Episode 12: Brian's Backstage Blog

Melissa — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:30:00 GMT

Congratulations Mr. Sunny Fong!, you are THE WINNER! Your collection rocked the runway with solid powerful delivery on all levels! The design was second to none, the execution was brilliant, and to sum it up, the collection was world class!

Mr. Jason Meyers, it is clearly evident that inside of you is a passion for fashion design. You are now known Canada wide. Landing a position as one of the top three designers on Project Runway Canada is by no means a small feat of accomplishment. Your collection was shown with fine intention, and from this experience will come the desire to strive for excellence. Own the runway, Jason, with everything you have to give and it will be yours to great glorious applaud!

Ms. Jessica Biffi, all I can say is WOW......I want you to know the rest of Canada is also in love with your very beautiful dream. I remember a young woman who came to the audition and told me I would not forget her. That young talented strong woman was you! Jessica you have it all going on and this is only the beginning page of a brilliant life story in the Canadian fashion world.

The second season has come to a close. It is time for all of us, to speak boastfully with unabashed pride of our Canadian fashion talent. Today the world of fashion is a very small place. Within minutes of winning season two of Project Runway Canada friends of mine in
London were texting me to make sure it was true that Sunny had won…how fantastic is this!

Project Runway Canada has taken dreams of relatively unheard of designers and made them household names in twelve short weeks. Never before in the history of my 24-year career has this ever happened. Bravo to Global Television for believing in this showcase, and encore to the powerful work of the Insight Production Team. The Canadian fashion design industry thanks you. We are no longer the sunset industry. What you witnessed tonight is the next ray of Canadian Fashion Sunlight and what a brilliant ray of light Sunny Fong is!

Cheers
Brian

Episode 12: Jessica

Melissa — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:59:00 GMT

It’s the day of the Winners presentation and it’s the 4th all-nighter of this collection…but its all sprite, because it will be the last. It’s a big day today, Winners, Cheryl is coming in for a fitting and this is the last day in the work room! Hot damn! Intens-city to the max. Oh…and I’m doing all of this on not even a little bit of sleep.

I feel good about the presentation. The ladies from Winners had nothing but good things to say. They had some great points that, because I’m new to things I haven’t thought of yet.

The Cheryl fitting was a gong show! Jason and Sunny were pretty much done and I loved Sunny’s. Mine on the other hand was not a good time. It wasn’t close to being done, it was all jacked up and pinned together. I felt so behind and embarrassed that it happened in front of the whole room. I was just not in a good head space and Brian could see that. It’s just so much pressure. This is a big part of this challenge and I really wanted to give Cheryl something beautiful. Once I calmed down it was nothing but work, because I have to have this and the collection back by the end of the day. It won’t be the same finished quality as the rest of my pieces, but it will be done, and pretty…I have no choice…it HAS to be.

Its runway day!! OMFG!! I’m in a show at fashion week for the first time. It’s all finally so real. I can’t even express how happy I am. It’s a crazy day, but I’m really trying to take it all in. The second I saw Biddle when we stepped onto the runway I was just so taken a back…wow…I don’t know what to say. I’m so proud of myself and so excited to see what it all looks like at the end.

Makeup and hair was crazytown! That room was so full and everyone working it out…intense. My girls were starting to take shape…It looks hot. The whole thing is going to be amazing.

I gotta few of the girls and we started dressing…things are working out…until there is a shoe problem…but luckily one of the other models have shoes that work and it was all sprite…my girls are great… they helped each other get dressed and helped me out. Team Biffi is making it happen! Backstage is a mad house…I love it and hate how crazy it is all at the same time. Everyone is dressed…there is my baby finally…all standing in front of me looking like the bomb! I made this…this is mine and now the runway show is about to happened and its just so overwhelming and I am so proud of myself for working though everything that has happened up to now and really pushed myself. Whatever happens…I know I did a great job and love my collection.

Walking out onto the runway before my show was amazing. All this nervous excited energy rushed over me…I worked that speech…made it a cray little intro to the designer that Jessica Biffi now is…and let the girl loose to house the runway! It was so f**king kick ass…the girls looked hot, the clothing came to life and the audience loved it! Loved it! Everything has been worth it for this. When Alissa came off the runway at the every end, I broke down a little…she has been there for me this whole time, even when I lost her to Jeff that one challenge. I so happy I could share this with her.

Dun dun duah…runway with the judges. You know , I actually was not nervous of that runway. I know I did an amazing job, and I just wanna hear what they have to say. The feedback was positive, and yes it wasn’t as amazing as Sunny’s critic, it was incredible to know that the judges noticed my growth and talent and that the pieces that I loved the most they did as well…It means I’m on the right path…and I need to follow it. I was in top 2 for sure…Jason got it pretty bad from the judges, but I think they just wanted him to push it a little more. I liked a few things in Jason’s collection and I know he’s proud of it.

Sunny…f**king Sunny...he’s like the secret Romanian gymnast that the team uses at the Olympics for the win…and he did just that. Sunny’s collection was crazy cray…actually a step above that…a new form of cray. If it couldn’t be me…I’m happy Sunny won. He was my biggest competition and it came down to us. I really respect him as a designer, and as a person. He is my friend and I know he’ll do great. I can’t hate on him for the win. Congrats Sunny!!! What next for Jessica Biffi? Well this homegirl is gonna catch up on some sleep…these last 5 days have been cray cray. This whole experience has been amazing and life changing and life changing in the good way. The kinda way that I never thought would happen. I have my foot in the door to do whatever I want now. I always knew that this is what I wanted…and my first time out and I showed at fashion week, Canada knows who I am, and I have a friend in Brian that can help me with the figuring out of what I do next. One thing I know…I will be at the next LG Fashion Week, and now that I’ve gotten a taste of it…there is no going back. This is just the start to something amazing and my whole career and you know you bettarecognize.

Episode 12: Shawn

Melissa — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:49:00 GMT

They are running a tight ship at LG Fashion Week. It’s Thursday night at the tents, and the Project Runway Canada Finale – the hottest ticket in town – is about an hour from show time. Though I’ve been here all week, and the security guys recognize me by now, they still want to see credentials tonight ... there will be no sneaking in to this show. Rita’s and my wrangler give security a nod and we’re backstage in hair and make-up. There are lots of gorgeous girls around (including Coco Rocha), but not the usual media frenzy, nor any sign of frantic designers anywhere.

When it comes time to take our seats (in front of the eliminated designers – whose amusing reactions can be overheard throughout the show), the Runway Room has been completely filled, and it’s buzzing with excitement. Before I’ve had a chance to exchange more than a few cross-runway glances, Iman emerges on to the runway to address the crowd, wearing Biddell. She delivers her last “Let’s start the show” of the season, and takes a seat beside me.

