SHOPPING

By now, it’s public knowledge that all FIVE remaining contestants got to show during New York Fashion Week at Bryant Park last week. How do we know? Becuase we were THERE, with a gazillion other people and here are photos from our photographer CARTER ROSE to prove it! Not to mention, you can already see designs from all five contestants on bravotv.com. As Victoria Beckham dutifully sat front row scribbling in her notebook besides the judges, it didn't take long to figure out that - HELLO - she's the special guest judge for the finale.

So pardon me, if I find it a tad bit misleading when the judges keep beating into these poor contestants that only 3 of them will make it to Fashion Week. Sweet P actually got the boot, but saved her tears for when she took the runway at Bryant Park. Then to make things even more pointless and confusing, Chris and Rami both made it, but then judges will be looking at three of their finished designs to determine who will be the actual finalist to join Christian and Jillian on the runway. Don't worry - they both make it too. So despite all the drama shown to viewers on tv, they were ALL winners because they ALL got to show at Bryant Park last Friday.

Bravo has the designer's work from the finale! I thought Christian's was really strong, certainly leaving Sweet P and Chris in the dust. Jillian sure behaved like a winner at the show and Rami's gowns were way good.

Jeffrey Marion Lee, one of our Dallas contestants this season, thinks that Jillian should be the winner. Check out the final 5 designers looks and let us know whose show you liked the most!

Photo: A Chris March look, AP

The bloggers were right: Posh is the finale judge on this season's Project Runway. I went to the show this morning (so lucky, was a hot ticket to get) and saw the collections from the remaining 5 contestants: Sweet P, Rami, Christian, Chris and Jillian. Here is a glimpse of a dress from Jillian. There are no images available yet from the show.

Photo: AP

Caught up with our own Marion (Jeffrey) after the Project Runway finale. He told me he loved Chris' collection, because it was very "him [Chris] and brave." But he would want Jillian to win, based on her collection. “Jillian’s collection was very Seventh avenue, very American, very saleable, and I think that will help her with the judges. I think there’s a good chance she’s the winner.”

I saw Ricky, always in a kooky hat. And ran into Jack. He told me, "My favorite is Christian, he is frigging amazing. Rami had some gorgeous dresses, especially the final two. But for me it was Christian all the way. There were so many show stopping moments."

Images of the clothes aren't available yet, but will put them up when they are.

So our ticket requests for the HIGHLY anticipated Project Runway show got denied because of space limitations. Unfortunately, we received a "we'll put you on the waiting list" email. Hopefully the fashion gods will smile on us when we show up at the check-in table and beg and plead our way in!

A fellow reporter sat next to Christian at a show yesterday and told me that an overexcited fan exclaimed to him, "I would DIE if you weren't one of the finalists!"

His response?

"Well honey, you don't have to worry!"

Christian looked visibly shocked when Ricky won the runway last night. And upset when learning Ricky's dress will be sold through levisstore.com.

Until last night, I pegged Victorya (her look at right) for the final three. She customized an existing jean jacket, which did not fly with the judges.

See all runway looks at bravotv.com.

Readers: Do you agree with last night's runway results?

Ricky's corset strapless dress has curvy, jean-style seaming, a seven-button placket, and stretches to fit. Proceeds from the $168 dress benefit YouthAIDS.

Limited inventory, so get it while it's HOT!

Click here to purchase!

Wow. This one was a doozy. Last night's Project Runway episode, titled "Even Designers Get the Blues," was a huge surprise for me. Let's face it -- the general consensus lately was that Ricky and Sweet P sucked. Ok, I'll be more PC -- not as talented as the remaining designers. For the "denim" challenge the designers had to create an iconic look using Levi's 501s and both designers shone through creating svelte little sassy dresses.

Victorya and Jillian, both on top last week as a team, took a huge tumble with their trench looks. Klum called Jillian's trench coat "unflattering, unfocused, and confusing". Victorya's trench had the judges questioning whether she did anything at all and judge Kors commenting, "It looks like a party skirt got glued on to your jean jacket."

But, HUGE SURPRISE, Ricky emerged victorious this week - and naturally CRIED. He finally used his fabulous lingerie skills to create a corset dress that had the judges swooning. You can buy his winning look on levis.com.

Readers, did you watch last night's episode. Click comments and tell us what you thought!

The Bravo producers are such tricksters! Naturally we thought Victorya and Jillian's lack of time management skills would put them in the bottom two, but in the end, it was the overconfident designers that felt the wrath from the judges this week.

Sweet P had a great strategy...when faced with the fact that she was working with an egomaniac like Rami (who was adamant about designing the "couture" dress without her input) she did the smart thing and focused on her own "day" look- a one-shouldered silver dress, which surprisingly - looked super duper chic. Rami's complicated drapey avant garde number left the judges yawning and left Heidi remarking, "Unfortunately the only drama we saw was between you and Sweet P!" SLAM!

For the life of me, I have no idea why Ricky is still even in this competition. Sure his "minority-overcoming-against-all-odds" bit tugs at heart strings (I have some of those stories myself), but there is one thing that he clearly lacks in this competition - consistency. Unfortunately it was team leader Kit (she's also a wardrobe stylist for E! Entertainment) who got the boot, after her oversized "nesting" creation that looked like a Gone WIth the Wind-reject, had the judges critical of everything from the wrinkled satin to the dowdy fabric.

Until next week...carry on!

"Do I have enough cigarettes today?" Sweet P asked at the beginning of the show. She needed them this week, working and sniping with Rami as the designers teamed up to tackle two looks: one couture and one ready-to-wear. Christian and Chris ("Team Fierce") won the challenge with a dress eating up 45 yards of fabric. Sweet P looked visibly nicotine needy as she faced the judges. Her teammate, however, was in the bottom two. In the end, Kit went home. Michael Kors take? Her model looked like "she ripped the sheets off the bed and ran out the door."

Photo: Victorya and Jillian's second place look

In a look that echoed his hair, Christian's over the top (literally) design with his teammate Chris won the week's challenge.

"Team Fierce. Oh my God, are you kidding? It was destiny," Christian said of their win.

What do you think?

This week's challenge: Create one couture look inspired by their model's avant garde hair do, and one ready-to-wear look inspired by the couture look. In the end, Rami (on the right) and Kit were in the bottom two.

Readers: Who should have gone home?

Local stylist and designer Andrew Bayer is our guest commentator this week. He co-owns local vintage/thrift hot spot House of Dang! over on 4219 Bryan St. in Dallas.

