Nick Verreos's Blog, page 58

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS: Ep. 9

  Nick Verreos "Project Runway" Season 15 "Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube, Episode 9




Hello "Project Runway" fans! It's time for this week's RECAP of Lifetime Network's Season 15 "Project Runway" . This week, the Challenge involved creating a look for a loved one as part of the AARP Challenge .  It was an emotional episode, and quite nice to not have some of that nasty inter-designer drama.



Here's what I thought were my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode:








AARP Challenge--Tim Gunn and Barbara Shipley, Senior VP of Brand Integration, AARP 


#1....OMG! Go On AARP! When it was announced that this was the AARP Challenge, my first thought was "WHUUUTTT??!!"...But when the designer's friends and family entered the workroom and the tears started flowing, I was like, "Done & Done!". To put a SUPER-SIZED CHERRY on top of the cake, AARP upped the ante by dolling out a cash prize of $25,000 to the Winning Designer...AND, an additional $25,000 to the Winning Loved-One!






Go On AARP!! Make it rain!





Tears and Hugs--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#2....OMG! Family Inside Peek! One of the best parts of this episode was that we got an "Inside Peek" into some of the designer's personal history and, more specifically, their family relationships....Starting with Cornelius and Nathalia: They were still kind of in "Kiddie-Land", having their mommies whip them into shape and keeping them on track. Jenni was having a difficult time being the designer and not the eye-rolling teenage daughter, and Mah-Jing revealed his complicated relationship with his Mom while showing that they shared an Artistic Gene, which they were able to channel into a FABULOUS Collaboration.






Finish a Hem!--"Project Runway" judges Nina Garcia, Zac Posen and Heidi Klum--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#3....OMG! You Better Step It Up! Not often do we see a 2-Day Challenge on Project Runway, so when you are afforded the opportunity of having an extra 8 HOUR workday, you better have your Hems Stitched and your Buttons Sewn!! As soon as Day 2 started, I could tell that there was some trouble brewin'...I'M LOOKING AT YOU NATALIA! From my experience, when you're given that valuable extra time, you think you have all the time in the world, but every minute counts on Project Runway and there is no time for an extra trip to the snack table! Believe me, the judges do not look kindly on an unfinished garment, ESPECIALLY for a 2-day Challenge!






Polygamist Wife Couture: Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube




#4....OMG! UFFFF! The Bottom 3 Were A Mess! Let's start with Jenni: I'm sure a psychologist may be better suited to evaluate this one, but to my no-Psychology Degree self, it seemed as if she regressed into her childhood while designing for her mom, since it looked like an outfit for an 18 year-old Jenni! Erin was battling between her Mormom roots, and Modern Aesthetic, ending up with an outfit better suited for a Polygamist Wife Going Out on the Town!






No...and No:  Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube


And then, there was Nathalia: Her not-finished separates were UNATTRACTIVE and OVERWHELMING for her Petite Mom, swallowing her nice figure. To me, Nathalia and Erin really lucked out in being safe this week, especially with those two crazy ensembles.








  Mariachi Fabulosa:   Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube






Mijo and Mami--Designer Rik and mom Delia--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#5....OMG! Rik & Delia: Too Cute For Words! The moment Tim started his Critique with Rik and his mom Delia, I thought "Oh PLEEEEASE Make them be the Winners!!??" Rik's tweed cropped jacket and shift dress with Mariachi-inspired stitching and Oh-So-Touching red heart were the PERFECT combination of Rik's aesthetic and age-appropriate sophistication! CONGRATULATIONS Mijo, and Mami!! Now...Save some of that cash prize for y'alls retirement funds!



And now...her's my MyLifetime.com RECAP for this Episode:






Season 15, Episode 9 Recap: A Family Affair




One of the wonderful things about fashion is that it can be
used to reinvent yourself and this was the theme for this week’s challenge:
designing an outfit for the next chapter of a loved one’s life. Instead of
silly workroom drama, there were tears of joy and lots of money involved. Get
your Kleenexes out because it’s time for family makeovers on “Project Runway”!



After last week’s “Tim Gunn Save” of Cornelius, everyone was
on pins and needles as to how he and his nemesis Dexter would interact on this
first day following his comeback. Before too much shade was thrown, Tim Gunn
enters bringing with him Barbara Shipley, senior vice president of brand
integration for AARP. Shipley explains how AARP helps people 50 years+
re-imagine the next chapters of their lives. You can almost see the
20-something year olds having thought bubbles of, “Boy that’s OLD!” as she says
50. She then announces that they’ve brought some “very special people” who are
starting the next chapter of their lives to help inspire the designers. On cue,
some of the designers’ mommies, a daughter and a couple of besties enter the
workroom to much jubilation.



After the tears have been wiped, Barbara puts a MAJOR
exclamation point on the challenge by declaring that the winning designer will
get $25,000 and in addition, the winning loved one will also receive $25,000,
all from AARP. Two things: 1) Wow, and...



