The fate of Project Runway remains as elusive as perpetually missing season 2 contestant Andre, with the Lifetime network jumping on the lawsuit-filing bandwagon. NBC Universal has already sued the Weinstein Company (and won), and the Weinstein Co. has sued Bravo. Now Lifetime's suing the Weinsteins. What's next? With Bravo developing a Runway knockoff as the original stays embroiled in court, we think Heidi, Tim, and the gang should capitalize on the ridiculousness and high drama inherent in the U.S. legal system and begin a competitive reality series called Project Litigation or, ideally, Good Moh-ning, Litigat-uhs! The contestants: Reps from the companies suing each other (Weinsteins, Lifetime, NBC) and maybe Janice Dickinson just for the hell of it. They can just abandon the fashion premise, and instead go with small-scale "legal challenges" like taking action against a little girl for not crediting Country Time at her lemonade stand, or writing a strongly worded letter in mutlicolored Sharpies to my crazy downstairs neighbor/landlord who refuses to keep the heat on for more than five minutes at a time. Nina Garcia could play the role of fancy stenographer during panels, but refuse to do anything except just glare at everyone. The winner of the show gets $100,000 in damages from Runway's producers, and an opportunity to host a show on Tru TV. Losers must sign up for a Victoria's Secret Angels card, which is free and, for the record, a really bad idea.
Which Lawsuit Challenges would you like the Project Litigation players to take on? Remember, no idea is too insignificant for these hotheads. Especially my final one: "Foh yoh next challenge! Get to the bottom of why EW's vending machine once proffered a can of regular Pepsi -- which wasn't even an option -- in February 2005..."
With Project Runway's potential move to Lifetime still mired in court, Bravo has picked up another fashion design reality series with a working title so basic and broad it might as well be footage of adorable little kids playing dress-up. In The Fashion Show, viewers will choose their favorite designer, who will get to sell his or her clothes via a retailer. Bravo's also developing Celebrity Sew-Off, in which famous people compete to see who has the ability to launch their own clothing label (I believe the answer is "Everyone, because they have tons and tons of cash") as well as three other potential fashion-related series. At this rate, I'm fully expecting a series called Sew What?, which will follow a select few of the brattiest Runway contestants (like Kenley, pictured) as they petulantly refuse to obey instructions from Michael Kors, who will host. Seriously, that man has to host something.
What do you think, PopWatchers? Is there such a thing as too much fashion on TV? Do these new programs have any chance of filling the Project Runway void on Bravo? What other cleverly titled shows should they consider doing?
I like you. I really do. Even though your evil ways tended to distract people from your work, I was always a fan of your line and considered you to be a worthy winner of Project Runway season 3. But Sunday night, for the first time, I found myself questioning your taste (gasp!). There I was, sitting on my couch, when I turned on VH1 and uttered a "jiggawha?!" at a curious sight -- you, sitting beside Sharon Osbourne and judging the fashion sense of the Rock of Love Charm School girls in an elimination challenge. Since I'm already going through a Project Runway identity crisis, what with the show moving (maybe) to Lifetime, I have to ask: Why, oh why, Jeffrey, would you accept a stint as a guest star on Charm School? Did your neck tattoo tell you to do it? Or perhaps it was the fact that you like to make whiny grown women cry (e.g. fellow contestant Angela Keslar's mom)? We know you pride yourself on being rock 'n' roll, but really, you should avoid VH1 like the plague. Or, since we're talking about Rock of Love, like herpes.
Best,
Kate
P.S. On a more positive note, I have to give credit where credit's due: props on the new porn 'stache.
There’s been a fair amount of blogchatter (some of it right here on PopWatch) about whether or not Bravo is trying to sabotage this season of Project Runway after losing the show to Lifetime. (NBC Universal, which owns Bravo, recently won an injunction that may prevent the show from moving). There was the lack of buildup buzz, the uninspired challenges, the mediocre talent level. But today brings another blow that adds even more weight to the theory that Bravo is throwing its onetime star show under the train: The finale is up against the Presidential debate.
We know, we know. The show had this time slot long before the debates were scheduled. But why is Part 2 of the finale coming right after Part 1? Where’s our reunion episode filled with laughs, tears, and gratuitous Kenley bashing?
A colleague of mine raised the point that much of PR's core fan base cares a lot more about wedge heels than wedge issues. But even so, the debates are bound to take a huge bite out of PR's live-viewing audience, leaving the show with record low numbers for its send-off from the channel that created it. (If only we could combine the two and have, say, Michael Kors moderate the debates while McCain and Obama try on the designers' outfits. How can we know if our candidate can handle the American Empire until we see if he can handle an empire waist?)
Your turn, PopWatchers: Is this just a bad coincidence? Or is Bravo really sabotaging the show? And most importantly, which showdown will you watch tonight?
Tonight, we find out who wins Season 5 of Project Runway, and honestly, after watching the videos Bravo posted of Kenley's, Korto's, and Leanne's Bryant Park shows (embedded after the jump, spoilerphobes), I'm torn. So you decide: Who will win? Who should win?
We can't stop watching this crafty edit of last night's brat-tacular Project Runway, as Nina Garcia appeared to NOTE DOWN the once-in-a-lifetime occurrence of Kenley apologizing.
Do we really think Kenley grew up on a tugboat, or was that just the main character in the last children's book she read? Discuss, and for more Runway, be sure to read our TV Watch and watch Kenley's amazingly awkward call-in to BravoTV.com' weekly video series, After the Sew.
Let's review, shall we? Things that are not hip-hop: Those high-waisted "mom jeans" that Kenley
designed for the hip-hop challenge on last night's Project Runway,
according to guest judge LL Cool J. Things that are SO hip-hop: Sears.com, according to a recent blog post by LL Cool J. Hmm. Uncle L made the latter contention on his blog in response to some emails he has allegedly received about nefarious forces removing all copies of his new CD, Exit 13, from stores. (I'd check this charge out for myself, but lately there don't seem to be any actual record stores left on the remote rural island where I live. The further handiwork of LL's enemies, I presume?) Exhorted LL: "just in case you know someone who can't seem to locate the new LLCOOLJ album EXIT 13. Send them to iTunes or sears.com." Right, right. Wait, Sears.com?!
