Project Runway season 18 episode 13 review: An unlikely outcome

With the pinnacle of fashion within their reach, the final four Project Runway designers pushed their creativity to new levels. Was it enough to reach New York Fashion Week?

In Project Runway season 18, both the fashion designers and fans have come to expect the unexpected this season. From the first episode double elimination to the Siriano Save, the twists and turns have been many. With the final four looking to present their collections at New York Fashion Week, another surprise was on the horizon.

When the designers returned to the workroom, Karlie presented yet another twist. After this week’s judging there could be several different outcomes. Two, three or all four designers could present at New York Fashion Week. It was not the outcome that the fashion designers wanted to hear.

To determine who would or would not be showing up at New York Fashion Week, the designers needed to present three looks from their collection. They could choose any looks that they wanted. Unlike previous seasons, there was no last-minute additional look or required redesign.

Still, there is an art to choosing the three looks. While it could be great to pick looks that need feedback, those adventurous looks could get a designer eliminated. On the other hand, going too safe could backfire as well.

Truthfully, the designers might have had a clue as to which looks would be smart choices. When they last left the runway, the judges gave each designer specific feedback. Whether it was restraint, proper styling or good tailoring, each designer was given a task. Maybe the judges were looking to see how well the designers listened to the feedback.

Looking at the designers’ collections, Nancy’s was probably the most unexpected. Throughout the season, she was a little scattered. For this collection, she was quite on task.

Overall, Nancy had the best concept to her collection. Although not her phrasing, it was a celebration of powerful women. From her adaptive design to her tailored pantsuit, she found a way to blend her vision into something different for Project Runway.

Although the judges faulted her for some over embellishment, they seemed to applaud her choices. Overall, Nancy listened to the judges feedback. Granted, it wasn’t perfect, but there were many positives.

Throughout the season, Victoria has been one of the judges’ favorites. Although many of her looks have been similar, they seem to like her aesthetic. In this collection, she took a different approach. While the judges appreciated her use of separates, they felt a few looks did not look expensive enough. Whether it was poor tailoring or unfortunate fabric choice, it was not a glowing review.

Additionally, Victoria was dinged for using her “logo” throughout the designs. In a way, the judges preferred Nancy’s wine purse to Victoria’s forced branding (for a brand that no one knows).

Still, there were aspects of Victoria’s three looks that the judges liked — although the knit caps were unusual. It seemed strange that the judges liked those ideas.

Continuing a trend of the whole Project Runway season 18, Sergio wanted to make a political statement with his collection. Although his designs are always impeccably crafted, his messages can seem overreaching. Sometimes the clothes need to speak for themselves.

The theme of Sergio’s collection was the melting glaciers, which was another new topic for him. While the color palate seemed to go from icy to dark, the reference to melting ice caps seemed a little forced. A few pieces seemed more Victorian cowgirl than global warming.

Still, Sergio’s finale piece is simply stunning. Said to weigh over 40 pounds, the meticulous detail to make that gown look effortless deserves attention. It seemed to float down the runway. Although the judges felt that the styling might have been a little “old” that gown was red carpet ready.

Lastly, Geoffrey did not disappoint with his collection. Although he had a few hiccups long the way, he definitely pushed the envelope with his look. The world might not be ready for a boob sleeve, but these looks will get people talking.

Out of the four collections, Geoffrey’s is easily the most artistic. Whether it is the over-sized puffer jackets or the creative shapes, he has an eye to make fashion exciting. These looks might not be walking down the street, but they instantly get a reaction.

Since Geoffrey was so far behind, he had fit issues. It will be interesting to see if that technical flaw causes his downfall. Still, it seemed that the judges were being a little strict.

In the end, all the collections had both positive and negative feedback. There was no clear winner or absolute failure.

So, what was the final outcome? Which fashion designers will be presenting at New York Fashion Week? No one knows! The episode ended with To Be Continued….

Given that ending, it seems likely that all four fashion designers will be presenting at New York Fashion Week. It would be cruel to make fans wait and wait, only to know that there was elimination.

With the looks that have been shown so far, Geoffrey looks like the front runner. Although, the numerous clips of him crying are not good. Remember all the puffy-eyed videos of Brittany when she was eliminated?

If Project Runway is really looking to make a statement, the title will go to Nancy. She has a great story, and her inclusion designs deserve recognition.

Everyone will have to watch the Project Runway season 18 finale on Thursday, March 12 to see which fashion designer earns the title.

Who do you think will win Project Runway season 18? Will the judges make the right choice?