Here's what he had to say about last night's "prom challenge" episode:

"My thoughts on Project Runway: There is one person that I can totally relate to this season, and his name is Christian. We are similar in so many ways and here are a few examples:

In conclusion, I think that Rami is talented, Victorya used cheap rhinestones, the guy with the hat has not made one thing that I like, and Kevin looks like Joey Fatone from N’Sync. This season is getting better and better!"

This one was a doozy. I agree with Christian when he promptly exclaimed, "I think prom is horrible and tacky and gross!" Well, at least the dresses.

The contestants had a tres difficult challenge this week -- trying to merge their creative talents and artistic visions with teenage girls wanting cheesy prom dresses. In the end, Victorya emerged victoriously with her youthful, beaded, bright blue number.

Kevin, our token "straight" male contestant, got the boot for his bright red halter top mess, that lead Judge Kors to exclaim, "I think she looked like $29.95 prom!" It'll be interesting to see all the male contestants left duke and claw it out!

Christian continues to be the Dorothy Parker of Parsons' sixth floor workrooms.

Here are a few of his quips, with other contributions, too:

"I think prom is horrible tacky and gross," Christian said, when learning the challenge was to create a prom dress.

"Do you want it low in the front or the back," Christian asked his client. "Both," she answered. (p.s., I found calling the 16-year olds 'clients' almost creepy. Did anyone else feel awkward every time Tim said that, or are those my issues?)

"You guys are really miss me tomorrow when I’m eliminated," he told his roommates.

"She wanted so much tacky stuff, I was vey scared," Christian told the judges about his "clients" requests.

"I'm not going home because I am listening to a teenager," Sweet P said.

"It really looks like something an Italian divorce would wear,” Victorya said about Christians look.

"It’s kind of bulging, are you pregnant?" Ricky’s clients mother said, patting her stomach. (Cheers, Mother. Cue: body dysmorphia.)

"When I had a girlfriend, I made her prom dress. That should have been a clue right there," Ricky told of his prom experience.

"What do you guys want to do in life? Chris asked the teens. "Absolutely nothing," one girl replied. So I assume relief work in Africa is out.

Readers: What were your favorite moments?

So far, my favorite is Kit, the stylist from Los Angeles. Her work is consistently good, never winning, but never in bottom two, either.

Her look this we,
Her look this week, at left, had this striped set-in bodice that was so cool. Very Bridget Riley, the British artist who works with a lot of graphic and optical elements.

Images courtesy of Bravo and Bridget Riley's painting Fete (1999) Screenprint, 26 x 34 3/8" The Serpentine Gallery, London.

Readers: Who is your favorite so far?

Readers: which do YOU think was the worst?

Kevin's look, at left, unfinished and "cheap" according to the judges. Or Christian's disaster, which his client had a difficult time with and, as Heidi said, "The execution was poor."

"You know how the judging has been going," Tim warned Kevin when he saw the unfinished hem of his dress. Determined to show his style, the edge remained raw, as were his emotions when he was eliminated. "It was a $29.95 prom," judge Michael Kors told him. "I got a hug from Heidi Klum. That's not the worst thing in the world," Kevin said, fighting back tears.

Here is the scoop on Runway tonight, courtesy of the good people at Bravo.

"Fashion makes memories and in the latest "Project Runway” challenge on Wednesday, January 7 at 10 PM ET/PT. The designers aim to please their clients – not an easy task when you're dealing with group of 16-year-old girls. The contestants will be designing a dress for one of the most important nights of these girls' adolescent lives – the prom."

Watch tonight and let us know your thoughts and, more importantly, your feelings.

Who is that beguiling woman with the adorable puppy? Yes, I'm sure that's exactly what you're asking yourself at the moment. Well if you must know, it is my darling, dear friend and actress (whom you will no doubt remember as the riveting "whistle blowing prostitute" in Criminal Minds) Janie Haddad wearing an outfit you might find familiar.

One of our readers tried on this outfit from Project Runway for SJP's Bitten line at Steve and Barry's and nixed it, but not my Jane. I think she's rocking the look. I'm especially loving the knee boots with gym socks. And I think the color really suits her.

And if you don't like the dress, focus on this: isn't that the most adorable puppy you've ever seen, ever, on the planet?!? Yes, I thought so.

I know it's reality TV, but why is Heidi Klum the only one who gets to wear powder? I also what to know how her body looks like that after three kids. I had one kid and had to put a plastic surgeon on retainer.

Just when you think that the Runway team might run out of thrilling challenges, they come up with a trip to the Hershey's store on Times Square, which immediately caused my mouth to start watering like one of Pavlov's dogs. Overloaded with goodies, the contestants headed back to get started on a sugar rush day of designing. The competent, confident Christian knocked out his Reeses Cups goodie in record time while Sweet P put together a monstrosity that Tim referred to as a "coffee filter or maxipad." (Thank God for menopause.)

Jillian's Twizzler bustier and skirt seemed like it was destind to flop, especially with Chris' admonitions about edible clothing.But with the help of her model, she pulled it all off beautifully. Poor Elisa. She should have stuck to her stream-of-consciousness/psychobabble method of designing, which really works for her, instead of dwelling on her horrible car accident experience and playing it safe. What was Victorya thinking when she told her model to walk like that? All I could think about was John Cleese's crazy walks in old episodes of Monty Python. My son Dallas said that Ricki's number reminded him of a painting of a Spanish warlord he saw at the Meadows Museum. Zac Posen, who made me promise to take him to Zippers and the Roundup (favorite haunts of many visiting fashion dignitaries) on his next trip to Dallas, seemed to light up when Rami's dress hit the runway. My husband Bill, Dallas and I all loved it and think he could teach Nicholas Ghesquiere a thing or two about how to dress a "tron" woman.

The best part of the episode is that they are going to auction off all the dresses for The Young Survival Coalition - a non-profit organization the young women with breast cancer.

Heidi Dillon

Posin' : above, from left: Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing and Heidi with Runway guest judge Zac Posen.

Okay, it was bad. It was not cool. And she said something that sounded like "ashtray" when she was leaving. But she is compelling television. And having met her last week at the Contemporary, she's as pretty as she is genuine. (Full disclosure: she told me I am very 'light,' so I love her.)

Comments about her losing look:

"It worries me," said Tim, in response to Elisa’s Hansel and Gretel theme. (She wanted to make something fairy tale for her daughter Calliope. Her daughter wanted her to do Runway and she was picked for Season one, actually. She did this season to "reclaim" life.)
"Wow me," he said. "Working on the wow," Elisa said.