Click HERE to continue reading on MyLifetime.com

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS

  Nick Verreos "Project Runway" Season 15 "Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube, Episode 9




Hello "Project Runway" fans! It's time for this week's RECAP of Lifetime Network's Season 15 "Project Runway" . This week, the Challenge involved creating a look for a loved one as part of the AARP Challenge .  It was an emotional episode, and quite nice to not have some of that nasty inter-designer drama.



Here's what I thought were my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode:








AARP Challenge--Tim Gunn and Barbara Shipley, Senior VP of Brand Integration, AARP 


#1....OMG! Go On AARP! When it was announced that this was the AARP Challenge, my first thought was "WHUUUTTT??!!"...But when the designer's friends and family entered the workroom and the tears started flowing, I was like, "Done & Done!". To put a SUPER-SIZED CHERRY on top of the cake, AARP upped the ante by dolling out a cash prize of $25,000 to the Winning Designer...AND, an additional $25,000 to the Winning Loved-One!






Go On AARP!! Make it rain!





Tears and Hugs--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#2....OMG! Family Inside Peek! One of the best parts of this episode was that we got an "Inside Peek" into some of the designer's personal history and, more specifically, their family relationships....Starting with Cornelius and Nathalia: They were still kind of in "Kiddie-Land", having their mommies whip them into shape and keeping them on track. Jenni was having a difficult time being the designer and not the eye-rolling teenage daughter, and Mah-Jing revealed his complicated relationship with his Mom while showing that they shared an Artistic Gene, which they were able to channel into a FABULOUS Collaboration.






Finish a Hem!--"Project Runway" judges Nina Garcia, Zac Posen and Heidi Klum--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#3....OMG! You Better Step It Up! Not often do we see a 2-Day Challenge on Project Runway, so when you are afforded the opportunity of having an extra 8 HOUR workday, you better have your Hems Stitched and your Buttons Sewn!! As soon as Day 2 started, I could tell that there was some trouble brewin'...I'M LOOKING AT YOU NATALIA! From my experience, when you're given that valuable extra time, you think you have all the time in the world, but every minute counts on Project Runway and there is no time for an extra trip to the snack table! Believe me, the judges do not look kindly on an unfinished garment, ESPECIALLY for a 2-day Challenge!






Polygamist Wife Couture: Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube




#4....OMG! UFFFF! The Bottom 3 Were A Mess! Let's start with Jenni: I'm sure a psychologist may be better suited to evaluate this one, but to my no-Psychology Degree self, it seemed as if she regressed into her childhood while designing for her mom, since it looked like an outfit for an 18 year-old Jenni! Erin was battling between her Mormom roots, and Modern Aesthetic, ending up with an outfit better suited for a Polygamist Wife Going Out on the Town!






No...and No:  Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube


And then, there was Nathalia: Her not-finished separates were UNATTRACTIVE and OVERWHELMING for her Petite Mom, swallowing her nice figure. To me, Nathalia and Erin really lucked out in being safe this week, especially with those two crazy ensembles.








  Mariachi Fabulosa:   Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube






Mijo and Mami--Designer Rik and mom Delia--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#5....OMG! Rik & Delia: Too Cute For Words! The moment Tim started his Critique with Rik and his mom Delia, I thought "Oh PLEEEEASE Make them be the Winners!!??" Rik's tweed cropped jacket and shift dress with Mariachi-inspired stitching and Oh-So-Touching red heart were the PERFECT combination of Rik's aesthetic and age-appropriate sophistication! CONGRATULATIONS Mijo, and Mami!! Now...Save some of that cash prize for y'alls retirement funds!



And now...her's my MyLifetime.com RECAP for this Episode:






Season 15, Episode 9 Recap: A Family Affair




One of the wonderful things about fashion is that it can be
used to reinvent yourself and this was the theme for this week’s challenge:
designing an outfit for the next chapter of a loved one’s life. Instead of
silly workroom drama, there were tears of joy and lots of money involved. Get
your Kleenexes out because it’s time for family makeovers on “Project Runway”!



After last week’s “Tim Gunn Save” of Cornelius, everyone was
on pins and needles as to how he and his nemesis Dexter would interact on this
first day following his comeback. Before too much shade was thrown, Tim Gunn
enters bringing with him Barbara Shipley, senior vice president of brand
integration for AARP. Shipley explains how AARP helps people 50 years+
re-imagine the next chapters of their lives. You can almost see the
20-something year olds having thought bubbles of, “Boy that’s OLD!” as she says
50. She then announces that they’ve brought some “very special people” who are
starting the next chapter of their lives to help inspire the designers. On cue,
some of the designers’ mommies, a daughter and a couple of besties enter the
workroom to much jubilation.



After the tears have been wiped, Barbara puts a MAJOR
exclamation point on the challenge by declaring that the winning designer will
get $25,000 and in addition, the winning loved one will also receive $25,000,
all from AARP. Two things: 1) Wow, and...



Click HERE to continue reading on MyLifetime.com

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS and RECAP of "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 9: A Family Affair

  Nick Verreos "Project Runway" Season 15 "Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube, Episode 9




Hello "Project Runway" fans! It's time for this week's RECAP of Lifetime Network's Season 15 "Project Runway" . This week, the Challenge involved creating a look for a loved one as part of the AARP Challenge .  It was an emotional episode, and quite nice to not have some of that nasty inter-designer drama.



