We bring the fifth season of Project Runway to a close, as Leanimal is crowned champion. Regretfully, we admit that we were underwhelmed by the finale. Our first bone to pick – why do they insist on making us watch the model audition? While certain models may give designers an advantage, the models do not speak. We don’t get to know them, nor do we want to. They are b-o-r-i-n-g. And secondly, why was Tim Gunn the special guest judge? J Lo bailed because of a mysterious foot injury. Um, okay. How exactly is sitting in a chair, looking at, and talking about clothes too strenuous on her foot? So, Project Runway’s replacement was Tim Gunn. Tim Gunn, really? Yes, we love Tim Gunn. Everyone loves Tim Gunn. He is adorable and caring and sensitive – but, really? PR couldn’t find anyone else? (The conspiracy theorist in us thinks this is further evidence that Bravo is trying to sabotage the future of PR, since it is moving to Lifetime.) Whatevs. Let’s get to the shoe pairing.
Believe it or not, we’ve gone the whole season without pairing any Manolos with the winning designs. Given that Mr. Blahnik is an extraordinary craftsman and he continues, with his own hands, to perfect every design and prototype of every shoe that bears his name, he is our footwear designer of choice this week.
Leanne’s collection – Everyone else seems to call those sculptural elements “petals,” but we call them “waves,” given her designs were inspired by water and movement and all. Her collection is highly original and très elegant, but we wish it wasn’t so “controlled,” if that makes sense. And, we would have liked a few more color variations. Nevertheless, we adore these stunning “Preppi” ankle strap sandals with this outfit. Check out the alternate view on Barney’s website to see the print on the back. They rock.
Kenley’s collection – She surprised us. And, we surprised ourselves because we liked her designs the best. The “copycat” accusation reared its ugly head again, but we loved all of the whimsical designs and colors; we even like the rope trim! We’ve paired these “Sedaraby” heels with the fun, full tulle skirt, but they would be an excellent match with a few other outfits as well.
Korto’s collection – We love Korto more than we loved her designs. We so appreciate that she knows how to dress different body types, and we love that she infuses her heritage in her designs. But overall, we thought her collection lacked the glamour present in the other designers’ collections. We like glamour. A lot of her dresses had a playful quality, and we like the strappy, metallic “Spart” with this one.
While we weren’t wowed by this season, we’re an optimistic bunch over here at S&C. Season 6 is currently in production, rumored to split time between NYC and LA, and has promised some very A-list celebrities as guest judges. We’ll stay tuned.
Shoes & Cocktails 