Patricia Michaels at Peabody Essex Museum - Field Report

 Project Runway All-Star designer,  Patricia Michaels, is a featured artist in the "Native Fashion Now" exhibit at the Peabody Essex Museum near Boston.

BPR Field Reporter, Tina G attended the opening day events and sends us this report.  Thanks Tina!  

Pat Pruitt, Jamie Okuna, Karen Kramer, PEM's curator of Native American Art and Culture, Patricia Michaels

On November 21, I had the pleasure of attending “Native Fashion Now“ at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. 

If you are a “Project Runway” fan, a show of this title might bring to mind Season 11 designer Patricia Michaels, and rightly so, because Patricia’s designs open the show! The show opens with beautiful parasols, which are suspended from the ceiling, framing a dress. Each parasol is made from fabric that Patricia hand-dyed and wrapped around wire frames. The video playing in the background is of the Palm Desert show that Patricia participated in upon the invitation of Michael Costello of PR Season 8. The display is breathtaking and is a fitting opening to the show.  


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Sam Donovan Runway Report

BPR Field Reporter Tina Guthmann attended Sam's show in Boston and sends us this report - thanks Tina!

Sam Donovan, runner-up in the first season of Lifetime’s Under the Gunn, presented his collection as a part of the Fashionably Late series at Boston’s Liberty Hotel on November 5. Sam is a native of the Boston area, so it’s always fun to support him. This time, Sam presented what I like to call a ‘sporty glam’ look.  We know that athletic wear is the new casual wear for those who work out (and those who don’t) so I was happy to see Sam’s interpretation. He takes it up a notch and makes it dressy, too. His inspiration was a Twitter argument that attacked Serena Williams for looking masculine and resulted in author JK Rowling coming to her rescue.  How is that for the start of a collection? 

As Sam states,"It just felt like this amazing, empowering moment that challenged the idea of what it meant to "look like a woman". There have been so many instances challenging what is "womanly", and could feel the fury that Rowling and Williams must have felt at that comment. So I wanted both a sporty feeling, but the look of a warrior, so I looked to Furiosa and Mad Max for a little bit of edge; yet another challenge to the conventional idea of femininity.


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Project Runway's Kate Pankoke Presents 2016 Bridal at Charity Event

 BPR Field Reporter Jen Mara sends us this report from Kate Pankoke's event.  
Thank you Jen!

A beautiful night tonight at the Marquee club in midtown NYC. Tonight Project Runway's Kate Pankoke supports the cancer-fighting bride during bridal week. 

Lolly's Locks Backstage

Lolly's Locks is a non-profit organization that covers 100 percent of the cost of wigs (generally $1500 - $3000) for cancer patients.  (A cost which modern insurance does not cover, and many patients can not afford.) Lolly's Locks brings a dream to reality. 

After many inspiring words from Lolly's family, friends and "The View's" Joy Behar, it is clear the message here is to leave a mark that lasts past your life -it is the only way you can help humanity. Thank you Lolly for continuing to teach us. 

Each model walked the runway with a Lolly's Locks wig and a stunning gown from the Spring 2016 collection from Elaya Vaughn designed by Project Runway's own Kate Pankoke. The designs are new and fresh. Click here for more photos. 

Lolly's daughters spoke emotionally, thoughtfully and truthfully about the fight, their fight and how they represent their mom. Please help them promote and provide.  Elaya Vaughn gowns are beautiful and the charity bridal show drew attention and funding to this important cause.  Thank you Kate!

Jennifer Mara

Jen and Kate

Austin Scarlett 2016 Bridal Collection

Project Runway All-Star designer, Austin Scarlett, presented his 2016 Bridal Collection on Friday night.  BPR Field Reporter Jennifer Mara attended the event and sends us this report - Thanks Jen!

Friday night host Austin Scarlett facilitated a perfect spring evening cocktail party to celebrate his 2016 Collection. Austin Scarlett really does exceed our expectations every season and this year is no different. 

I was thankful for the cocktail party and time I had to converse with Mr. Scarlett. We got to talking about one dress and it's fabric and how it's imported from Italy and hand carved silk and how they only had time to make 5 yards but Austin found a way to make 25 happen -these are the stories I love to hear from Austin as he doesn't even realize he's exuding such role-model qualities. He is hard-working, talented, unafraid and brilliant. 

 He is a gem in the fashion universe. Most interestingly, were the snatches of conversation I overheard about Scarlett- EVERYONE adores Austin Scarlett and I finally figured out why! ...Scarlett allows us to be a part of his journey. Thanks Austin! We look forward to seeing your collection in stores!!! 