Here's what I thought were my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode:








AARP Challenge--Tim Gunn and Barbara Shipley, Senior VP of Brand Integration, AARP 


#1....OMG! Go On AARP! When it was announced that this was the AARP Challenge, my first thought was "WHUUUTTT??!!"...But when the designer's friends and family entered the workroom and the tears started flowing, I was like, "Done & Done!". To put a SUPER-SIZED CHERRY on top of the cake, AARP upped the ante by dolling out a cash prize of $25,000 to the Winning Designer...AND, an additional $25,000 to the Winning Loved-One!






Go On AARP!! Make it rain!





Tears and Hugs--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#2....OMG! Family Inside Peek! One of the best parts of this episode was that we got an "Inside Peek" into some of the designer's personal history and, more specifically, their family relationships....Starting with Cornelius and Nathalia: They were still kind of in "Kiddie-Land", having their mommies whip them into shape and keeping them on track. Jenni was having a difficult time being the designer and not the eye-rolling teenage daughter, and Mah-Jing revealed his complicated relationship with his Mom while showing that they shared an Artistic Gene, which they were able to channel into a FABULOUS Collaboration.






Finish a Hem!--"Project Runway" judges Nina Garcia, Zac Posen and Heidi Klum--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#3....OMG! You Better Step It Up! Not often do we see a 2-Day Challenge on Project Runway, so when you are afforded the opportunity of having an extra 8 HOUR workday, you better have your Hems Stitched and your Buttons Sewn!! As soon as Day 2 started, I could tell that there was some trouble brewin'...I'M LOOKING AT YOU NATALIA! From my experience, when you're given that valuable extra time, you think you have all the time in the world, but every minute counts on Project Runway and there is no time for an extra trip to the snack table! Believe me, the judges do not look kindly on an unfinished garment, ESPECIALLY for a 2-day Challenge!






Polygamist Wife Couture: Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube




#4....OMG! UFFFF! The Bottom 3 Were A Mess! Let's start with Jenni: I'm sure a psychologist may be better suited to evaluate this one, but to my no-Psychology Degree self, it seemed as if she regressed into her childhood while designing for her mom, since it looked like an outfit for an 18 year-old Jenni! Erin was battling between her Mormom roots, and Modern Aesthetic, ending up with an outfit better suited for a Polygamist Wife Going Out on the Town!






No...and No:  Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube


And then, there was Nathalia: Her not-finished separates were UNATTRACTIVE and OVERWHELMING for her Petite Mom, swallowing her nice figure. To me, Nathalia and Erin really lucked out in being safe this week, especially with those two crazy ensembles.








  Mariachi Fabulosa:   Nick Verreos "Project Runway Top 5 OMG Moments" YouTube






Mijo and Mami--Designer Rik and mom Delia--Season 15 "Project Runway" Episode 9


#5....OMG! Rik & Delia: Too Cute For Words! The moment Tim started his Critique with Rik and his mom Delia, I thought "Oh PLEEEEASE Make them be the Winners!!??" Rik's tweed cropped jacket and shift dress with Mariachi-inspired stitching and Oh-So-Touching red heart were the PERFECT combination of Rik's aesthetic and age-appropriate sophistication! CONGRATULATIONS Mijo, and Mami!! Now...Save some of that cash prize for y'alls retirement funds!



And now...her's my MyLifetime.com RECAP for this Episode:






Season 15, Episode 9 Recap: A Family Affair




One of the wonderful things about fashion is that it can be
used to reinvent yourself and this was the theme for this week’s challenge:
designing an outfit for the next chapter of a loved one’s life. Instead of
silly workroom drama, there were tears of joy and lots of money involved. Get
your Kleenexes out because it’s time for family makeovers on “Project Runway”!



After last week’s “Tim Gunn Save” of Cornelius, everyone was
on pins and needles as to how he and his nemesis Dexter would interact on this
first day following his comeback. Before too much shade was thrown, Tim Gunn
enters bringing with him Barbara Shipley, senior vice president of brand
integration for AARP. Shipley explains how AARP helps people 50 years+
re-imagine the next chapters of their lives. You can almost see the
20-something year olds having thought bubbles of, “Boy that’s OLD!” as she says
50. She then announces that they’ve brought some “very special people” who are
starting the next chapter of their lives to help inspire the designers. On cue,
some of the designers’ mommies, a daughter and a couple of besties enter the
workroom to much jubilation.



After the tears have been wiped, Barbara puts a MAJOR
exclamation point on the challenge by declaring that the winning designer will
get $25,000 and in addition, the winning loved one will also receive $25,000,
all from AARP. Two things: 1) Wow, and...



Click HERE to continue reading on MyLifetime.com

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS: Ep. 8

Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8, YouTube



For this week's episode of Lifetime Network's "Project Runway" , the designers had to design looks for what Tim Gunn called "the First EVER Pop-up Store!". There was LOTS of drama, Evil Step Sisters (Erin and Dexter) and Cinderella (Cornelius)...and in addition, a TIM SAVE!!