Jason’s first model – wearing a giant black silk collar and sleeve, and not much else - has me really excited for his collection. I believe Jason to be a very talented designer, and I’m reading this opening as a sign that he’s going bring some drama and excitement together with his strong construction skills. If this is a sign of things to come, the results could be devastating to Sunny and Jessica. Unfortunately, what follows from Jason’s collection is a little disappointing, both in relation to the dramatic opening of the show, and in relation to the expectations of him I’ve developed over the season. Despite the opportunity to create a collection free from the constraints of the weekly challenges, most of Jason’s collection appears to be versions of pieces we have seen from him before ... and some of them have such bad fit issues in the skirts, that zippers are tearing, and a couple of the models are having trouble walking the runway! In my opinion, this can’t be the winning collection, and I’m not surprised the other judges agree with me once we reach the deliberation stage.

Jessica’s models, on the other hand, are storming the runway, and I can see why. The energy of her fitted, gold lambskin trimmed outerwear, with amazing chastity-belt inspired details is being embodied by the models. You can tell they love wearing it, kind of like Biddell’s models do. Come to think of it, and speaking of Biddell, some of her detail work looks strangely familiar. Wait a minute, is she addicted to Biddell? Again, the judges agree with me, but this time I am a bit surprised that they do.

As a whole, I like Jessica’s collection, but it’s a little duplicitous – featuring hot sportswear pieces (and a crazy-amazing chain dress) intermingled with less successful cocktail/evening looks ... she’s almost flipping back and forth between two collections for the whole show. I’m wishing she had stayed on track with the sportswea

r, because if she had, I’m thinking, she might have given Sunny a run for it.

But there is no chink in the armour of Sunny, who’s Alexander the Great inspiration is actually executed in a manner that’s completely fashionable, inspiring, original, and not the slightest bit gimmicky. Leather, fur, silk, beading, and Macedonian hegemony ... who knew?

We’ve known since the first challenge that Sunny has incredible skills, but his finale collection shows the judges that, while he is a masterful technician, capable of executing in almost any situation, he is also a very brilliant designer with incredible ideas to execute.

Ideas are what we need in Canadian fashion. Sunny clearly has them, and he can clearly express them; Sunny the Great will be a force to be reckoned with!

Episode 12: Rita

Melissa — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:47:00 GMT

My anticipation was building during the week leading up to the Project Runway Canada runway show. All the runner-ups are good designers but I wondered if Sunny, the strongest and most versatile of the group would meet our high expectations to dazzle the audience or simply coast to his victory or over-think the whole thing, lose focus and fail. With one exception, all the collections were very good, some of the best during Toronto Fashion Week in fact, as many reporters later noted. Once Iman, Shawn, Evan and I returned to the studio to tape the actual judging, there seemed to be no point in being coy. There was one clear winner (the last several episodes seemed to point in the same direction anyway). So, what we lost in suspense, we gained in unanimously bestowing a big award to a big talent. I wish each of the contestants a successful future (hopefully the show has given each a boost in that direction). And, if I may, a small suggestion for the immensely gifted Sunny: modern high luxury CAN exist without the use of animal parts.

Rita Silvan

Editor-in-Chief, ELLE Canada

Episode 12: Sunny

Melissa — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:46:00 GMT

Yesterday we found out about another challenge/thing to do. We had to prepare a presentation about my fashion line to the folks at Winners. This is to give us a taste of the mentorship program that they are providing. Like what we have to do isn’t enough……. Super stupid….what did I get myself into. I didn’t get started on it till after we came back from the work room. It was past twelve AM and all of us finally started on our presentations. Another arts and crafts / business thing to do. I didn’t want to do anything lame so we all spent the entire night and morning finishing our presentation boards. I only got 1.5 hours sleep, Jason 2 hours and Jessica none.

We did our presentation and I really tried to not fall asleep and present myself as serious, they gave us all some great feedback and I also got some great feedback that I’m considering….we’ll see…

As the day went on, jeff my helpful helper really went above and beyond in helping me finish my collection….sweet heart…. Oh jeff. Cheryl came by the work room and we did our fitting and she seemed like she liked my dress. I really hope she’s not just being nice…?! Later in the day, with jeff’s help I managed to finish quite early… can’t wait till tomorrow.

So it’s runway day and I’m super excited!!!! And I really can’t wait to get the show started. We went to Nathan Phillips Square to see the runway, and I totally miss seeing my stuff on the runway and being there made me a little bit sad…but happy at the same time!!!! Well we walked on to the runway and there was Evan Biddell, winner of last years PRC and he told us that he was going to be our guest judge… really cool since he knows what it’s like to do what we do and gone through. It was definitely a stressfull day. We had to get the models hair and make-up done and then dressed and then the show. But no…. not so easy.. the models took forever to get done… Jason and Jessica had their models dressed and ready and I only had 3 models done and it was literally 20 minutes before the show. I was ready to get stressed but I suppressed it. It was show time and my girls looked hot!!!! They couldn’t look sexier!!! and my s**t looked awesome in them!!! Super duper cool! I just couldn’t wait to see them on the runway. Nope I didn’t see them on the runway… really what I saw was tori walk on to the runway with the first garment and the last garment. When tori got off the runway, I had to quickly get her into her finale piece and really I missed the show, but I knew it was going well, cause I could hear the audience applause for every piece and that was wicked!!! I think that was a rare thing. In the end the model came back and said they loved it and felt good about it. NICE!

That wasn’t it, then we had to get judged and I felt really good. But I didn’t hold my breath…. Though I felt great anything can happen. I was nervous on runway!!! My heart was beating a mile a minute and I didn’t know what to think.. I played the scenario in my head but I had my line for losing which was “oh that sucks!....congrats…!” but I really didn’t prepare for a winning reaction…. The judges really reacted positively to the collection, I told them that it was based on Alexander the Great and I really want to do something that was totally me!!! And they really saw that. They love it and Iman said she already saw some pieces she wanted which was all of it… Nice! A part of me felt bad winning…. Because Jessica’s a wonderful person… my home-y!!! and a great talent… that girl is going somewhere!! She’s young and thirty for fashion and she’ll drink that big jug of fashion really soon…actually right now with a straw. Love that bi-o-tch!. Jason…..has a golden heart and the drive to sell his creations… he can sell anything with all his passion behind it.

The piece de résistance, was my mother and Kenny coming onto the show and the runway. They’ve been my support and every way. Mom and her traditional way of supporting me by keeping me modest and making me achieve more….plus her amazing beading she does for me. And Kenny.. my baby… there since the beginning and now… helping me get my collection on the runway… my rock. Really the best thing was to actually have Kenny and my mom interact… makes me really happy…tear. That’s another story… But I love them both!!! Sniff sniff. Now, what do I do…? get something to eat and some sleep….. and maybe tomorrow VAWK will wake up….. to a new name...

*sun

Brian's Backstage blog - Let The Collections Begin!

Melissa — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 10:38:00 GMT

Every human being on the face of the planet has his or her own opinion on fashion so you have to have a very clear focus of who you are a designer. To design in this world requires an immediate sense of gut instinct, an unwavering sense of style, and most important the highest regard for personal self-esteem. The best collections are those that create a sense of desire and a feeling of satisfaction amongst customers every time one of the outfits is purchased and worn. It is important for designers to please themselves first because only then will he or she succeed in delivering a collection that shows strong magnetic confidence and creates the needed sense of desire.

