Project Runway review: Powerful women don’t need costumes

Project Runway‘s top looks of the week

Overall, even the top looks were a little confusing. While the big push was to avoid the costume, these looks seem to just push the boundaries. It appears that the reason why these three looks were so successful was because they represented powerful female characters.

Garo took a more expected approach to this challenge. As a corset designer, it made sense that his look was borderline dominatrix. Yes, the look was powerful, strong and dominate, but it almost crossed the line. It was as if she had a little bit of armor to take on a persona.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1706 — Pictured: Designed by Garo Spao — (Photo by: Karolina Wojtasik/Bravo)

As for the point of the challenge, this design hit the mark. It had a story and it made the woman feel powerful. But, it didn’t push the boundaries or push forward the conversation about the female gamer. Although it was a top design, it wasn’t the top design.

Tessa took a totally different approach to this challenge. Her character showed that a woman doesn’t have to be overtly sexually to assert her power. It showed that power and even femininity comes from within a person, not from the clothes that she wears.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1706 — Pictured: Designed by Tessa Clark — (Photo by: Karolina Wojtasik/Bravo)

Still, this design with the apron and flour bag accessory was a little strange. In a way, it seemed to channel Rosie the Riveter. It was thoughtful and pieces were wearable, but it was totally out of the box.

The final top design was Hester’s somewhat quirky, kitschy and totally represented her aesthetic. It looked almost as if Hester had stepped into the video game world. While the look was representative of an authentic character, it is questionable if that character was a powerful one.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1706 — Pictured: Designed by Hester Sunshine — (Photo by: Karolina Wojtasik/Bravo)

There is something to be said for Hester staying true to her convictions. That ideal is powerful. Still, these looks are a getting a little repetitive in a way. It seems like Hester, herself, keeps walking the runway week after week. But, the judges seem to appreciate her style. It could be that Hester is different. Some people may debate if that different is good or bad. Still, she is applauded for standing out.

Hester won this week’s Project Runway challenge. She receives immunity going into next week. It will be curious to see how far she pushes the design next week.