But don't forget! In addition to being a historic gathering place for true-school rap heads, Sears.com is also where LL's new clothing line is sold. Yes, yes, y'all: Only at Sears can you buy stylin' LL-branded items like this juniors Layered Argyle blouse (pictured), or these Studded Skull Jeans. All that plus his new CD — how convenient! If only Sears.com retailed LL's new Old Spice "Swagger" deodorant, too.
Anyway, I think I may now have a slightly better idea of why LL wrote that random post about his supposedly disappearing CDs in the first place, but far be it from me to impugn his motives. So you tell me: Which do you think is more authentically hip-hop — that Sears.com couture, or the outfit Kenley designed on Runway last night? While I await your verdict I'll be straight chillin' over at Sears.com, where hip-hop lives.
Sure, the fifth season of the Bravo 24-hour fashion show hasn't exactly been a fan favorite, but you wouldn't know that from the crowd -- 900 strong -- elbowing to get into the tent at Bryant Park for the taping of the finale this morning. (And we're talking 8:30-in-the-morning morning.) It was a fabulous mix of fashion elite, the Bravo Alumni Club (we counted contestants from every Runway past, Rachel Zoe, that Make Me a Supermodel cutie, and so many others) and a few random celebs to light up the front row (hellooo, Michelle Trachtenberg and, uh, Judith Light!).
Once the air kisses subsided, Runway’s own glamazon Heidi Klum took the stage to welcome the crowds, and bade a seemingly reluctant auf Wiedersehen to Bravo and the Magical Elves. She also announced the one surprise of the morning -- all the whispers that Jennifer Lopez would be filling Victoria Posh Beckham’s size 00 sheath as the guest judge at the finale were true...until they weren’t. After a mysterious foot injury (perhaps somewhere between the Marc Jacobs and Oscar de la Renta shows she attended earlier this week?) La Lopez had canceled, leaving Tim Gunn to join the judging panel. For the First. Time. Ever.
After last week’s surprise ankling (that one’s for you, J.Lo!) of two contestants, all six remaining designers showed collections. But it wasn’t too hard to figure out who were the red herrings and who would be joining Jay McCarroll and Christian Siriano (both of whom were in attendance this morning) in the Runway hall of fame. But since it’s possible our crystal ball is a little fogged over this morning, check out the best and worst looks from each designer after the jump, and let us know who you think will be in and who will be out.
[In case that wasn't clear, there will be spoilers galore after the jump. So please don't yell at me when you click below and see spoilers. No, really.]
Today, EW.com launched its 2008 Emmys Prediction Game (pictured, with a shout-out to Monk's Tony Shalhoub, who celebrates his 100th episode tonight). Submit your picks in 13 major categories, and see how they stack up against those of EW TV expert Michael Ausiello. Come back after the Emmys (Sept. 21, ABC), and find out what position they earned you on the leaderboard. There are prizes — Amazon gift certificates — but we all know the real reward is bragging rights.
Tip: If, in a feeble attempt to speed up the game, you repeatedly click on a nominee and it somehow registers your selection for the next category as well, know you will have an opportunity to switch picks. (No one should have to bet on Dancing With the Stars, other than Annie.)
Watching last night's episode of Project Runway -- click here for Missy Schwartz's delightful recap -- I caught a funny little mistake during the ad-break poll segment (see screengrab below). Unless, somehow, the fashion world considers 37 a greater number than 47. (Not entirely implausible...considering what passes for a "medium" at Zara anymore.)
Anyhow, thinking about it this morning, I realized Bravo actually got the whole question wrong. Here's what they should've asked:
Which needs to end immediately?
A. Jerell exposing his chest.
B. The overly tanned imp saying 'licious.'
C. Suede using the third person.
Go ahead and give your answer in the comments section below.--Michael Slezak
Two things running through my mind at the moment: 1) Why construction workers outside my apartment chose to wake me up this morning by blasting Chris Isaak, of all people, and 2) I don't know the first thing about fashion (as evidenced by the ratty jeans and white wife beater combo I've picked out for today, because, come on, someone needs to be prepared to Popozao with K-Fed). Why am I questioning my own iffy fashion sense—and making two-year-old jokes—you ask? Because I'm currently looking through Project Runway prodigy (and Ausiello TV guest) Christian Siriano's gasp-worthy new line, which finally debuted on Bluefly.com.
The collection features a lot of what we'd expect from Christian: tailored jackets, chic blouses and puffy sleeves galore. The prices, however, are steep—a T-shirt costs $96 (still cheaper than a $125 tank from the Lauren Conrad collection!)—but it's worth sacrificing three weeks of meals for his gorgeous $305 Park Ave shirt dress, right? The other two problems with the line? 1) Those ridiculous skinny jeans, which I'm assuming will only attract one shopper (see: Beckham, Victoria), and 2) The fact that there are zero accessories to be featured on the Bluefly.com accessory wall! Good thing my sources tell me Siriano lives down the block from my East Village apartment, so I can stalk track him down to discuss these lapses in judgment.
Thoughts on Siriano's collection, PopWatchers? (Click here to see it for yourself.) And are you impressed I wrote a whole post about the catchphrase-spouting kid without ever mentioning his favorite F word?
Bravo has kept us in a state of painful suspense regarding the Season 5 roster for Project Runway, much like Mom and Dad hiding presents until Christmas afternoon. The show has been under a good deal of scrutiny of late, with all of its diehard fans wondering what will happen when the show moves to the not-as-fab Lifetime network for the next season. And why, we ask, the lack of promotion? I didn't even know Season 5's start date until last month. Come on, people, we had viewing parties to set up, and contestants to scour the blogosphere for -- let's get the party started already!
Whatever the reason for keeping the show under a (fabulous fur) wrap, Season 5 kicks off tonight, so after the jump, let's pick apart the hot trannie messes from the ferocia couturas, shall we, PopWatchers?
You may not know it if you arrive here every day via a PopWatch bookmark (holla), but EW.com has a new guy! Michael Ausiello's been breaking exclusive TV scoops on his very own EW.com blog, and today marks the premiere of his new video series, Ausiello TV. Watch for some hot cameos by today's most important A-list celebrities, like Michael Slezak, Kristen Baldwin, and yours truly, "Felicia." (Okay, fine, plus some people who are on real television. Ugly Betty and Project Runway fans, YOU'RE NOT EVEN READY.) Enjoy!
