four was Suede and Jerry who delivered a bland ensemble which left the judges wanting more.

The top four designs were simply brilliant. Leanne and Emily’s Scorpio design was strong and innovative and perfectly embodied the sign. Korto and Kelli made a beautiful flowing chiffon gown  for Aquarius that actually looked like water floating down the runway.  Joe and Daniel made a ruched gown that represented  fiery Aries, and Jerell and Jennifer made a long gown of mixed sequin and plaid  fabric with a jacket to match to represent Sagittarius.

Alas, Blayne and Terri were eliminated and Jerell snagged his first win by impressing both the PR alum and the judges with his design.

We love when the designers go on field trips. Every time Tim surprises them, or Heidi announces they are to meet outside the workroom for their challenge we prepare for a big adventure. So when Tim announced they were to design for a “Fashion Icon“, we knew this was going to be exciting. When Blayne automatically thought the icon was Mary-Kate Olsen we were at first shocked and then on the floor in stitches. Was the thought wild? Yes. But we expect nothing less from him. Our favorite line from him has to be when he announced “I want to marry Mary-Kate!”

Terri, who always has the best one liners, said it best when they showed up at their destination and she said ” We arrived at this beautiful showroom, and we were like ‘What? What’s goin’ on!’ I mean it’s Project Runway anything could happen.”

Judging from the looks on the designers faces when Diane von Furstenberg was introduced as the icon and the challenge was given, we knew they were looking forward to getting to work. Poor Kenley was overwhelmed and cried so many times from a mixture of excitement and worry that we weren’t sure she was going to be able to sew without exploding. We must admit we understand her feelings. Let’s face it, Diane von Furstenberg is an established  American designer who changed the face of fashion with a design so revolutionary and yet so classic that it has remained a staple in generations of women’s closets for 30+ years! Let’s not even discuss what she has done as President of the CFDA. The pressure was on!

From the very beginning it was clear that this challenge was going to be a struggle for both Stella and Blayne.  For Stella, this task and DVF’s aesthetic was so out of her point of view as designer that she was going to have to push herself to the limits, and for Blayne this challenge did not give enough wiggle room for him to  be quirky. On the flip side, we automatically knew Korto and Leanne would be front-runners given their penchant for sophisticated well-constructed pieces.

How Blayne flew under the radar and did not go into the final three we will never know. His cropped pants were a mystery to us, and certainly are not part of DVF’s aesthetic or a look we saw in her Look Book. Like Diane we didn’t like the rear view of Joe’s look either however, we were taken aback by the harsh criticism he received on the runway.  Stella’s look wasn’t spectacular but we were pleasantly surprised she stepped outside of her box and created a more polished look. Her execution on the construction and the crooked cape were her downfall. Had she kept it simple and maybe nixed the cape she might still be on the runway. Lastly, we thought  Suede’s gown looked okay but the vest was awkward and did nothing for the look.

As for the top three we thought Korto’s gown was glamorous and exactly what we expected of her. It looked pulled together and had great movement. We found Leanne’s exquisite gown perfectly channeled both the Old Hollywood glamour of A Foreign Affair and DVF’s Collection.  We agree with the judges that she did a great job of mixing  the soft feminine look of the gown with the hard masculine edge of the coat.

Finally, there was Kenley. We can hardly talk about her dress because we can’t believe her attitude on the runway! Not only did she cut Heidi off when she was giving Kenley her critique but she shunned all criticism from everyone and sassed Diane von Furstenberg saying she thought she needed color in her collection. Whew! As far as her dress we thought it was nice but we didn’t think it deserved to be in the top three. Like Heidi we saw it as a well constructed but simple dress.

Ultimately, Stella went home and Leanne was the winner again.  Her look will be on a special site for American Express cardholders and a portion of the proceeds will go to the CFDA Foundation.

We really enjoyed this challenge and are biting our fingernails until next week. As always bid now-and own a piece of the runway.