Ricky called it "Barney Rubble."

"It's not wearable, it's not fabulous," commented guest judge Zac Posen.

"Her dress was just a hot mess," Christian says of Elisa's look. He compared the sleeves to kid's "swimmies."

“We got a sad brown dress," Heidi said.

Elisa told me standing on the runway in front of the judges was like "dodgeball."

She began the episode with "I want to make it to the final three." The Booker T. grad left the show with, "I'm going to wander off now."

Readers: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT HER LOOK?

Ashtray.

Come on...you all KNEW she wouldn't last.

From Episode One, we all sensed Elisa was a little "special" with her kooky spiritual mumbo jumbo -- which quite frankly, was really starting to grow on me. You know her story about getting hit by the Porshe in London and having her head split open made you go AWWW! Not to mention, we also wanted to root for the final remaining Texan still standing. But at the end of the day (literally) the most creative, over-the-top challenge proved far TOO challenging for the over-the-top designer, who wanted to create a "macabre" fairy-tale dress inspired by Gretel. She created something BORING. SO boring that it lead Judge Kors to call it "a brown velvet dress you would find in a flea market" that showed "no joy of candy" and Host Klum to comment that it was "a SAD brown dress".

The contestants were literally dragged out of bed to head down to Hershey's Time Square and had five whole minutes to gather materials to create a fashionable, wearable, fun design in ONE day. The designers struggled with this one - and Jillian gets the Tim Gunn award for the day for making it WORK with that sassy, little red twizzler corset ensemble.

Readers, what did YOU think of the night's episode. Click COMMENTS and tell us!
(Photo: Courtesy Bravo/Barbara Nitke)

Rami's winning design (left) had Michael Kors commenting, "It's made really well and fits her beautifully!"

Unfortunately Elisa's Gretel-inspired dress left the judges uninspired for showing "no joy of candy".

WHOA. This caught our eye during a commercial break from tonight's Project Runway episode! Let's watch it again!

Malan's clever comment of the night, besides the title of this entry: "Oh Zac Posen is back, he is so sweet." Har.

My fave comment of the night comes from Christian, naturally. "It is a tranny mess up in here," he said, surveying the work room filled with improvised, costume-like garments.

Surprise of the night? From the comeback kid, Chris. His strapless, self-proclaimed Stephen Sprouse inspired dress was a hit with the judges. "Chris, he could have given me the parade float," Michael Kors said. "Sometimes we question his taste level. Chris' was very sophisticated."

Nina gave a huge thumbs up with, "This girl could go into a studio and be shot for the pages of Elle. She's all set." Go, Chris!

Assignment: 5 minutes to grab whatever the designers can in the Hersheys Times Square store! Here is Malan's initial take!

Wow! Yes Amanda [the model] is still in, Amanda walked in my Spring 2007 showing she is a great model. Heidi has some very red lips tonight! I am not loving her dress tonight, it does not fit properly.
The wonderful Tim Gunn, those early mornings are rough. Usually around six am. A field trip? Hersheys, OMG! after the holidays I never want to see chocolate again.

Twizzlers! Brilliant. I am really enjoying Jillian, I am so curious. [Jillian is the only designer who chose to work with actual candy]

I wonder who will get the chocolate body paint! Oh sorry this is not Sports Illustrated. Hahaha!
I love that Chris knows who Stephen Sprouse is I met him in the Nineties what a brilliant designer. [Chris says his look is very Stephen Sprouse]
What an amazing story Elisa has! Its amazing she is alive...

He is talking about Elisa's accident in London -- she was hit by a car and in a coma for 5 days. Yikes.

Back in Rosie's nice days, she would have called him a cutie-patootie. Zac Posen is guest judging on Project Runway tonight. The 28 year-old designer will no doubt be tan and telegenic enough to give both Michael and Nina a run for their money.

Feel like taking Zac home?

New York designer Zac Posen will be one of the judges on the next episode of Project Runway. The "Eye Candy" episode. The remaining contestants will source from the "Hershey's Times Square" store (everything is up for grabs except clothes) to construct their next design. We can hardly wait to see the quips spew out of this one. Add fellow judges Kors and Garcia to the mix and there will surely be one big meowfest!

(Photo: Evans Caglage/Staff)

The next new episode of Project Runway airs on Jan. 2 at 9 p.m. Titled "Eye Candy," the photographs I have seen on the Bravo media site have plenty of candy bar logos in the background.

Be sure to watch and let us know what you think!

p.s.: Runway marathon on Bravo today!

Ousted for medical reasons, PR's Jack gave Newsweek the lowdown on what happened off camera. Click here to read.

The next new episode isn't until Jan. 2. The episode is called "Eye Candy." Hmmm...What will that be about?

Watch the collision of fashion and art tonight at the Dallas Contemporary, when Project Runway contestant Elisa Jimenez and her partner, Moe Nadel, present "A Story of Creation: Boy Meets Girl." The couple works in a variety of media, from fashion to sculpture to painting, all of which will be on display tonight.

Ms. Jimenez left Dallas for New York in 1994 and became a stalwart of Manhattan's Lower East Side. Working under the label the Hunger World, she quickly found her one-of-a-kind dresses hanging in influential stores such as Kirna Zabete, featured in glossies such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar and on the backs of Cameron Diaz, Courtney Love and Sarah Jessica Parker.

"A Story of Creation: Boy Meets Girl," tonight from 7 to 9:30 at the Dallas Contemporary, 2801 Swiss Ave. Free. 214-821-2522 (call ahead; seating is limited).
Elisa Jimenez shopping for materials in a Project Runway episode

Hotel employees at Plano's Nylo will be wearing casual ensembles designed by Project Runway Season 2's Daniel Vosovic. His designs will also be for sale in the hotel's boutique.

(Photos: Courtesy Nylo Hotels)

Got an email from Maneater Threads out of San Fran (the owner says they have a bunch of Dallas customers).

Among other designers Maneater carries "current Project Runway contestant Rami Kashou (we’ve carried Rami for a few years now). We have a great selection of sale items, as well as many items under $100. Currently visitors can take 20% off storewide on all items until the end of the year when they use the discount code HOLIDAYS."

My favorite line of the night: Christian tells his "everyday woman" (Bravo's words to describe the models, not mine!) "I'm not a miracle worker lady, I can't make you have an ass!"