Jessica, Jason, and Sunny have the added complication and exhilaration of all of Canada watching them grow into their collections. This is a fantastic calling card for any designer.

When I visited the Top 3 designers at home the collections I saw were comprised mainly of theories, sketches, half finished garments and a lot of procrastination. I had expected to see clearly defined and literal examples of each designer’s thought processes. With six months and $8,000 each I thought there would be no need to rush to Fashion Week. Now it seems it will come down to a very intensive work schedule to see who will finish in time to rule the runway.

Back in the workroom I was able to see (almost) finished collections. Sunny’s collection shows consistent strength from fabric selection to proportion. His collection is strong even if it has those famous bustier dresses that are not winning points with me. It will be interesting to see how his collection comes down the runway as his only way to create drama will be via the styling (shoes, accessories, hair and makeup).

Jessica has come full circle since I visited her at home. She has redesigned the whole collection and came through with polished innovation! The collection is jammed with detail, great colour, and definite showstoppers. My concern is again how it will play on the runway and if it will define Jessica Biffi to the fashion world. The runway can take months of hard work and turn it into a dismal display of inexperience. The word “focus” will need to be Jessica’s mantra.

Jason doesn’t always like to hear my opinion. His collection has some strong pieces and some glaringly obvious struggles. Fabric selection is paramount in a collection. Jason chose all black silk shantung and bright gold sequins. The design details seem obscure and the quality and finishing was not up to the level of someone who has previously shown at Fashion Week. I was shocked and I’m sure my facial expressions left nothing to the imagination. Jason has his work cut out for him but he has the ability to pull a rabbit from a hat, so bring it on Jason!

Overall, there is a huge amount of work to be done on each collection and I was concerned for all of them. Any possibility of extra time to tweak was replaced by one last little request. Design a dress for the very beautiful Cheryl Hickey from Entertainment Tonight Canada. 13 garments now, how lucky! This is an opportunity to create a gown that will get the ultimate in media attention. The stress on each one of the designer’s faces was evident so I hope if they learn one thing it’s that you should never procrastinate. A moment of relief came in the form of Jeff, Brandon, and Kim.

Once a collection leaves the hands of a designer and hits the runway anything can happen. Garments that appear lifeless on a hanger can take on a magical appeal and those that WOW can sometimes fall in to the SO WHAT category on the runway. The tension right now is high in the workroom and all of the designers are definitely realizing that fashion isn’t always pretty! God help them all.

Brian

Episode 10: Jason

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:02:00 GMT

I’m bringing it to TORONTO FASHION WEEK!!!

This has changed my life. I made it to the dance!!! Mission accomplished… My next goal is to design the “sickest” collection to show my growth as a designer, my creativity and most of all my love for fashion and this amazing industry that I’m so proud to be apart of.

I was extremely happy with my tailored suit and lingerie. Ashley did an amazing job and rocked the runway!!! I really can’t find the words to explain how excited and grateful I am to be here in this position… It’s been a long hard road, an emotion rollercoaster and overall an amazing life experience I’ll never forget!

I’d like to give a shout out to Gen for representing the West coast and doing such an amazing job. You got skills girl and you’re an amazing talent… I’m sad to see you go. Let me know when the store opens!!!

I’m back to the city soon, getting my head around this and looking sooo forward to the show!!!

See you on the runway!

www.JasonMeyers.net

Episode 10: Jessica

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:56:00 GMT

So this is the big daddy folks. last challenge...and its a twisty little round in crazytown that leads to the town known as breakdownville. So we are making business wear for the executive woman...and that mean what? SLEEVES and PANTS....ahhhhh!!! I haven't made something with sleeves or pants in like 3 or 4 years...let alone from scratch. No blocks...I wanna cry. :( So whatever...I come up with a plan and I start feeing really good about it...and then!!! Brian comes in and tells us that we need more time on this 2 day challenge...we get until 7pm...on what we thought was the last runway day. YAY!! Oh but wait...no YAY, because we have to make something else...lingerie! Oh but there's more...our models are going to have 30 minutes with us and a budget of $75 and are gonna go to Rockland and get the stuff we need to make the lingerie that goes under the suite!!! OMG!!! Really?...I mean...really? I know Alissa will do a good job...but its just that, there is already so much going on...so much!!

So, I get the fabric and home girl did such a good job!!! But I'm still working on the suit...and I feel really stressed out. I know I will get 'er done...but its gonna be a tight one.

Real runway day...oh hot damn...this is almost over and 3 of us will be in the finale and show at Toronto fashion week. This is huge...I want it so bad, I don't even know if I can express how badly I want this. I felt so good about my pieces...in the short amount of time and the lack of blocks, I know it wasn't perfect...but I was pretty good. That's what I thought until the judges cut me down. Their comments really messed me up. The stress and the importance, the weight of if all really just came down, and I felt like my dream was slipping away. When Iman asked me why I should be at fashion week...I just broke down. I want this so bad...and the feelings just overwhelmed me so much. I felt bad that I couldn't pull it together...and that upset me even more. In the lounge...I felt like it was all over...and I felt like it was 100 years that we were waiting. Going back onto the runway was so scary. Sunny...in true Sunny style, won...and that was no surprise. We all knew that bottom 2 would be me and Genevieve. I was so worried they would pick her...and I would have to walk off the runway as the designer that didn't measure up. Iman called my name and said that they saw a lot of potential in me...and that they wanted to see what I would do at fashion week. OMG...bitched bettarecognize!!! Mama is in...and going to Toronto fashion week!!! Its the 3 kids from the T-dot repin' it home town styles!!! I'm so excited to show at fashion week...and so proud of myself. I don't know what I will do yet...but its gonna be boss and everyone will recognize!!!

Peace homies...see you on the runway...Toronto Fashion week runway that is!!!

Episode 10: Sunny

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:55:00 GMT

So the last challenge is to make a power suit for modern day woman and lingerie to go under it. Well I was having trouble designing a suit at first but I motored through to get my suit done. It came to me on the second day, but I got it all together and my pants which is my thing, looked hot. Love my exaggerated pleat. And for lingerie, I had it, I made a bra and panties, Tori looked hot!!!!!

But let me tell you, I was stressed. I want to get to final three, I busted my ass and I wanted to know that it was worth it, and only the judges can decide my fate. I still don’t know because anything can happen.

I was soo nervous that I couldn’t speak properly on the runway. I kept on gapping out with my phrases. And when the judges asked why I should get to show at Toronto fashion week. And I almost lost it, tears almost came out of my eyes. But I kept them in. in the end there was a happy ending, I’m part of final three.

Episode 10: Rita

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:54:00 GMT

For this critical challenge that determined which designers would go to Toronto Fashion Week in 2009, the contestants had to create a business day-wear look along with lingerie. The lingerie was hugely disappointing: very sporty, no sizzle. The day-wear looks were average. Everyone chose drab colours that puzzled the judges. Instead of creating sharply tailored day looks in strong colours, everything was brown or beige. This was a tough challenge for those who don’t have good tailoring skills because there is nowhere to hide when you’re making a suit. Most of the designers rose to the challenge but one designer had never done any tailored outfits before this and this lead to her elimination. Her lingerie however was the best: very flowy and feminine.

