Nick Verreos and "Models of the Runway" Lisa Blades at FIDM!

Class is in Session
Cute Couple: Nick Verreos with model Lisa Blades in one of his FIDM classes

This Fall Quarter, I taught a class called Elements of Fit at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM LA Campus, where I instruct students in fit, sizing and the importance of fit models. And of course, as a highlight of the class, I bring in a real live fit model. I wanted to surprise my students and I brought the fabulous six-foot stunner Lisa Blades (she'll demurely tell you she's ONLY 5'11"). Bryant Park Lisa: Lisa Blades models Carol Hannah Whitfield's gown at the NY Fashion Week Project Runway Season 6 Finale

You might recognize Lisa from the Lifetime show Models of The Runway as well as being one of two model "Muses" on my website, NIKOLAKI.com. I just love Lisa and I am happy to consider her a friend. She is a perfect size 4 and I D-I-E (sorry Rachel Zoe) over her 50" outseam (waist to floor) measurement. DIE!!!!Take Notes Kids: Lisa Blades in a NIKOLAKI muslin strapless gown, and Instructor Nick

I had her model various garments from my line NIKOLAKI, some that fit good and some, not so good, to show the students the difference. I also brought some of my Muslins/Toiles, samples made in unbleached cotton made for fittings, for Lisa to try on to show my students "the process" one has to go through in making a collection.We Love Lisa: Elements of Fit Class Fit Model session, Instructor Nick Verreos, Lisa Blades and student Earl Alcantara

The students were so excited and got all into the "Fit Model" session. They especially loved seeing Lisa and as a result, took lots of photos. Lisa was a gem, naturally, with all the attention and a perfect fit model for my class.
All Photos (except Bryant Park runway photo) taken by Eimi Akamura

NO LUCK SECOND TIME AROUND

China appears to be the new centre of the beauty pageant universe. A day after the conclusion of the Miss International pageant in Chengdu, the Miss Model of the World pageant ended in Shenzhen. The pageant was won by Miss France, with Miss Turkey in second and Miss Ukraine in third.

South Africa was represented by former Teen Miss World, Charlotte Smith. Back in 2006, she placed in the Top 10 at this pageant as a blonde. This time around, as a brunette, she failed to make the Top 10. No luck second time around.

AGEISM AND PAGEANTS

The latest topic of discussion is the upper age limit of contestants in beauty pageants. Whilst the Miss Universe pageant has always imposed a limit of 26, the Miss World pageant had a limit of 24 up until a few years ago. It appears that the limit is now also 26. Oddly enough, whilst the upper age limit of contestants has gone up, the average age of winners has gone down at both international pageants.

Times have changed and the ever growing modelling market has ensured that pretty young girls no longer need a beauty title to secure a career in that field. There are also a number of international model search competitions with girls as young as 14 walking off with the title. By the time they are past their modelling "sell by date" at the age of 21, they are ready for the pageant world.

Previously you went from pageant winner to supermodel (in many cases), but now it's the other way around. A number of pageant organisations are now securing the participation of their national supermodels (the photographic types, not the bland ramp numbers that have their hands super-glued to their hips) so as to improve their chances at international pageants.

A case in point regarding the "shelf-life" of a pageant contestant is my sentimental favourite, Venezuela, that appears to be heading for yet another non-placement at the Miss World pageant. 26-year-old Maria Milagros Veliz has failed to make an impact in any of the fast-track events. If anything, her failure goes to prove that the Miss World Organisation likes 'em young.

Whilst the Miss SA Organisation is constantly on the look-out for a more mature, independent title-holder that does not need constant supervision, they should take cognisance of the fact that a Miss SA that is one click away from the Violet Kuny, Grey Away and Salusa 45 brigade is not going to make an impact at an international pageant.

Lets be honest, a 26-year-old pageant winner is as bad as a 45-year-old rave queen (complete with "e", bottled water and balsam). Possible, but not desireable.

13 DOWN, 7 TO GO

After the Top Model fast-track event yesterday, at least 13 of the semi-finalist placements are all but guaranteed. In addition to the 5 fast-track winners, another 7 contestants have made the Top 12 in both the Beach Beauty and Top Model competitions.

