The outside world doesn’t exist when you’re a contestant on the hit reality TV show, “Project Runway”.
Cell phones are immediately confiscated. No TV, newspapers and no contact with immediate family for at least five weeks.
“They literally block the windows. They don’t want you looking outside,” said Bert Keeter, a Season 9 contestant. "Project Runway" is currently airing its 11th season on the Lifetime cable channel.
Michael Costello, the Palm Springs finalist from Season 3, detailed a stairwell where contestants hang out waiting for that week’s episode to be taped.
“The sad thing is that we cannot talk to each other,” Costello said. “It’s really tough. We can sometimes sit down next to each other and not talk for 2 hours, sometimes 3 hours. Production has this word. It was the worst word ever. ‘Ice’. They would look at us and say ‘ice’. ‘Hard ice’ is when production was really upset with us.”
Costello and company don’t have to worry about mincing words anymore. For the third straight year, Costello has helped bring a mix of Project Runway designers like himself to Fashion Week El Paseo 2013 in Palm Desert. The 11 designers joining him this time include Elena Slivnyak, Joshua McKinley Cook, Morto Momolu, Mondo Guerra, Anthony Ryan, April Johnston, Viktor Luna, Seth Aaron, Fabio Costa, Gordena Gehlhausen, and Keeter.
They will show off their designs Wednesday night (March 20) followed by an after party at The Viceroy, and then return to the white tent on Larkspur Lane Thursday (March 21) for a trunk show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At Wednesday morning’s press conference in the white tent, attendees were interested in anything the TV cameras don’t reveal about the show and its cast.
Here’s a sampling of the questions and the responses.
What happens to the clothes you make during Project Runway?
Seth Aaron: “Everything is auctioned off immediately. The clothes that are produced by us go up for auction immediately after the show.”
“It’s clearly stated that these may or may not be finished,” joked Cook.
How did you go about applying for the show?
Anthony Ryan: If you are going to apply online, it’s literally a two-month process just to get it together. To get photographs, everything catalogued, a website to send to them. From there, you go to a private casting. I went to Dallas and they invited x-amount of people. There is a panel and you show them what you got, and they make cuts. You either get a call to come back or not, and then you get videotaped for an hour. From there, they won’t call you for like two months. Literally on Season 9, I got a call two weeks before I was supposed to leave for New York, and they said pack like you’re going for the summer, but you may be coming back because in our season, they brought in 20 and four were cut immediately. So I packed for three months thinking that I may come back in a week. So you basically pack your entire life up.”
Korto Momolu: “When I did it (on the Bravo series), it was actually like ‘American Idol’. I remember being on the streets in Times Square in front of the W. Everybody was there. Anyone could audition. You had to do your application part and have it with you. I remember this guy coming around and look at everyone’s stuff, and telling some people, “Honey, just go home”. You would actually see Timothy Gunn. They tell you right then and there if you are going on to the next round, and go home to make a video and you have two days.”
Do you actually go home when you are eliminated from the show?
Bert Keeter: “They don’t let you go home. They basically keep you sequestered. You all travel in a pack even if you are the first person voted off, you’re there five or six weeks. They separate you and you go down to the basem*nt and stay down there for 12 to 14 hours. So the people who watch the show can’t tell who is off the show. It’s torture.”
Is the drama for real? Do you really say those things about each other?
Mondo Guerra: “When you’re working so much, you’re so focused on the work and being in the room with everybody else. There is so much energy whether it’s negative or positive. When you go into that producer interview, it’s like therapy. You can let go and we do say certain things about certain people.”
Korto Momolu: “Imagine this whole front row, someone says you get to live together for five weeks, you don’t get to talk to your family so you have each other, you can’t talk to each other, so obviously you get into that confession room and they tell you someone said your skirt was kind of jank. So you go after the person and ask them if they said your shirt was jank. You just go for the jugular.”
Anthony Ryan: “What do you classify as drama? It’s you getting us fully. If you want to see me, you’re going to see every solid inch of me if that makes sense. We’re filmed 24-7. So if you see me have a breakdown, I’m having a breakdown. It’s not necessarily drama, it’s me being a person. I don’t know if the producers love it; they just want us to be ourselves.”
Rob Bagshaw, who created Project Runway All Stars with executive producers Jonathan Murray and Harvey Weinstein, said the show doesn’t intentionally focus on the extreme behaviors.