His finished, winning product

Michael Kors said this about Chris' look -- “That is so Paris hooker from the 50s”

Readers, what do you think?

Last night's Project Runway episode? More drama. More tears. More surprises. Another crazy challenge. Jack tearfully said goodbye to the cast because of a staph infection. Chris returned to the show to fill the void -- although he had to pick up where Jack left off and work into the night, which in the end Michael Kors proclaimed his outfit to be "very Paris hooker from the 50s" and Heidi Klum to say that his outfit was "boring and cliche."

Ricky got overwhelmed and started crying again, whether they were tears of sadness or joy - I really can't tell anymore. Christian's quips came fast and furious. When presented with the challenge to reconstruct a new outfit out of a favorite outfit from women who've recently lost a lot of weight, he proclaimed "OH MY GOD! I'm going to die! This is so not me at all!" and my favorite quote of the night -- "The judges might die over it, or die because of it."

In the end, Steven was sent packing by the judges (one of which was a very subdued Patrick Robinson, head designer for Gap).

Kors said it best when describing Steven's wedding dressed-turned-French maid/funeral disaster: "You left me speechless".

READERS, what did you think of last night's dramatic episode? Click COMMENTS and tell us!

Granted, Steven didn't have much to work with. His "model" had a poofy, beaded acetate/polyester bridal gown for him to deconstruct and play with. He opted to get some stretch black fabric and recreate a little LBD with disastrous results.

Unfortunately, it was too "funeral" and "French maid" for the judges.

The blogs have been buzzing about the reality romance blossoming between PR contestant Jack and Top Chef's Dale. Click here to read more about it.

The show began with Tim's ominous words, "It gets harder." It did, with Jack leaving the show unexpectedly with a staph infection. Kicked off last week, Chris was brought back in Jack's place. The challenge: create a look for "everyday" women who recently lost a significant amount of weight, using their pre-diet clothing.

Dallasite Elisa Jimenez found herself in the bottom two, with Steven, who had the misfortune of working with a polyester wedding dress. Heidi Klum's auf wiedersehen to Steven: You turned a joyful wedding dress into something a French maid would wear. It was boring and a cliche." Ouch.

What did you think about last night's episode?

"It was so nice meeting all of you," Jack told everyone as he left the show due to an infection in his face. His lip was so swollen!
"I don't want to have to quit for a stupid reason," he said while crying, his face distorted to almost simian proportions. "I had so much fun."

It seemed, on television anyway, that it all happened so fast. That Jack had to choose between going to the doctor and staying on the show. I guess there is a clause of some sort.

It appears he recovered nicely, if these pictures taken recently are any indication.

Fave moment of the night: Ricky slipping on his model's high heels!

Be sure to tune in tonight at 9 for Project Runway. An insider told me a contestant is sent home early!

The episode is called "What's the skinny".

photo of Christian feverishly sewing on tonight's episode, courtesy of Bravo.

Reader Alba Castillo loved Victorya's design from episode 2 of Project Runway so much that she rushed out to the nearest Steve & Barry's to get the $19.98 dress and $14.98 vest from Sarah Jessica Parker's budget line Bitten.

What she found instead was fashion heartache...

"I am big fan of Project Runway and Sarah Jessica Parker so I had to have this outfit! I ran out to Steve & Barry's to try to get my hands on it. I was highly disappointed once I tried it on. Someone else might be able to rock it and the outfit's totally reasonable at $30 or so. Much to my surprise the dress is not very flattering and fits very loose. The vest is a cute piece but runs extremely small so I could not get myself to purchase a size bigger than I normally wear. I decided to pass on the Bitten outfit and left empty handed."

Readers, did you buy this dress/vest? Did you like it? Click COMMENTS and tell us!

(Photo: Reader Alba Castillo tries on the Project Runway/Bitten outfit, she ultimately passes on)

DON'T FORGET! Tune in for tonight's sure-to-be-dramatic episode. It looks like there's going to be lots of tears, so check back on the blog in the morning for a full recap!

For Project Runway fans wanting to own a little bit of reality-television magic, this season is a boon. Runway wannabes can buy limited-edition sewing machines by Brother, create clothing with Bravo-licensed patterns from Simplicity and wear T-shirts designed by this season's contestants. (Above is Marion's, which features a broken heel and the words: Get off my runway)

And, of course, you can work out some daily aggression by telling Tim, "Make it work yourself!" with your very own Talking Tim Gunn Bobblehead.

I think this is what Project Runway's Nina Garcia was talking about last night when handing out bad trends to the contestants. Check out this smokin' dance segment on Solid Gold.

I thought Ricky's had a good look to it. It was very Proenza Schouler, only the quality was more Proenza Schouler for Target.

Above left: Ricky's. Above right: Proenza Schouler Fall 2007

Local stylist and fashionisto Gregg Asher wouldn't wear most of the clothes that came down the runway in tonight's episode (and with a fashion forward closet full of YSL, Balenciaga, McQueen, Dries -- we're not going to argue).

Here's what he had to say about tonight's dramatic episode:

"It was 45 minutes of drama and 2 minutes of actual fashion. I figured Chris would go home. His bolero jacket was a total "Dynasty" reject. The biggest surprise for me was the judges picking the denim collection as the clear winner. One of the looks was reminiscent of Justin and Britney from the AMAs -- one of the worst fashion mistakes ever!"

You know what Gregg...now that I look at it...

Darlings! Another episode done down and another shocking elimination! Chris at least constructed and finished his garment.
This whole drama with Ricky is really unattractive!
Jillian won! Finally! She is one of the strongest designers and sewers in the group. Did you see that three piece suit she made last week/ I loved Christian, Jack and Kit's looks they were fun youthful and very wearable...
Donna Karan, I loved seeing her, she is so insightful and so kind. I have always had great experiences with her.
Well another week over and the drama unfolds, next week, wait why is Jack's face so swollen? Why is everyone crying? God I hope Jack is alright!!!
"Team star is like hot like celebrity"(Christian)

Photo of Jack from this week's episode (before the swelling we noticed in the commercials for next week)

Readers, which one was worse?

Chris' "pageant/mother-of-the-bride" ensemble or Ricky's thrown together, slightly unfinished mess (I'll go for colorful and slightly futuristic over matronly any day!).

Teams on the show can be so frustrating, as everyone does not share the same vision. But when there is a team leader there needs to be direct communication.
I am not enjoying Ricky right now.