Also, at the last two editions of the pageant, the Top 3 in the Top Model competition have made the semi-finals, so Martinique is added to the list. The list of semi-finalists should now include the following:

Barbados
Canada
France
Gibraltar
Japan
Jamaica
Martinique
Mexico
Panama
Scotland
Sierra Leone
South Africa
Vietnam

IS THE CROWN SLIPPING AWAY?

Despite my earlier comments about an "acquired win" for Miss SA, Tatum Keshwar, at the Miss World 2009 finals next month, a token runner-up spot appears to be all that is on the cards. Although she has made the Top 12 in both the Beach Beauty and Top Model competitions at the pageant, she has not placed in either of these categories that are supposedly her "strengths".

It might just be "smoke and mirrors" to make any potential "win" (thereby securing a free pass to World Cup activities for the MWO) less conspicuous. Only time will tell.

SA UNPLACED AT MISS INTERNATIONAL

South Africa's Bokang Montjane failed in her bid to win the Miss International crown in Chengdu, China earlier today. She was also excluded from the Top 15 at the pageant featuring representatives from 64 countries around the world. Diane Webster remains South Africa's only semi-finalist (1965) in the 49 year history of the pageant.

The crown went to Miss Mexico, Ana-Gabriela Espinosa, who was also a semi-finalist at Miss World 2008. The runners-up were Miss Korea and Miss United Kingdom. Laksmi Rodriguez could not sustain the now-famous “Venezuelan Three-Year-Cycle” and win the pageant when she only made the Top 15.

PRETTY MAIDENS, ALL IN A ROW

I've just happened upon this photograph of the Miss SA 2009 finalists, and it only serves to confirm one thing: There are only two contestants that appeal to me in every photograph I see of them. One is my favourite for the title, Nicole Flint, and the other is Joanne Cronje.

Whilst I have yet to hear Joanne speak in public, Nicole is very eloquent and going places at Jacaranda FM where she works as a production assistant and part-time broadcaster on the Breakfast Show. Whilst it would never happen in a million years, I would not mind seeing these two contestants in the Top 2 come 13 December.

IS THIS MISS SA 2009?

Although I only have Taki Simeli in 5th place in my personal Top 5, it is rumoured that she will win the Miss SA pageant next month. She has been described as a "Black Barbie", gives a "smoking" interview, was a semi-finalist in 2007 and the pageant designers "love her". If you're a "betting man", you'd best wager a "bob or two" on this "filly".

Nick Verreos Appearance at the Corcoran Washington DC--Dec. 9Th !!!

I'm Coming Back To Washington DC!Mr. Verreos Goes to Washington...Yes, I was beyond excited when I received an invitation to speak at the esteemed Corcoran in Washington DC. Tim Gunn as well as Project Runway Season 3 Winner, Christian Siriano, have both had lectures there so I am in good company, as they say. What: An Evening with Nick Verreos & FIDM
I will be speaking about fashion, being an instructor at FIDM, my TV red carpet work on TV Guide, E!, dressing stars for the red carpet, my experience as a Judge on this season's Project Runway and much, much more. This will also be the ONE and ONLY time Washington DC will be able to see a special viewing of FIDM's Debut 2009 Fashion Show, which celebrates the creme de la creme of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.
A fabulous "Meet and Greet" reception will follow!

When: Wednesday, December 09, 2009 7 p.m. For more info. and purchasing tickets: Click HERE

Nick Verreos LOVES The Pelican Hill Resort

Resort Rewind...OC Style!Welcome to your Bungalow: Nick Verreos stands in the entrance of his one-night Bungalow

About two months ago, I was invited to Irvine, CA on two occasions within the same week: First to do a LIVE segment promoting Style Week OC on Good Day LA TV Show and then, to host Style Week Orange County 2009 and judge the fabulous Ezekiel Needle and Thread Competition. Bienvenue: David Paul at the entrance of one of the Pelican Hill Resort Bungalows

Both separate times, the clients put myself and my trusty NIKOLAKI design partner--and unofficial president of the "Nick Verreos Fanclub"--David Paul, in the most GORGEOUS Pelican Hill Resort. I have been waiting for the right time to get in a "resort feeling" to show some of the photos here on my blog--and no better time than now, during the Thanksgiving Weekend when all your are supposed to do is relax and do nothing. I wish I was THERE now, doing just that!Style Week OC Runway: Nick Verreos hosting Style Week OC, September 2009