“We shoot an episode every 2-3 days, so there’s not a lot of sleep,” Bagshaw said. “Not a lot of time off camera. Everything that happens is real. The whole experience is to elevate the work that they do. We do challenges that push their creativity to deliver their best work. In the moment, because it is tough, it may not feel that way for the designers, but ultimately when you look at the show you are either proud of the work or you may be slightly embarrassed, but it shows a full experience. At the end of the day, we’re funny, rude, intelligent, witty, embarrassed, stupid, but all of that has to be condensed from 12 people into 43 minutes of TV every week. So of course we’re going to see the extremes of someone’s behavior. Hopefully, we always show the truthful side of everyone and it’s always in context.”
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FAQs
Runway doesn't pay the contestants, and many must quit their jobs to be on the show. The winner may get a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a new car, $50,000 in design software, and $100,000 in seed money to start a new clothing line, but not a cent for groceries.
Why are Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn no longer on Project Runway? ›
The pair have jumped to Amazon for “Making the Cut,” a new competitive reality series. “One of the reasons Heidi and I wanted to fly and saw the opportunity of Amazon as a brand new threshold is because we were in lockstep with ['Project Runway,']” Gunn told Variety. “We were stuck with the same vocabulary.
What happens to all the clothes on Project Runway? ›
What happens to the clothes you make during Project Runway? Seth Aaron: “Everything is auctioned off immediately. The clothes that are produced by us go up for auction immediately after the show.” “It's clearly stated that these may or may not be finished,” joked Cook.
Did Karlie Kloss quit Project Runway? ›
Supermodel Karlie Kloss hosted beloved reality competition program 'Project Runway' for two seasons. Here's why her time as host has sadly come to an end. Like a picturesque fashion illustration, model-turned-television-personality Karlie Kloss boasts a resume that both impresses and inspires.
Who is the richest Runway Model? ›
#1. Kim Kardashian. Kim Kardashian may not be known primarily as a model, but she has walked the runway several times, including The Heart Truth Fashion show in New York City in 2010 and the Balenciaga show during Paris Haute Couture Week in 2022.
Do runway models get to keep the clothes? ›
Despite getting to wear the most beautiful, expensive, glamorous outfits, models unfortunately don't actually get to keep the clothes. Sometimes you may get lucky and get to keep something, but this rarely happens. 7.
Why do runway models not wear bras? ›
While bras can be incredibly expensive – and warrant their own fashion shows – the undergarment can also hinder an outfit. Many designers opt for their models to go braless on the runway, even if they're wearing a sheer top.
Who is the most successful designer from Project Runway? ›
Christian Siriano Is The Most Successful Project Runway Alum
Undoubtedly the most successful Project Runway contestant is Christian Siriano, who was named the winner of Project Runway season 4 at 21 years old.
How often does rent the runway add dresses? ›
Mornings are the best time to search for new arrivals.
Rent the Runway updates its clothing options on a weekly basis, but mornings are the best time to browse, according to a spokesperson for the company.
Who told Heidi Klum to quit Project Runway? ›
Making the Cut's Tim Gunn Taught Heidi Klum How to Fence: 'She Beat the Pants off of Me! ' "Our imagination was bigger than what we were allowed to do," Klum said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Argentina native Cecilia decided to quit the show on the fourth episode. That was after she alienated Marie Claire's fashion director Nina Garcia in a challenge that involved making the judge an outfit that she could wear both at work as well as at an industry event at night.
Why did Meg Ferguson leave Project Runway? ›
You made it extremely uncomfortable. You talk, talk, talk, yap, yap, yap, for the same s—, and then you just went and did it to him,” he said. “And I lost respect for you for that.” Citing the “intensity of the competition,” Ferguson then decided to leave the show for the sake of her mental health.
Did Tim Gunn get paid for Project Runway? ›
Gunn said he wasn't paid for the first two seasons of "Project Runway." Despite being considered one of the best parts of the show, Gunn said he didn't get paid to be a mentor on the first two seasons of "Project Runway."
Why did Michael Kors leave Project Runway? ›
The New York native stepped away from the series due to the demands of his fashion empire. In a statement from Lifetime, which aired the show from 2009 to 2017, the network confirmed that Michael was simply too busy in his role as chief creative officer for his brand to serve as a full-time judge.
What did mychael Knight died from? ›
Who is the richest black supermodel? ›
Who is the Highest-Paid Black Model? Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks are thought to be the richest black female supermodels .