Episode 10: Genevieve Exits the Runway...

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:53:00 GMT

hey dudes.

going to make this short and sweet…….

so I am out, boo. I didn’t make it to top 3 which really, really sucks……………… but I did make it this far so that is super awesome.

It figures in the end my lack of pattern making skills is what got me, why did the last challenge have to be a tailored suit??!!

It has been clear that this competition is more about technical skill than design- my opinion. but it’s o.k. I am over the moon with every piece I did, I am so proud of all my accomplishments and this has been one of the most amazing and eye opening experiences of my entire life.

I am so happy that I stuck to my guns and did what I do best.

I hope you enjoyed watching us and I hope I didn’t let you guys down, I feel that I did great design and had a great time in the process.

this is my gift and calling in life, it can only go up from here…………

watch for my store and my line- I am back with a vengeance baby!!

you guys rock and I am so glad I got to invade your living rooms for a few weeks

see you guys in vancouver!!

ciao

xog

do great you guys, rock that ****ing runway. jason, bring it home baby!

Episode 10: Shawn

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:52:00 GMT

The day starts with a phone call from my wife telling me to stay calm. I already know what she’s going to say next. Yup, two weeks ahead of schedule her water breaks, and she’s on her way to the hospital in Toronto ... while I’m on my way to work in Ottawa. “Go shoot the episode, and try to catch an earlier flight back” she says calmly.

For the first time in 10 episodes, I’m the first judge dressed, and I’m actually calling for the sound guys to ‘mic’ me. Straight into Iman’s trailer to tell her there’s no time for dilly-dallying. They’d better agree with me today, I’m thinking; I really don’t have time for a long, drawn out deliberation...

Well, the reality is that a long deliberation is unavoidable in this, the last elimination before the Finale episode. The designers who survive this challenge will get to show a collection of their own at LG Fashion Week in Toronto. Surviving the challenge, however, means the designers will have to impress us with their take on a ‘power suit’ for the modern woman ... with a little lingerie thrown in for good measure.

Once again, Sunny shows that he not only has great tailoring skills, but he also has great taste. While his suit is definitely powerful, it’s also very feminine. I note that he’s walking the line in terms of its edginess, but this is perfectly offset by the outfit’s overall sophistication. His lingerie is well executed, but a little disappointing, since, in my opinion, a simple bra and panties does not amount to lingerie. Iman, on the other hand, can’t seem to get enough of the bra. I’m surprised she doesn’t tell Sunny she’d wear it. Either way, Sunny is through to the finale.

Jason is through to the finale too. He shows a very impressive jacket – fashionable and well-made, albeit paired with skinny, knee-length shorts (with a rise that’s just slightly too long). It’s an interesting take on the modern businesswoman, and his lingerie also looks like lingerie to me.

As between Jessica and Genevieve, we generally agree that, with the exception of a few too many details, and a fit issue in the shoulders on Jessica’s jacket, her suit is well designed, and well constructed. Her lingerie on the other hand looks way too sporty; sure it’s cute, but it’s pretty far from sexy. Genevieve’s position is the reverse; as far as I’m concerned, she does the best lingere of the bunch – very sexy, very fashionable, and very her – but her suit is neither a good design, nor a well-executed garment. Clearly out of her comfort zone, this suit is sloppy and bulky looking.

In the end, the judges feel we’d rather see an uninhibited collection from Jessica, and feel that she’s earned the opportunity to show one. She’s been making serious strides throughout the competition, and has demonstrated an impressive range of ideas and skills.

We can’t wait to see what all three designers will come up with at LG Fashion Week, when they’re not constrained by the parameters of weekly challenges.

Thank you Porter Airlines. I’m on the ground in downtown Toronto less than 2 hours after leaving the set ... just in time to catch the birth of my baby girl.

Episode 10: Brian's Backstage Blog

Melissa — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:44:00 GMT

Tailoring is an art form, pure and simple. This challenge needed not only design skill but also construction skills. A master tailor is to the fashion world what the Pope is to religion. It is a revered position to all the major fashion houses around the world.

The four remaining designers were about to succeed or fail as there is no way to disguise poor workmanship on tailored suits and the delicate fabrication of barely-there lingerie. In total the designers had 8 outfits to brush up on their sewing abilities, hone their design skills and capture a coveted position at the Project Runway Canada finale at LG Fashion Week.

Sunny’s skill at sewing and finishing took him right to the top. However, I did feel that the jacket design was common, the fringed seams were passé, and it only channeled Sunny Fong because it came with a belt. This was a very ‘safe’ garment and someone with his skills should have taken a risk to show innovative fashion design. Sunny will need to completely deliver the risk factor on the runway at Fashion Week if he wants to take home the prize.

Genevieve chose a beautiful mouflon fabric that would mold and shape with the touch of an iron. The design came out overworked and didn’t line up on the body correctly. The drape slip lingerie came out beautiful but the suit took precedence and the final curtain fell for Genevieve.

Jason on the other hand thought that a powerful executive would enjoy a sleeveless grey jacket for the office. Fortunately he redesigned the jacket (with sleeves this time) and the result was a rendition of what we have seen before from him, which is the constant pseudo-male tails tuxedo ala Jason Meyers. I hope to see clearly focused and innovative ideas from Jason and lets hope he delivers his finest work to date at Fashion Week.

Jessica took the challenge to the point of overdesign. Edit, edit, edit: words that should be embroidered on the back of her design overkill jacket. This young woman has a mirage of ideas that must become focused in order to win the final prize. The lingerie left me thinking, “it’s OK”, however the runway is no place for a new designer to show “OK”. It’s time for Jessica to benchmark the meaning of the word edit. Fashion Week is a battlefield and the critics of certain excruciatingly fashionable circles can make or break you.

Six months to design a collection is a once in lifetime opportunity. Who will win the prize and realize their dream?

Good luck to you all.

Episode 9: Shawn

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:06:00 GMT

What a bust for Adejoké ... After weeks of consistently solid work, and in my opinion, some of the best design ideas of the entire group, she gets sent home as a result of losing the last team challenge. Ironically, the judges, who have been on her over the past weeks about the level of her construction, tell Adejoke that she has finally hit the mark with the fit of her (losing) garment. Though it’s pretty clear that the weak link on the team (and reason for the team’s loss) is Kim, Adejoke accepts her fate, and exits the runway gracefully.

Jason and Genevieve respond to the pressure of a must-win situation, and elevate their game, relying on highly advanced construction skills to turn camping gear fabrics into pieces which actually resemble real clothes. To my mind, they’re really the only team that ventures to this, as the other two teams’ outfits, though interesting, definitely have an air of camping gear.

Where has Rachel Roy been hanging out? New York ... I know, but I really can’t understand how she thinks Kim’s outfit is forward-looking. To me, it’s straight up 90’s club kid. I can’t help but wonder if this is a replica of something Kim made for herself for an outdoor rave 10 years ago ...