2016 Brides get ready!!! 

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Austin and Jennifer flanked by two beautiful models.

Leanne Marshall, Fall 2015

Project Runway Season 5 champion, Leanne Marshall, presented her Fall 2015 collection at Lincoln Center last night and BPR Field Reporter, Shannon Moody sends us this report.  Thank you Shannon!

All Photos:  Shannon Marie Moody

Leanne Marshall Debuts at Lincoln Center with SHEER Beauty

And yes, the emphasis on SHEER is fully intentional. Many looks in this 42-piece collection incorporated such delicate sheer effects, from the bodice to really all over! Leanne's work is always feminine and ethereal, but it was great seeing her transition her signature aesthetic to full on red carpet glam and even some sexier pieces. She actually presented twice during NYFW, a RTW presentation at the Affinia Hotel, and then with more upscale looks for her first time presenting at Lincoln Center, The Pavilion. And WOW, what a show, very stunning, eye-catching, out of this world gowns, dresses, and even some separates.

The vibe for this collection was very light and airy, lovely pieces with a gorgeous fit and flowing trains. The color palette ranged from traditional staple colors, such as black and white, to more vibrant pops of color, such as crimson red and burnt orange. Leanne also created some magnificent prints with dye treatments, all thanks to Rit Dyes. 

 

 

 

Her various looks were segmented into separate categories -- Le Voyage (black & forest green staple, signature Leanne pieces), La Chasse de L'amour (many of the Rit hand-painted looks), La Obsession (all about the regal ruby red looks), & La Demence (lots of luxurious navy blue dresses).

My first fashion show ever in NYC was for Leanne Marshall, and I've seen her present many times since then. But I am immensely proud of her continued breathtaking work and for all of her success. I am very happy she was able to present at Lincoln Center and that for her debut showing, I was able to witness it firsthand. These looks were certainly memorable for such a momentous occasion. I am positive we will see some of them very soon on red carpets and the like!

CONGRATS & GREAT WORK LEANNE!!

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Malan Breton - Fall 2015 Collection, "Stars"

Malan Breton presented his Fall, 2015 collection, "Stars" this morning at Lincoln Center.  Breton showcased 53 looks.  BPR Field Reporter, Jennifer Mara sends us this report.  
Thanks Jen!

Shoe designer Caterina Belluardo, Malan Breton and Jennifer Mara

Malan Breton truly woke up my spirit, among many others, this morning, with an early 9 am show held in The Pavilion at Lincoln Center. The Malan Breton Showcase of his Fall/Winter 2015 Men's and Women's Collection was the most elevated and exquisitely put together show of the week. 

All Photos - Jennifer Mara

Malan always delivers, his craftsmanship is flawless and every garment is stitched to perfection. From head to toe, each model looked consciously well thought out and put together. Malan's decisions in style are incredibly innovative, including intelligent twists on traditional styles for women AND men. He's all about breaking the rules just a little bit, showcasing oversized necklaces using leather, a full on three piece cashmere suit, ranging from fantasy to reality. Plus, Sir. Malan Breton knows how to put on a show! 

Click here to continue and to see tons of Jen's photos!  

Viktor Luna for F/W 2015: The Apocalypse

Shannon and Viktor

Viktor Luna presented his F/W 2015 collection on February 11, 2015 at the Intercontinental Hotel Times Square, Gotham Ballroom,  BPR Field Reporter, Shannon Marie Moody was there and sends us this report - thank you Shannon!

 

 

 

His overall concept for the collection was "The Apocalypse", think Guerrilla Warfare. Or in Viktor's case, "Gorilla Warfare", as several of his pieces incorporated the face of a gorilla! The underlying inspiration for his 12-piece collection was envisioning how women would dress for the end of the world, facing an apocalypse. He said his collection also was representative of the 4 major elements -- earth, water, fire, and air.

And Viktor's "Apocalyptic Woman" in this case dresses with strength, very tough, armor-like. 

 

Viktor presented a great deal of detailed and structured outerwear. Many pieces encompassed several gold button and zipper detailings. The color palette for his apocalyptic vision was dark -- blacks, charred browns, deep burgundies, and navy blues. What a show!

 

 

It was also nice that several PR alums made their way to Viktor's show to show support --

• Sean Kelly
• Alexander Knox
• Benjamin Mach
• Helen Castillo
• Christopher Palu
• Jesus Estrada

Boston Field Report: Sam Donovan Collection

BPR ace field reporter Tina G. stayed out past her bedtime last week to catch the new collection from Under The Gunn favorite Sam Donovan at the Liberty Hotel in Boston. Nothing but raves from a pretty discerning eye:

Who is she and where is she going?  Tim Gunn might come to mind when you read this phrase, but it’s also a phrase that Sam Donovan, fashion designer and first runner-up on Lifetime’s Project Runway: Under the Gunn, draws from when designing clothing.  He stresses the importance of this phrase, especially for young designers.