As many of my colleagues know, I'm addicted to reality TV. And not just classy Bravo joints that are actually cool to reference at parties, but the cringe-inducing VH1 am-I-getting-a-disease-just-by-watching-this? programs, too. (Helpful hint: Beginning a conversation at a party by saying "Did you see that Flavor of Love episode...?" is a socially crippling experience. Unless I happen to be a fellow guest at said party, in which case I'll gladly join you in a 30-minute conversation about the impressive trajectory of human loogies). Even my mother is starting to recognize my unhealthy obsession, as evidenced by this recent conversation:
Me: "But mom, I love crap!"
Mom: "How long until that becomes the actual name of a VH1 series?"
Actually, I'd probably watch that. In fact, the only type of reality series I probably wouldn't watch would be one populated exclusively by the type of reality-show contestant that has irked me for years: the headstrong, ruthless player who just wants to make it clear that, no, he or she is not in the competition to "make friends." Which makes me wonder — and I'm talking to you, Dale from Top Chef — why be so adamant about rejecting reality-show bonds? Is it so bad — Jen from Hell's Kitchen — to sing a hypothetical round of "Kumbaya" with other contestants, seeing as you have to, you know, cook with your competition AS A TEAM? And why put your fellow housemates down — Monique from America's Next Top Model — when you know that Tyra will ask them down the line who they think has the most potential to succeed as America's. Next. Top. Model? So imagine my relief upon logging onto Jezebel.com and discovering that Rich Juzwiak of FourFour was kind enough to compile an expansive and hilarious collection of the "I'm not here to make friends" mantra, complete with an unexpected kicker from best Top Model contestant ever, Cycle 9's Heather. Enjoy!
Horror alert: The Weinstein Company is reportedly trying to squeeze $8 million out of L'Oréal Cosmetics so that they'll take over makeup and hair promotional privileges for seasons 6 and beyond of Project Runway. That's a little scary, but so is the thought of TRESemé dropping out! This could SEVERELY cut into how "current" I will seem when I walk around the office chirping my favorite TV catchphrase from my hairstylin' role model Heidi Klum: "Fuh-nished by Twess-uh-may [pause] Pwo-fessional Haiw Cawe." Oh well, I'll just keep saying it anyway! Everyone will be thrilled.
What stupid quote that couldn't possibly apply to the situation at hand do you annoy people with most often? The other top two in this office: ''Ant, aunt -- what's happening?!" (Michael Slezak, as Valerie Cherish), and a resounding "LEMME BORROW THAT TOP!" (Tanner Stransky, as Kelly).
Recently, Project Runway winner — and purveyor of the word "fierce" — Christian Siriano was commissioned to dress Whoopi Goldberg for her hosting gig at the this year's Tony Awards (June 15, live on CBS). And being the anxious people that we are, last night on the red carpet for Bravo's A-List Awards, EW.com asked him to give us a little sneak preview of the ensemble.
"It's pieces — it's going to be a jacket, a pant, and a top, and then she's going to switch it up and the top's going to turn into kind of a gown," he said. (EW.com asked for further detail on this mysterious transforming top, but he wouldn't budge.) "She doesn't want to change a lot because she's not a diva. But she does want to be dramatic because it's the Tonys, so it's going to be cool."
The pint-size designer also added that the "pieces" will be made out of organza. "It's beautiful," he exclaimed. "It's made out of lots of blacks and shine, and a little bit of silver. A dark purple color is the only real color I used."
With all of his flair for drama, Siriano does seem like an obvious choice for this theatrical job, but how in the world do you dress an a celebrity like Whoopi who isn't, well, all that into looking super glamorous and feminine? "If she's happy and comfortable and feels fabulous, than who cares?" he explained. "I honestly never care what any press is going to say. I know it's going to be amazing and dramatic and whatever, and I know she feels the same way. It will be flattering, don't you worry!"
Can The Weinstein Company make Project Runway's move to Lifetime work? That's the question we're asking ourselves after we received a joint press release from TWC and the cable channel announcing a "groundbreaking agreement" that would move Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn, et al from Bravo to Lifetime in Nov. 2008. Of course, buried deep in the release was an acknowledgment that NBC Universal, Bravo's parent company, had filed a lawsuit today against The Weinstein Company in an effort to block the hop. Apparently, NBC believes its contract gives it the right to match any other offer Weinstein has for the show, while the Weinstein-Lifetime press release claims that NBC declined to compete for the series. The courts will have to figure out that hot mess, but there is something we can judge in the meantime: Does the network airing Runway affect whether we'll watch it? And how big of a loss would this be for Bravo?
Clearly, a move to Lifetime means that the show isn't concerned about wooing men (okay, straight men) to its fanbase. So if it's women and gay men producers are after, Lifetime is the place to be. Lifetime doesn't have the cachet that Bravo has, but Klum and Gunn do bring their cred with them. I can't imagine they'd let production values suffer, so why wouldn't we keep watching? As for Bravo, it'd still have Top Chef (and Kathy Griffin). And I'd bet on Bravo's development team coming up with another hit quicker than Lifetime could create one from scratch.
So, will you watch if Runway moves to Lifetime? And will it feel as fierce?
I was so charmed by this clip of Jenna Fischer gabbing with pregnant Angela Kinsey (from her "Adventures with Angela" vlog series on the official website for The Office), I had to share. In this installment, the costars hang out in a hotel room as Fischer recalls her NYC runway debut in a charity fashion show, and they both try to figure out the Heidi Klum supermodel strut:
Not only does this footage remind me how painfully long it's been since The Office has been on the air (remember, it's back April 10!), but it's an entertaining glimpse into the friendship between two actresses who so convincingly portray nemeses (for non-Office fans, Fischer plays receptionist Pam and Kinsey plays accountant Angela). In fact, the video makes me miss one of my favorite shows and my favorite girlfriends. I'm planning a June vacation with a close group of friends right now, and I actually think these down-to-earth chicks would fit right in with us. Although we don't glam it up with lip gloss when we're just hanging out, and there are more bottles around. But you know what I mean.
In the past, we've asked which famous men or women you PopWatchers would genuinely like to date, and now that it's that Spring Break time of year, let's dish about this: Which TV stars do you think you'd have the most fun going on vacation with, and where?
So let's get straight to business, people. The Project Runway finale party was held Wednesday night at the swanky Tribeca Grand Hotel. Though I might add that event itself wasn't all that, well, swanky (maybe that's because after two hours on the red carpet I was starving, and all I could scrounge up before the episode aired was a teeny lamb chop!).