I have to say I am loving having to design using trends that are "out". Clever assignment. Jack totally threw down the gauntlet at the beginning of the show when, as the winner of the last challenge, he opted to take Ricky's model.

Victorya and Ricky--Eek. Too many cooks in the kitchen.

And, p.s., what is up with all of Ricky's cuckoo hats?

This from Fashion Week Daily:

...Meanwhile, Karan, whose television cameo checklist already includes appearances on Oprah Winfrey, Martha Stewart, and Charlie Rose's respective programs, can now add Bravo's Project Runway to her organic belt loop. The designer is the guest judge on tonight's episode and joins the ranks of Sarah Jessica Parker, Monique Lhuillier, and football star Tiki Barber, all of whom have played critic this season. A confidentiality agreement prevents Karan from disclosing too much, but according to the cable description of tonight's episode, each team is tasked with turning a fashion don't into a fashion do.

Watch tonight! We'll be blogging!

The winning design from last week's "cheap for chic" challenge is now for sale at local Steve & Barry's! Contestant Victorya Hong was chosen by judges (including Sarah Jessica Parker) as the winner and her stretch cotton, feminine number and super chic razorback vest for SJP's line BITTEN are now for sale in black and burgundy at the big budget retailer. The dress retails for a mere $19.98 and the plaid vest for $14.98 in gray/black.

In a press release, SJP says, “I loved Victorya’s design immediately when I saw it during my appearance on Project Runway, and am very excited that BITTEN shoppers will have the opportunity to add our interpretation of the dress to their closets,” said Sarah Jessica Parker.

We're predicting the stores will quickly run out of this one soon, so hurry!

Click here to find a Steve & Barry's near you!
(Photo: Bravo/NBC Universal)

Was last night's menswear challenge for the Project Runway contestants unfair? Let's be honest here, it really doesn't matter because it made for some good television. And I am sure the producers knew exactly what they were doing when they were bouncing around ideas on challenges that would guarantee stress-to-the-maximus for the poor contestants.

When Tiki Barber's wife, Ginny, came into the workroom to evaluate the contestants' designs for her husband, we couldn't help but crack up when Christian pointed out, "I love Asians. Asians are fierce!"

That they are, Christian. That they are...you know, not that I'm biased or anything...

The challenge was stressful! With menswear, there is little toom to fake it. You can fudge a dress, but pants? Uh-uh.

Go to the official site to get a closer look at the good, the bad and the unfinished.

What's your take on last night? Let us know!

Our insider extraordinaire, Malan Breton, wasn't able to blog live this week. Apparently, he was at a "black tie event with Susan Sarandon." And miss out on blogging with me? Harrumph.

Ever the gent, however, he did catch it later and here is his take:
"OMG, a men's challenge! That is so brilliant!!! Tiki Barber from The Today show! Can the designers do it? I know Jack has done men's" at Tommy Hilfiger.

"The drama! Carmen's rise on her trousers, Oh my darling! One thing I did before I launched my line was learn to perfect menswear as I make all of my own."

His faves: " Jillian's look was amazing! I loved Rami's jacket, Please send me one size 48. I love Kevin's use of colour! They did well for not being men's designers."

Some designers, like the bottom two, were a little, ahem, deconstructed: "OOOH Ricky and those pins!!! Carmen went home, what a complete lady.(she didn't cry) I wish her great success. Menswear is very difficult."

"This challenge is a first for Project Runway," said host Heidi Klum opening the show. And it was a doozy.

The challenge: menswear. The contestants were noticably befuddled when introduced to former NFL running back and Today show correspondent, Tiki Barber. I think only one even knew who he was.

The tension was at full-throttle as the thirteen remaining contestants scrambled to finish a morning show ready look. With little menswear experience, the results were mixed, at best, with several contestants sending safety pins down the runway. "Don't think we don't see that because we're sitting over here," Heidi pointed out.

The winner: Jack, who traced his shorts to make a pattern.

Sent home: Carmen.

Wait, Jack used his shorts as a pattern for his pants in the menswear challenge and now Ricky put his model to work sewing on buttons? What is going on?

Week three of Pro-Run (hmmm...not so catchy an abbreviation) and we've lost our beloved Marion. Dallas-wise we've still got Elisa, and catty little Christian, who is starting to look like a cockatiel to me, is becoming a fave.

Last night in a group challenge someone was sent home. When it comes to being in a group it is difficult to persuade another designer to create what you envision . I had a brilliant team partner, but , we both came from very different worlds. I am sure Marion is feeling a lot having to relive that moment in others eyes. There are millions of people that watch the show. I felt as though I had failed, when I was eliminated. I would have never designed again if it had not been for the support of the people everywhere,thank you. There is a certain amount of pride, then to have to stand there with SJP judging your look. Someone so respected in the fashion industry, it must be hard.

Have you seen the closeup on Marion's skirt? That inset pattern is genius. It was very difficult to see two of the most talented designers of the group on that catwalk in the bottom position. It is not a reflection on your talent, sometimes within the time allowed things do not work out but one must keep going. I did, and look at me now.

Happy Thanksgiving darlings! Marion, I hope you are doing well and are surrounded with people you love today.

For more Malan, check out his Myspace page

Above right: Malan and model Amanda Fields at the party celebrating Out magazine's 100 people of the year. Photo by Nikola Tamindzic, courtesy of Malan Breton and Gawker.com

We're encouraging local fashion folk to weigh in on Project Runway. First up is runway producer and model Jan Strimple. Here's what she had to say about last night's dramatic episode:

"Am a bit surprised the snippety Christian made it through Michael Kors' high pitched hiss: “he had every intention of doing exactly what he wanted.” On that alone, I was sure Marion would slip through on this second challenge (albeit not his best effort) and Christian and his attitude would be whacked. He’s a bit pissy, don’t ‘cha think? Loved/hated his first show comment about “there’s a lot of handsewn crap in here.” Someone send him “How to Win Friends and Influence People” for Christmas, puleeeeze!

Too bad Marion didn’t have the possibility of showcasing what a true talent he is. He’s been a friend for years and has created pieces for me. He has insanely chic taste ... perhaps not commercial enough for Project Runway’s vision.......

The most invigorating part of Project Runway is the shear bliss I get knowing that the insipid world of PC that we are all forced to live in doesn’t knock on fashions' door. Yep - on P.R. your feelings might get hurt. And, yep - you might be the last one picked. It’s called Reality TV. Does that mean that we live in Unreality life? Hm. I prefer truth, which sometimes comes with a little pain. We all grow up better that way.

