Hot Mama Daily » Project Runway

Model Behavior: Top Model/Project Runway

Tracy Hopkins — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 12:00:14 +0000

I’m particularly fond of reality TV shows that focus on models and fashion. During Cycle 13 of “America’s Next Top Model,” a benevolent Tyra is giving short girls (contestants are 5′7 and under) a chance to shine on the catwalk. And the “Project Runway” spinoff, “Models of the Runway,” shows what happens after the aspiring models leave the runway.

Bianca (5'7) has high hopes on America's Next Top Model - Cycle 13

After watching both shows this week, however, I noticed a common thread. Beyond the obvious fact they’re both about models, each reality show has a strong-willed black female “character” who has been pegged as the the witch of the model house.

On “Top Model,” it’s Bianca, who likes to complain about her makeup and wardrobe and whose photos have been consistently hard -looking and unattractive. On “Models of the Runway,” Fatma, a striking African woman, is the resident troublemaker prone to hyperbole (”What will become of me?” she pondered after her designer picked another model).

Initially, I also labeled these ladies as problem children. The latest episodes of each show, however, have revealed that although Bianca and Fatma have a flair for the dramatic, they’re also sensitive and real, unlike some of their catty counterparts.

Just when I was really starting to like her, Fatma was sent home. But Bianca finally opened up about her abusive relationship and showed her softer side during the last “Top Model” photo shoot. Let’s hope she can maintain her improved model behavior.

Image credit: Lifetime.com, America’s Next Top Model

Post from: Hot Mama Daily

Project Runway is Back Next Week…Finally!

Tracy Hopkins — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 11:00:17 +0000

I can’t remember how long its been since the last season of “Project Runway” aired. What I do remember is that under an even stricter shroud of secrecy than usual, the three Season 6 finalists of the promising designer show debuted their collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in February, months before their season has aired.

That’s a first. So is the excellent reality show’s move from Bravo to Lifetime, and a location change from New York City to Los Angeles. Will it be as good? I hope so and will be glued to the flat screen in my hotel room in Vancouver on Aug. 20.

After glancing at the Season 6 designers’ bio and portfolios on MyLifetime.com, here are my top picks:

Shirin Askari

Shirin Askari, 24, of Richardson, Texas. I want this skirt in black, like right now!

Ra'mon Lawrence Coleman

Ra’mon Lawrence Coleman, 31, of Chicago, Illinois. I love the modern silhouettes.

Epperson

Epperson, 50, of New York, New York. This Brooklyn designer has styled Erykah Badu and I’m feeling his theatrical, ethnic flair.

Image credit: MyLifetime.com

Post from: Hot Mama Daily

Are You An “Ugly Betty” Fan?

Tracy Hopkins — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 13:37:02 +0000

I watch a lot of TV. Okay, I watch way too much TV, which is why I was hesitant to add yet another program to my weekly lineup. Last night, however, I watched ABC and Salma Hayek’s “Ugly Betty” for the first time (I know, I’m like how many seasons behind?). My best friend Cindy told me she thought I’d enjoy the show since it revolves around the fickle fashion world and costars Vanessa Williams as a diva, Anna Wintour-like fashion magazine editor. She was right!

America Ferrera has been on my adorable actress list since I saw her in “Real Women Have Curves,” and she was the only bright spot in the otherwise blah “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.” And she’s loveable as awkward editorial assistant Betty, who by the way may be geeky and braces-challenged, but is definitely not ugly. I don’t know if I’ll become an “Ugly Betty” fanatic (I’ll save that for “Lost” and “Project Runway”), but I plan to order the show’s first season from Netflix and take it from there.

Photo credit: Bauer Griffin

Post from: Hot Mama Daily

Project Runway Designer’s Elegant Holiday Dresses

Tracy Hopkins — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 12:25:01 +0000

“Audrey” dress, Ivory silk brocade, $425

”Madge” dress, Silk Crepe w/silk charmeuse draped scarf in the back, $375

I’m a huge “Project Runway” fan, so I’m thrilled whenever I get the chance to interview one of the show’s elite designers. This week I caught up with Season 2 contestant Emmett McCarthy, a former men’s wear designer who has taken the women’s wear industry by storm with his Emmett McCarthy/ EMc2 collection and New York City boutique.

Emmett obviously loves to make women look beautiful, and his timeless dresses are divine on women of color (see the accompanying photos). Here’s what the fab designer had to say about holiday party frocks, the season’s hottest accessories, dressing in a recession, and more:

Hot Mama: What is the trend for this year’s holiday season’s cocktail party fashions?

Emmett McCarthy: This year’s trend is simple silhouettes with deep rich jewel tone colors, belted dresses and tunics for comfort. This holiday the trend is to replace black with deep purple or inky blues.

HM: What is your signature as a designer?

EM: The Emmett McCarthy EMc2 signature is all about updated classic style. Clean lines, flawless fit and tailoring, and exquisite fabrics all at affordable prices.

HM: What accessories compliment rather than distract from a holiday party dress?

EM: Clutches have been [making a comeback] and are prominent this holiday season. Larger clutches and patent leathers dress up any outfit.

HM: In this economic climate, how can women justify splurging on designer clothes?

EM: I believe even in bad economic times women want to feel good about themselves and look good. Investing in a classic dress even in a down economy is reasonable if the dress has versatility to wear again to a wedding or other special occasions.

Photo credit: Emmett McCarthy

Post from: Hot Mama Daily