Words do not describe the immensity of this resort. The Pelican Hill is located in Newport Coast, not far from my Style Week OC Appearance, which was at the Irvine Spectrum Shopping Center. From the minute you drive up, it is FIVE STAR VIP treatment all the way. In fact, I asked the front desk staff (who were extremely accommodating) if the Pelican Hill was indeed a Five-Star Resort---and if it wasn't, well, then it is under the new "Nick Verreos Five Star Resort Resort Style Guide"! They told me that it wasn't even rated yet! (well those Zagat and Michelin people better get to it!) . The lobby even smells like a million bucks! (it is scented with its own unique Pelican Hill Resort scent, I kid you not!)Pelican Hill Resort Bungalow Living Room

We stayed at a sumptuous Bungalow Suite, about the size of my Downtown LA NIKOLAKI studio (about 2,000 square feet): There was an entry foyer room, full living room, dining area and mini bar area, sofas galore to relax in, two HUGE flat screen TVs, a full separate bedroom, large sunning balconies and closets that actually could fill up all my Gucci belts, YSL boots and Top Shop jackets! (did I just drop THREE labels?). I don't normally take photos at the hotels I stay during all my travels but I couldn't resist!Master Bedroom at a Pelican Hill Resort Bungalow

The piece de resistance of the Bungalow were the bathrooms: One smaller full one (for guests I assume) and a Master one with a huge sunken jacuzzi tub, full shower, double sinks...I could go on and on. It was simply the most gorgeous Resort Suite I had ever stayed at. In fact, upon entering, I quickly called EVERY close friend in Los Angeles and said "You better get your you-know-what down here and spend a night in the OC!" Alas, they didn't want to drive the (with traffic) hour+ drive. So, we had it all to ourselves. But it was such a tease: We only stayed for one night both times! Infinity Caesar: Nick Verreos enjoys the Pelican Hill Resort Coliseum Pool

We even dined at the lovely Pelican Grill and got to swim (OK, maybe just stand and relax) in the HUGE 136 foot Coliseum Pool which features ONE MILLION glass mosaic tiles that were laid by HAND! (I know, shut up!). We had an amazing stay and I was missing it the minute we drove away. Maybe some day in the future we can take some more R & R time from my crazy busy schedule and enjoy the Pelican Hill Resort once again. This time, I am NOT leaving that pool!Goodnight Mr. Verreos: This was waiting for me upon my return from my hosting and judging duties--Turndown Service a la Pelican Hill Resort
Happy Thanksgiving Weekend kiddies and take the time to relax...I'll try.

Nick Verreos and Andrae Gonzalo: Dishing on The Finale for MyLifetime.com

Coffee Klatching a la Nick and Andrae
Last week was the final episode of Season 6 Project Runway and for the last time (this season, at least), both Andrae and I drove to the fabulous Century City high rise offices of Lifetime Network's West Coast Digital Department. Nick Verreos, Mike (THE Lifetime cutie!) and Andrae Gonzalo, Lifetime Network offices

First, we actually viewed the super-guarded Final Episode and then we were whisked to their "digital studio" to shoot our final thoughts on the season and Miss Irina Shabayeva, the winner of Season 6 Project Runway. All Smiles: Andrae Gonzalo, Tamara (Lifetime Digital Diva) and Nick Verreos, Lifetime Network offices

I wore a very special bow tie (it's my dad's from the 1960's) for the occasion and I took a lot of notes (since I knew I would have to write my recap for MyLifetime.com without being able to continually pause the episode like I usually do! ). Andrae and I had a really fun time--as you will see from our video. We also really enjoyed hanging out with our Lifetime Digital "family", Tamara, Mike and Rachel. Auf Widersehen!