The media was gathered in a lounge-type area on the hotel's basement floor for the red carpet arrivals, and afterward we were shuffled into a large screening room to watch the finale. All three judges were unfortunately MIA from the party, so I can't give you any deets on Heidi's hair, Michael's attitude, or Nina's outfit — but I can tell you all about Tim Gunn and the season four cast. Plus, a few oldie but goodie past Project Runway-ers showed up, like Kara Janx, Alison Kelly, and Kayne Gillaspie.
The first finalist to arrive at the event was none other than Christian looking — dare I say it? — fierce... and very, very tiny. Seriously, Christian is so small, I think he could fit in my pocket. (How funny would that be to carry around a little Christian all day? I could definitely use the fashion advice and the constant pick-me-ups, like, "You look fabulous!")
Because the red carpet took place before the finale aired, it was supposed to a secret as to who the winner was — only Christian was suspiciously toting his model, Lisa, along the carpet, in a dress he had designed only days ago. If that didn't scream, "I'M THE WINNER" than I don't know what would.
Chris March, who was adorned in leopard as usual, was as sweet as he appears on TV. He told me he does not regret his decision to use human hair in his final collection.
As you can see from the video below, Tim Gunn was almost more excited to be at the finale party than the cast members were. But I guess that's expected of the Gunn, who is always chipper and eager to shell out advice. (My prediction that Christian was the winner was again cemented by the huge hug Tim exchanged with the little guy.)
While you await tomorrow's Project Runway finale, we suggest you check out the bonus clip below. The folks at Fashionista.com tipped us off to it. They like the rooftop runway walk-off between Tim Gunn and Christian; we prefer the tickle fight between Tim and Heidi Klum. Isn't it great to hear Tim giggle?
During this week's Project Runway Great Drape Debate — was Rami wrong to design yet another Grecian dress for the judges? — I resurrected an internal debate of my own. Should contestants on talent-based reality series be forced to do something that in no way represents what she or he will do in real life, post-show? I haven't looked at the photos from last week's Project Runway finale fashion show in Bryant Park because I don't want the spoilers, but it'd be a shame if Rami designed his entire collection — an opportunity to establish his identity in the industry — without his signature look just to make Nina Garcia happy. Before you slap me, know that I, too, was bored by Rami's dress this week. I just think there had to have been a way for him to stay in the Greek and Roman gallery and still wow the panel like he did with his first Runway dress (pictured, left).
Of course, I get that shows need drama for good TV, and most often, that involves pushing people outside their comfort zone. But sometimes it seems wrong to force them there, then turn around and say, "You suck." It bothers me infinitely more on American Idol, when I have to sit through a rocker singing a standard or a country song poorly, and then listen to Simon and co. say that it wasn't his best night. Really? You could argue that true artists find a way to make any genre their own, and I can buy that. But these are not established artists we're seeing. Occasionally, couldn't they have the chance to perfect something, instead of being forced to try everything? What do you think?
The tents were crowded and over-heated, the place was overrun with rude folks convinced they were too important to stand in line, and the guy sitting next to me reeked of booze — at 9 a.m.! But I still had a ball at the taping of the Project Runway finale at Bryant Park this morning. Who was on hand? More like, who wasn't? Fighting my way to my seat, I spotted former contestants Kara Janx, Daniel Vosovic, Jay McCarroll, Chloe Dao, Jeffrey Sebelia, and Laura Bennett. The holy trinity of critique was also there, joined by guest judge Posh Spice. (pictured, between Michael Kors and Heidi Klum). Once I was safely in my seat, who should I spy with my little eye but Meryl Streep. Yes. The most nominated actor in Oscar history was at the Project Runway season 4 finale. Did The Devil Wears Prada ignite a passion for fashion in the thespian extraordinaire? If so, she chose the right show to attend today, since according to an even chirpier than usual Klum, it was "the best finale we've ever had!"
Oh yeah, the current contestants — they were there too. But before I divulge which ones got to parade their creations down the catwalk, I offer this warning: Do not read any further if you don't want spoilers. Seriously. Don't blame us if you end up regretting clicking forward past the jump.
So, I'm watching the season premiere of Bravo's Make Me a Supermodel last night and Tyson Beckford (pictured, with cohost Niki Taylor) wakes up the 12 contestants at 7 a.m. and tells them that they have 20 minutes to get ready for a go-see. Are these models superhuman when it comes to bathing, or do they just not get to shower? I found myself contemplating this exact same question earlier this season during Project Runway, when Tim Gunn told his designers to rise and shine and get their butts downstairs immediately.
While you ponder that question, allow me to give you another (from Alynda Wheat): Couldn't the clothing that Tyson asked the models to burn, with some bulls--- about starting anew, have been donated to charity? Maybe Ronnie would have found parting with his expensive suit easier that way. (I said maybe.)
Okay, I love Heidi Klum. How could you not, what with her incredible — yet ultimately baffling — ability to look amazing while pregnant, not pregnant, and in between being pregnant (today's status: not pregnant)? Plus, anyone who is part model/part unintentional comedienne is okay in my book.
But as much as I adore the supermodel and Project Runway host, her multipleattempts to parlay her success into a singing career have proved more painful than a Naomi Campbell phone to the face. And though I would love to support the model's ever-burgeoning career, her heinously off-key vocals prove that she could out-Sanjaya the worst of Idol contestants. So why, oh why, for the love of Seal, has Victoria's Secret decided to revive Klum's scary-horrible "Santa Baby" commercial from last year's holiday season? Sure, she looks great, but I don't think my thumb can take having to hit the mute button much longer.
What do you think, PopWatch? Do you find the commercial bad in an adorable way, or do you, like me, think Seal should make a deal with his bride: "Don't sing, and I won't model brassieres"?
A new photo book arrived on my desk yesterday with a thud (it’s huge!), Deborah Nadoolman Landis’ Dressed: A Century of Hollywood Costume Design, and I couldn’t wait to peek inside. What I concluded (Sex and the City: The Movie being a likely exception) is that the Golden Age of Costume Design is upon us. Not to disparage geniuses like Edith Head (who dressed Swanson in Sunset Boulevard) and Irene Sharaff (who dressed Streisand in Funny Girl), but the visual triumphs in this year’s Elizabeth: The Golden Age and 2006’s Marie Antoinette could hardly have been possible in decades past, could they? Happily for us, the budgets in modern moviemaking enable the most gorgeous clothes to be filmed in the most gorgeous ways. I’m not kidding when I say I look forward to Dec. 7’s Atonement because of Keira Knightley’s stunning green evening gown. (Yes, I loved the novel, so of course I’d watch the film for that reason alone. But wow, that dress!)
