On the most recent episode of Project Runway, the designers were asked to create an eye-catching look for their models. The models had input into the designs because they were to wear the final outfits to an industry event. The model’s appearance should help her stand out, but not overwhelm her, as she socialized with people from the fashion industry who might want to book her for modeling assignments.
My model for this challenge was Tanya. For some bookings, Tanya’s look might be problematic because of the red streaks dyed into her hair. Tanya said red is her power color and the streaks are her trademark; she didn’t want a hairstyle that would hide them. She acknowledged that her hair might limit her to funky or quirky fashions, so for this event, she wanted a design that was crisp, tailored, and elegant, with maybe a touch of whimsy, to show that her look is versatile. Having seen some of the designs I created for Summer last season, she suggested that I give her “the Grace Kelly goddess treatment.”
Did I succeed?
I certainly didn’t want to use draping for an afternoon meet-and-greet, so instead, I created a wrapped bodice of natural white peau de soie satin. Glimpses of Tanya’s bare skin on the front and the left side provide the whimsy she wanted without losing the bodice’s regal impact.
For her skirt, I chose Tanya’s power color in a shimmering, ruby dupioni silk that can hold a crisp luster even after hours of wear.
To set off the jewel tone of the skirt, I accessorized the bodice with a single, large costume ruby on thin strands of gold. The gold was repeated in the accents on Tanya’s shoes.
Confident, glowing, and elegant with a touch of fun, just like Tanya. I’d book her for my designs!
To see my previous designs for this season:
6:3–Rumble on the Runway
6:2–We Expect Fashion
6:1–The Red Carpet
I am usually not a fan of the cut out, but with this lack of cleavage top, I tihnk it works, I like the layering of the top, it give a sassy edge to the sophisticated skirt. Brava!
Thanks!
I like the top too!
Thank you!
I love the top as well, but I’m also impressed by your use of accessories. Those little touches finish off the outfit perfectly.
Thank you so much!
Count me among the top lovers!! And the shoes… pure gold. =0)
Thank you!
Will be emailing you my measurements promptly…
Thanks! I will forward them on with photos to Mr. Santos!
Sophisticated
Jim never has a second cup of coffee at home!?
(Now, that dress would shake up Airplane! 🙂
Re: Sophisticated
Thanks?!
Re: Sophisticated
Judges never compare models to actors in movies they are watching instead of paying attention to the models. Nope. Never. LOL. So, I started wondering what the movie would have been like if they included models and drag queens.
’tis a good job with the design.
Re: Sophisticated
Ha–I kept looking at the design and remembering the movie and wondering what the connection was. I love that movie–even after all these years and the number of times I’ve seen it, it still makes me laugh.
Awesome job. And everyone should always have a floor that goes with her shoes.
Now that is SO true.
Thanks!