Project Runway review: Elegance shows restraint without being boring

PROJECT RUNWAY — “Elegance Is the New Black” Episode 1707 — Pictured: Models — (Photo by: Karolina Wojtasik/Bravo)

In this Project Runway review, the designers must think beyond the obvious choice for elegance. Who found a way to use restraint creatively?

In this week’s Project Runway episode a few twists came into play. First, this week is another Flash Sale challenge. While this twist is great for fans, it seems to impact the top and bottom looks. In some ways, these episodes are more about the sale-ability than pushing fashion forward.

Second, in this episode, the designers had individual inspirations. Each bag has a special item inside it (just like Brandon Maxwell used in a recent collection). Some designers used the inspiration well and others seem to have a little confusion. Still, it was nice to see a more individually tailored challenge.

As the episode opens, a few key points needed to drive the designers’ looks. Elegance is not just a gown. Nor, is elegance boring or dated. In a way, the look gives the woman a confidence in a modern, luxurious way.

In previous episodes, a few designers have had problems with restraint. Too many ideas pushed into a single look. Lastly, the designers need to work within the parameters of the challenge.

Additionally, Tessa got a lecture about working with a curvy model. Voicing her concern was not necessarily a smart choice. Brendan Maxwell made a comment that it is a designer’s job to make a woman feel confident. Any woman, any size, period. While the commentary was a little harsh, it was a good reminder to all the designers. Designs should celebrate the woman, not make her feel inadequate.

In a way, the “safe” designers were safe because they didn’t go beyond their particular design aesthetic. Garo made a corset. Tessa made separates. Sebastian made a very feminine dress. The designs were nice but didn’t push the boundaries.

For the top and bottom designers, it was another commentary of balance between creativity and boring. While finishing is said to be important, the judges continue to celebrate the designers who were willing to push the boundary. Truthfully, boring is not the new elegance.