lifetime

Project Runway Designer Korina Emmerich: Our Exclusive Editorial Shoot and Interview

We have spent the last year interviewing numerous designers from various seasons of Project Runway, and from their testimonials, we have learned a lot about the PR experience.  Designers are chosen for a plethora of reasons to participate on this show, and it is an unforgiving and tough process.  We would not expect it to be anything less, of course.  If you are fortunate and talented enough make it onto Project Runway–  you are then sent to the location to live with strangers, not allowed to view any type of media, not allowed contact with loved ones or friends, and you shoot ALL of the challenges over the course of about 4 weeks, wherein your days are somewhere between 12-20 hours long.  It is a DREAM opportunity, but we assume it is not a DREAM process to endure.  It is true, though, that some of life’s hardest experiences are the most memorable, and the most life-changing.

Photo by Ben Trivett

Project Runway Season 13 Designer Korina Emmerich

Before you decide anything permanent about any one of the designers on this season of Project Runway, or any other season up till now, we’d like to remind you a little about the conditions these designers are working under while you watch them in your living room.  We’d like you to think about how you might react being in this type of environment, and to think about how you would feel getting closer and closer with each challenge, to a dream you’ve had your whole life.  Now, we’d like you to think about whether in the most extreme moment of stress, you might not give a shit if the cameras are on you or not.  You just might need to let out some steam.  Some people handle stress quietly, others vocally, or by lashing out, and even others by crying.  We’ve definitely seen it all in every season of Project Runway.

Photo by Ben Trivett

Korina Emmerich in one of her own leather designs. Click image to link to our EXCLUSIVE video interview.

HOW KORINA EMMERICH MAKES IT WORK

We said “Auf Wiedersehen” to Designer Korina Emmerich on last week’s episode of Project Runway, Season 13.  We have to say as viewers, that this was the most angering episode we’ve encountered this season.  We noticed other online fans angry about the decision, surprised about the choice to let Korina go, and keep other designers who may or may not have already been saved multiple times, and who from our point of view, have not demonstrated the construction skills needed to continue to this level of the competition.  It was a hard episode for Korina especially, as the show’s editing did not help to paint her in a positive light at all.  She was clearly venting steam and stress in the one-hour final elimination challenge, and unfortunately, the cameras caught a moment of negativity that also seemed to anger some of the fans vocal on the internets.

Designer Korina Emmerich in a jacket from her Raven Collection

Designer Korina Emmerich in a jacket from her Raven Collection

Recently, when this season had just begun, we got in touch with Korina about doing an editorial shoot, using some of her own designs, and playing with a little vintage as well.  We spent the morning together styling makeup and hair, coordinating different looks, and asking questions for our exclusive video interview.

Not only are we happy with the final images and video, but we had a fantastic time collaborating with Korina, who in our minds was one of the front runners in this season of Project Runway.

Designer Korina Emmerich in Vintage from Tattoo Girl Lingerie

Designer Korina Emmerich in Vintage from Tattoo Girl Lingerie

Well, we know now that Korina’s runway show at New York Fashion Week will not be featured on Project Runway, but you can see some of it from Designer Helen’s Instagram feed here.  (Often the last 6 or 7 designers left on the series do show at fashion week.)  Little did we know, we shot one of the leather jackets featured in that very same collection. (See the collection on Korina’s site Here)  Needless to say, the whole experience was a pleasure, and Korina was both a pro and a joy to work with.  We hope to do it again in the future.

Designer Korina in one of her new SS15 Ephemeral Collection Jackets

Designer Korina in one of her new SS15 Ephemeral Collection Jackets

There you have it Project Runway fandom.  We ask you to take everything you see on tv with a grain of salt, and we remind you to see the work of all the designers up close and personal, if ever you get the chance.  Project Runway is a vehicle that can launch the career of a designer, but if these designers strive to be part of this industry for life, Project Runway cannot and should not define them forever.

Special thanks to Korina for her time, her patience, and her professionalism.  Keep up with her on Twitter @EmmerichNY, and on her site at www.emmerichny.com.

Photos by Ben Trivett (Copyright Ben Trivett). Hair, makeup, and styling by Coleen Scott.- C. Scott

A note about comments:  We will approve comments from legitimate email addresses only, and we welcome all to share their thoughts and opinions.

