The boxing gloves were out this week (much to guest judge Jessica Simpson’s delight), and it wasn’t the designers who were wearing them; it was the judges!
Although at first it seemed as though they’d never reach a consensus and had no choice but to declare two winners, they finally decided on Gretchen. It was the toughest decision in Project Runway history.
Discord between the judges wasn’t the only first in this season’s finale. The two hour long episode began with a reunion of all seventeen of this season’s contestants, during which Tim and the designers discussed issues such as Michael C. and Mondo’s relationship revolution and what each of them learned. In Casanova’s case, what he learned was, “a lot of English!”. Tim shed a few tears while praising them for the way they all came together at the end.
The next day, after the former contestants have all gone, it was time for the “real” runway at Lincoln Center. Since Fashion Week just moved this past season from Bryant Park, it was not only a debut for this season’s finalists, but for the show itself. After his final critique, Tim predicted that the designers will give the judges a run for their money. As it turns out, he was right.
The collection to walk down the runway was Gretchen’s, which she dubbed “Running with Thunder” and consisting of lightweight fabrics and vintage looking prints. The next was Andy’s, which had a Laotian influence and consisted of a green and silver color palate. The celestial headpieces are interesting, but look a bit too much like bugs’ antennas. The last was the creative, talented Mondo, who’s every look elicited a “wow”. His looks included a sequined knit top with a skull design and an aztec pyramid inspired pink and blue tunic. Gretchen may have won, but Mondo put on the best show.
Despite the fact that all three designers exhibited a great deal of talent and stayed true to who each of them were, the judges had an easy time deciding that Andy was out. The real challenge was deciding between Mondo and Gretchen. Nina and Michael argued that Gretchen knew what was current and had her finger on the pulse of what is next in fashion, while Heidi and Jessica Simpson felt as though Mondo’s was more special and had more personality. Heidi also felt strongly that Gretchen’s design was a bit monotone, but Nina criticized Mondo’s looks as being a bit overwhelming. The real dividing factor was Mondo’s long, black and white bubble-print dress.
Although Nina and Michael expressed disdain for it the week before, Mondo decided to send it down the runway this week, where it gained it another fan: Jessica Simpson.
Although it seemed that Gretchen’s design was a bit more safe, it was she that took home the grand prize. Gretchen’s designs will surely sell well in department stores, and there’s no doubt that Mondo will be joining the likes of Betsy Johnson in creating exciting, over the top clothes!
Do you think the judges made the right decision?