Those of us who were lucky enough to attend Sam’s latest show also wanted to know How could we be her?  Sam’s show, a part of The Liberty Hotel Boston’s Fashionably Late series, included pants, tops, dresses and even a jumpsuit. Sam has a knack for designing fashionable items that women of any age can wear.

Click here to read the rest of our field report from Boston.

BPR Field Report from the UTG Finale

That's Eric3000 in the lower left corner!

We sent Project Runway recapper extraordinaire Eric3000 on a special mission to report on the Under The Gunn finale back in December. After cleverly disguising himself as Daniel Franco, he gained entrance behind the ropes and snared a front row seat. The results of this mission, well, you'll just have to read for yourself.

Thanks Eric!

Bert Keeter at Tucson Fashion Week

Camerone Parker models the final look in Bert's Collection

Project Runway Season 9 designer, Bert Keeter,  presented a stunning collection of 19 looks on Saturday, October 19th at Tucson Fashion Week.

My husband and I drove down for the event and it was a gorgeous night in Tucson.  The event was outdoors at La Encantada and included, food, drinks, shopping, and of course, the runway.  

Bert's collection was the final show of the night and he was definitely the star of the evening.  

I had the chance to ask Bert how he was invited to the show and he told me that he met Camerone Parker and Mel Greenberg at Fashion Week El Paseo in March.

(He couldn't miss Camerone at the event because she was wearing the seat belt coat made by Korto Momolu in Season 5!)

They asked if he would be interested in the Tucson event and of course he was.

Bert's runway designs were impeccable and I asked if he did all of the work himself. 

"You can't move forward if you are making everything yourself," he explained.  (Great advice for designers just starting out...)  He does the draping, cutting and patternmaking and has expert sample makers and beaders finishing the garments.

Right now Bert is working on a line for the American Business Woman.  He promises to keep us posted.

I'm so glad we went!

Click here for a great interview from 3storymagazine.com.

Click here for more photos.

Click here to visit Bert's website.

It's a Malanathon! - Part 1

The next entry in today's Malanathon is a report from Nancy T - thanks Nancy!

Malan by Malan Breton – on The Catwalk!

 Malan Breton is all over Fashion Week for Spring 2014.

On September 7, he showed in the Mercedes Benz tents.

On September 11, he put on another show in Metropolitan Pavilion sponsored by Style 360 and Fancy Feast. Nobody was sure what to expect from a show sponsored by cat food. Would there be feline companions for the models? Fur coats? Cat fights?

 None of the above (thank goodness). Though there was a fluffy Persian posing in the lobby and backstage, only men and women took to the catwalk.

 The show was characteristically Malan – timeless fashion and ageless looks.

Malan’s designs seemed inspired by mens’ formal wear, with tuxedo touches (cummerbunds, satin stripes on pants), a mostly black and white palette, and beautiful silks and brocades.

Leather and a few items in vivid reds and yellows were interspersed with the dressier looks, making the collection feel like it could be worn on the street (but only on a VERY NICE street).

 The final look was a stunner. The model strode the runway, wrapped in a voluminous gray and white cloak. At the end of the walk , she unfastened and dropped the cloak – which turned out to be a very long train on a white strapless gown. Think “Say Yes to the Dress” for a drama queen.

 Thanks Malan for another lovely collection!

Tim Gunn in New Jersey

All Photos: Caryn Rosenberg Photography

TIM GUNN, JERSEY PROUD
 by Ellen Kahaner

In Maplewood, New Jersey's Columbia High School auditorium, Tim Gunn held the rapt attention of fashionistas from ages 12 to 70 on Sunday night, March 17th.

The occasion was a benefit to raise funds in support of a new playground and Outdoor Learning Center at the Seth Boyden Demonstration School in the Maplewood/South Orange NJ School District. The ever-generous Mr. Gunn dished for an hour and a half with NY1-TV reporter and South Orange resident Budd Mishkin and took questions from the audience.

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 Thank you Ellen!

Update:  More from Tim in NJ here!

BPR at Malan Breton Fall 2013

Project Runway Season 3 designer, Malan Breton presented his Fall 2013 Collection "The Days of 54" on Feb 10th.

BPR Field Reporter, Jennifer Mara sends us this report - thanks Jen!

