Both outfits were definitely interesting, but not in a positive way.  I like cocoon sweaters but the winning sweater was over-the-top exaggerated!  I was surprised to hear that these two looks received such positive feedbacks.  In my opinion, both Althea’s and Irina’s designs looked very unflattering on the models.  Most women would not be able to pull off either outfit.  For Althea’s design, the cocoon sleeves looked too big (they almost looked like wings) and the pleated pants were dreadful.  The outfit made her model looked homeless.  It almost appeared that Althea and Irina threw blankets over their models and called them outfits.  I couldn’t believe that the judges love their designs and announced one of them as the winner.

I have always been able to find ways to agree with the final decisions of the previous Project Runway season’s challenges.  But lately I have been raising my eyebrows and questioning their decisions.  Overall, I think Althea and Irina are very talented but the designs were certainly not one of their bests.  It will be hard to convince most American women to wear these outfits.

If you like the comfy, voluminous trend, here are some wearable looks for you to try.

Left: Diane Von Furstenberg, “Kato” kimono shrug, $345

Right: Velvet, “Tivonia” Cashmere Sweater, $297

Project Runway and  America’s Next Top Models

What strikes me after reading this article is the question that it raises – Is the magic of fashion gone because so much has been revealed?  Luxury is part quality, creativity, and exclusivity.  With so many designers posting their behind-the-scene footages of their day-to-day work online, some may wonder if they are diluting their appeal by taking out the mystery.  I think in a way it’s true but then it opens the door to a different level.  As a consumer myself, I would like to know the brand – I mean, really know the brand – the people who design them, the people who make them, the materials that they use, and the steps to make it happen.  I like to know the story behind what I’m buying.  This is what makes my purchases interesting.  Because I am a designer myself, I know how much work is involved in making even the simplest dress.  It can take many hours to think of an attractive design that my customers want; more hours to create the pattern that fits many different bodies; even more hours to test and re-test the style; and finally putting all the fine details together before the dress is considered complete.  It’s a lot of work but I love what I do and I feel like it’s all worth it.  However, not everyone knows what’s really involved in making a beautiful garment or accessory.  With social networks, it’s easy to show the customers what they are buying and what makes their purchases special.

I think reality shows and social media will continue to thrive especially in the fashion industry.  I don’t think it takes the magic away either.  Just because designers are showing the sweats and tears and the process to producing their work doesn’t mean anyone can do it.  My husband can watch all the Project Runway episodes that he wants but he still can’t hem his pants.  I’m still doing it for him.  He is fascinated with how I can put a dress together because it’s not something he can do by just watching or observing me while I work.  It is not as simple as it may seem.