Before this post gets so girly that silk ribbons start twirling from your browser, I want to point out something about Project Runway. Of course, having watched every episode since it debuted, I realize the show’s not about costume design, which plays a powerful role in character development within a story. Nor is it populated with true geniuses (not talking about you, Nina Garcia! Or you, Tim Gunn…you’re both brilliant!) But as I leaf through Landis’ book—unfortunately a bit of an uneven read—I’m noticing things about garments I’d never have been curious about before Runway. I may, in fact, be developing an eye for construction and proportion! And so I'm wondering: Do you other other Runway fans find yourselves more thoroughly appreciating (or critiquing) a film’s costumes, or even the wardrobe in a three-minute music video, after witnessing so many clothes being built on the Bravo series? Even if you don't, I'll pose this question: What movies, past and present, have blown you away with their costumes? And if you want to get really specific, which particular outfits contributed to your opinion?
That's right, folks, the first shopping day after last Wednesday's Project Runway, I headed to a Steve & Barry's store—in Orlando, FL, where I was spending Thanksgiving—to check out contestant Victorya Hong's winning "neck-tie trapeze" frock (pictured here, on a model) when it debuted in Sarah Jessica Parker's BITTEN collection.
Much to my dismay, the dress was not available in the charcoal color fabric that I thought I saw during the episode (my editor argues otherwise, but I saw dark gray on my sad, non-HDTV screen), but instead in black and burgundy. Other than that, no other design details were changed, though on the rack, the stretch-cotton dress could easily have been mistaken for an artist's smock.
After trying on the dress and futzing with the attached scarf/bow/necklace thingie, I decided that for $19.98 it was worth taking home. Let's be honest, the Project Runway and SJP stamps of approval probably swayed me a little (okay, a lot), but I really did like the fact that the garment was both forgiving and simple. Plus, it has pockets. Yay!
Also available for $14.98 was a grey and black version of the shrunken vest Victorya put over her design, but I passed on that, because really, for most of us, "shrunken" is just a code word for "impractical."
Though a Steve & Barry's spokesperson says the dress has been "flying off the racks," there were plenty left in all sizes in the Orlando store when I went, so I'm betting there's still time to grab one. (Sorry online shoppers, you can only get it in stores.)
So, Pop Watchers, tell me: Have any of you bought the dress, or at least gone to look at it? And what did you think of SJP as a guest judge? Did she pick the right challenge winner, or is there another design you'd rather have ended up at Steve & Barry's?
Please, for the love of all that's holy, stop telling me what's coming up after the commercial break on Project Runway. It's the most annoying thing in the history of ever.
True confession: A few minutes into last night's premiere on Bravo of Tim Gunn's Guide to Style — at the precise moment the handsome, silver-haired host told jeans-and-t-shirt gal Rebecca Pennino that her makeover journey was likely to be "painful emotionally" — I was ready to dismiss the show as ridiculous hooey. And for the most part, it is. I mean, that panty-store proprietor's proclamation that "a solid foundation in lingerie absolutely gives a woman the most confidence she'll ever have"? Come on! More than a good education? Or a rewarding, high-paying job? Or true love?
But then again, I'd be lying if I said I didn't experience a moment of fashion introspection when Gunn and co-host Veronica Webb (pictured with Gunn) started the segment about how "silhouette, proportion, and fit" should be a person's primary considerations in choosing his or her clothes. Especially when my own criteria basically boil down to "color, price, and ability to hide troublesome spare tire." Cut to scary daydream where I'm trying on all my favorite garments as Gunn and Webb tut-tut and gasp about how my cherished plaid pants make my legs look stubby.
Two days after Slezak lamented that the producers of Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style were looking for a “down-to-earth” sidekick for the design icon we came to know and love on Project Runway, Bravo announced that former supermodel Veronica Webb is set to play off of Gunn’s highbrow fabulousness in his new show. She has some TV experience — much of it spent on VH1 specials recalling her modeling heyday — and she used to write a magazine column, so at least we know Bravo picked someone who knows the territory and can put a sentence together.
Despite the consensus that if Tim Gunn captured our hearts on Runway, he could certainly do the same on his own show — even without so much as an Auf Wiedersehen from Heidi Klum — the producers could have done a lot worse. Webb isn’t as easily recognizable as her co-host, but after years in the fashion industry she knows what’s up. Maybe she’ll serve as the Paula of the show — a sweet side dish to Gunn’s unapologetic spiciness.
So what do you say, PopWatchers? It’s a shame we can’t have Tim all to ourselves, but it is Tim Gunn we’re dealing with here. Can he take his own advice and... well, you know?
I'm concerned, PopWatchers — concerned about a report in Radar Online that the producers of Tim Gunn's Guide to Style are seeking a "more down-to-earth and fun" female cohost for the Project Runway mentor's forthcoming series. Apparently, their fear is that the dapper design guru is "too highbrow" for some viewers. All of which makes me question Bravo's taste level. I mean, is anyone who's ever seen Project Runway expecting Gunn's Guide to be the next Regis & Kelly? Half the fun of Gunn is the way his fussy mannerisms and couture adjectives are so above it all, and yet also endearingly earnest. He certainly doesn't need some pesky Pomeranian nipping at his heels. Not that I don't love Pomeranians in their own way, but you get my drift, right? Carry on debating in the comments section below.
At this point, Bravo should probably rename itself the Tim Gunn channel. The Project Runway guru is casting now for his makeover series Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, a show inspired by his forthcoming book, Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style — whose first chapter can be read in its entirety on Bravo's website.
Judging by this excerpt, the book appears to be a practical guide to making yourself more presentable by wearing clothes that are appropriate for you and avoiding clothes that are not. Written with Kate Moloney (Gunn's assistant department chair at Parsons), the book nonetheless seems to capture Gunn's distinctive voice. Some highlights:
Page 3: Name-drops Diane von Furstenberg
Page 6: Admirably waits this long before unleashing the first "Make it work!"
Page 7: Wizard of Oz reference
Page 9: Admits he used to dress like a "stuffy, buttoned-up old fart"
Page 14: Urges readers to dress their age, not like the society ladies of Manhattan's Upper East Side, who dress like "grandma jezebels and teenyboppers."
