Project Runway season 17 finale review: A strong story earns the title

In a stunning Project Runway season 17 finale, this season’s winner accomplished a huge goal in the final collection by telling his story.

The Project Runway season 17 winner may not have been a huge shocker, but the finale episode impressed fans with impeccable fashions. As this season set the goal to revitalize the popular reality fashion competition, the finale episode succeeded in pushing the fashion conversation in a new direction.

From the beginning of Project Runway season 17 till the finale runway shows, it was clear that these designers and this competition was at a higher level. In many ways, the designers who didn’t want to make a statement or push the conversation forward quickly left the competition.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1714 — Pictured: (l-r) Garo Sparo, Hester Sunshine, Sebastian Grey — (Photo by: Barbara Nitke/Bravo)

With Hester, Garo and Sebastian showing their collections in the finale, fashion fans knew that these fashion shows would make people take notice. Whether these looks fit your own personal aesthetic or not, there was an element in each collection that could be adapted into anyone’s wardrobe.

Going into the finale, there seemed to be a proposition that two designers had the judges’ favor. While Garo is a masterful technician, it was clear that Nina gave him the most difficult challenge last week. Even if he had the best show of his life, it would be hard to convince the judges that he deserved the title.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1714 — Pictured: Designed by Garo Sparo — (Photo by: Barbara Nitke/Bravo)

As Garo’s collection started down the runway, his vision was clear. Yes, he celebrated all women and their curves. Still, his galactic glamour, cosmic journey had some flaws. A few errors seemed uncharacteristic for Garo. The fitting issues and zipper problems probably sunk his chances.

Still, the exposure that Garo receives from being on Project Runway will be beneficial for his fashion line. In many ways, he didn’t have to win for this experience to be a success. His brand is re-vitalized and he probably even has gained a larger audience for his brand.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1714 — Pictured: Designed by Hester Sunshine — (Photo by: Barbara Nitke/Bravo)

Hester and her collection embodied the idea of be true to yourself and true to what you believe in. Each and every look could have been something directly out of her closet.

While Hester might push the conversation a little too far outside of the wearable, her talent is immense. From her keen stylistic eye to her flare for prints, Hester is on the cusp of greatness.

Even though Hester has been involved in the fashion industry previously, Project Runway allowed her to bring her vision to life. She is the shining example that everyone should want “extra” in their lives. Still, Hester needs a little more time to round out her looks. While there was a definite vibe on the runway, she needs to captivate the audience beyond the big moments.

For example, Hester’s opening look was a huge statement. But, that look needed to be followed by something as strong. The juxtaposition of over the top followed by quasi-relatable was somewhat confusing. In some ways, Hester’s ability to style and create a “girl” needs to be applauded. She found a way to make her dream vision come each and every time.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1714 — Pictured: Designed by Sebastian Grey — (Photo by: Barbara Nitke/Bravo)

As this Project Runway season unfolded, everyone knew that Sebastian was going to be in the finale. Beyond his affirming story of janitor to fashion designer, Sebastian could craft elegant, sophisticated looks that any woman would love to wear.

The biggest concern with Sebastian was that he didn’t know how to convey a story. Fashion goes beyond an impeccable gown or a drop the mike runway moment. Those designs need to create a story about the woman wearing those looks.

In many ways, women aren’t just buying a piece of clothing, they are buying a feeling, a connection and a desire. You want to look like that woman from the magazine or become that woman on vacation.

Finally, in the last runway show, Sebastian achieve creating that story. His runway show was filled with moment after moment.

PROJECT RUNWAY — Episode 1714 — Pictured: (l-r) Jamall Osterholm, Tessa Clark, Sebastian Grey, Garo Sparo, Nadine Ralliford, Frankie Lewis, Lela Orr, Venny Etienne, Cavanagh Baker, Rakan Aldeen, Bishme Cromartie — (Photo by: Barbara Nitke/Bravo)

In many ways, the whole show celebrated the ying and the yang. Soft and flowy meets strength and edgy. It allowed the woman wearing the clothes to shine yet the designs still spoke volumes.

Additionally, Sebastian was able to convey part of his story through the collection. With the title “reminiscence,” these clothes have a nod to the humble yet feel chic. It was clear that Sebastian has the most potential.

The winner of Project Runway season 17 was Sebastian. In a way, his collection showcased the strength inside himself. Dreams are possible, if you can find a way to share your story through your passion.

Did the Project Runway judges get it right? Do you think that another season, like this season, will be returning to Bravo?