Click BELOW for our fun Final Nick-and-Andrae Video:

Nick Verreos Hosts the Pink Carpet at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Devil vs. Angel...PJ's or Lingerie...Cupcakes vs. Waffles
Supermodel Devil: Nick Verreos and Heidi Klum, 2009 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show pink carpet

Here's a fun video from my pink carpet reportage from last week's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in NYC that I did for Modelinia.com. Since it was sponsored by the hot new "deciding" search engine BING, I asked the pink carpet guests, what made them decide to wear what they wore. Sir Richard Branson wore a black bomber-style jacket (he told me it was his first time ever wearing a leather jacket!) and of course, all the supermodels wore teeny tiny sexy mini dresses. What made them decide to wear them? Because they CAN!!!!!
Click BELOW for the fun video:

See more videos on modelinia.com

SA MAKES TOP 16 AT MISS EARTH

The results of the Miss Earth 2009 pageant are just in and the title has gone to Miss Brazil with Miss Philippines in second, Miss Venezuela in third and Miss Spain in fourth place. Chanel Grantham, Miss Earth SA, earned her country's second Top 16 placement in three years when she advanced to the semi-final round. Unfortunately she failed to progress to the Top 8.

It is interesting to note that, in spite of the fact that the pageant is organised by an Asian country, the contestants from the America's have dominated yet again with 4 of the Top 8 and 2 of the Top 4 hailing from that region. And just as in the Miss Universe pageant, the gorgeous, but more than likely unbelievably dull contestants from Europe have, once again, failed to impress and have filled the also-ran spots.

Another glaring omission from the Top 16 was the highly OVER-RATED representative from the USA. Her hoards of fans have already declared "war" on the Miss Earth pageant and will, no doubt, spend the next 12 months "dissing" everything with a hint of Filipino blood.

PRISON BREAK DOUBLE TAKE

My choice of music for the blog this week is not completely random. This is probably a long-shot in the "USB" sense of the (double-barrelled) word, but I think there is a remarkable resemblance between Sarah Wayne Callies (who plays Dr Sara Tancredi on Prison Break) and a certain Miss SA finalist.

Nick Verreos: Model Crazy at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2009

Model Muses, Pink Carpet, Fergie, and Going Live to the World!Where's My Million Dollar Bra: Nick Verreos gets ready for his Modelinia.com pink carpet assignment

One day I am in Miami shooting a Live segment and dressing a family in wonderful outfits from Sears, the next I am in NYC getting ready to cover the 2009 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show for the hot model site, Modelinia.com, sponsored by BING (love me some BING!) As you may know: I LOVE MODELS! I had covered previous Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows when they were in LA and so I was ready for this really, really, really tough assignment (wink wink!). I knew that lots of my straight male friends would be very jealous! (Love it!).
Backstage: Miss Universo: Nick Verreos poses with Miss Universe 1991 from Mexico and Director of Nuestra Belleza Mexico (Miss Mexico), Lupita Jones

The day of the show, I headed to the Seventh Regiment Park Avenue Armory early in the morning to begin my "behind the scenes" interviews as the models got ready for hair and make up. Once there, I was excited to recognize Lupita Jones, Miss Universe 1991 from Mexico, who was there with Televisa Mexico.Churrasco Heaven: Nick Verreos hugs supermodel Caroline Trentini

Backstage was crazy packed and I was happy to get quick interviews with lots of the top models, including Brazilian 6 foot stunner and Vogue cover model Caroline Trentini, Lindsay Ellingson, Izabel Goulart and .... the first Asian model to ever grace a Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, Liu Wen (see photo above), among others. Liu was so excited and still in awe that she was going to be in the show.

VS Fashion Show Pink Carpet:
After I wrapped up these interviews, I made my way outside the Armory and positioned myself to do all the official pink carpet interviews for Modelinia.com as well as for Livestream all over the world. I got to interview Virgin Chairman Sir Richard Branson, Costume Designer and stylist Patricia Field (of "Sex and the City", "Ugly Betty" and "Devil Wears Prada"), the Kigs of Leon, as well as a barely coherent Ivana Trump (God bless her!). Angel vs. Devil: Heidi Klum and Russell Simmons, Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Pink Carpet