Pop-up First??--Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8, YouTube


There is lots to discuss so--including a certain similarity to a challenge I was part of back in Season 2...Let's begin with my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode via YouTube:


Click here to watch my Top 5 OMG Moments of "Project Runway" Episode 8:







--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Tim Gunn and Gregory Patterson, Celebrity Ambassador of Sally Beauty



#1....OMG!  Pop Up Shop 1st!?! The designers learn they will be part of the FIRST EVER “Project Runway and Sally Beauty Pop-up Color Shop”. They're split into teams of 3 and have to create a 3-look collection inspired by a specific color palette;  Now...you might remember back on my season, we did something very similar to this in the “Window Dressing” Challenge.









"Project Runway" Season 2 "Window Shopping" Challenge





Back then, we created a design for Banana Republic, and yes, the public got to vote on their favorite window looks. Um...sound familiar??? At the time (back in 2005) there was no such thing as a “Pop-up Store” so we just called it a fashion window display.  So, while this technically is a “first time ever” Pop Up Shop, this challenge was certainly "inspired" by the Bravo Years.








Team Neutral Designs in the Workroom = Drab European Airline Uniforms





#2....OMG!  The Teams Better Werk! After Tim made his Design Room visit, it seems like ALL the teams had some work to do! Team Red looked like they were creating a window display for a Valentine's Day Event with all that red. Team Neutral seemed to be creating a collection based off the blandest European Budget Airline Uniforms EVAH...and Team Blue is urged by Tim to add more Design into their TOO-BASIC styles. It's time for the teams to "Make It Work"!









Cornelius (Cinderella) and Erin and Dexter (The Evil Stepsisters)--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



#3....OMG!  Team Mean Girls! Soooo...the minute Cornelius became part of Team Red with besties Erin and Dexter, I wanted to yell "You in DANGER GURL!". And yep, he was. The 2 Evil Step Sisters didn't listen to Cornelius and made him work like Cinderella while  they were feasting on Coq-au-vin and Dom Perignon back in the "Project Runway" craft service buffet! (BTW--there's NONE of that on "Project Runway's" craft service! I'm just saying that for DRAMATIC effect).







Lounging in the Lounge--Erin and Dexter--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



Anyhow...when they ended up at the bottom, you just KNEW the nails, wigs and hoop earrings were all going to come off and Miss Cornelius was going to let 'em have it!






Gurrrl....Cornelius Isn't Happy--Dexter and Cornelius-- "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8





But it wasn't until they got back to the lounge that the drama really started. I just grabbed my popcorn, sat back and was thinking "Ah bless your little hearts, you just fell into the producer's trap yet again"!!







#4....OMG! Team Blue Wins! Back in my #2 OMG I said "Teams Better Werk!"...well, THEY DID! While all 3 teams did a great job, I have to start off by saying that I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked Team Neutral! Now, you know I'm a designer who LOVES color but Nathalia, Jenni and Mah-jing did an outstanding job knowing what it looked like in the beginning when Tim paid them a visit. They turned their drab "Air Europa" flight attendants into Fab Swiss Ski Chalet millionaire's wives. In the end, however, Team Blue was the judge's favorite and Roberi pulled out his first win of the season with asymmetrical skirt outfit. I especially loved how it looked like his model had tied a plaid shirt at her waist in his skirt design. Muy Bien Chamo!






Ummm...I'm going to save...






CINDERELLA!!!...I mean Cornelius--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8




#5....OMG!  Tim Saves Cornelius! While you could definitely argue that Cornelius did not deserve to go home--seriously no one really did a terrible or tasteless design, those judges were really stuck between a rock and a Stiff Tulle Petticoat, and so they voted him out. But...then Tim saved him! Between you, me, and this white board behind me...I thought that was an odd save for Tim.  Cornelius has not really been one of the stronger designers this season and has yet to prove his worth. The jaded side of me wonders if this was done to keep a bit of drama alive in the workroom. #JustSayin' We’ll see how long the happiness lasts and how soon "Cornelius The Victim" returns to "Cornelius The Villain".



Continue to read my MyLifetime.com FULL RECAP of Episode 8 "Poppin' Off":










Season 15, Episode 8 Recap: Poppin' Off





Previously on “Project Runway,” the designers got to take a trip to Universal Orlando Resorts, enjoy the Skull Island: Reign of Kong, and be inspired to create Urban Jungle streetwear designs. Now, they get to take their designs to the actual streets… in the form of a pop up store. There were catfights and throwing of fellow designers under the bus. But there were also some cute styles and an eventual Tim Gunn Save. Time for the recap!




Tim Gunn greets the designers on the runway stage along with Gregory Patterson. I have fond memories of Gregory when I worked with him on “Project Runway: Under The Gunn.” Back then he was the lead stylist for Blow Pro, and now he’s with Sally Beauty. Patterson announces the “Project Runway” and Sally Beauty Pop Up Color Shop, and Tim joins in to define the actual challenge...






Click HERE to keep reading my RECAP on MyLifetime.com!