PROJECT RUNWAY ALLSTARS SEASON 4 PREVIEW!
Project Runway All Stars Season 4 Cast

Project Runway All Stars Season 4 Cast

Project Runway announced it’s cast for Season 4 not long ago, and now there is a trailer released for your viewing pleasure. (Watch it Here) As expected, there’s no lack of glamour or drama!  We can’t wait!  Stay tuned in the next couple of weeks for our exclusive interviews with designers, Dmitri, Peach, and Kate!  For now, take a peek at our recent feature on designer Justin from Season 12!

 

How Suede Makes It Work
Designer Suede of Project Runway and All Stars

Designer Suede of Project Runway and All Stars (Photo Credit Springs Creative Group)

From the moment he stepped into the Project Runway workroom, Suede made his mark.  He was destined to be a PR legend.  He knew how to brand himself, and he even referred to himself in third person when doing his on-camera interviews.  We think this was just his brilliant way to make sure you never forgot who he was.  Suede definitely has a punk rock vibe, but he doesn’t shy away from color or print.  His runway collection from Season 5 demonstrates his love of texture, sparkle, and feminine silhouettes.  Suede recently took some time away from his extremely busy schedule to interview with us, and we’re so excited to share what he’s been up to with all of you!

HOW SUEDE MAKES IT WORK

1. Who are you, and what season/s did you participate in?

Suede – Project Runway Season 5, the show’s final Season on Bravo, and Project Runway All*Stars Season 2, on Lifetime.

2)  Please give a brief description of your design style.

Suede created the SUEDEsays™ Brand after appearing on Season 5 of Project Runway.  Our design aesthetic ranges from Classic, Edgy, & Flirty for young ladies, to Prep, Sport, and Rock for young men.  We are international and in over 4,000 stores in the United States alone.   Our mission statement is to bring affordable, timely, trend right products to market.

Suede Says Menswear Looks

Suede Says Menswear Looks (Photo Credit Tom Contrino)

Suede Says Brand "Rock Your Prom" Designs

Suede Says Brand “Rock Your Prom” Designs (Photo Credit Tom Contrino)

4)  Who have you met or worked with during or since the Project Runway experience that you are most proud of or excited about?

Our biggest accomplishment has certainly been launching the SUEDEsays™ brand, and being able to work with the everyday consumer internationally and in over 4,000 stores in the United States.  We have an exclusive line of Special Occasion Fabrics with Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, which is beyond thrilling for us.  While it’s always fun to dress celebs, our biggest joy comes from working with the all the home fashionistas out there and providing inspiration.

Suede Says "Rock Your Prom" Fabrics for JoAnn Fabric and Craft Stores

Suede Says “Rock Your Prom” Fabrics for JoAnn Fabric and Craft Stores (Photo Credit Springs Creative Group)

3)  What was the most challenging thing about the Project Runway experience BESIDES the challenges themselves?

Besides the obvious, the most challenging thing about being on Project Runway was stepping into the great unknown – no family, no friends, no contact with the outside world while on set – not knowing how you would place, and being sequestered in a bubble with so many other talented designers.

5)  What are you currently working on or excited about professionally?

We work about a year in advance, so we are working on product assortment for 2015, coming up with new concepts, all the while managing current assortments with our various retailers  – Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores, Wal*Mart, Hobby Lobby, and Hancock Fabrics to mention a few.

Suede Says for Simplicity Patterns

Suede Says for Simplicity Patterns (Photo Credit Tom Contrino)

6) How has Social Media impacted your life after Project Runway?

After appearing on Project Runway, our door to social media became fully open.  We live in the age of Social Media, so it’s paramount to connect with your fan base and consumers.  We get e-mails on a daily basis from people all over the world.  We love hearing from everyone, and we get back to all who do reach out to us.  Be sure to visit us at SUEDEsays.com and feel free to shoot us a message through the website, or directly to uROCKit@SUEDEsays.com

Suede Says Design

Suede Says Design

7)  Besides the basics, what sewing notion or tool could you NEVER do without?

The tool we can’t live without remains a secret for now <wink>, as we are working with our partners to bring this new tool to market.   Promise, once it comes out it will have all of you buzzing and totally excited – stay tuned kittens!!

8)  Is there anything else you’d like us to know or see?

To keep up with all things Suede be sure to check us out at SUEDEsays.com.