And what’s our word for the night? Polymorphic! Means “can be worn a myriad of ways” as explained by Elisa, the spittin’ Plutonion. Or did she say she was from Mars? Can’t remember.

Polymorphic. Now use it three times in conversation tomorrow and you’ll own it. See? Don’t let anyone tell you fashion isn’t mind expanding!"

(Photo: Sam Granado/Special Contributor)

Our special guest blogger, Malan Breton, was on it last night. At home readying himself for a black tie event, the Season Three contestant made some time for us. His thoughts:

"Teal Turquoise The colour of the season, I would rather chew on glass! It is not a flattering colour at all" His reaction to Christian's and Elisa's color choices.

"Again it is so hard being on that catwalk, being dissected by Heidi, Nina, and Michael. Thank god they do not have guest judges this season.OMG my favourite quote of the night, [from Sweet P] 'I come to your planet bringing gifts' I guess that goes with the spit on the fabric." On the end of show critique, where Sweet P explained her thoughts on working with Elisa.

"OK! the looks are interesting very I feel as though they are all good except poor that sweater thingy Marion designed. Poor darling, I want to know how he got that fabric for under fifteen dollars a yard at Mood! My favourite is Elisa, I never thought I would say that.But the drape is gorgeous!" Malan liked Dallasite Marion's, ultimately losing, fabric and his fave look was Elisas jersey dress with cape overlay.

Readers: What do you think? Should Christian have gone home instead?

A collective gasp vibrated through the audience of about 20 at tonight's Project Runway watch party at the Angelika. Marion (Jeffrey) Lee got AUF'ed!!!

Luckily he refrained from letting the waterworks flow, unlike his other teammates who cried throughout the episode - Ricky, Carmen and Chris. Tonight's episode was full of cheers and TEARS! With "fashion icon" Sarah Jessica Parker at the center of all the DRAMA.

Have these designers ever been to Steve & Barry's? It is as simple and democratic a retailer as it gets (think button-up shirts, athletic sportswear and cheap graphic tees)! So this episode was really an exercise in keeping your audience in mind and unfortunately Marion's avant "Pocohontas" look didn't make the cut for the judges -- nor would it have for middle America.

Sadly, we didn't spy Marion at tonight's screening = (

Project Runway fan Jancye Crocker got her BFA in fashion design from UNT in 1998 and is now working as a real estate agent. However, her interests in fashion still runs strong, and we spied her at tonight's watch party.

We naturally had to get her two cents on what she thought of tonight's dramatic episode.

"While I was sorry our hometown favorite, Marion, was out, I do admit I’m glad Christian remained. While I do love his sassy attitude, I also admit I’m biased in the fact that I love him because he has Kurt Harland, from the fabulous 80’s group, Information Society’s haircut. I love INFOSOC, and also Christian’s PURE ENERGY! I’m happy that fellow Texan Elisa remained, but I’m afraid her essence imbued spittle may dry up over the next few episodes – we’ll have to wait and see."

College students Liz Tran (left) and Bethany Burke were in the audience tonight at the Angelika's PJ watch party and are fans of Christian who almost got the boot.

Tran tells us, "Well, Christian's a very fierce queen...and I know a lot of them."

Burke adds, "He's over the top! Of course they have to keep him on the show."

Sorry Marion...

The episode this evening was lovely. Perhaps one of the most respected women in entertainment has left her mark. Project Runway went A- list tonight but not everyone made the cut, I am sad to see Marion go. I loved his shop at Stanley Korshak when we toured it last month. I also find his use of texture very interesting. I hope he will continue designing and not give up on his dreams.
Sadly one look happens to all of us. The editors and the press will not love everything we design. I hope Marion is receiving a lot of love right now from the people in Dallas. being eliminated on national television is a blow to ones heart.I cannot believe Christian was in the final two.I hated the dress colour but the jacket was sporty and young and fun. I think everyone is a ball of emotion this season and we will be getting lots of gratuitous tear shots.

When they were asked to do this on a fifteen dollar budget, I along with anyone who has been to mood said , Impossible.But they got the materials they need.
Marion's skirt looks amazing but difficult, poor Steven. All I can say is thank god Sweet P is a nurturing type. It would be a test of my patience to have to make and remake a garment due to poor construction.
Christian and his Jacket, Its a great jacket but I am unclear about the fabric on the dress.I love VictorYa and Kevin's dress. Sadly Rami's dress looks a little dated like a Richard Simmons workout costume.

Malan Breton

"It looks like out of the basement," "it looks dirty," said Heidi about Marions outfit.

"People may not like that, that their dress has been spit on," she said about Elisa unusual method of marking her construction.

"Your look left us sad," about Marion's look

SJP lovely I love that she is The guest judge. If anyone knows fashion its her. i see her all over the city at events , she is so lovely.
Oh and she is sweet to all the designers.

The contestants just found out they're going to be designing looks for Sarah Jessica Parker's new Bitten fashion line. I thought Chris and Jack were going to pass out.

Also, you've got to love the look on Jessica's face when Texan Elisa was describing her "polymorphic" design. She got the last laugh though, cause Parker chose it to go to the next level among six others. Including Dallas' Marion Lee.

Meet Project Runway's Jack.

Because every reality show should have at least one former underwear model.

Season Three's Malan Breton will be back this week as Special Guest Blogger. Here is his take on what went down after last year's first elimination:

"I think the initial reaction when it comes to the eliminations is, wow! We are not immortal. Then everyone starts analyzing what happened what they could do better, etc. When the first person was cut my season everyone felt really bad , I think later in the competition its not so much, as it becomes more competitive. The first few days on that schedule were exhausting. But then there was the party after the first challenge that was really fun. we had cocktails in our room at the atlas with the whole cast just taking a moment to relax. Getting up the next morning at 6 am was rough..."

Watch Project Runway tonight at 9 pm. Blog along with us and let us know what you think!

Stop by the Angelika at Mockingbird Station tonight for the weekly Project Runway watch party at 9 p.m.

Contestant Marion (Jeffrey) Lee stopped by briefly last week. He might this week to meet-and-greet fans!

Yours truly will be there to snap fans and blog live!

This week's episode is sure to be dramatic - a mystery guest/fashion icon is unveiled, moving some of the designers to tears and becomes the subject of their second challenge.

We can hardly wait! See you tonight at the Angelika!