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS

Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8, YouTube



For this week's episode of Lifetime Network's "Project Runway" , the designers had to design looks for what Tim Gunn called "the First EVER Pop-up Store!". There was LOTS of drama, Evil Step Sisters (Erin and Dexter) and Cinderella (Cornelius)...and in addition, a TIM SAVE!!






Pop-up First??--Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8, YouTube


There is lots to discuss so--including a certain similarity to a challenge I was part of back in Season 2...Let's begin with my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode via YouTube:


Click here to watch my Top 5 OMG Moments of "Project Runway" Episode 8:







--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Tim Gunn and Gregory Patterson, Celebrity Ambassador of Sally Beauty



#1....OMG!  Pop Up Shop 1st!?! The designers learn they will be part of the FIRST EVER “Project Runway and Sally Beauty Pop-up Color Shop”. They're split into teams of 3 and have to create a 3-look collection inspired by a specific color palette;  Now...you might remember back on my season, we did something very similar to this in the “Window Dressing” Challenge.









"Project Runway" Season 2 "Window Shopping" Challenge





Back then, we created a design for Banana Republic, and yes, the public got to vote on their favorite window looks. Um...sound familiar??? At the time (back in 2005) there was no such thing as a “Pop-up Store” so we just called it a fashion window display.  So, while this technically is a “first time ever” Pop Up Shop, this challenge was certainly "inspired" by the Bravo Years.








Team Neutral Designs in the Workroom = Drab European Airline Uniforms





#2....OMG!  The Teams Better Werk! After Tim made his Design Room visit, it seems like ALL the teams had some work to do! Team Red looked like they were creating a window display for a Valentine's Day Event with all that red. Team Neutral seemed to be creating a collection based off the blandest European Budget Airline Uniforms EVAH...and Team Blue is urged by Tim to add more Design into their TOO-BASIC styles. It's time for the teams to "Make It Work"!









Cornelius (Cinderella) and Erin and Dexter (The Evil Stepsisters)--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



#3....OMG!  Team Mean Girls! Soooo...the minute Cornelius became part of Team Red with besties Erin and Dexter, I wanted to yell "You in DANGER GURL!". And yep, he was. The 2 Evil Step Sisters didn't listen to Cornelius and made him work like Cinderella while  they were feasting on Coq-au-vin and Dom Perignon back in the "Project Runway" craft service buffet! (BTW--there's NONE of that on "Project Runway's" craft service! I'm just saying that for DRAMATIC effect).







Lounging in the Lounge--Erin and Dexter--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



Anyhow...when they ended up at the bottom, you just KNEW the nails, wigs and hoop earrings were all going to come off and Miss Cornelius was going to let 'em have it!






Gurrrl....Cornelius Isn't Happy--Dexter and Cornelius-- "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8





But it wasn't until they got back to the lounge that the drama really started. I just grabbed my popcorn, sat back and was thinking "Ah bless your little hearts, you just fell into the producer's trap yet again"!!







#4....OMG! Team Blue Wins! Back in my #2 OMG I said "Teams Better Werk!"...well, THEY DID! While all 3 teams did a great job, I have to start off by saying that I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked Team Neutral! Now, you know I'm a designer who LOVES color but Nathalia, Jenni and Mah-jing did an outstanding job knowing what it looked like in the beginning when Tim paid them a visit. They turned their drab "Air Europa" flight attendants into Fab Swiss Ski Chalet millionaire's wives. In the end, however, Team Blue was the judge's favorite and Roberi pulled out his first win of the season with asymmetrical skirt outfit. I especially loved how it looked like his model had tied a plaid shirt at her waist in his skirt design. Muy Bien Chamo!






Ummm...I'm going to save...






CINDERELLA!!!...I mean Cornelius--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8




#5....OMG!  Tim Saves Cornelius! While you could definitely argue that Cornelius did not deserve to go home--seriously no one really did a terrible or tasteless design, those judges were really stuck between a rock and a Stiff Tulle Petticoat, and so they voted him out. But...then Tim saved him! Between you, me, and this white board behind me...I thought that was an odd save for Tim.  Cornelius has not really been one of the stronger designers this season and has yet to prove his worth. The jaded side of me wonders if this was done to keep a bit of drama alive in the workroom. #JustSayin' We’ll see how long the happiness lasts and how soon "Cornelius The Victim" returns to "Cornelius The Villain".



Continue to read my MyLifetime.com FULL RECAP of Episode 8 "Poppin' Off":










Season 15, Episode 8 Recap: Poppin' Off





Previously on “Project Runway,” the designers got to take a trip to Universal Orlando Resorts, enjoy the Skull Island: Reign of Kong, and be inspired to create Urban Jungle streetwear designs. Now, they get to take their designs to the actual streets… in the form of a pop up store. There were catfights and throwing of fellow designers under the bus. But there were also some cute styles and an eventual Tim Gunn Save. Time for the recap!




Tim Gunn greets the designers on the runway stage along with Gregory Patterson. I have fond memories of Gregory when I worked with him on “Project Runway: Under The Gunn.” Back then he was the lead stylist for Blow Pro, and now he’s with Sally Beauty. Patterson announces the “Project Runway” and Sally Beauty Pop Up Color Shop, and Tim joins in to define the actual challenge...