For the full line of SUEDEsays patterns visit: SUEDEsays™ Patterns 

For the full line of SUEDEsays fabrics visit: SUEDEsays™ Fabrics  

Suede Says for Simplicity Patterns

Suede Says for Simplicity Patterns

Special Thanks to Suede for taking the time to answer our questions.  Suede, we wish you all the best and we commend you for your business savvy! – C.Scott

3rd Time’s a Charm for Kate Pankoke, Project Runway All Star?

 

Kate Pankoke in her Studio

Kate Pankoke in her Studio, Photo by Heather Talbert

CHICAGO (September 16, 2014) – Bridal designer, Kate Pankoke, is back again to try her hand at Lifetime’s hit TV show, Project Runway All Stars. Kate Pankoke is the only designer in Project Runway history to compete on three seasons back-to-back!  Kate was a contestant on Seasons 11 & 12.  Project Runway All Stars, Season 4 premieres Thursday, October 30, 2014 on Lifetime.

Pankoke says “I was a bit reluctant to go back for a third round after last season’s elimination, but I felt like I owed it to all of my fans that supported me through those hard times. I needed to show them and the judges that I don’t back down. You can kick me, but I am just going to come back stronger and ready for more.”  Pankoke survived two controversial double eliminations, but hopefully, the third time is a charm for this Project Runway All Star.

Kate is currently getting ready for Bridal Fashion Week. She will be presenting her new collection to buyers and brides at her showroom in Chicago August 28-29, and then at Bridal Fashion Week in New York October 11-13.

To watch the premiere of Project Runway All Stars Season 4, tune into Lifetime on October 30, 2014 at 9:00PM EST/8:00PM CST. To meet with Kate and see her most recent collection for Elaya Vaughn by Kate Pankoke, schedule an appointment by e-mailing sales@elayavaughn.com. For more information on Kate or her line, Elaya Vaughn Bridal by Kate Pankoke, visit her website ElayaVaughn.com, and find her on social media @KatePankoke & @ElayaVaughn.

How Jack Mackenroth Makes It Work

We’re going old school this week with our Project Runway interview series!  Back in the day, when Project Runway was just peaking in popularity, and still on the Bravo network, a very handsome young designer, Jack Mackenroth, was making his mark from week to week.  It has been seven years since the airing of the series, and Jack has made his way in the world, not best known for his sportswear design, but for his work as a model and an HIV+ spokesperson.  We recently got in touch with Jack, and he shared some of his PR memories, but also let us know about the important work he is doing right now.

Project Runway Designer Jack Mackenroth

Project Runway Designer Jack Mackenroth

HOW JACK MACKENROTH MAKES IT WORK

1.  Who are you, and what season/s did you participate in?

 I was on season 4.  I was doing well–never in the bottom 3, and won a challenge, but I had to leave the competition early because I got a very serious staph infection in my face, and had to go to the hospital.

2.  Please give a brief description of your design style.

I was always a sportswear designer–primarily menswear.  I design clothes that real people wear.  I like subtle, special design details that make a piece original without saying “LOOK AT ME!”

Jack Mackenroth modeling the "Love Across Barriers" T-shirt he designed for Clothing of the American Mind (COTAM).

Jack Mackenroth modeling the “Love Across Barriers” T-shirt he designed for Clothing of the American Mind (COTAM).

3.  What was the most challenging thing about the Project Runway experience BESIDES the challenges themselves?

Instafame is pretty crazy.  Season 3 and 4 were at the height of the show’s popularity, so after the show aired I was inundated with emails and Facebook messages, and people stopped me on the street constantly.  That took a lot of getting used to.  But it also faded away pretty quickly.  It still happens from time to time even 7 years later.  It’s such a weird concept to think that people you don’t know know who you are.

The other thing that was incredibly challenging is the schedule. I don’t think viewers realize that we film the whole season in about 5 weeks. There are no days off and we sleep about 4-5 hours per night. It’s insanity.

4.  Who have you met or worked with during or since the Project Runway experience that you are most proud of or excited about?

Well I am a bit of an anomaly compared to most of the other Runway Alumni.  I decided to take my 15 minutes of fame and go in a different direction.  In the year after the show I filmed 4 TV pilots (that never aired), and did a lot of red carpet hosting gigs.  I had a cameo in the Sex and the City movie with SJP and all the girls.  