After the first challenge in Gristedes I think it’s fair to say that most of us cringe at the thought of the designers working with unusual materials. It’s true it always makes for an interesting show, however it’s just so sad to see them flounder. In our experience, the designers either can’t think outside the box or create something so basic by using the most fabric-like material that the innovation the challenge calls for is lost.  On the flip side there are those rare gems that manage to rise to the occasion and laugh in the face of unusual and creative challenges, like first guest judge Austin Scarlett.

For this challenge, as soon as the designers arrived on the roof for their introduction and saw the cars I could cut the tension with a knife. Our favorite line was from Terri who asked ” What am I supposed to do with these cars? I don’t have blow torch!”

As we predicted many of the designers picked seat belts and other pieces of cloth they could easily form into fabric-like pieces. Luckily when they got in the workroom designers like Kenley and Leanne realized early on that to stand out they needed to avoid using seat belts or at the very least use them in a different way. Let’s face it, The judges either dock you for taking the easy road and following the flock or applaud you for taking something everyone else has and re-thinking that material. The choice is yours.

Jerell, Leanne, and Korto were the top three with their dazzling innovative designs. We love the Barbarella/ Judy Jetson look of Jerell’s design. Not only did the piece look modern it combined the materials in really great way and was totally wearable without being a bore. We agree with Rachel that we would wear Korto’s elegant weaved coat in a second. Just as Micheal said we think it was chic. This look took a lot of effort and time, and is an example of a great way to work a common fabric many of the designers snagged. Last, but not least is Leanne who never ceases to amaze! We definitely think she is one to watch. Taking a departure from her pleats and pintucks she made a party perfect cocktail dress out of seat material of all things!

It was no suprise that Keith, Stella, and Blayne ended up in the bottom three. Keith, who finally made a different silhouette ( we were in no mood to see more torn strips attached to a skirt or a sleeve), ended up boring the judges with his conservative look. One could chalk it up to karma for yelling at Alyssa for sitting in the makeup room! Come on! Then there was Stella with her  separates in the bottom three who in all fairness went outside her comfort zone. Be honest, you all thought she was going to make an all leather piece too! It didn’t make sense to Pr Alum Laura or to Micheal Kors and her skirt was clearly puckering and coming apart. Lastly, there was Blayne who rounded out the lowest scores with his elegant, but poorly made dress. We give props from his ‘licious’ departure with his more elegant design. We know he was reeling from not having anything hot pink to choose from. Unlike Heidi we liked the broken glass shards on the bust ( we aren’t superstitious), and we think the look is chic. However, as Laura pointed out it was ill-fitting on the top.

Ultimately, Leanne won with her snazzy dress and Keith was out. We agree with the judges choices for this challenge. Do you? Don’t forget you can take home a piece of the runway by bidding on these creative designs on our Project Runway Auction.  Bid now- and pick up Rachel’s Zoe’s book packed with all her fabulous style advice!

This week, the designers worked in teams to create a look for the ladies on Lipstick Jungle. I have to say, some could have been done by Victory herself and others seemed never have to encountered the New York Fashion scene. So, I won’t make you wait a moment longer for the inside scoop.

This week, Kenley and Keith were the queen and king of the jungle with their winning design.

My favorite design this week was from Korto and Joe; I just adored their sexy backless dress and voluminous coat. The dress had a very low back with a single strap across the back. The leather trim along the neckline was a nice tie into the jacket embroidery and clutch. My only gripe was the polyester fabric - too retro ’70s for a cocktail dress! The jacket was a fabulous orange taffeta with golden embroidery trim along the edges. I especially liked the enormous sleeves on this jacket. Korto and Joe also created a beaded choker and leather clutch with a bow to accessorize their look (because no Lipstick Jungle girl is ever without her fabulous accessories!). If this look is chic enough for the Lipstick Jungle crew, then you better make sure you bid on it!

Terri and Suede were partnered up and they created a fiesta-inspired blouse and tailored black trousers. The black trousers were well made, but they were made out of a stiff linen-like fabric. So not Lipstick Jungle chic! The blouse, however, I did like. It was bold and flirty with a ruffly collar. The black belt with the teal stripe added shape to the breezy blouse. I thought this outfit is perfect for a flirty night out when paired with a fabulous bag and stilettos. Make sure you place your bid in the auction as this top would be adorable with skinny jeans and black heels when wore for a night out with the girls.