Click HERE to keep reading my RECAP on MyLifetime.com!

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS and RECAP of "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8: Poppin' Off!

  Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8,YouTube


For this week's episode of Lifetime Network's "Project Runway" , the designers had to design looks for what Tim Gunn called "the First EVER Pop-up Store!". There was LOTS of drama, Evil Step Sisters (Erin and Dexter) and Cinderella (Cornelius)...and in addition, a TIM SAVE!!






Pop-up First??--Nick Verreos "Top 5 OMG Moments of Project Runway Season 15"--Episode 8, YouTube


There is lots to discuss so--including a certain similarity to a challenge I was part of back in Season 2...Let's begin with my "Top 5 OMG Moments" of the episode via YouTube:


Click here to watch my Top 5 OMG Moments of "Project Runway" Episode 8:







--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Tim Gunn and Gregory Patterson, Celebrity Ambassador of Sally Beauty



#1....OMG!  Pop Up Shop 1st!?! The designers learn they will be part of the FIRST EVER “Project Runway and Sally Beauty Pop-up Color Shop”. They're split into teams of 3 and have to create a 3-look collection inspired by a specific color palette;  Now...you might remember back on my season, we did something very similar to this in the “Window Dressing” Challenge.









"Project Runway" Season 2 "Window Shopping" Challenge





Back then, we created a design for Banana Republic, and yes, the public got to vote on their favorite window looks. Um...sound familiar??? At the time (back in 2005) there was no such thing as a “Pop-up Store” so we just called it a fashion window display.  So, while this technically is a “first time ever” Pop Up Shop, this challenge was certainly "inspired" by the Bravo Years.








Team Neutral Designs in the Workroom = Drab European Airline Uniforms





#2....OMG!  The Teams Better Werk! After Tim made his Design Room visit, it seems like ALL the teams had some work to do! Team Red looked like they were creating a window display for a Valentine's Day Event with all that red. Team Neutral seemed to be creating a collection based off the blandest European Budget Airline Uniforms EVAH...and Team Blue is urged by Tim to add more Design into their TOO-BASIC styles. It's time for the teams to "Make It Work"!









Cornelius (Cinderella) and Erin and Dexter (The Evil Stepsisters)--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



#3....OMG!  Team Mean Girls! Soooo...the minute Cornelius became part of Team Red with besties Erin and Dexter, I wanted to yell "You in DANGER GURL!". And yep, he was. The 2 Evil Step Sisters didn't listen to Cornelius and made him work like Cinderella while  they were feasting on Coq-au-vin and Dom Perignon back in the "Project Runway" craft service buffet! (BTW--there's NONE of that on "Project Runway's" craft service! I'm just saying that for DRAMATIC effect).







Lounging in the Lounge--Erin and Dexter--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8



Anyhow...when they ended up at the bottom, you just KNEW the nails, wigs and hoop earrings were all going to come off and Miss Cornelius was going to let 'em have it!






Gurrrl....Cornelius Isn't Happy--Dexter and Cornelius-- "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8




But
it wasn't until they got back to the lounge that the drama really started. I
just grabbed my popcorn, sat back and was thinking "Ah bless your little
hearts, you just fell into the producer's trap yet again"!!







#4....OMG! Team Blue Wins! Back in my #2 OMG I said "Teams Better Werk!"...well, THEY DID! While all 3 teams did a great job, I have to start off by saying that I was pleasantly surprised how much I liked Team Neutral! Now, you know I'm a designer who LOVES color but Nathalia, Jenni and Mah-jing did an outstanding job knowing what it looked like in the beginning when Tim paid them a visit. They turned their drab "Air Europa" flight attendants into Fab Swiss Ski Chalet millionaire's wives. In the end, however, Team Blue was the judge's favorite and Roberi pulled out his first win of the season with asymmetrical skirt outfit. I especially loved how it looked like his model had tied a plaid shirt at her waist in his skirt design. Muy Bien Chamo!






Ummm...I'm going to save...






CINDERELLA!!!...I mean Cornelius--"Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 8




#5....OMG!  Tim Saves Cornelius! While you could definitely argue that Cornelius did not deserve to go home--seriously no one really did a terrible or tasteless design, those judges were really stuck between a rock and a Stiff Tulle Petticoat, and so they voted him out. But...then Tim saved him! Between you, me, and this white board behind me...I thought that was an odd save for Tim.  Cornelius has not really been one of the stronger designers this season and has yet to prove his worth. The jaded side of me wonders if this was done to keep a bit of drama alive in the workroom. #JustSayin' We’ll see how long the happiness lasts and how soon "Cornelius The Victim" returns to "Cornelius The Villain".



Continue to read my MyLifetime.com FULL RECAP of Episode 8 "Poppin' Off":










Season 15, Episode 8 Recap: Poppin' Off




Previously on “Project Runway,” the designers got to take a
trip to Universal Orlando Resorts, enjoy the Skull Island:
Reign of Kong, and be inspired to create Urban Jungle streetwear designs. Now,
they get to take their designs to the actual streets… in the form of a pop up
store. There were catfights and throwing of fellow designers under the bus. But
there were also some cute styles and an eventual Tim Gunn Save. Time for the
recap!