But the highlight was a fun and impromptu interview with Heidi Klum and Russell Simmons. I brought some props, Devil Horns and an Angel halo (I was asking all the pink carpet attendees if they were an "Angel" or a "Vampire/Devil"). I proceeded to ask Heidi and Russell to put them on and much to my delight (and surprise), they did! I was so excited that I forgot to turn the halo so it would sit correctly (I know I'm dizzy!). Fortunately Miss Heidi fixed it but only after the photographers got to her and Russell.
Boom Boom Boom: The Black Eyed Peas performing at the 2009 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

The show was amazing: The Black Eyed Peas and Fergie performed. She looked toned and sang really well. The runway was set up with thousands, if not millions of Swarovski crystals.Miss Sweden: Supermodel Caroline Winberg works the Swarovski-encrusted runway

The light show illuminating the stage was incredible and a certain German Supermodel who just had a baby actually modeled in the show (take a guess). She looked RADIANT! You can watch it all when it airs Tuesday December 1st on CBS.

After Party Pink Carpet:Herve Leger Miller: Marisa Miller at the After Party pink carpet

Afterward, I got in a cab and made it to M2 Ultralounge to finish up my Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Marathon, to cover the official After Party pink carpet. Here, it was models and more models as they were done with their runway duties and exchanged their sexy lingerie for equally sexy Herve Leger bandage dresses. Almost EVERY model had one on! Was the press office of Herve Leger just giving them away? Whatever the reason, they all looked hot in them. VS Prom Photo: Nick Verreos and Supermodel Chanel Iman, Victoria's Secret After Party

Maybe one of these days, I can lend them a NIKOLAKI dress or two just to change it up a bit. When I asked the models what was the first thing they would do the next day, most said "having LOTS of waffles!". The gorgeous Marisa Miller added "...and I am DYING for cupcakes!" I was happy to grab a quick photo with one of my favorite models, Chanel Iman. Just look at that stunningly sweet face of hers. Finally after my pink carpet After Party duties, I made my way inside the party, and braved my way through a heavily guarded VIP section and got to say "Thank You" and "Auf Wiedersehen" to Heidi Klum.

Click below for a great video of all the goings-on at this year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show:

Nick Verreos' Appearance on Univision Network's "Despierta America"

Nick Hearts Sears...and Miami!Trunk Full of Clothes: Nick Verreos with all his purchases from a local Miami Sears

Last week, I flew to Miami, one of my favorite cities in the US--and the world--to shoot a LIVE fashion segment for the Spanish-speaking "Good Morning America", the Despierta America TV Show. Last year I was honored to have been picked as one of the personalities--along with High School Musical's Vanessa Hudgens, rapper/actor/mogul LL Cool J, and "ABC Extreme Home Makeover's" Ty Pennington--to be part of the Sear's "Grant A Wish" Holiday TV Commercials. And so, Sears called upon my "fashion expertise" once again to dress an entire family in fashionable clothing for the upcoming Holiday parties.Stylish Family of The Year: Nick Verreos with his "TV" family , all wearing Sears (including me!)

I arrived early to "set up shop" and shop (no time to check out Gloria Estefan's mansion on this trip!). You see, I'm not that kind of fashion expert who just shows up the day of the filming to "pretend" that I styled and picked out the clothes. I actually did! The day prior to the segment with my trusty right-hand man, David Paul, we shopped for eight hours and picked out dozens and dozens of dresses, suits, sweaters, purses, and accessories. We then had fittings and decided the ensembles that would work best. After deciding on the best four looks, I was ready for my 7 AM Call Time the following morning at the Univision headquarters of Despierta America.
Despierta Couple: Despierta America Co-host Ana Maria Canseco and Nick Verreos

For my appearance, I was being interviewed by the wonderful Ana Maria Canseco, co-host of the show. Last year, I also did a similar segment and Ana interviewed me as well so I was happy to see her again! Once on the set, I said "Hola" to the rest of the Despierta America hosts and took photos with a Project Runway fan, the beautiful Melissa Marty "Nuestra Belleza Latina 2008".
Nuestra Belleza Latinos: Melissa Marty and Nick Verreos

My segment involved showing the styles I picked from Sears for the family, discussing the great Sears Layaway Program (pick out your gifts now, pay over time and once you're ready to pay the entire amount, pick up everything and you're done!), as well as showing how you can get great stylish gifts for under $25!!! All in a THREE MINUTE segment! Say Cheese: Check out the little boy while we were getting ready to go live on the air

After I was finished, I couldn't believe how fast it all went. Everyone had a blast doing it and the kids were especially so sweet and loved playing dress up. Everyone was "blown away" at how great they looked and especially the prices. Style at a great discount. I know, it sounds like a commercial, but it is TOTALLY la verdad--the truth!