Jennifer Mara and Malan Breton

Malan ALWAYS puts on an incredible show, last night at Pier 59 was no different. Every season, Malan produces new levels of growth and evolution at a rapid pace which is refreshing and enjoyable to see. 

RHONY Aviva Dresher

On a clean white runway, Malan showcased menswear, womenswear, evening, outerwear, and well, you name it. Malan is not holding back on us! (Not that he ever did) The collection is complete with 45 looks in a 50's Marilyn Monroe theme that delivered in every way. 

Outstanding music set the tone and each model brought a new flavor to each pass. Each garment was stunning.

Audible ooo's and aahh's kept the energy high throughout the show and every look was a hit, especially the men's fur. WOW! ... Malan's personal favorite, the blue mink...and can you blame him?

Malan included the Marilyn Monroe Jewelry™ Collection by JTV, luxury lingerie company Chantelle Paris, Batiste Dry Shampoo, Brooklyn Spectacles, GOLDTOE Socks, H.H. Brown Shoe Company, Harbor Footwear Group, with his dear friend Aviva Drescher in support of the One Step Ahead Foundation.

Click here for runway photos from Malan's Show.

BPR at Project Runway Season 10 Party

Project Runway celebrated Season 10 last night and BPR Field Reporter, Jen Mara, attended the party and sends us these photo - more to follow - thanks Jen!

Jennifer and Andrae Gonzalo - great smiles!

Jen with Olivier Green

Bert Keeter and friends, Kik and Jen Disher.

More From Tim Gunn's Visit to Boston

BPR Field Reporter, Tina G sends us more from Tim's visit to Boston. Thanks Tina!

Fans who met Tim in Boston also received this fabulous tote bag!

Another question was why didn't Tim mentor the designers on Project Runway All-Stars. He answered that it was filmed the same time Season 9 was. Tim said that each season he feels as if he's attending to an emergency room patient and he couldn't possibly attend to two emergency room patients! Not to mention how much time Michael and Nina would have to invest as well.

Tim gave a mini styling lesson using one of the models for illustration. She was wearing a blousy peasant top with short shorts. Tim explained that you if you have short shorts you shouldn't wear a plunging neckline. Conversely, if you are wearing a blousy top you should not also wear a baggy bottom.

Tim also mentioned that he has a book on fashion history coming out in the fall.

BPR Field Report from Christian Siriano's Wedding Showcase at Nordstrom

BPR Field Reporter, Ali G, attended the Christian Siriano Wedding Showcase at Nordstrom on Saturday and sends us this report. Thank you Ali!



Hi, BPR!

This is Ali G., reporting from the Christian Siriano Wedding Showcase. It was held on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at Nordstrom from Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City, NY. Christian presented about 10 wedding dresses to be sold at this store. These dresses were soft and romantic. They seemed like what the 2012 bride who always dreamed of a fairy tale wedding would wear on her big day. Although they are voluminous and intricate, their fabrics are light and airy, making them comfortable for any bride.



My favorite dress was the last dress shown. It was colored light gray which was a refreshing change. Christian described it as for the bride who wanted something a bit different, but not too different. The setting at this event was very intimate, allowing Christian, the models, the staff, and the guests to interact freely. I really enjoyed meeting Christian. He was extremely friendly. I mentioned my wish for him to launch a line for men. He smiled in response.



The models walked around. I was able to see the dresses up close and even touch them. The staff was really accommodating, kindly answering every question. There were several waiters, serving caviar, smoked salmon, and champagne. Overall, it was an outstanding event. Big thank you to Christian for being not only super talented, but also super gracious, big thank you to Nordstrom for organizing this event very professionally, and, of course, big thank you to BPR for posting it online beforehand which brought it to my attention, and, therefore, allowed me to attend. It was a day to remember!

Sincerely,
Ali G.



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BPR Field Report from Tim Gunn's Visit to Boston

BPR Field Reporter Tina G attended Tim Gunn's Fashion Show today and sends us this report. Thanks Tina!



Today I drove a few miles from my home to Burlington Mall in Burlington, Massachusetts to meet Tim Gunn! I’ve met Tim on two other occasions: at the Kate Spade store in Boston in 2010 and at the Lucky Brand Jeans store in SoHo during Fashion’s Night Out, 2011. (I was also in the audience at Martha Stewart Show when he was a guest in 2007.) I couldn’t pass up another chance to meet Tim, especially when I didn’t have to travel so far!

When I got in line, Tim had not yet arrived. We were told he had quite an ordeal getting to the mall. We weren’t told why, but apparently he was on a plane for a couple of hours and then traveled four hours by car. Maybe he drove from NYC? Eventually, he did make it with his entourage, who consisted of a group of both male and female models dressed from head to toe in Lucky Brand Jeans outfits. One of the models was one who travels with him and the others were local. I spoke with her and asked her if she was Adair (who I saw at Kate Spade). She said Adair was her travel buddy but wasn't able to make this trip.