Tim Gunn greets the designers on the runway stage along with
Gregory Patterson. I have fond memories of Gregory when I worked with him on
“Project Runway: Under The Gunn.” Back then he was the lead stylist for Blow
Pro, and now he’s with Sally Beauty. Patterson announces the “Project Runway”
and Sally Beauty Pop Up Color Shop, and Tim joins in to define the actual
challenge...






Click HERE to
keep reading my RECAP on MyLifetime.com!

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS

Nick Verreos "Project Runway" Top 5 OMG Moments Video for Episode 7 YouTube


It's Week Seven on this season of Lifetime's "Project Runway" and time for my next installment of my "Top 5 OMG Moments" Video as well as my Recap of the week. This past week's episode involved a fun trip to Universal Resorts Orlando and a Streetwear Challenge...


Click below to watch my Top 5 OMG Moments for "Project Runway" Episode 7 on YouTube:






Here are my Top 5 "OMG Moments" of this past week's "Project Runway":






#1....OMG!  Time For A Trip!  In the Beginning of the episode, Heidi announced that she was sending the designers on a trip! They were all going to Universal Orlando Resorts ! While the designers seemed excited, we all know that a Project Runway trip to Universal Orlando would NOT involve Lazy River Rafting, eating Funnel Cake Sundaes or a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ! Instead...






They were greeted by Tim looking like a SuitSupply.com model, and given their next challenge.  Most likely, the only real R & R the designers got was sitting on their 3-hour flight from New York to Orlando and back--in their uncomfortable Economy Class seats. Hopefully, they got to recline!





#2....OMG! Roller Coaster Reachin'  "Project Runway" REEEEALLY had to twist themselves into a Jumbo-Sized, Theme Park Pretzel to somehow incorporate a Universal Studios ride into a Streetwear Challenge!  But.....I guess we should all be thankful that those poor designers weren't tasked with re-designing the uniforms for the Jurassic Park Cafe! Dinosaur Couture anyone?







#3....OMG!  Erin! Snap Out of It!  After being on the Top 4 times and winning twice, Erin has landed in the bottom, 2 weeks in a row!  After last week's "Lion King" Costume mess, unfortunately, she spent this last week embroidering what looked like a combination of moss and throw-up on a pair of shorts.  From far away, her model looked as if she got sick on a Universal Roller coaster Ride. It's time to "Refresh" and Re-boot" GURL! SNAP OUT OF IT!





#4....OMG!  Ummm, Why is Cornelius Safe?!  I've disagreed many times with the judges, but I've almost always understood them. This time, I was at a complete loss. Cornelius should have gone home. While Brik's was a mixed-print, Cirque Du Soleil-adjacent outfit...it was, at least, well made.  But Cornelius' was Hip-Hop Cheap and constructed so poorly it really did look like a 1st Semester Fashion School Project.  I'm sorry judges, but WHY DIDN'T CORNELIUS GO HOME???








#5....OMG!  Surprise, Surprise, Surprise...SURPRISE!  Just as the judges surprised me with their elimination, they threw me for a bit of a loop with their choice of winner.  I agreed with the Top 2 being Laurence and Nathalia, but... My personal favorite this week was Nathalia's oversized, bat-inspired, dolman sleeve coat-and-pant look.  While I did like Laurence's red leather bomber jacket, her pants admittedly were a bit "droopy drawers"...But with that being said, I still give Laurence a big FELICITACIONS for getting her 2nd WIN of the season! SMILE MISS LAURENCE! YOU WON!



And now, here's my "Project Runway" Season 15 Recap on MyLifetime.com:









Season 15, Episode 7 Recap: Fashion Jungle






Last week on “Project Runway,” the designers were tasked with creating cocktail wear, but now it is time to take a design u-turn and see if the designers can do the opposite: streetwear. This is an especially ironic twist since last week’s eliminated designer was Tasha, the self-proclaimed “streetwear designer” who just couldn’t do cocktail. If she would have just stuck it out for one more week, she would have gotten a chance to prove herself. But alas, it was not meant to be, and now it’s time for the 10 remaining designers to show if they’ve got the know-how to make a woman chic in the Urban Jungle.





The episode begins with an out of left field montage of the designers riding the Universal Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Right as I am about to ask, “What is going on?” the episode rewinds to eight hours earlier. Heidi saunters onto the runway as the designers look on. Miss Klum asks a very tired group how they are feeling, and they muster a feigned, “Great!” She then announces that they are all taking a trip to Universal Orlando Resorts where Tim will meet them for their next challenge.

The designers have arrived in sunny Florida where...







Click HERE to continue reading!

PROJECT RUNWAY....My TOP 5 OMG MOMENTS and RECAP of "Project Runway" Season 15 Episode 7: Fashion Jungle

  Nick Verreos "Project Runway" Top 5 OMG Moments Video for Episode 7 YouTube


It's Week Seven on this season of Lifetime's "Project Runway" and time for my next installment of my "Top 5 OMG Moments" Video as well as my Recap of the week. This past week's episode involved a fun trip to Universal Resorts Orlando and a Streetwear Challenge...