If you missed Tim Gunn's personal appearance at Dillard's in Arlington this weekend, here's footage from the event.

Gunn chatted exclusively with F!D about the show and what viewers can expect to see this season!

Click here to view Tim Gunn talking about Project Runway!

Well, to Bravo anyway. But her thoughts are predictably peculiar.

Such as: "I surrendered constantly to fate with delight and mischievous curiosity."

Read more!

Watch Project Runway with us, as we live blog: Wednesday at 9 pm on Bravo.

On Christian: "When Christian’s look came down the runway I instantly understood where he was coming from, clearly an admirer of Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. I could easily identify his aesthetic and also thought he conveyed his particular interest in tailoring with an avant garde twist but at the same time being wearable."

On Rami: "Rami’s clean, feminine, sophisticated look was a successful first impression of his understanding of the woman form. The Grecian inspired-gown showed Rami’s gifted execution of draping and his understanding of elegance."

On Ricky: "Ricky has an interesting advantage over everyone else because he comes from a specified background-lingerie. A great strength for him moving forward is his ability to understand work detail and be able to have a keen understanding of the feminine form. He really has the potential to bring some refreshing ideas to the show. Think of the way that Dolce and Gabbana incorporate lingerie into their ready to wear."

On Elisa: "Even though Elisa’s look was poorly executed she, unlike Simone, had a point of view. Elisa has been a fixture in the industry and has a lot of underground success, so when I saw her look come down the runway, I was a little bit more critical. Although watching the episode, I was impressed that she used herself as a fit model and managed to construct the entire dress with one seam, her long, winded, esoteric explanation of her design put me over the edge!"

For more of Nina's blog, click here.

Blog Behind the Curtains gives a thumbs-down to the interiors the designers called home.

What do you think? If the rest of the rooms are anything like this pic, then ick. Honestly I didn't notice the decor in the first episode but heaven knows I'll be watching this coming week.

The horrendous parking situation at the Dillard's at Parks at Arlington this afternoon was the first hint. Over 200 fans (we spied many husbands and boyfriends dutifully sitting by excited wives and girlfriends) packed the ladies floor in the department store, many craning their necks to see Project Runway breakout star, Tim Gunn, in action -- co-hosting the Liz Claiborne holiday fashion show. And we immediately recognized the appeal of the buttoned-up dandy in signature suit and tie...this is a man who is genuinely interested in helping women look AND feel good, no matter what size they are. Models of all shapes and sizes strutted the runway in chic sporty and evening Liz Claiborne ensembles.

When one audience member asked for advice on how to hide her "muffin top" he promptly told her to stand up and told her to embrace her natural curves. "I like women to look real. Not a size double 00. You're beautiful!"

Other stylish quips included:

"The darker the denim. The more evening appropriate it will be."
"It's about versatility. You don't want an item that can take you to only one place."
"One of my mantras? Always TRY IT ON!"
"Rules are made to be broken. Break them...but be confident. Own your look."

Questions about Project Runway naturally creeped up and Gunn did not hold back, confiding to the audience that though this season's cast was the strongest yet, there were moments where he disagreed with judges decisions on who got cut and who got to stay, week to week. "The execution level is so high this season. It's all a matter of taste. And I didn't always agree with the judges decisions and I'd think to myself, 'What did they have for lunch earlier?'" He also pointed out that this entire season was filmed in record time -- 30 DAYS!

He referred to contestants who have gone through the PJ cycle as his "children," yet had no qualms telling the audience which ones he really wanted to send into "exile". These included Season 1's Wendy Culpepper, Season 2's Zulema Griffin and Season 3's Vincent Libretti -- "the single most irriating person I've ever met."

Readers: Were you there? Click on COMMENTS and tell us if you met Tim!

Best friends Claire VanBeber and Caitlin Meisenheimer (left), both 15, live in Arlington and came out for the stylish event. Both are fashion obsessed, read Style.com daily and shop every weekend. They're already well on their way to carving out a fashionable future - we met both at the Galleria's annual Fashion Camp earlier this summer. "I love (model) Coco Rocha! She's my favorite!" exclaims VanBeber. Meisenheimer adds, "My favorite designers are Galliano and Alexander McQueen!"

Fan Korri Angelic Dawson, a freelance fashion and marketing assistant, OBVIOUSLY spent the $100 in Liz Claiborne merch needed in order to get an autograph and photo with Tim. "He is so fabulous...beyond compare. He lives up to the hype!".

My final conclusion for this week is this. This seasons talent is perhaps the most skilled, but also the most character driven. I look forward to seeing who really has what it takes and who is all talk. I have my favourites! But last night I was not only wowed by the level of execution! Also by the amazingly beautiful cast. I have learned that being a success in this industry has a lot to do with presentation. Anyone can make clothes, but what is your gimmick? I look forward to seeing the full presentation package. What these designers can commit to and still be true to themselves as artisans! I would like to see more of some of the designers but with time.

So until next week, Have beautiful fantasy filled fashion dreams! Hehe! The kind that only the Neiman's Christmas book can accomodate! Darlings! I want the Vertu diamond phone and the Rocket Racing League franchise.

For more on Malan, visit his website.

This is just my opinion here, but Tim Gunn was right when he said to the contestants, "I'm confident that you are the strongest group ever." This is a super strong, sure to be catty...umm I mean competitive, cast!

Sure Elisa is kooky, but she's also gotten support from the industry, showing legit fashion shows during New York fashion week in the past -- so I wouldn't count her out (though I am confused about her weird marionette obesession). I recall seeing heavy hitters like Pat Field and Suzy Menkes attending her shows in the past. Dallas' own Marion had a quiet start, and that's always a good thing because he may be a dark horse who gets more airtime in coming episodes. He too has shown in New York in the past. The funniest in my opinion is Christian. His hilarious quips like, "I'm kinda fierce and kinda a celebrity in my own head." and "Oh GOD! I don't want to make something out of cheap white crap!" had me in stitches. Overconfindence is always a good thing in this industry and at 21 he's already worked with Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen -- can't wait to see if his creations get more avant.

READERS: What did you think of last night's episode?

Till next week, Auf Wiedersehen!

(Photo: Courtesy NBC Universal/Bravo TV)

The flyer for last night's Project Runway watch party at the Angelika read, "Maybe meet a cast member!"

Look who we spotted slipping in right after the show started. Contestant Marion Lee himself! Friend Kate Bost came along and said afterwards, "He looked very likeable."