Click Below for the complete Despierta America Segment:

Nick Verreos Crashes the Project Runway Season 6 Finale Party!

...Well, not really, I was Invited!
NYC Project Runway Finale Party: Logan Neitzel, Irina Shabayeva and Nick Verreos at Tenjune

I am finally back home in Los Angeles--after traveling across the country for the last five days. First I went to Miami to shoot a LIVE Despierta America (the Spanish-language "Good Morning America") fashion segment for Sears, and then headed off to NYC for the 2009 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show (more on both those trips in later posts). Since I am in a Project Runway "mood" (make sure to check out my final recap for this season), I wanted to show you guys all the great photos I took (well, thank my trusty partner and "Nick Verreos Blog" staff photographer, David Paul for that!) at Irina Shabayeva's After Party celebrating being the Season 6 Winner of Project Runway.
Uncle Nick and his Angels: Finalists Carol Hannah and Althea pose with Nick Verreos @ Tenjune

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was on the same night as the Finale of Project Runway but of course, I wanted to come by and celebrate Irina's win. At around midnight, after finishing my "OMG, look at how gorgeous Marissa Miller and Chanel Iman look!" Livestream shoot for Modelinia.com and saying my Goodbye's to Heidi Klum, I headed for Tenjune, the hot Meatpacking nightclub located beneath the luxury steakhouse STK, the location of Irina's celebratory After Party.Hearts around my Head: Logan Neitzel and Nick Verreos at Tenjune

I immediately spotted Irina, who was holding court in the back of the nightclub, and congratulated her with a big hug and an "Uncle Nick" scream. She was all smiles, finally thankful that it was all over. I also ran into everyone's boyfriend, cutie Logan Neitzel. If Project Runway ever had a Hottie Calendar, he would be the cover model, shirtless and with those silver skinny jeans of his (sorry Logan!). Nick Verreos and Season 6 designer Epperson at Tenjune

Logan recently moved all the way from Seattle to NYC and is setting up shop with Carol Hannah and Epperson, from what I hear. Sounds like a "Season Six Commune" to me--and a possible new Lifetime Show (Note to self: Contact Lifetime Execs). Speaking of Carol Hannah, she was also there as well as Finalist Althea Harper (she's so tall!) and I even got to say "Hello" to Epperson, who was very "Sporty Elegant" in blazer, blue dress shirt and sweater with an over-the-shoulder leather messenger bag (yes, I don't miss the details!). Model Happy: Nick Verreos and Season 6 Winning Model Kalyn Hemphill

Finally, I was happy to meet Irina's winning model from Models of The Runway, the lovely Kalyn. She was wearing a pretty red dress (Irina's design, of course). I had a lot of fun and I'm very thankful to Irina for inviting me. The bonus was seeing everyone else who was also there and were so generous with their super-kind words of support for me. Part of me did feel like a "Project Runway Grandpa" amongst all of them (I was the ONLY Project Runway Alumn there!) but I will gladly take that crown.

Project Runway Season 6 Finale--Nick Verreos Recap Extravaganza!

Season 6 Postscript: Gray and Black Finale Fest, Power to The Ladies, And Suzy Menkes' Fab Hair!
The Final Three: Irina Shabayeva, Althea Harper and Carol Hannah Whitfield

Season 6 Nick Postscript:
Last Thursday was the Final Episode of Project Runway Season 6. This was the season that some thought would not even make it on TV, because of the whole Bravo/Lifetime lawsuit. But after a year, it did make it on air. I feel that a lot of the "something is missing from the show" had A LOT of to do with the fact that while filming this season, NO ONE really knew what was going to happen, and trust me kiddies that can change the entire "air" of the environment--from producers, designers, to even Tim Gunn, and obviously, the judging situation. There were lots of expectations for this season. It was filled with Hollywood star power: Christina Aguilera, Lindsay Lohan, Bob Mackie, Eva Longoria Parker. There were also lots of tears, kooky "characters", lots of drama, and some would argue "blah" fashion but in the end, the winner, especially redeemed the season with a very polished finale collection.