Page 16: Begging readers not to wear jogging suits in public, he offers an anecdote about how he once tried in vain to shield the eyes of fellow fashionista Grace Mirabella from a sweats-clad couple occupying "incomprehensibly expensive orchestra seats" at a Broadway drama
Page 18: A plea to everyone: "Please conceal your midriff."
Page 19: Slams couturier John Galliano for his impractical designs. "I maintain that fashion isn't relevant if you can't get into a taxi wearing it, and so many of these Galliano creations couldn't fit into a moving van, let alone a yellow cab."
So, PopWatchers, does that whet your appetite for the rest of the Guide book — and the Guide show? Can there be such thing as too much Gunn? Do you fear he'll spread himself to thin if he does too many projects besides Runway (and, um, his day job at Parsons), or do you think he can juggle this set of ventures and make it... you know?
UPDATE: Thanks to all for reminding me that Gunn works at Liz Claiborne now, not at Parsons, and thanks also for not siccing the fashion police on me.
Say what you will about the plot of Music and Lyrics, but you can't get more rom-com perfect than casting Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore as the leads in a movie coming out on Valentine's Day. All you're missing is a baby seal and you've got yourself a cuteness trifecta.
And just as cute in person as you'd expect? Barrymore, whom I spoke to in between shooting scenes for M&L's finale last summer. With the shoot taking place at Long Island's Nassau Coliseum (subbing as Madison Square Garden), I showed up at 10 a.m. and was temporarily seated among the extras, who were pretending to be audience members for a show by faux pop star Cora Corman, played by newcomer Haley Bennett. (I'd like to think that you can see my face for half of a millisecond, but I'd also be kidding myself). Quite a few of the extras had answered a call for bodies on Craigslist and were ditching work to cheer on a fake concert.
Just when I think Ugly Betty can't get any more fabulously glamorous, ABC goes and announces that Project Runway's silver fox, Tim Gunn, will be guest-starring as a Fashion TV reporter on the Feb. 1 and 8 episodes. (He'll be joined by American Idol's Katharine McPhee in the first of those two.) And while there's nothing I love more than the style guru's "carry on" and "make it work" catchphrases, I'm kind of hoping Betty's writers will introduce new and depraved phrases into Gunn's lexicon -- perhaps things like "notorious manwhore," "effete, curly haired sycophant," and "Wilhelmina Slay-taaaah." What other words should Gunn's alter-ego be forced to utter? Holla!
This just in from the Department of Yin and Yang: Bravo has picked up a pair of new reality series -- from the opposite ends of the taste-sanity spectrum.
On one hand, there's Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, in which the natty Project Runway guru (pictured) will be sort of a one-man Queer Eye, bringing chic and elegance to the sartorially challenged. (This is appropriate, seeing as Bravo also announced Queer Eye for the Straight Guy will end its run this summer; no word on whether the network has decided to play it smart and pay Gunn whatever the hell he wants to return for season four of Project Runway.)
And then -- brace yourselves -- the network has also said yes to Hey Paula, a crazy-eye view of American Idol judge Paula Abdul at work and play. If you haven't yet seen Abdul's recent televised appearances to promote Idol, click here and here. Girlfriend does more (actual) bobbing and weaving than a badly bruised boxer in the tenth round, and with her speech slurred, her wig askew, and her facial expressions ranging from "la-la!" to "mommy-the-bad-lady-scares-me!," Paula comes off more like the deranged drag queen you try to avoid on the sidewalk on Sunday morning than a panelist on America's highest-rated television series. But, as Paula slurs it herself, "Any publicity is good publicity! You gotta learn to eat it up and embrace it!" (TMZ, by the way, got an unintentionally hilarious explanation from Paula's rep: The Seattle station had "technical problems with the satellite and her sound was dropped not once but twice. Paula was in a small room by herself with only a cameraman. Paula was distracted and confused by the station dropping the sound. She did not know what was going on," he said.)
In other words, this is going to be the best TV show in the history of ever. Especially if there are scenes of Paula in a small room by herself with a cameraman. And her sound gets dropped. And she doesn't know what's going on. In fact, I call dibs on the TV Watch right now.
How am I supposed to get any work done for the rest of the week? And two days from now, how am I supposed to blissfully gorge on turkey and mashed potatoes and store-bought cranberry sauce? (Oh, Martha, don't hate. You know it's best when it's still in the shape of a can. Mmm.) I mean, nothing's making any sense after reading Maureen Ryan's report in The Chicago Tribune that Bravo has yet to sign up Tim Gunn for a fourth season of Project Runway. I don't really care about the details -- all I know is that Runway without Tim is like the Captain without Tennille. If Bravo execs have to head to the Macy's Accessory Wall and fill it with booty to appease the show's silver-foxy mentor, I say, "Do it!" Whatever it takes. Just make it work, Bravo! Am I right?
Hello? 911? Yes, hi there, I'd like to report a robbery. No, it's not in progress, but I've got it all on tape. They televised it on Bravo, during last night's season finale of Project Runway. What's that? You didn't see it? Well let me give you the scoop. The final two was a showdown between Uli Herzner (pictured, left) and Jeffrey Sebelia. Now mind you, I wasn't Uli's biggest fan going into Olympus Fashion Week. I'd even argued a month ago for a Michael-Laura-Jeffrey final three, due to Uli's previous lack of versatility. But from her opening salvo (that brown zebra number with the detailed neckline) to the glimmering silver shirt dress (with sleeves!) to the insanely hot yellow bikini, Uli rocked the final runway. And her last look, that triumphant jade halter dress with a slit up to Northern Canada, yowza! As Heidi said, every woman in America would wear an Uli.
On the flip side, we had Jeffrey. Putting aside his consistent misogyny -- and yes, tossing around terms like "frigid" and "feminazi" qualifies him in my book -- and the way he kept flashing his armpits on the runway, how about the fact that half of his final collection was hideous? Like the wildly unflattering blue minidress that made his model look five months pregnant. Or that grim black dress with something grey tied over it. I even disliked the much discussed green and white zipper dress. All it needed was a couple of cords and Marilinda could've hung it in her kitchen window to keep out the sun. So yes, please head to Bravo HQ, and put Michael Kors, Heidi Klum, Fern Mallis, and as much as it pains me, even the bewitching Nina Garcia, on the paddywagon. We'll let a jury of their PopWatch peers decide their guilt or innocence.
What say you all? Did Uli have the superior collection, or was Jeffrey the better overall designer?