Episode 9: Brian's Backstage Blog!

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:04:00 GMT

Two things that don’t go together in my mind are camping and Fashion! As a kid growing up in Alberta I did enough camping and fishing (yes fishing!) with my dad to last a lifetime. Therefore I was prepared for what was in store, but very surprised by the pure and utter beauty of Lac Phillip located in Gatineau, Quebec - just a short spin from Ottawa. As I got ready to greet the designers I heard a gentle swoosh behind me and turned to see a canoe gently careening by. All you could hear was the paddle ever so gently dipping into the water as the canoe glided across to the other side of the lake. Serene beyond words. Even shutting my eyes and just listening I was able to picture this exquisite moment. What a perfect backdrop for the next challenge which saw the return of two designers aiming to steal back a coveted position at LG Fashion Week. The designers were again put into teams (yikes) and Jason and Genevieve were given a surprise reprise. Fabric would be more of a challenge than a teammate. The fabric of choice was any camping comfort you didn’t need to survive an overnight stay in the beautiful Lac Phillip wilderness. I didn’t envy this crew of 5 star Hotel devotees.

Sunny chose Jessica, which made a formidable team. I have loved everything that they have done separately and couldn’t wait to see them collaborate as a designer über duo. In the end I wasn’t crazy about the 3D silver eruptions on Sunny’s avant-garde garment but Jessica brought it home with a fine rendition of early morning Arctic vesting that created balance. And they never gave up their tent for fabric, so they were the only cozy campers!

Jason and Genevieve created great pieces that saved their lives (and chance at LG Fashion Week) on the runway. Jason held his own against the very talented omnipotent Genevieve, however I was surprised at how well Jason listened to her. Genevieve ruled the house and proved that by sleeping under a picnic table she can achieve one last kick at the can.

Adejoké and Kim took a risk, forgetting that sculptural doesn’t work in the eyes of the judges. I personally loved what this team created. Kim tossed all caution to the wind and created a beautiful futuristic ensemble that would have rocked a Hassan Chalayan runway. Adejoké created one of her best fashionable and wearable expressions to date. I was sad to see them go, however life will go on for these two very talented women in the world of Fashion, and I for one am happy that their last showing left me wanting more! Adejoké and Kim, I will go camping with you anytime and look forward to seeing more from both of you!

Brian

Episode 9: Sunny

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:38:00 GMT

So our final challenge is to see who was going to be final 3. We started off by going camping and finding out that Genevieve and Jason had come back to see if they will make it to final three, basically It was the remaining four against them. They had to win as a group in order to make it to the next round and if they did, then another group will be eliminated. Well when I thought that they had horse shoes up their ass, I was correct. Jason, is used to the horseshoe but Genevieve came back a different person, not one that I’m used to.

Trust me, I wasn’t a happy camper. I was definitely jealous of their luck, they didn’t measure up in their challenges and they somehow were able to get another shot at final three. Genevieve doesn’t think it was luck. If it wasn’t luck they wouldn’t be here. Well back to my camping, I thought I could get reacquainted with them, but it was difficult. That sucked.

I found out that on our way back from the camp site, Genevieve was talking badly about me and Jessica. She said that I was trying to intimidate her by complimenting her and saying that I thought she should have won some of the challenges. I don’t know where she got it from, but I like her stuff and she thought otherwise, and then to hear that other were also talking hit about me and all I’ve been was nice to them, and I’ve haven’t even mentioned anything negative about them. Trust me this was a challenge amongst challenges. Who do I trust and who should I care for and how do I stay to be final 3…… I can’t really rely on luck, so far I have none. Hard work? Maybe that’s not enough. I’m soo crushed!

Let’s say that our group made it through and so did the lucky crew (Genevieve and Jason). It’s not easy. I hate how that money which is the grand prize, makes ugly of beautiful people. I’m sad and I guess lucky…… I’m crossing my fingers tight.

Episode 9: Adejoké Exits the Runway...

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:29:00 GMT

Hello everyone! So you won’t believe the craziness of this competition?! Anything can happen….. Gen and Jason were brought back and given a second chance in the competition! Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

So the challenge was to create one avante garde outfit, one ready to wear outfit – as a group of two. We had to use fabrics/camping survival gear to create the outfits, therefore we had to sacrifice our survival gear in order to have enough material for the challenge. Kim and I were paired together…so I wasn’t exactly sure how that would be…..

I was happy to see Jason and Gen, but not happy to hear the conditions of their return. They would be able to stay in the competition as long as they win the challenge we were given, and two other designers would be eliminated! Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?! We almost thought we were done and on the homecoming stretch with one more challenge until the top three…guess not.

So Kim and I actually ended up working well together. Our personalities are somewhat different but our inspirations and design skills are on par. The main difficulty we had was focus and the ability to complete garments fully. I managed to stay focused and keep my quality level up because I knew we had to really do or die! For Kim I think that was a bit more challenging due to the fact that her good buddies were back and she wanted them to stay as well.

Eventually Kim and I began to work as one unit to try to do the best work possible. We went to the runway and we were satisfied with our look and the story we were trying to portray. What would determine if we were safe, is if the judges got our concept and if they could not focus solely on construction and more on design concepts.

Sooo guess what?????? We were slaughtered! Well not really….the judges liked my outfit but had some problems with Kim. So unfortunately we were not safe. I’m not mad because I did try my best and did the best work I’ve ever done on the show. Rachel Roy was the guest judge and she liked my outfit a lot so I am really happy because she is my favourite designer.

Sooooooooooooooooo, farewell my friends, this experience has been a blast but granny’s gotta go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Xo.

Episode 9: Genevieve's Back!

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:25:00 GMT

whaaaaaattttt??????

we’re back!!!!!

hey dudes, turns out I am not gone after all, I have been given another chance- yay!

the only thing jason and I know about the next challenge is that we are partners and that we are going camping- awesome! camping is mine and julian’s favourite thing to do in the summer.

we get to the campsite and it is breathtaking, one of the most beautiful sites I have ever been to. there are three tents set up and jason and I are supposed to each hide in one until our re-entry into the group. haha.

so we pop out of the tents and surprise everyone, bittersweet I think……. sunny seems the most annoyed.

brian tells us about our next challenge, which is to make an avant garde outfit and a ready to wear outfit inspired by the avant garde one- here is the kick, we have to use our camping materials. we can either use the camping equipment for surviving the night or use it for our garments to survive the challenge. No brainer, we give up everything- including our tent- except one sleeping bag and our sleeping mats.

oh ya, we also have to win this challenge to stay in the competition, if we don’t win we are out- no pressure.

we spend the rest of the night making a fire, roasting wieners, swimming and drinking lots of beer.

it comes to bedtime and jason and I have to get creative, I make us a ‘tent’ of sorts out of a picnic table and garbage bags, we sleep under it on our mats and use our 1 sleeping bag as a blanket. it’s uncomfortable- ugh.

we awake the next morning to brian who has popped by to have breakfast with us, we eat and head back to the workroom to start our challenge.

jason and I have been discussing what we want to do and we both agree we really have to push the envelope on this one, stay away from our ‘usual’ silhouette’s and bring it all the way to stay in this.

we amazingly enough agree on exactly what our look should be, for the avant garde we want a huge skirt with a super tiny, cinched in waist and for the ready to wear to be a pared down version.