Stella and Jerell teamed up to make a very jungle-y skirt and simple scoop neck tank. I did like the minimal approach to thier design. (And after last week, Jerell needed to take it down a notch). Their a-line, leopard pattern skirt was simple, clean, and universally flattering. I also like the use of the fabric in the trim of the scoop neck tank. As always, Stella found a way to incorporate leather with a wide, bright green leather belt. However, I thought that it was fitting for this design. This outfit would be perfect for inside the (Lipstick) Jungle or outside, so make sure you place your bid in the auction!

Kelli and Daniel did not have the skills to dominate in the jungle and we said auf wierdersehen to Kelli. The two create a black pencil skirt, jacket, and bustier from a black fabric. While I liked the concept, the suit seemed a little to throw back to the 80s for me. The skirt was well done, but the fabric was a matte black with a crinkle texture wasn’t chic enough for the sophisticated ladies of Lipstick Jungle. The blazer had a good concept–I loved the ruffle waist and bold teal belt. But overall, the design, just wasn’t fierce enough for the jungle, but paired with a different blouse and killer heels, the suit could be great. Make sure you bid on it in the auction!

Lastly, Blayne and Leanne just missed the entire challenge concept, unless their idea of the jungle is Crocodile Dundee! I was just shocked by how un-chic and unsophisticated their design was. It would’ve been a good concept for the desert, but not the city. The created blue-grey denim Bermuda shorts with a purple belt. I did like the sun-dial like belt buckle. The purple halter top was poorly made out of a jersey fabric. The blue button-down shirt was mostly well done; I liked the cuff detail. And the leather vest (oh!). It was poorly made and glued together. Overall, the design did not fit into the Lipstick Jungle ideology. On the other hand, if you live in the desert or want to look like you do, then bid on this outfit in our auction.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to look Lipstick Jungle chic! Make sure you place your bid in this week’s auction!

As fans of NBC’s Lipstick Jungle we were anxiously awaiting this challenge when Brooke Shields would be the guest judge. We knew the challenge would be workplace related but we could not have guessed the reward would be so rich. Having a garment  you designed worn by Brooke Shields for a prime-time show… that’s huge!

We must admit that the pairings were interesting. First, there’s Keith who picks Kenley, whom he openly admits is headstrong and hopes that she’ll just be quiet and sew. Doubtful. Then, there’s Terri who so far seems very serious pairing with Suede who is anything but serious. Then there’s Jerell, who is one of the most vocal about how he feels paired with Stella who cannot get past her distinct point of view                     (i.e., leather). Blayne and Leanne have to be one of the oddest however with over-the-top personality and Leanne’s understated demeanor.

Having watched the show none of the designs seemed like anything Wendy Healy would wear. Although the show is a little sexy  Wendy is very chic and more conservative. We were honestly surprised that she even picked Keith’s design. It had a little more flair than we’re used to seeing her in. We certainly didn’t pick it out as the winner.

Despite our initial skepticism, Kenley’s prodding and Keith’s innovation reigned supreme as they impressed the judges including Brooke and won the challenge. Kelli’s design which seemed most like something Wendy would wear and the one we figured would be a front runner totally fell short on the runway. We feel like this is due to poor construction and lack of attention to detail. Who can forget Daniel saying he didn’t care because it wasn’t his design? Korto and Joe’s design was chic and elegant and actually came together quite nicely. As did Jerell and Stella’s design. Luckily, the only leather on their dress was the belt. Terri’s design, which we liked, was just ho-hum on the runway and certainly doesn’t fit the character profile. Last but not least we have to talk about Blayne and Leanne. This look was totally Blayne all the way. Leanne tried to pull it together and encourage him to streamline the look, however nothing could help the fact this was a shorts and blazer look.

All in all we love the idea for the challenge and hope they do more TV-inspired fashion for future seasons.  Let us know who your favorite  design duo was and why.  Place your bid in the auction and ‘make it work!’