LA and FIDMThe fans were divided on the LA locale. I loved it, of course, since I am an LA-based designer, and so are several Project Runway alumn such as Season 3 winner Jeffrey Sebelia and Finalist Rami Kashou. I thought it was a great idea to bring Project Runway to LA, the land of the red carpet. I was also excited for the fact that my alma mater and school I teach at, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM, became the show's West Coast "home". If there's any criticism, I feel maybe the challenges didn't live up to the locale. Next season the show will return to NYC (fans rejoice) but I still have high hopes for a return to LA and now that the behind-the-scenes drama has been settled, I hope a future LA season will be HOT!

Petition for HD Lifetime TV!One final note: Not many people have realized this but Lifetime is NOT in HD/High Definition. And it makes such a difference, especially for a show such as this. So when lots of people stop me on the street and ask "Why does the show look different?" and I tell them this, they say "Ohhh, TOTALLY!!!". I hope that maybe by the next season, it will change to HD. The entire show will look much better. Anyway, I'm crossing my fingers for some Lifetime HD!

Suzy Menkes Rocks:Just look at her. And her iconic Alexandre hairstyle. Diva. I loved that she was the Final Judge. This is the kind of fashion industry professional who should be judging the Finale Collections. Kudos to the producers for getting her. A fabulous coup. Regular "TV folk" might have no clue who she is but trust me, she is one of the most influential fashion writers and critics of fashion. Fashion is truly her life. Don't mess with Suzy...or her Up-Do!

And now for the Finale Collections: Here are my "Nick Faves":
Irina Wins!
Of course NYC-based Parsons graduate "Meana Irina" won! I predicted as much. Even with an almost-all black collection, hers was a stand-out. It was perfectly put together. Designers need to think of the ENTIRE LOOK and tell a story--and she did, beautifully. I could have had a "Top Eight" favorites for her, but here were my top 3.Winning Model: Kalyn, in Irina's "13Th Look"

I Need my Metro Card: Irina's grand and chic knits

Met Opening Gown: I LOVED this gown, the final look from Irina's Finale Collection

Althea Goes To Zara, 1st Runner Up
Althea's Finale Collection was chock full of basics for the stylish, hip, modern woman. Althea's customer lives in NYC, Paris, Berlin or Barcelona and wants to look great in separates. A lot of her looks, however, reminded me of the stylish window mannequin displays at shops such as Zara or Topshop. This could be a good thing or not so good. She wanted to look for the future but it was very NOW. Nevertheless, these are my Top 3 from the collection.Emerald Style: I thought this look was modern and sexy; I especially loved the unusual tucking on the dress and the shrunken leather jacket

Heading to a Club in the Meatpacking: America's Next Top Model Cycle 8 Winner, Jaslene Gonzalez looks great in Althea's silver-gray side draped mini dress. It was one of my favorite of her pieces.

Let Her In: This is the outfit you want to wear if you are trying to get into a club, a fashion show, or a chic Manhattan magazine party! The drop-crotch pants are SO NOW and again, she was ON with the shrunken leather jacket. These are must-have pieces for the modern girl-about-town.

Carol Hannah Whitfield: 2nd Runner Up, Cooties and all
Carol Hannah struggled in NYC being sick but, with the help of Christopher Straub, her trusty assistant, she made it work. I loved her draping and cowl Grecian Goddess shapes. The judges kept going on and on about her "tailoring" but I didn't see any of that. The following three looks were my faves.Cowl Cocktail: Golden beige side cowl-draped "First Look" dress

Thank GOD for COLOR: Project Runway All-Time Supermodel Amanda Fields, working it OVERTIME, in Carol Hannah's No. 13 teal jersey draped gown

Glorious Lisa: Model Lisa Blades in the striking finale gown, showing Carol Hannah's unique ruffle, petal and folding detail--her hair and make-up was "Gorg"!

Congratulations Ladies!
For my entire Season Finale Recap, Click HERE on MyLifetime.com and make sure to let me know what you thought. See you next season kiddies!