On the most recent episode of Lifetime’s Project Runway, the designers’ clients were a group of men. But they weren’t designing menswear; they interviewed them for information and ideas to help them create a look for the men’s wives or girlfriends. I could have used the opportunity to bring back my Super Doll Couple Summer and Walt, but instead, I posed some style questions to my nephew Jess about his wife Laura.
Petite and beautiful, Laura has a relaxed style that’s perfect for her busy life. In addition to office work and the responsibilities that come with being a minister’s wife, she’s a homemaker and the mother of a very active three-year-old. I wanted to give her a design that would be ideal for a date with Jess to an event like the symphony–something a little dressier for a special occasion. I chose Rome as my model because of her fair skin, sweet face, and long hair.
Rome is wearing a vintage silver necklace. Jess told me Laura prefers silver to gold.
I chose a shiny plissé fabric that alternated black with silver-and-black print. It’s dressy but also soft and comfortable.
I stretched most of the pleating out of the bodice, because Jess said Laura would wear something fitted. He also said she wouldn’t mind if the dress was strapless, but she wouldn’t wear anything with a plunging neckline in the front or the back.
The skirt of the dress is flared, based on Jess’s recommendation, and I created a belt from the black part of the fabric.
I accessorized with a black patent leather clutch with a silver clasp.
Rome’s shoes are black and finished with a touch of silver on the sole and heel.
The hemline is just above the knee, a length Jess thought Laura would prefer.
I don’t know if Jess has seen the look he helped me design. I think he did a great job, because when I sent Laura a photo of Rome in the dress, she said she’d wear it–although she was doubtful she could get Jess to a symphony! I’m pretty sure if she wanted to go, we’d see them there, because he adores his wife.
And we’ll see you next time on the runway!
Previously this season:
9:7 Can’t We All Just Get Along?
9:6 The Art of the Matter
9:5 Off to the Track
9:4 All About Nina
9:3 Go Big Or Go Home
9:2 My Pet Project
9:1 Come As You Are