Let’s face it, some of the designs created out of the challenges are not things you can wear off the runway. Lettuce neckline anyone?  The accessories the models wear from the Bluefly accessories wall however are the exception. From patent pumps, metallic clutches, to embellished cuffs the accessories really add drama to the pieces.

We love the red  Maryjane patent pumps that Emily’s model Leslie wore in Episode 502: Grass is Always Greener. They work with Emily’s gray, white and navy swingy cocktail dress and are on-trend for fall. This style is one that will go the extra mile with your fall wardrobe. Wear it with a basic sheath dress for the perfect pop of color at the office, or make a statement by pairing it with a print piece.

Wristlets and clutches are another trend we saw the designers add to their runway looks. Our favorites: the oversized black croc clutch Terri’s model Xaviera carried plus the mint colored wristlet Kelli’s model Germaine carried in Episode 502,  and the metallic gold clutch Joe’s model Topacio carried in Episode 503: Bright Lights/Big City.  All three of these looks are great for day or night, working as easily with a pair of skinny jeans as they do with a cocktail dress.

The last runway trend we continue to see is bold bracelets. Large colorful bracelets were seen on  Jerell’s model Alex , Daniel’s model Elena, and Blayne’s model Polina in Episode 501:Let’s Start From the Beginning and again in Episode 502 on Nicole,  Korto’s model Katarina wore stacked bracelets in Episode 502, and statement cuffs graced the wrists of  Leanne’s model Karalyn.

Since trends change so often accessories are the best way to update your look. Adding a great pair of heels or a  clutch can instantly make an old dress new again and save you from being bored with your closet.  Visit Bluefly for your perfect fall shoes and accessories-and shop Heidi Klum’s jewelry collection for great earrings and cuffs.

As you know, ProjectRunway.com is the source for everything you ever wanted to know about Project Runway. With the season quickly progressing, I’m sure you are starting to wonder how all the designers were selected, where they came from, and their backgrounds. Don’t fret, as we are bringing you the cast’s audition videos where you can see their previous designs, learn about their inspirations, and peek into their eccentric and creative personalities. Our audition videos give you an inside look at each designer.

Make sure you watch Kenley’s audition video. She’s one of my favorite designers–I just love her retro, 40’s inspired style and witty personality. She says, “I want to bring back to the fashion world hope, beauty, and real glam.” Kenley, honey, I am with you! What woman doesn’t need a fabulous wardrobe that makes her feel demurely sexy and glamorous?

If you are like me and just adore Blayne (disagree all you want, but there is something about his quirky colorful personality), make sure you watch his video. In his video he says, “I want to inspire people that inspire me.” While his portfolio is eccentric and imaginative (I want to know who inspired his parachute-leg jumpsuit…), you have to love his heartfelt passion for designing.

Another fan favorite is Daniel’s video. While I marvel at his well-executed animal inspirations, I think the random birds flitting about his sewing machine may be a bit to extreme for my taste. However, to each his own.

Lastly, make sure you check out Stella’s audition tape. “I hammer, I bang, I snap, I grommet, I paint, I distress…” she says. Yes, we know, and all on “leathuh” too. In her video, Stella expresses that she wants to jump outside her box and do more. Do you think we’ll see that this season?

All of your favorite designer’s audition videos are posted, so make sure you watch them to get an inside look at thier design aesthetic and personality.

This week, in a familar challenge, the designers were taken out into the city, where they had an hour to take inspirational pictures. Tim Gunn escorted the designers on a tour bus, where designers were let off in groups at Columbus Circle, Times Square, NYC Public Library, and Greenwich Village. The upside: the nighttime social scene was happening; the downside: it was raining. Overall, I thought the designers took some creative pictures–especially Kenley & Emily. Stella tried to stir up drama after she became irritated with an inconsiderate, distracted Keith, but it didn’t rile Kenley who backed his competitive, “in the moment” attitude.

The designers each selected one picture to inspire their design for a fabulous night out on the town. For the first time, the designers headed to Mood to pick out their own fabric. Stella kept running around screaming, “who’s helping me?,” but no one seemed to hear or care. Has she never been in a fabric store before, or does her store only sell “leatha?” In the workroom, it was interesting to watch everything come together–I was holding my breath for Kenley, Blayne, Terri and Emily who took risks with bold, splashy colors.