Well, kids, this is it: tonight is the finale of Project Runway. What will happen?? Who will win?? Will Jeffrey be kicked out on a technicality?? Will Michael choke as badly as it seems like he might?? Will Top American Designer Michael Kors finally smack the life out of that uppity snit Nina Garcia?? Will Laura's husband burst through the back wall of the soundstage with a beaker in his hand and yell, "SCIENCE!!"?? So many questions...
And here's one last scandal to take with you as we say goodbye: Clarissa Anderson, one of the remaining four models (she's with Michael), told her hometown Milwaukee paper yesterday that the PR models don't get paid, they just get free food. Come again? I have never felt sorry for a model in all my life, but that's enough to make me almost (almost) pity these girls. (And is the free food what secretly led to the downfall of cute cute Alison via her "plus-size" model, Alexandra, pictured?)
Anyway. So who's gonna win? My money, as it has been almost the entire time, is on Jeffrey. Yes, he's a jerkwad who probably cheated. But you know what? It's called show business, honey, it ain't called show-fun, and that boy knows exactly what he's doing, on every level. And now, please vehemently disagree with me/call me names in the comments section.
Although we're only going to see the first half of Project Runway's loooong anticipated finale tonight -- consisting mostly of Tim Gunn Visits the Designers in Their Natural Habitat -- that still gives us a good week to wildly speculate as to who is going to walk away America's Next Top Designer. Except I don't think my speculation need be all with the wild. In fact, I think I've cracked it for sure.
If finalist Jeffrey Sebelia has proven anything on Project Runway, it’s that (1) he hates Angela; and (2) he is a piattola -- as the Italians say, a pain in the neck. (Or a crab louse, depending on the context.) Which brings us to Jeffrey’s neck... and to that massive eyesore of a tattoo over which I’ve been obsessing for weeks.
''Harrison Detroit... Il’amor de la mia vita.'' His son’s name, followed by the phrase ''love of my life,'' as he told Catherine Malandrino before using an insufferable amount of plaid to craft a couture gown. Sounds Italian, right? Sebelia -- that’s Italianesque. Now, I don’t pretend to speak la lingua like a native, but... it’s not correct. The Italian would be l’amore della mia vita. (Note the ''e'' on amore and the contraction della.)
Last night's Project Runway reunion episode was a must- watch, and not just because Heidi Klum read from EW.com's interview with Vincent, in which he dissed Tim Gunn. There was also the matter of Keith, who suggested he'd been tossed unfairly because there was nothing in the rules forbidding him to have books of patterns. To which his fellow designers reacted with the dumbfounded shock that would greet, say, the sight of Kate Moss wolfing down a cheeseburger.
Now, PopWatch has exclusively obtained a copy of the relevant letter sent by PR to the contestants specifying what they may not bring to the competition. We've reproduced the letter, above, and zoomed in on the pertinent paragraph. As you can see, Keith is correct that it doesn't mention the word ''books,'' but it does say ''patterns'' and ''portfolios,'' so it's still hard to imagine how a book of patterns wouldn't violate that rule.
Setting aside Keith's other alleged violation (going briefly AWOL), do you think he has a case here? Did he exploit a legitimate loophole, or did he deserve the boot?
It's kind of hard to believe the fall TV season is upon us with my favorite summer escape, Project Runway, still reaching its crescendo: The field will soon narrow to three. Tonight's episode is, inexplicably, a repeat (thanks for the heads-up, Lauren!) -- so while we wait for next week, let's size up the remaining designers, shall we?
Now if I were in ultra-foxy judge Nina Garcia's chair -- not that I'd ever risk her mesmerizingly icy disdain by suggesting I'm fit to do so -- I'd give the coveted Fashion Week berths to Michael, Laura, and Jeffrey. Of those three, Michael is the obvious choice, thanks to his consistently innovative, female-friendly fashions (and his general adorableness), while Jeffrey rates a nod for being unapologetically monstrous -- both as a designer and as a human being. Sure, he's only dazzled twice (on the recycling and jetsetter challenges), but what fun is a spectator sport without someone to root against? As for Laura, I know her detractors say she's one-note, but I contend the woman simply has a strong point of view. Take a look at her stunning Katharine Hepburn pants, flirty black-and-white cocktail frock, and fabulously glamorous week 1 coat and tell me she's not versatile (let alone the only hope to give Michael a run for his throne).
That leaves popular Uli as my pick to get auf'd. Granted, she rarely cooks up a stinker -- but how hard is that, really, considering that week after week, Uli has done little more than serve up variations on the breezy halter dress with rope-braid details? If this were Project Drape A Model in Yards of Gauzy Prints, she'd be a shoo-in, but for the love of Anna Wintour, even on weeks where she's picked solid colors (see the above photos), Uli's designs look shockingly similar. Is she capable of serving up pants? Body-conscious tops? How about sleeves? Who knows, but this far into the competition, I think it's too late for her to prove it. How about you, PopWatchers? Who do you think should receive Heidi's kiss of death next, and why?
So The A.V. Club's Scott Tobias has a column declaring he's confident that the Project Runway judges "are on crack this season." (Thanks to TV Tattle for the link.) "There are now seven designers remaining in the cast -- we’re at the halfway mark, more or less -- and three of them should have been booted within the first three weeks," Tobias continues, making a case for why Angela, Jeffrey, and Vincent should've already been auf'd.
Me, I couldn't disagree more. (And it's not just because of my growing crush on siren-like Neeena Garrrrcia (pictured), nor the way I'm tickled by Michael Kors' insane bon mots -- like last week's "Comme des Garcons in Amish Country!") Think about it: Jeffrey's mom-dress may have been fuglier than his massive, tattooed neck, but his glamorous recycled newspaper outfit and flirty dog-as-accessory frock proved far more innovative than anything sweet-but-uninspired Robert sent down the runway in recent weeks. (And as Missy Schwartz's recent Runway cover story for EW points out, past work does count.)
As for Angela, yeah, I rooted for her ouster after she coughed up that hideola purple bubble skirt during the doggie challenge, but clearly the judges saw something worth saving. And they proved far more astute than me, as Angela's subsequent Audrey Hepburn dress and Macy's cropped jacket would later prove. Seriously, if Tobias thinks Angela and Jeffrey should be out, then who should be in? I've already forgotten much of Bonnie and Katherine's work, and I'm still working on forgetting adorable Bradley's. That said, I'm with Tobias on one point: How is Vincent still in the competition?