I go through many different techniques to get to the one I love, which is a huge 10 panel skirt made out of the bottom of our tent and beautiful strapping detail made from silver earthquake blankets, a vey contoured top made from sleeping bag lining and straps off a fold out chair for a waist cinch.

jason is using the chair as well for a beautiful blazer, tent and sleeping bag lining for a skirt…… we make an amazing team.

the outfits are done and look f’ing amazing! think paper bag princess. we rocked it and if the judges don’t get it then they are on another planet.

guess they are on another planet because they tell me my skirt is not avant garde enough. but I can take it because we won! we are in! guess they liked it after all...

sunny and jessica won too- ugh. guess they couldn’t take away a win from their golden child(ren)...

the bummer thing is my best buddy is gone- kim, and addy- who I was just getting to know and think is totally amazing. sucks

they are both crazy talented and have so, so, so much more to do in their careers and I can’t wait to see what they do.

I am so happy I got to meet kim, we will be friends for a long time I think and it is so fantastic that we are in the same city, she is one of a kind. I am going to miss her.

one more challenge to go bitches!

it’s not going to be easy...

later

Episode 9: Jason's Back!

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:23:00 GMT

Well I’m back!!! After being eliminated in the 7th episode, I was blessed with the opportunity to return to the competition...

The challenge was to design and construct an avant-garde piece and a ready-to-wear outfit. The twist was that I was partnered up with Gen who was eliminated and we had to win the challenge or we would be eliminated.

We worked really great together and pulled out the win!!! Although we shared it with Jess and Sunny, we believe we had that hands down but I’ve thought like that before and unfortunately I was completely wrong.

It’s definitely tough being judged on my work to this degree and competing designer to designer but there’s a really great reward, having the opportunity to win $100,000.00 and the title of Project Runway Canada season 2 CHAMP!!!

I want to take this opportunity to thank Addy and Kim for having the pleasure of meeting them and to have shared such an insane and great life experience together and tons and tons of unforgettable memories. You are both amazing designers and will have amazing and successful careers. Love you both!

A special goodbye to Kim, I miss you already! See you soon in your city or mine!

It’s now down to 4 and 1 challenge away to my next goal, showing at Toronto Fashion Week with my eye on the prize.

Here I come… stayin’ focused and committed to my goals! I’m inspired, excited and doing my best… all I can do is hope that’s enough!

See you on the runway,

www.JasonMeyers.net

Episode 9: Jessica

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:20:00 GMT

Yeah so everyone that knows me knows this one very important thing about me…I hate camping. So what happens…we go camping and have a challenge based on camping. WTF??? After Iman told us we were going on an adventure, and how far would we go, and that we were going back to basics…in my mind I thought that it meant that we were going to London. It all made sense to me. In no way possible did I think that meant camping, group challenge and 2 eliminated designers coming back. Again I say WTF!?

Because Sunny won the last challenge, he got to pick who he wanted as his partner, and he picked me. YAY. I’ve never worked with Sunny, but I really respect him and you have to recognize that homey’s got some serious skills (hello how many belt titles does he have? Yeah 4!). That means that Ade and Kim are the other team…but wait, there are 3 tents and that means…TWIST! Genevieve and Jason are back…wack. I like Jason, I always did…Genevieve on the other hand…is not my kind of person I’ve started to realize. It’s the ego…I’m just really over it. So the challenge is to decide what will stay and what we will make avant-garde and ready-to-wear garments out of, from our camping gear. Everyone except Sunny and I decided that they didn’t want to keep they’re tents…damn…team Toronto don’t play that…we like shelter.

After a night of camping, and being attacked by Brian in the morning…we head home to get showered and head back to the workroom. I’m excited…Sunny and I have to re-work out what we’re about to do just because we have some random shit in our bag of stuff…just strange colours. We’re using the 2 sleeping bags and the bags they came in for the straps and buckles. Our design in based on the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum)…a little taste of home from Team Toronto. Sunny’s gonna make avant-gard his bitch and I’m gonna ready-to-wear the crap out of my pieces.

The drama in the work/sewing room is intense-city. I hate it. Genevieve has let it out that she thinks she should have won all the challenges…blah blah blah…whatever…if you should have won then you would have. Get over yourself. Its making the air so heavy…I hate it! Obvi…I’m really upset…and angry. I broke the seal on angry…its about to get messy.

Our pieces are coming along so well. I’m really happy. Sunny is very specific in how he does things…and that’s why homey has won so many damn challenges. I’m happy we’re a team. We’re even done early…oh hells yeah…no rushing for Jessie today.

Runway went well…everyone liked our pieces…which was awesome…because they totally could have made fun of it…it was a crystal dress-coat. It was the lounge that an interesting time. Kim…shit…really? Again? Did you really attack me again after I got an awesome review and you didn’t? Its so damn lame and really wack. I’m over it…and just so upset. This place is bringing out the worst in people. I really liked Kim…but there is only so much I can take. I know there was fit issues…but worry about yours and not mine. Do yours and I’ll do me.

So welcome to Twist-town. There are two winners…Sunny and I and Genevieve and Jason…really? So Kim and Ade are out. I feel really bad for Ade…because she shouldn’t have gone home. Her piece was awesome and I’m going to miss her. She was my sista from another mista.

This game just got that much more intense. Finally four…aaagain! I’m gonna do this thing…and get it done. I wanna house the next challenge…and do what I came here to do. I’m still a little angry…but I’m gonna use that and go go go.

Episode 9: Kim Exits the Runway...

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:19:00 GMT

well the camping was fun. the lake was amazing, beautiful and warm. it was best sharing a tarp with my buddie adejoke, the challenge seemed like it was right up our alley.

we got to work, and work we did. i thought our designs were tight, street styles and hawt man. the judges didn’t have to like what we made, but they needed to get it. unfortunately they didn’t like it or get it... and that is really too bad. my opinion is that the judges didn’t expect us to bring it like we did. Our team was the most cohesive and avant-garde of everyone, and adejoke had a personal best.. wtf. we got the boot?

weird.

perhaps my lack of communication with the judges hurt us... i drew a blank on the runway and couldn’t think of anything to say.. that sux. when rita accused me of using bike shorts for the top of my pants.. i almost died... does she not think that i can make beautiful fitted pants?!

you know I’m mad that our time is over, and i think i cried enough tears in that last interview to last a lifetime.. i really thought, truly believed that I would be in the final 3... so that is shocking. really shocking. i never thought i would leave before then and i don’t even know what to say. for the 2nd time i am speechless.

i know the competition was tight, and each person left has something different to bring to the table and I’ve got some really good buds left.. so for them i am stoked.

