LJ Runway Monday: Run for Cover (PR 7:5)


On the most recent episode of Lifetime’s Project Runway, the designers were asked to create a look for a very special client: PR’s own Heidi Klum! Even better, Heidi would wear the winning design on the April cover of Marie Claire magazine.

When I heard about this wonderful opportunity, I knew exactly who I wanted to dress for the runway. So I was almost sad to hear from Summer. What if she wanted to be my model for this challenge? Turns out she was just e-mailing to say hello and send a photo that was taken as she was leaving for her Valentine’s Day weekend getaway.

So who would be wearing my design on the runway?


Heidi Klum, of course. I began with the patterned organza fabric that you see on the top ruffle of the skirt, matching it with a beautiful royal blue dupioni silk.


The design is actually two pieces. I used the silk for the tank top, leaving the sleeves slightly capped to dress it up a little. The skirt falls from a tight silk band at the waist, with a top layer of organza.


I ruffled the silk for the bottom layer of the skirt. The finished design evokes Hollywood’s version of an early 1960s woman–organdy apron worn over an upscale frock while she prepares dinner for eight, serves cocktails to her guests, and never lets them see her sweat. As a nod to that era, I accessorized with pearls, vintage Mattel gloves, and royal blue shoes that are a reproduction of Mattel’s original slides.

Normally the back shot is when I say, “See you next time on the runway.” But tonight, I did something a little special. If you click on the photo below, then click once–or even twice–again, you can easily read the cover of my mock-Marie Claire. None of those articles actually exist, so I really have no idea what your doctor isn’t telling you.

Rest in peace, Alexander McQueen. Thank you Lisa S for the car in Summer’s photo, and Lindsey and Rhonda for the organza fabric used for the dress.

For my previous looks:
PR 7:4–Design Your Heart Out
PR 7:3–The Highs and Lows of Fashion
PR 7:2–The Fashion Farm
PR 7:1–Back to New York

23 thoughts on “LJ Runway Monday: Run for Cover (PR 7:5)”

  1. Normally I am not a fan of the bright blue … but the polka dots made it really fun .. and it popped for me, and gave a spring air to the whole thing. I love it. Heidi is as always gorgeous!

    Also love the stories … except Mad Men is another one of those “I just don’t get it” shows for me …

  2. I really, really like this one! I love the color, the design and the organza!

    (Hey, I guess we did get a new car for you! and you don’t even have to give it up when the weather’s bad!) 😀

  3. I’ve loved this one from start to finish. There’s a special place in my heart for anything retro. 🙂 And damn, you killed that Marie Claire cover! I bow down to your photoshopping skills.

    1. That photoshopped cover was what I lost just before you texted me. Thirty layers–gone. So welcome to Mock Cover, v. 2.

      Thanks–I’m glad you love the design!

  4. I want that issue of Marie Claire. I have to read the story of Summer, Nikki, and Figaro. I hope Marie Claire takes a cue from you and writes a tribute to Alexander McQueen.

    Also, that is a beautiful dress. I love that blue color. 🙂

    1. Thank you! Yes, Marie Claire is welcome to any of my brilliant article ideas. And even my dress! =) I want to read the article about the Top Models, too.

  5. I have to remember to resist the urge to look at these on my phone as soon as I see the messsage that they’re posted.
    Too hard to see well on the tiny screen, plus when I post a comment it ends up being “anonymous” because I’m used to not having to log in first…

    Beautiful, just beatiful!

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