Jack Mackenroth in the Sex and The City Movie

Jack Mackenroth’s cameo in the Sex and The City Movie

I was also the first Runway designer to be open about my positive HIV status so that brought some amazing opportunities as well.  I toured around the country for 4 years as the HIV spokesperson for Merck Pharmaceuticals, and I worked on an amazing HIV testing initiative, and photo campaign. We photographed TONS of celebrities–Sandra Bernhard, Billy Porter of Kinky Boots, Drag Race winner Bianca Del Rio, Senators and Congressmen, and on and on. 

5.  Besides the basics, what sewing notion or tool could you NEVER do without?

Definitely a seam ripper.

Pink Seam Ripper

Pink Seam Ripper

6.  Is there anything else you’d like us to know or see?

PLEASE follow me on Twitter! I’m an addict. www.Twitter.com/jackmackenroth

You can also find more about Jack at: www.jackemackenroth.com!

Special thanks to Jack for taking the time to talk with us!  We wish you all the best and commend you for your positive work and for being a role model to the HIV positive community! -C.S.

Take A Sneak Peek of our Exclusive Photo Shoot with Korina Emmerich!
Designer Korina Emmerich. Photo by Ben Trivett, Makeup, Hair, Styling by Coleen Scott

Designer Korina Emmerich. Photo by Ben Trivett, Makeup, Hair, Styling by Coleen Scott

We wanted to send out a big congrats to Korina Emmerich for her win on last week’s episode of Project Runway!  Wishing you luck for tonight’s episode!

Be on the lookout for more exclusive photos and our recent interview with Korina, coming soon!

*Photo Copyright Ben Trivet Photography 2014

How Leanne Marshall Makes It Work

Leanne Marshall carries herself with quiet elegance.  In season 5 of Project Runway, Leanne consistently produced beautiful work, and stayed true to her style, which is a challenge for many designers.  With confidence in her skills, and the ability to deliver results, Leanne deservingly won the season. She has her own flagship location in New York City, in which she and her team create gowns that are ethereal and feminine.  We got in touch with Leanne recently, and she shared a bit with us about her Project Runway experience, and what she and her staff of magical fairies are creating now.

Leanne Marshall in her Studio

Leanne Marshall in her Studio

HOW LEANNE MARSHALL MAKES IT WORK

1.  Who are you, and what season/s did you participate in? 

Leanne Marshall, Project Runway Season 5, Winner.

2.  Please give a brief description of your design style.

 My designs are known for their light, flowing lines, feminine details and timeless elegance. I create clothing I believe women will want to wear.

Leanne Marshall Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

 

3.  What was the most challenging thing about the Project Runway experience BESIDES the challenges themselves?

It is constant and unrelenting. As soon as one challenge stops, another begins. A week in, you are exhausted and drained. Determination and a strong focus are the only things that can pull you through.

 

4.  Who have you met or worked with during or since the Project Runway experience that you are most proud of or excited about?

I had an amazing time working with Paula Abdul. She is very hands on in the process while still allowing me the creative license to do what I do best. She was one of my first and most memorable celebrity clients.

 5.  Besides the basics, what sewing notion or tool could you NEVER do without?

My snippies. They can be found around my neck in every waking hour. I use them for everything!

6.  How has social media impacted your life after Project Runway?

It has been a very powerful tool. I am just now beginning to take full advantage of it. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest allow me to share my work and new projects in a very personalized way. From the various social media outlets, I get several clients every month.

(Twitter: @leannemarshall_, Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/fashionleanne/)

A Close-Up of Handwork on A Leanne Marshall Dress

A Close-Up of Handwork on A Leanne Marshall Dress

7.  What are you currently working on or excited about professionally?

By this fall, my bridal line will be in 30 global retailers. We have locations all over the US as well as Canada, Japan, Australia, Japan and England. I am also thrilled to be a part of the BHLDN family. They are currently selling two of my gowns. I have also had a very fulfilling partnership with Simplicity Pattern Company. Since 2011, I have been creating exclusive designs for them. It is really wonderful to see what the home sewers of the world create using my patterns. This past June, I celebrated one year in my NYC Flagship location. We meet with our real women and celebrity clients and everything is made right there by hand.