my plan is to continue a design career. i will make beautiful clothes, i will go on and achieve greatness. this show has been an amazing experience, one that i will not soon forget, if ever. the people i have meet are close to my heart, and canada.... thanks for watching all the craziness.... keep your eyes out for *kdon* by kim cathers. you wont be disappointed and i promise, no bike shorts or gramma dresses!!

loves and farewell.

yellow dress styles.

kdon

Episode 9: Rita

Melissa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:16:00 GMT

For this challenge contestants had to create 2 different outfits: one ready-to-wear and the other an avant-garde creation and they had to work in teams of two. Teamwork is always a tricky thing because, by sheer good or ill fortune, a strong designer can be yoked to a weaker one and then the whole team in eliminated. The other twist today was two previously eliminated contestants became a team and had to WIN the challenge to stay in the competition. Some of the avant-garde outfits were wonderful since the designers had to work with camping materials like solar blankets, netting, tent fabric to make their outfits. It may seem that these fabrics are pretty forgiving when it comes to construction of the garments but some designers had a tighter rein on them than others. Adejoke created her strongest outfit to date. It had her signature detailing and whimsy but it showed a much surer hand than usual. Our guest judge, New York-based designer Rachel Roy thought it was a perfect outfit for a fashion-forward Manhattan girl.

Episode 8: Sunny

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:07:00 GMT

So we have to make a dress for Coco Rocha for her red carpet appearance at NY fashion week. Sounds fun, but she didn’t really give us much info other than it was to be a dress, ny fashion week, glamorous and fabulous, tutor inspired and shows off her legs. She did say that she wanted us to design something for her in our design sense that would suit her requirements.

So what was I supposed to do. Didn’t want to do a corset and full skirt since I’ve done enough of that according to the judges. I was stumped. But I knew it was going to be black.

Luckily at the fabric store, I got some inspiration, they had some black chiffon and I found a fringe in the drapery section and also a black python print p-leather.

Got back to the studio and started on my dress and again luckily on the Winners wall, there was a pair of shoes that inspired me.

I plowed through with the design and I managed to get my dress done early. Adejoke was not felling her dress and Kim is actually almost done. I was helping the other designers out and realized, Am I sick to help them win. Crazy. But I love my dress and I hope the judges will too.

The decision was that Coco will wear my dress and Genevieve is eliminated. Yeah!! And BOOO! I’ll miss watching Genevieve sculpt and drape her dresses and her wacky personality. Love her.

Episode 8: Kim

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:04:00 GMT

Well what can I say. I made a killer dress and ended up in the bottom two. Lametown. Coco Rocha was our guest judge and we were to make a dress for her to wear at new york fashion week.

She told us all her inspirations, and I went on the Elizabethan thing. I made a dress that was forward, new and exciting, but alas my construction skills came up short when I tried to get the perfect fit.

After having my model stolen two times by other designers, I felt back to square one. I figured it was no biggie, and had the dress ready to roll early the night before. But in true project runway style, everything went to s**t in the morning and I was again running around again trying to tie up all the loose ends. And the zipper broke when I was putting my model into it. Awesome.

Sadly Genevieve was sent home, I’ve lost two pals in two weeks.. ugh. Her dress was not my favorite and I know that her lack of creative silhouettes is what killed her in the end. She made a beautiful bodice that just wasn’t the right thing for coco. Its too bad really.

I thought jessica’s dress was really boring and could be seen in any given store at the moment. It wasn’t innovative or fashionable by any stretch of the imagination. But it was sewn well, and I guess that’s why she was in the top. I’m not sure if this is a fashion competition anymore.

Adejoke’s dress was strange and totally inappropriate for a super model to wear at fashion week. Seeing how she threw it together in the last hours, I was surprised to have the spot under her. my heart started sinking.

Sunny’s dress was interesting, I thought I looked a lot like lingerie with a weird detail on the chest and neck. I have to say I was disappointed. It was a cheeky design, but come on now… how many challenges can one person win!

So I’m left sitting here wondering what the crap. I thought I had a winning dress and was shocked to be in the bottom two. Maybe if it had fit perfectly the judges would have got it. Maybe if I tacked down the triangles they would have got it. Maybe if I would have done the hem the way it was supposed to be they would have got it, I was really hoping they would see my innovation, creativity, freshness in design and give me some props…. Its totally annoying that I am the only designer left in the top 4 that hasn’t won a challenge and should have. My dress is by far better than most of them out there and I am pissed to say the least. But I’ve got to wrap up this rant sooner than later, so on that note…I wave a big goodbye to my fellow pirate, and ill see you in vangroovy baby. Coco liked It for the most part, and the rest of the judges had some hard criticism, a few of which I understood.

At this point its not my skills as a designer that keeps me fighting for my place, but it’s the construction and the small amount of time that we have. I have a plan to try and get more done early for the last challenge, leaving some time at the end for the details that will make it fit like a glove. Heh. Stay tuned for next week when I blow the pants off everyone and end myself a well deserved spot in the final three. Booya!!

Look out kids, one of you is goin home…. and it ain’t gonna be me.

Peace.

Episode 8: Jessica

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:03:00 GMT

Who is the most influential person in fashion right now…and do we get to go to New York?? The answers are Coco Rocha and no…in that order. But we do get to make a dress for Coco to wear to a New York fashion week event…BOSS!!! That’s totally rad. She is one of the biggest models out there right now. To have her show up in something that you’ve made will hardcore boost your career…or in my case give me a career.

After talking to Coco and finding out what she’s looking for, I actually really am into this challenge. I mean let’s all be honest…I do always get to a point with the pieces that I say I hate it…but I turn it around in the end. ? We head out to Rockland after 30 minutes of sketching time, and I kinda know what I want, but it takes me a while. I ended up with this nice shot silk taffeta, which broke the bank on the $200 budget. When I was back at the work room I totally gave’er…I made my pattern for the bodice and was sewing way before everyone else. It was awesome…and then the skirt…I had a great muslin version, which Brian loved…but when I made it out of the silk would not get in line…I had to take that s**t to church… Runway time…and I’m rushing…the skirt did give me a hard time.

But in the end I was really happy with what it is and I really did like what I made for Coco. Alissa looked hot in it too. She’s a great girl…I love her. On the runway it looked boss…and Coco liked it…but I got that it was a “nice” dress but meh. Of course Sunny…snuck in there and took back the belt. 4 wins? Homey that’s crazy. Actually that’s crazy’s cousin…super crazy. His dress was very pretty…but short!

Genevieve, didn’t measure up…it was kind of a big shock. I mean I didn’t want Adi to go home…but I thought that it would he her and Kim in the bottom. But in the end it was that she wasn’t changing her styles up, but she is totally amazing at what she does. I’m glad to have met her. We are really different people, but I loved getting to know her, and I hope she felt the same about me.

But with Genevieve out and me in, what does that mean??? Oh hells yeah bitches!! TOP FOUR!! I am in the top four, and we are one more challenge away for top 3 finale. It’s gotten intense. The vibe changed a lot for me with the win on the last challenge and I felt the hater-ation a little and I was trying not to let it affect my game plan. I want this so much. And now that I know I have what it takes and know that I can do this, and have been doing this so well…I’m gonna just give it all.