How much do Victoria Secret Angels make? ›
How much does a Model make at Victoria's Secret in the United States? The estimated average pay for Model at this company in the United States is $17.56 per hour, which is 27% below the national average.
Who is the oldest runway model? ›
For Carmen Dell'Orefice, age truly is just a number. At age 91, the silver-haired stunner is the world's oldest working supermodel.
Why do runway models not smile? ›
Modeling today is more about doing the job well than ever before. Smiling is believed to distract attention from the clothes, which should be the focal point of attention during a fashion show.
Are models allowed to smile on the runway? ›
Catwalks have long been a smile-free zone – well, you can smile at the end when the designer pops up to present you with a bunch of flowers, but during the show, the smile is a no-no. In fashion editorials, too, smiles are like steak and chips on a model's plate: very rare.
Smiling is a very personal expression, and it allows the personality of the model to show. But most fashion designers want their models to be “walking clothes hangers,” as close to being an unperson as possible. Hence, the neutral, impersonal expression.
Do models wear thongs? ›
Underwear. Also mentioned earlier, many models bring a nude thong in case they need to try on an outfit where underwear may be visible.
Do runway models smoke? ›
Many female and male models may smoke because it's believed to be an effective approach to weight loss, but in reality the picture is more complicated than that. Smoking among professional models may be common, but it isn't a good idea.
Why some models are flat chested? ›
The best designers are those who manage to clothe a woman beautifully while making an artistic statement. For that reason, models have small breasts, because a big bust would drown out any subtle message that could be weaved into the fabric and form.
Was Kim Kardashian on Project Runway? ›
Read all. In the first ever outdoor challenge, the runway show is held outside in New York for all to see. Kim Kardashian serves as guest judge.
Who is the oldest designer on Project Runway? ›
At age 64, Nancy made history as the oldest ever designer on the show and paved her way to the Project Runway finale through her creativity, determination, and quest for melding sustainability and inclusivity.
Did Heidi Klum invent Project Runway? ›
A true fashion icon, Heidi helped to create Project Runway and served as a judge, host, and executive producer for all 16 of its original seasons.
What happens to dresses after runway? ›
If not, go ahead and . A: The garments that we see created each week are auctioned off by a site that sells products from TV and film. The garments from each show go up for auction after that episode airs.
How long does it take to get clothes from Rent the Runway? ›
Membership: Membership orders typically arrive 2-3 business days after your order is placed. One-Time Rentals: Orders typically ship 1—2 days prior to your delivery date. If your order arrives early, it does not affect your return date. Purchases: Purchases will arrive within 2—5 business days.
Do you get your money back with Rent the Runway? ›
Our Policy
Purchases–excluding items marked as final sale–may be sent back for a refund within 7 days of delivery. Refunds will be credited to your account, generally within 3-5 days of arriving back at our warehouse. A $5.95 restocking fee (+tax) will be deducted from the refunded amount for each returned item.
More Stories by Marisa Guthrie
Nina Garcia (left) and Michael Kors (rolling up the sleeve of Heidi Klum's Christian Siriano dress) disagreed with Klum about who should win season eight, but, of course, they're all still friends.
Are Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum friends? ›
Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn Dish on Their 18-Year Friendship and 'Making the Cut' The hosts of the hottest design competition series talk to Shondaland about their first meeting, working with Amazon, and their love of fashion.
How long does it take to film a season of Project Runway? ›
A: Just over a month: 32 days. That's according to Tim Gunn, who said during a Washington Post chat that they "tape for 32 consecutive days — no breaks! We're all done in by the end, including me!" With 11 episode to shoot in that time, that leaves about three days for each challenge.
Why was Claire disqualified on Project Runway? ›
As using a measuring tape outside of the contestant workroom is expressly against the rules of Project Runway, Claire had her previous win revoked and was disqualified from the competition. The Project Runway season 16 cheating scandal wasn't the show's first either.
What happened to Gunn on Project Runway? ›
Project Runway has begun its 17th season on Bravo. Iconic mentor Tim Gunn, however, is no longer part of the show. Tim left the show to partner with his Project Runway cohost, Heidi Klum, on a new Amazon Prime Video series.
What happened to Melissa from Project Runway? ›
She has been modeling since the age of thirteen, and now she mainly models in New York City and Paris, France, but she considers San Jose, California home. She was a model contestant on the first season of Project Runway in 2004 and made it to the final three contestants. She was the youngest model on the show.