Prior to Tim’s arrival, the audience was asked for questions for Tim. One person asked who were Tim’s favorite Project Runway designers. He said it would be easier to state whom he didn’t like! There was quite a din, so I missed who he didn’t like in Season 1, so you’ll have to take your best guess: Mario, Vanessa or Wendy, perhaps?

In Season 2, his least favorite was Zulema (also known as Shatenge). She apparently was pulling some shenanigans off-camera. When Tim asked the other designers why they didn’t complain, Santino said in his deepest voice, “We were afraiiiiiiid!” Can you guess who was Tim’s least favorite designer in Season 3? No, Tim did not name Keith Michael, who was asked to leave early, but named none other than Vincent Libretti! Vincent’s designs did leave a bit to be desired, but he did make it long enough to go to Paris and did provide comedy relief.

Seasons 4 and 5 were Victorya Hong and Kenley Collins, respectively. Victorya had a really hard time adjusting to the rigorous schedule. When Tim and the producers asked her why, she thought the lack of sleep and food was just for the cameras! He couldn’t really name anyone in Season 6 (the dreaded LA season). Tim didn’t get a chance to name anyone in Season 7, as he was asked to move things along, but he did say his least favorite of Season 8 was the “both the villain and the winner” – Gretchen. When Tim asked how many in the crowd wanted Mondo to win, the cheers were louder than when Tim himself took the stage!

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Wesley Nault Fall 2012 "Queen of Martyrs" Field Report

Project Runway Season 5 designer, Wesley Nault, presented his "Queen of Martyrs" collection on Feb. 16th. BPR Field Reporter Jennifer Mara sends us this report. Thanks Jen!

Wesley and his favorite look from the collection.

Photo: Jennifer Mara

Wesley Nault prefers these presentations instead of Runway shows and the format really complements his work. As the models pose, new details reveal themselves as the viewer is able to take a closer look. Wesley sticks to a simple color palette playing with pale pinks, beige and black.

Wesley isn’t afraid to really show his work- his tailoring and craftsmanship are high above the bar. He took everything to next level for this show. Great Job Mr. Nault. Can’t wait for the next one!

Leanne Marshall Fall 2012 - Field Report

Project Runway Season 5 Champion, Leanne Marshall presented her Fall 2012 Collection on February 12th. BPR Field Reporter Jennifer Mara sends us this report - thanks Jen!



New York Fashion Week welcomed Leanne Marshall's 2012 fall collection this afternoon at The Fashion Gallery in Chelsea.


Leanne's "fresh" dress collection was filled with saturated royal blues, greens, and whites, SO saturated that blue dye was left all over her hands!


It was well worth it because according to Leanne, "the very last blue look is my favorite."

When asked if she was thinking about her next collection she rapidly replied; "I've already started working on bridal!"

Leanne also made sure to include a special shout-out to her BPR fans- "Hi Guys! I love you, thank you for all of the support and for all of your nice and touching letters, they keep me motivated and keep me striving."


Suede and Korto Momolu show support for Leanne!

BPR Interview with Project Runway All-Star Designer Anthony L. Williams

All photos: Delminquoe Cunningham

Project Runway season 7 finalist and All-Star contestant, Anthony L. Williams, appeared at Neiman Marcus in Atlanta Thursday December 8, 2011 and BPR's own Image Architect Courtney A. Hammonds sends us this report. Thanks Courtney!

Mr. Courtney A. Hammonds

Anthony made a personal appearance at Neiman Marcus in Atlanta on Thursday December 8, 2011.

Neiman Marcus had a table set up on the second floor, with a mannequin wearing a one of a kind gown of Anthony’s. I, along with my photographer Mr. Delminquoe Cunningham arrived at Neimans a bit early to ensure proper lighting, setup and staging. Lights camera action! So, without further ado, here’s an entrée to my experience with Mr. Stacked, Packed and Ready to Attack Anthony L. Williams:

Q: How did you feel when you received the invitation to compete on the All-Stars?
A: Oh, I’m really excited about this question! I feel blessed and CHOSEN. Many are called but few are chosen.

Q: When you arrived and saw the other designers, who did you feel would be you biggest competition?
A: Well, this is an interesting question because all the contestants first met off camera. Once we met and we sized one another up, Rami and Austin would be my choice. We all have a history of designing gowns.

Courtney and Anthony flank Dave Ferguson - Fashion ambassador for Neiman Marcus

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