Wish your home girl some luck…then next challenge is gonna be the hardest one…I know it.

Episode 8: Genevieve Exits the Runway...

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:02:00 GMT

so, this weeks challenge is a cool one- we need to design a dress for coco rocha. she meets up with us in the workroom to tell us about her personal style and her likes and dislikes with fashion. she says that she loves the tudors so I decide to use that in my direction.

we go to rockland- once again- I find some very beautiful hand woven silk and a rich kind of velvety fabric for the bottom of the dress.

i have a pretty good vision of what I am going to do- a fitted bodice and a bigger draped bottom- pretty… I start drafting and end up with a beautiful top, contoured neckline and very well done shoulder detail as well as a beautiful open back.

It’s quiet in the workroom these days, not many of us in there and you sometimes find yourself all alone- yucky. getting down to the wire now….

I am feeling really good about my dress, I am actually good for time and it is looking great. stephanie comes in, not much time for alterations, which there are quite a few. Not as good for time now….

I manage to get everything done but as I am doing up the zipper it breaks, the pull comes right off and now there is no way to close up the back, I am told I am not allowed to put another zipper in because tools down has already been called. I have to end up sewing her into the dress...

everything works out with the dress, stephanie looks amazing, her hair and makeup are beautiful and she suits the dress so well. another beautiful dress!!

but...

holy s**t! I am standing in the bottom 2 with kim- what the !! and if that is hard to believe I am out! all those guys are in and I’m out?!

i have had an amazing career and will go back to vancouver and continue my amazing career, I have had so many incredible opportunities and I am only 30. my store is a reality and now my #1 focus, it’s unfortunate I don’t win the 100, 000 to get it started but it means I have to get creative- anyone want to sponsor an extremely talented designer?

thanks for watching me guys, I hope I didn’t disappoint…… it was the craziest experience I have ever taken part in.

watch for me and my store!

thanks again,

ciao

xog

Episode 8: Rita

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:01:00 GMT

Canadian Supermodel Coco Rocha is at the very top of her game. All the big designers want her and she is also the face of Yves Saint Laurent cosmetics. For this challenge, the contestants have to design an outfit for Coco to wear at a New York fashion event. Each of them had the chance to speak to her about her likes and dislikes. For a supermodel Coco is surprisingly low-key and not at all an exhibitionist. So how does a designer create a sharp fashion-forward outfit that doesn’t scream for attention? The trap that some designers fell into was in creating something too low-key, while others went too far to sex things up. No one really got Coco’s style spot-on but some came close. Sunny’s black chiffon number erred on the too-sexy side (it evoked YSL’s see-though blouses which, of course, no longer shock anyone). But with a few modesty adjustments it had the right mix of boldness and chic to stand up to New York Fashion Week scrutiny.

Episode 8: Brian's Backstage Blog

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:00 GMT

The chance to have one of your designs worn by a supermodel is an unbelievable opportunity for any designer, no matter at what stage of your career you are. Coco Rocha is the next “IT” model and she came shopping at Project Runway Canada’s workroom. I felt the excitement in the room when I announced this challenge as I know the designers saw the potential in dressing the gorgeous Coco. The gloves are off and it will be interesting to see who rises to the top.

Sunny gently took his gloves off and realized he had to step away from his formulaic strapless dress. Formula is repetition, safe, and boring. Luckily he is a great listener and an astute observer and created a beautiful dress that Coco chose to wear. I did feel however that the dress would be better suited at the Playboy Mansion than on a Fashion Week red carpet in New York.

Jessica has been flourishing under pressure and is becoming a force to be reckoned with. Her beautiful silk taffeta dress was fresh couture in a romantic colour. Jessica has continued to show diversification of silhouette in every challenge and taken chances, which is what the fashion design world is all about.

Kim is a conceptual designer and not a craftsman, which is ok in the real world if you end up working for a very large company. This dress was a risk and not one that Coco was going to take. The execution of any dress is paramount and this is where Kim failed. Kim needs to define her personal style in her mind and learn how to edit.

Adejoké’s dress was a fresh take on what a red carpet dress could be. She was worried about the length but it looked hot on the runway. She was able to incorporate Coco’s details and instructions but still infuse it with her own sense of style. This is the third dress from Adejoke that I have loved and feel she should have won the challenge. She has a very Mark Jacobs sensibility to design and I am definitely enjoying it.

Genevieve once again showed how much she loves to drape. I personally loved the top of the dress but the fabric on the bottom was too heavy to give way to any kind of glamour. The colours were beautiful, put perhaps there was one too many involved. I really do believe that Genevieve has a wonderful sense of sculptural design and she would do well to intern with Donna Karan in New York to refine her art of draping. Most draped dresses take weeks to achieve the perfection that one would see done by Karan or Galliano for Dior. I believe her time on Project Runway Canada is merely the beginning of a new era for Genevieve. I know that she will fulfill her dream and make her story a reality. I wish her the best!

Cheers,

Brian

Episode 8: Shawn

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:00 GMT

What’s so special about Coco Rocha you may ask? Well, I may have asked the same thing before I saw her walk a runway. Even after seeing that, well, there are a lot of good runway girls in the industry, and I’ve seen a lot of them first hand. She’s a pretty down-to-earth girl as well ... a gorgeous glamazon, but a down-to-earth one, so even after meeting her, the mystique of Coco might still have eluded me.

But as I see her in action on the still shoot set at Project Runway Canada, shooting with photographer Brendan Meadows, my jaw literally drops. As I watch the very quick shoot transpire, Brendan’s voice is mirroring my thoughts: “yes, that’s great” ... “turn your head towards me” ... “looking into the lens” ... “oh, that’s great” “amazing” “perfect” ... “WHOA.” He actually says that (at the exact time I think it), slowly lowering his camera from his face.

I’ve seen more than a few photoshoots, and Brendan has shot hundreds of top models, but when Coco does whatever it is she does on about her fifth or sixth move on set, Brendan and I are both almost frozen in amazement.

At the moment I witness this, I realize instantly that the challenge before the designers is to dress and impress a model who is at the top of the fashion game for a reason.

Episode 8: Adejoké

Melissa — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:57:00 GMT

I’m sooo happy! I made it through another round despite my emotional defeatist breakdown…. I can’t believe it?!

So the madness started when our new challenge was introduced. We had to create an outfit for Coco Rocha to wear to a fashion event at New York Fashion week. This was a daunting task once again because the event could be anything and the client (coco) is a VIP.

I found it very difficult to wrap my head around my ideas and the fabric that I ended up choosing. I just could not see the light at all. I think that I was too focused on negatives when there actually wasn’t really any. Brian really tried to help me but I was pretty much convinced that the world was conspiring against me….. In other words, Brian had to kick me in the ass to really get it together. Soo I continued on sewing half the time with tears in my eyes. I did however finish the dress with some help from my comrades (sunny and jess).

So on to elimination, we are all up for judging. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen but I made it through!!I am safe! Top 4! I can’t even express how happy I am.

So onwards and upwards to the next challenge!