NBC’s FASHION STAR
I was honored to be chosen as a Designer & Competitor on NBC’S
FashionSTAR, Season 2.
Designers were given weekly challenges with two days to design and compete on the runway. Buyers from Saks Fifth Avenue, Express and Macy’s bid on the Designer’s creations. With John Varvatos as my mentor and a 6 million dollar contract at stake, I was in it to win it! I made it through 6 out of 10 episodes selling $440,000 worth of designs to both Saks Fifth Avenue and Express.
Excited to share my journey below!
EPISODES
Episode 1 Showstoppers
“In the first challenge, designers are asked to design and create a must-have, one-of-a-kind show-stopping garment!”
For the first challenge, I wanted to stay true to my playful & feminine design aesthetic and really wow the audience! My design transitions from day to night featuring one dress with a crochet top and chambray skirt and another with silk chiffon and gold embellished trim
Bought by Express! Winning Bid $175,000
Episode 2
Sex Sells
“If there's one known in fashion, it's that sex sells, so this week, the designers are being challenged to create their sexiest piece.”
For this challenge, I created a pleather backless dress with sheer sleeves and a peek-a-boo waistline. Classy and Sexy. Think Bond Girl.
Bought By Express! Winning Bid $60,000
Episode 3 Something for Everyone
“This week's challenge: the mentors are helping their teams create pieces that fit every body type.”
For this challenge, I designed a beautiful classic dress that flatters all sizes. I achieved this by color blocking the lining. If you look closely, you will see the side panels of the lining are dark orange and the front and back panels are tan creating this ‘thinner’ illusion of the silhouette.
Bought by Saks Fifth Avenue! Winning Bid $55,000
Episode 4
It’s Getting Hot in Here!
“The designers must work in teams to create unique summer looks for the Macy's, Saks and Express buyers. Team John chose Tropical Paradise.”
This was one of my favorite challenges! I found the most amazing fabric and created groovy drawstring lounge pants with hand painted beads. Perfect for a tropical vacation! However, the fit came out too slim on the final garments and was not practical to sell. Unfortunately no bids.
Episode 5
It Takes Two
“The remaining designers must work in pairs for the upcoming challenge to create one cohesive look from two separate garments despite style and personality clashes; the pair with the highest bid from the buyers are granted immunity from elimination.”
For this challenge, I was partnered with the talented Sylvia. I created a classic button down blouse with a mandarin collar and she created the pants to match. One of my favorite challenges, with all the trims, color blocking and mix & match of materials, the design possibilities were endless.
Bought by Saks Fifth Avenue! Winning Bid $150,000
Episode 6
Buyer’s Choice
“The buyers step in to work one-on-one with the remaining designers to help guide them in the process of preparing new pieces; after consultations with the buyers, some designers are left reeling and worried about what they're looking for.”
My toughest and final challenge! I met with the Buyers of Express & Saks. They both wanted a garment that had the black & white trend. I decided to create a classic blazer with a peplum flair. I felt this would please both buyers and their very different customers. Big Mistake! You can’t please everyone. The white blazer with the seersucker piping was my favorite. The black and white print is so far from my personal taste. If I could do it over again, I would have create a black and white ballgown for Saks Fifth Avenue!
No Offers!
No offer meant elimination… and so sad to leave!
THAT’S A WRAP!
What an Amazing Experience and Incredible Opportunity!
So many amazing Talented Designers, Buyer and Mentors.