The fate of Project Runway remains as elusive as perpetually missing season 2 contestant Andre, with the Lifetime network jumping on the lawsuit-filing bandwagon. NBC Universal has already sued the Weinstein Company (and won), and the Weinstein Co. has sued Bravo. Now Lifetime's suing the Weinsteins. What's next? With Bravo developing a Runway knockoff as the original stays embroiled in court, we think Heidi, Tim, and the gang should capitalize on the ridiculousness and high drama inherent in the U.S. legal system and begin a competitive reality series called Project Litigation or, ideally, Good Moh-ning, Litigat-uhs! The contestants: Reps from the companies suing each other (Weinsteins, Lifetime, NBC) and maybe Janice Dickinson just for the hell of it. They can just abandon the fashion premise, and instead go with small-scale "legal challenges" like taking action against a little girl for not crediting Country Time at her lemonade stand, or writing a strongly worded letter in mutlicolored Sharpies to my crazy downstairs neighbor/landlord who refuses to keep the heat on for more than five minutes at a time. Nina Garcia could play the role of fancy stenographer during panels, but refuse to do anything except just glare at everyone. The winner of the show gets $100,000 in damages from Runway's producers, and an opportunity to host a show on Tru TV. Losers must sign up for a Victoria's Secret Angels card, which is free and, for the record, a really bad idea. 
With Project Runway's potential move to Lifetime still 
Dear Jeffrey Sebelia,
Tonight, we find out who wins Season 5 of Project Runway, and honestly, after watching the videos Bravo posted of Kenley's, Korto's, and Leanne's Bryant Park shows (embedded after the jump, spoilerphobes), I'm torn. So you decide: Who will win? Who should win?
Let's review, shall we? Things that are not hip-hop: Those 
But Jerell, that hat is killing me.
Sure, the fifth season of the Bravo 24-hour fashion show hasn't exactly been a fan favorite, but you wouldn't know that from the crowd -- 900 strong -- elbowing to get into the tent at Bryant Park for the taping of the finale this morning. (And we're talking 8:30-in-the-morning morning.) It was a fabulous mix of fashion elite, the Bravo Alumni Club (we counted contestants from every Runway past, Rachel Zoe, that Make Me a Supermodel cutie, and so many others) and a few random celebs to light up the front row (hellooo, Michelle Trachtenberg and, uh, Judith Light!).
Today, EW.com launched its 
Watching last night's episode of Project Runway -- 
Two things running through my mind at the moment: 1) Why construction workers outside my apartment chose to wake me up this morning by blasting Chris Isaak, of all people, and 2) I don't know the first thing about fashion (as evidenced by the ratty jeans and white wife beater combo I've picked out for today, because, come on, someone needs to be prepared to 
Horror alert: The Weinstein Company is reportedly 
Recently, Project Runway winner — and purveyor of the word "fierce" — 
Can The Weinstein Company make Project Runway's move to Lifetime work? That's the question we're asking ourselves after we received a joint press release from TWC and the cable channel announcing a "groundbreaking agreement" that would move Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn, et al from Bravo to Lifetime in Nov. 2008. Of course, buried deep in the release was an acknowledgment that NBC Universal, Bravo's parent company, had filed a lawsuit today against The Weinstein Company in an effort to block the hop. 
So let's get straight to business, people. The Project Runway finale party was held Wednesday night at the swanky Tribeca Grand Hotel. Though I might add that event itself wasn't all that, well, swanky (maybe that's because after two hours on the red carpet I was starving, and all I could scrounge up before the episode aired was a teeny lamb chop!). 
During 
The tents were crowded and over-heated, the place was overrun with rude folks convinced they were too important to stand in line, and the guy sitting next to me reeked of booze — at 9 a.m.! But I still had a ball at the taping of the Project Runway finale at Bryant Park this morning. Who was on hand? More like, who wasn't? Fighting my way to my seat, I spotted former contestants Kara Janx, Daniel Vosovic, Jay McCarroll, Chloe Dao, Jeffrey Sebelia, and Laura Bennett. The holy trinity of critique was also there, joined by guest judge Posh Spice. (pictured, between Michael Kors and Heidi Klum). Once I was safely in my seat, who should I spy with my little eye but Meryl Streep. Yes. The most nominated actor in Oscar history was at the Project Runway season 4 finale. Did The Devil Wears Prada ignite a passion for fashion in the thespian extraordinaire? If so, she chose the right show to attend today, since according to an even chirpier than usual Klum, it was "the best finale we've ever had!" 
So, I'm watching the season premiere of Bravo's Make Me a Supermodel last night and Tyson Beckford (pictured, with cohost Niki Taylor) wakes up the 12 contestants at 7 a.m. and tells them that they have 20 minutes to get ready for a go-see. Are these models superhuman when it comes to bathing, or do they just not get to shower? I found myself contemplating this exact same question earlier this season during Project Runway, when Tim Gunn told his designers to rise and shine and get their butts downstairs immediately.
…but am I the only one who thinks 
A new photo book arrived on my desk yesterday with a thud (it’s huge!), Deborah Nadoolman Landis’ 
That's right, folks, the first shopping day after 
Dear Bravo,
True confession: A few minutes into last night's premiere on Bravo of 
Two days after 
I'm concerned, PopWatchers — concerned about a 
Say what you will about the plot of 
This just in from the Department of Yin and Yang: Bravo has picked up a pair of new reality series -- from the opposite ends of the taste-sanity spectrum.
How am I supposed to get any work done for the rest of the week? And two days from now, how am I supposed to blissfully gorge on turkey and mashed potatoes and store-bought cranberry sauce? (Oh, Martha, don't hate. You know it's best when it's still in the 
Well, kids, this is it: tonight is the finale of Project Runway. What will happen?? Who will win?? Will Jeffrey be kicked out on a technicality?? Will Michael choke as badly as it seems like he might?? Will Top American Designer Michael Kors finally smack the life out of that uppity snit Nina Garcia?? Will Laura's husband burst through the back wall of the soundstage with a beaker in his hand and yell, "SCIENCE!!"?? So many questions...
If finalist Jeffrey Sebelia has proven anything on 
It's kind of hard to believe the fall TV season is upon us with my favorite summer escape, Project Runway, still reaching its crescendo: The field will soon narrow to three. Tonight's episode is, inexplicably, a repeat (thanks for the heads-up, Lauren!) -- so while we wait for next week, let's size up the remaining designers, shall we?
So 