Due to binding iron clad contracts, he couldn't really discuss the show but did tell us that this was the first time he'd gotten to see the final cut of the first episode. During the runway segment he told us that he couldn't even remember what dress he made because the experience was such a blur.

Will he be coming to future Project Runway Wednesday night watch parties at the Angelika? Stay tuned...

The red carpet was rolled out at last night's Project Runway watch party at the Angelika Film Center at Mockingbird Station. The FREE ticket event continues each Wednesday at 9 p.m.

We spotted these lovely ladies, all from SMU Law School.

One exclaimed to me, "None of us have BRAVO!"

Another said, "I'm writing a law review article on design actually. It's about the piracy protection act."

(From left: Julie Soloman, Rachel Hass, Sloane Jumper, Elizabeth Franco, Leah Ammons and Corey Feldman in front)

Simone and Elisa the final two. Oh dear ! WHAT? Simone is out? at least she tried to finish her seams and put a zipper in. What?
Congratulations Rami! I am excited to see your work in the upcoming episode.
I would like to see more Marion!
There were some great one liners tonight! And Heidi's dress was beautiful I love the gold. She usually wears Chanel on the show, I wonder if it was a Chanel!

Okay, you know your work is bad when you are beat out by a designer whose model literally can't walk because of the 30-feet of fabric scraps staple-gunned to the hem of her gown.

I mean, seriously.

That said, I want to give Texan Elisa (right) snaps, because, while I didn't love her dress, I found her design intriguing and different, and I wanted to see more. Which is the opposite of what I felt looking at Simone's (left) ill-conceived --- and worse, boring --- ensemble.

But hey, it takes guts just to play, so you go Simone. (And keep going ... keep going ... a few steps more ... and, buh-bye).

Hey everybody, it's contestant Rami Kashou's MySpace page. Creepy, but I still love his work.

Simone's dress, poor darling! She is so sweet! It is so hard standing up there on that catwalk and being torn to shreds is rough. Ricky sadly made a very safe dress Lingerie can be so exciting there is so much in lingerie, why a baby doll dress? I wish I could see Victorya's dress the set is too dark. Elisa, I am trying to understand. OH NO! The chat!

a haiku of a cut--my fave line of the night!!!

Michael Kors , Nina and Heidi look Gorgeous! Wow that is a rough piece to walk in. Chris is so sweet, Jillians dress is gorgeous!!! Christian's look is very modern euro chic. Rami's dress though beautiful looks like a toga! Marion's aesthetic is very interesting.Chris, Kevin, Sweet p, Jillian, Jack, Marion. Steve, Carmen, Kit...Safe!

"Don't go into the fear box, people!"

I think I'm going to use this one at the office.

Okay, so far I think Steven seems to have staying power. I have absolutely notheing to base that on. Where is Marion in this episode?

The assignments: What's up with all these baby doll, mall dresses. I kind of like culottes/Jillian's dress, for some reason.

Raimi: the judges were "fixated"? That was a lot.

Jack: Did he make a purse? What was up with that?

I can't believe people made pants. That's brave.

Readers: What did you think of our locals, Marion and Elisa?

The pressure is on! Oh no the surprise models! I was so lucky to get Moon on my season! "Im going to hand measure you!" I'll be using that one!

Wow I remember those one AM deadlines! Who are you? Eliza is really fascinating! Christian is hilariously bitchy! Rami's dress is gorgeous! Eliza with no finishing?

Elisa has an interesting aesthetic! Grass stains are always very chic, don't you think?;)

the train of Elisa's dress-"like water....or magic"???

Project Runway's Simone LeBlanc (left) and Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon (right)

I'm just sayin'.

As a Parsons alum, it should be noted that Mood fabrics is a total dump that sells remnants.

LOL! Steve is hilarious! Sweet pea and mean pea I love it. Bryant park? Darlings , wow! The cast is gorgeous this season. Heidi looks gorgeous and against tradition, is not pregnant this season. The first challenge! Oh my, the tents. 50,000 dollars worth of fabric wow. we had to rip apart our rooms. Let the races begin!

An Alexander mcqueen alum, Finally !!! What? Carmen ? What does being a model have to be with designing. I was a succesful model for five years. Jillian looks so sweet.

Darlings mix yourself a dirty martini, and prepare yourself for a bumpy ride!
The opening credits have proven that this season is... a season like no other.

A little culotte action?

The "cover" of Victoria's Secret?

The Angelika Film Center Mockingbird Station is hosting a Project Runway watch party tonight at 9. It's free, so check it out. Our ever-ready Blogger David Ninh will be there covering the action.

Malan:

It has been about a year and a half since seeing the first episode of project Runway 3. When I watched it, I was excited and nervous. I also was concerned as it was reality TV and god knows how I would have been perceived.

What is in store for this season? Drama, Fashion, Heidi, Tim, and the fabulous contestants. Its a very strong cast this season. I know Dallas has some hometown favourites! I have my own favourties, but who can say!? In fashion ... well you know what Heidi says, "In fashion one day your in... and next day your out!"

I have received thousands of emails from fans around the world wondering what my thoughts are on the new cast. I will sum it up in one word. Advanced! By far the most advanced group of talent the show has ever seen. Leaving more time to create real fashion and hopefully less time for crazy coconut hats and the like. One will never know, until tonight when the first episode airs.

more from Malan tonight!

Join us tomorrow as we blog live during the season 4 premiere of Project Runway. We know you are all over this as much as we are so let us know what you're thinking during the show. We've had an advance copy of this episode for weeks but have been holding out. We can't wait to see what's in store for Dallasites Jeffrey Marion Lee and Elisa Jimenez.


Joining us will be Special Guest Blogger Malan Breton, offering his insider perspective.

And check back on Thursday for a complete recap, 'cause you know something's going to go down!

If you watched last night's "Top Chef" on Bravo (sorry Casey!) then it's likely you saw the new commercials touting the 4th season of Project Runway -- and surprise -- we spied a local face!

Marion is actually designer Jeffrey Lee, who co-owns Grange Hall on Travis off Knox. The 40-year-old from Tyler studied at Parsons, helmed a signature line which he showed a few seasons in New York and was former visual director at Stanley Korshak. He's also contributed as a set stylist in the past for F!D luxe's fashion shoots.

We spied him working at his shop last week, but he remains mum about what's happened since he's taped the show.

You'll have to catch all the drama for yourself when Project Runway 4 kicks off on November 14.

Click here to read more about "Marion".

(Photo: Courtesy Bravo TV)