What happened to Joshua from Project Runway? ›
He is currently developing his own line and continues to design for his private clients. Joshua McKinley became the latest designer to be eliminated from Project Runway: All Stars season two in one of the design competition's biggest twists ever.
What happened to Ken from Project Runway All Stars? ›
In the end, Laurence finished among the bottom three five times and finished eighth place. The show has brought him back for "Project Runway All Stars" debuting Thursday, February 11 at 9 p.m. Since the show's taping, he has since moved to Atlanta.
What happened to Andy on Project Runway? ›
Ari South, whose fashion line uses her former name, Andy South, was a top three finalist on season eight of Project Runway. Since her success on the show, she has been designing for Neiman Marcus in Hawaii and has opened her own store in Honolulu.
How much does Dior pay runway models? ›
How much does a Model make at Christian Dior in the United States? Average Christian Dior Model hourly pay in the United States is approximately $22.36, which is 7% below the national average.
Kendall Jenner, $40 million
With more than 200 million followers, Jenner charges up to $700,000 per post. In the past year, she has earned a reported $40m, making her the highest-paid model for the third year running.
How much do Victoria's Secret runway models make? ›
Victoria's Secret Models are among the highest paid models in the world. These women make anywhere between $100,000-$1,000,000 a year, on average. However, the paychecks increase due to seniority and fame. Some of the most experienced models, like Gisele Bundchen and Adriana Lima, earn significantly more.
How much do Louis Vuitton runway models make? ›
Jan 08, 2022 · Runway models are often how much do louis vuitton models make compensated hourly, and the pay isn't always as glamorous as the job. According to Cosmopolitan, runway models can make anywhere from $0 to $20,000 or more for a single show.
What is the highest paying model agency? ›
Which Companies Pay Professional Models The Most?
| Rank | Company | Average Salary |
|---|
| 1 | Click Model Management - New York | $312,090 |
| 2 | Marilyn's Agency | |
Estimated average pay
The estimated middle value of the base pay for Model at this company in the United States is $19.09 per hour.
How much do Chanel models get paid? ›
$37. The estimated total pay for a Fashion Model at Chanel is $37 per hour. This number represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The estimated base pay is $26 per hour.
How much does a Victoria Secret angel make? ›
How much does a Model make at Victoria's Secret in the United States? The estimated average pay for Model at this company in the United States is $17.56 per hour, which is 27% below the national average.
Do models get paid to walk the runway? ›
Runway Shows: According to Rodney Harris, the owner of Atlanta-based company Slamm Management, a new fashion model may not be paid at all for their work on a runway. You could earn between $200–$1,000, or, instead of payment, get to keep some clothing from the show.
Who makes more money Bella or Gigi? ›
Bella Hadid has an estimated net worth of $25 million, which puts her $4 million behind her older sister, because of her work with high-profile brands including Tom Ford, Diane von Fürstenberg, Tommy Hilfiger, Moschino, Missoni, Balmain, Nike, and Victoria's Secret PINK.
Who is the highest paid Victoria Secret model of all time? ›
Its models are called Angels and the richest is Gisele Bundchen. Throughout the years she worked for Victoria Secrets, the Brazilian managed to make about 400 million dollars, but who are the other models that follow Bundchen.
If you are traveling to perform a specific job, the client will almost always pay for your travel, accommodation, and meals. This type of job is called a “direct booking." A good modeling agency will always do its best to negotiate with the client to have your expenses covered.
Who is the most famous Victoria Secret model? ›
1. Veronica Webb. You might also know her from: Her early work with Revlon, making her the first African-American supermodel to win a contract with a cosmetics brand.
How much do runway models weigh? ›
Their weight should typically be between 161 and 205 pounds, with a chest size of 41” to 45”. Male measurements: Depending on the client, men working in the plus-size market will generally need to have a chest larger than 42” and a waist larger than 34”.
How many hours a week does a runway model work? ›
There is no set schedule for working as a fashion model. At times fashion models work much more than 40 hours a week, and at times they may have little work and work only part-time hours.
How tall is the average runway model? ›
The standard height requirement for a female fashion model is 5 feet and 9 inches to 6 feet. For men, the required height is 5 feet and 11 inches to 6 feet and 3 inches. You might have heard of top fashion models Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss.
