The judges love Leanne’s collection too. “Unfettered” is Kors’ word. Nina likes that Leanne “thought about sustainable fabrics.” Tim likes the elegance and sophistication. Nina and Kors like that Leanne made an elegant collection out of renewable materials; “It could’ve looked granola. It didn’t at all.” They worry that she will become “stuck in the petals” however.
Tim loves Korto’s silhouettes and how she brought in her African heritage. Michael thinks Korto is at her best when she edits herself a bit. He loves the green gown, as “deceptively simple” but with “enough of a twist to keep my interest.” Nina notices that Korto has a “gift” for dressing “many sizes.” That is no small ability (pun intended) since almost every designer in the program’s history has melted down over even a mention of “plus size.” Also, Leanne’s “old lady dresses” comment comes to mind. I agree Korto could make any woman feel beautiful and confident and that is indeed a great gift to have.
The three designers return for the verdict. Here it is. Heidi tells Kenley she is out, but will have “a bright future in this industry.” Backstage, she hugs her family and cries. Her parting vlog comment is “it’s bull...” Nice! Now, it’s between Korto and Leanne. Both stand quietly, hands clasped in front. “Congratulations... Leanne,” Heidi announces. Leanne Marshall is the season five winner.
Leanne closes her eyes and smiles. Korto’s head drops forward. Heidi tells Korto she is “very talented” and “really understands what women want.” After the double air kiss of doom, Korto gives Leanne a warm hug and retreats backstage. She bursts into tears, and her family comforts her. Heidi walks onto the Parsons runway and hugs Leanne. Tim hugs and kisses her. Nina and Michael remain seated, though Nina says, “That was a beautiful collection.” Tia runs onto the runway cheering. Leanne’s family also joins her on the runway. Looks like a mom, a dad, a brother, and her boyfriend Nathan, but we’ve only ‘met’ Nathan on the show before so it’s hard to be sure.
“My dreams are happening — it’s unreal,” Leanne vlogs. She and Nathan hug on the runway. Congratulations, Leanne. For a quiet sort who looked like an Adrian Tomine illustration, and blended in so much few could tell her apart from Jennifer in the beginning, you raced up from behind. Talk about a dark horse. Well done.
And that’s it for season five recaps - looks like Bravo’s Project Runway Reunion Show won’t air. So thanks for reading along. It’s been fun writing the coverage. For the two ‘losing’ designers — you haven’t really lost; you still are highly talented people who add beauty to the world by virtue of your creations. And if you want to return to reality TV, there’s always this show. Stay creative!
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