Kenley’s design instincts were right on cue, as she won this challenge, receiving immunity for next week. Her throw-back to the 80s was modern, playful, and perfect for a flirty girl on the town. However, I thought Leanne’s fabulous and chic separates would be hard to beat; her design was so interesting, classic, and most wearable by all women. While I had doubts about Terri’s graffiti inspired backless dress and pants, it made a fabulous showing on the runway. I also loved the sophisticated ambiance and deep olive color of Jerell’s design and the rainbow of electric colors on Blayne’s design.

While most of the designers succeeded in creating appealing garments for the runway, there were a few that were no where near making the cut. This week, we said auf wiedersehen to Emily. I loved her inspiration photo–with the moving light of NYC, but her execution was just plain awful. The ruffles were unflattering, had poor placement, and did not flow with the garment.

Personally, I liked Keith’s inspiration photo–there was something so intriguing about the battered magazine, but I was disappointed by the execution of the garment. I agree with Michael Kors’ comment: “It looks like toilet paper fluttering in the wind.” Jennifer rounded out the bottom three with her matronly frock. There are no words for it other than boring. Nina Garcia made the infamous remark, “no comment.” That is when you know it was bad!

Make sure you bid on your favorite design from Bright Lights/Big City in our auction this week. I think I might bid on Kenley’s ode to the 80s–it would be fabulously fun for a night out with my girls.

If there was ever speculation about whether the bidder on Blayne’s first design under the username “Blayne’s Mom” was really in fact Blayne’s mom, we got our confirmation today when we received this message:

Yes, it WAS TRULY ME… BLAYNE’S MOM, bidding on his first design! As I would very much like to own each and every one of his designs from the show, you’ll be happy to know that I won’t be bidding on every one. I wanted the first one for memorabilia. Blayne is an extremely creative & talented designer, amazing artist and an all around fun-loving & wonderful person. He has always had a great sense of humor (as you can see on the show), and is easy going and pretty laid back most of the time. I hope all of you who bid on his designs in the future enjoy them. And once again.. don’t worry.. I won’t be bidding on All of them… maybe just a couple more.

We love her enthusiasm and her support and wish Blayne and the other designers the best of luck!

Today, I was able to take a closer look at more Project Runway garments from Episode 501, the first challenge. It is so interesting to see everything in person–epecially the detailing, construction, and artistry.

Blayne’s fiesty personality was evident in his “Girlicious” romper, which was topped out with a $60 bid in last week’s auction; the winner was a fierce battling “Blaynesmom.” Hmmm…if it really was his mother, is she going to be buying everything?! The romper wasn’t very attractive, but it was definitely innovative–as the judges noted.  Blayne used charcoal grey and white shelving liner for his design, which created a heavy, rubbery garment. Down the front of the design, Blayne create a net pattern with gauze, basketball netting, and shoelaces. He also used bright teal, pink, and green “No Fog” mitts to create a voluminous halter neckline for the romper. The romper was hand-stitched together with a lime green floss-like thread. This was another garment that they model had to be sewn into and cut out of! While the “Girlicious” idea was debatable, Blayne’s overall garment was well made, creative, and interesting.

I also got to peek at Jerell’s design–a colorful dress with flower detailing. In last week’s auction, this dress raised only $50. Jerell used a mesh laundry bag to create the bodice of his dress; the princess seams were well constructed, bringing shape to the garment. And, like everyone else, Jerell used a lace tablecloth for the skirt; however, he did dip-dye the skirt in fruit punch to give it more color and a stiff texture. Across the asymmetrical neckline, Jerell cut up a hawaiian floral garland to create individual flowers. Lastly, on the shoulder, Jerell used a bright blue Koosh ball, which made the garment really heavy. The dress was pinned together in the back, so Jerell must not have had time to finish it! While I didn’t find Jerell’s garment to be anything stellar, it was well made.

If want to be able to see a Project Runway original, make sure you bid on your favorite design at our Episode 502 auction. If you are curious to see more inside details about the designs, check back as we will keep you updated.