Leanne Marshall Bridal Gown

Leanne Marshall Bridal Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

8.  Is there anything else you’d like us to know or see?

I would love you to see everything I am up to.  Check out Facebook.com/leannemarshallofficial, and Instagram @leannemarshalldesigns.  (also check out Leanne’s Etsy Store: www.etsy.com/shop/Leanimal, and her homepage: www.leannemarshall.com)

Leanne Marshall Dress

Leanne Marshall Dress

We’d like to thank Leanne for taking the time to do this interview, and especially for all of the stunning images!  Leanne, we wish you the best in all you do, and we dream of wearing your dresses!  -C. Scott

Leanne Marshall Gown

Leanne Marshall Gown

All interview answers and images provided by Leanne Marshall unless watermarked, linked, or specified. Photographer: Leanne Marshall, Makeup by Nathan Johnson.

How Melissa Fleis Makes It Work
Melissa Fleis, Fashion Designer

Melissa Fleis, Fashion Designer

 

If you’re looking for a Project Runway alum with edge and drive, Melissa Fleis is your woman.  A finalist from season ten, and a competitor on All Stars season three, she plays with leather, angle and line, often accented with pops of color.  She likes her black, but she’s not afraid to think outside of the little black box that some designers can get trapped in.  Melissa  uses color wisely, whether it’s to accent her desired silhouette, or to draw attention to details.  She’s a badass, sexy woman, and when we look at her clothes, that’s who we envision wearing them.  We caught up with Melissa, getting her fashion hustle on from San Francisco, and she shared more details about what’s up-and-coming in her fashionable world.  Before we give too much away, we’ll let her tell you in her own words.

HOW MELISSA FLEIS MAKES IT WORK

1.  Who are you, and what season/s did you participate in? 

Melissa Fleis, fashion designer based in San Francisco.  I was a finalist on Project Runway Season 10, and designer on Project Runway All Stars Season 3.

2. Please give a brief description of your design style.

Artisanal modern design with a feminine edge.
MelissaFleis-24-3219081779-O
From Melissa Fleis' Defiant Collection

From Melissa Fleis’ Defiant Collection

 

3.  What was the most challenging thing about the Project Runway experience BESIDES the challenges themselves?

The most challenging thing for me was time management. I always found myself working until the final seconds before the runway.

4.  Who have you met or worked with during or since the Project Runway experience that you are most proud of or excited about?

I have been showing a lot with Mychael Knight, Daniel Esquivel, Jeffrey Sebelia, and Michelle Lesniak. I can’t say who I’m proud of the most. I’m just proud of us all!
Melissa at Dirty Habit, Palomar Hotel, San Francisco

Melissa at Dirty Habit, Palomar Hotel, San Francisco

5.  What are you currently working on or excited about professionally?

I continue to work on my own collections, as well as, custom orders, and designing uniforms for a new Kimpton restaurant in San Francisco. Hustling to make this all work!

 6.  Besides the basics, what sewing notion or tool could you NEVER do without?

My leather hammer!

 

 7.  Is there anything else you’d like us to know or see?

Some of my pieces are currently being sold at CHURCH Boutique in Los Angeles and Olivia Boutique in Los Altos, CA. I will also be launching my e-commerce site soon, so customers can order directly from the website!
(Update:  Since our interview, Melissa has launched her site!  You can find it here: http://melissafleis.com)
From Melissa Fleis' Defiant Collection

From Melissa Fleis’ Defiant Collection

Thanks so much to Melissa for taking the time to talk to us!  Melissa, we wish you nothing but the best with the Defiant Collection and the new site! – C.Scott
You can get in touch with Melissa on Twitter @MelissaFleis, or check out the website at melissafleis.com.
All text and images provided by Melissa Fleis unless watermarked, linked, or specified.

 

PROJECT RUNWAY SEASON 13 PREVIEW

The Project Runway Season 13 teaser is so flashy.  Are they too cool for school now?  We’ll see.  We plan on taking a deeper look into garment construction this season, and hope to share what we know about what we see this time around.  After all, what we like about the show is the focus on the craft of it all.  Make it WORK, people!  And good luck to all!  Live Tweet with us @ProjectMIW TONIGHT!

 

Project Runway Season 13 Premieres THIS THURSDAY!
Project Runway Season 13 Cast

Project Runway Season 13 Cast

It’s almost that time again!  Time to cheer for your favorite designers and talk all the drama about off-the-wall designs and people coming together to “make it work”.  We are so excited to see what’s in store this season.  Live Tweet with us @ProjectMIW this Thursday at 9pm EST.

In tribute to the beginning of the season, we’ll be continuing with our “How They Make It Work” Interview series, starting with some beloved designers from Season 12!