Click below to watch my Top 5 OMG Moments for "Project Runway" Episode 7 on YouTube:






Here are my Top 5 "OMG Moments" of this past week's "Project Runway":






#1....OMG!  Time For A Trip!  In the Beginning of the episode, Heidi announced that she was sending the designers on a trip! They were all going to Universal Orlando Resorts ! While the designers seemed excited, we all know that a Project Runway trip to Universal Orlando would NOT involve Lazy River Rafting, eating Funnel Cake Sundaes or a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ! Instead...






They were greeted by Tim looking like a SuitSupply.com model, and given their next challenge.  Most likely, the only real R & R the designers got was sitting on their 3-hour flight from New York to Orlando and back--in their uncomfortable Economy Class seats. Hopefully, they got to recline!





#2....OMG! Roller Coaster Reachin'  "Project Runway" REEEEALLY had to twist themselves into a Jumbo-Sized, Theme Park Pretzel to somehow incorporate a Universal Studios ride into a Streetwear Challenge!  But.....I guess we should all be thankful that those poor designers weren't tasked with re-designing the uniforms for the Jurassic Park Cafe! Dinosaur Couture anyone?







#3....OMG!  Erin! Snap Out of It!  After being on the Top 4 times and winning twice, Erin has landed in the bottom, 2 weeks in a row!  After last week's "Lion King" Costume mess, unfortunately, she spent this last week embroidering what looked like a combination of moss and throw-up on a pair of shorts.  From far away, her model looked as if she got sick on a Universal Roller coaster Ride. It's time to "Refresh" and Re-boot" GURL! SNAP OUT OF IT!





#4....OMG!  Ummm, Why is Cornelius Safe?!  I've disagreed many times with the judges, but I've almost always understood them. This time, I was at a complete loss. Cornelius should have gone home. While Brik's was a mixed-print, Cirque Du Soleil-adjacent outfit...it was, at least, well made.  But Cornelius' was Hip-Hop Cheap and constructed so poorly it really did look like a 1st Semester Fashion School Project.  I'm sorry judges, but WHY DIDN'T CORNELIUS GO HOME???








#5....OMG!  Surprise, Surprise, Surprise...SURPRISE!  Just as the judges surprised me with their elimination, they threw me for a bit of a loop with their choice of winner.  I agreed with the Top 2 being Laurence and Nathalia, but... My personal favorite this week was Nathalia's oversized, bat-inspired, dolman sleeve coat-and-pant look.  While I did like Laurence's red leather bomber jacket, her pants admittedly were a bit "droopy drawers"...But with that being said, I still give Laurence a big FELICITACIONS for getting her 2nd WIN of the season! SMILE MISS LAURENCE! YOU WON!



And now, here's my "Project Runway" Season 15 Recap on MyLifetime.com:






Season 15,
Episode 7 Recap: Fashion Jungle




Last week on
“Project Runway,” the designers were tasked with creating cocktail wear, but
now it is time to take a design u-turn and see if the designers can do the opposite:
streetwear. This is an especially ironic twist since last week’s eliminated
designer was Tasha, the self-proclaimed “streetwear designer” who just couldn’t
do cocktail. If she would have just stuck it out for one more week, she would
have gotten a chance to prove herself. But alas, it was not meant to be, and
now it’s time for the 10 remaining designers to show if they’ve got the
know-how to make a woman chic in the Urban Jungle.




The episode
begins with an out of left field montage of the designers riding
the Universal Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Right as I am
about to ask, “What is going on?” the episode rewinds to eight hours earlier.
Heidi saunters onto the runway as the designers look on. Miss Klum asks a very
tired group how they are feeling, and they muster a feigned, “Great!” She then
announces that they are all taking a trip to Universal Orlando Resorts where
Tim will meet them for their next challenge.

The
designers have arrived in sunny Florida where...






Click HERE to continue reading!

ICE STYLE.....2016 Skate Canada International: ICE DANCE and PAIRS!

Skate Canada International Ice Dancers: Costumes from Ice Dance competitors at 2016 Skate Canada International 





Pairs Couture: Costumes from Pairs figure skating competitors at 2016 Skate Canada International



Finishing off with my 2016 Skate Canada International "Ice Style" blogs--You can read my LADIES and MEN Costumes Recap HERE--now it's time to discuss the costumes from the Ice Dance and Pairs skaters. As usual, there were lots of fun costumes, featuring diverse designs for the "Blues" and "Hip Hop" mix of Ice Dance Short Dances, as well as some interesting creations that ranged from Traditional to "Oh Dear!" for the Pairs. So...let's get started!



ICE DANCE---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------





Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada Short Dance to Hip Hop: Kiss by Prince, Blues: Five Women by Prince, Blues: Purple Rain by Prince--For their return to the International skating stage at the 2016 Skate Canada International, 2010 Olympic champions and 2014 Olympic silver medalists, Virtue and Moir wore these looks above. Tessa's costume featured a Prince-inspired ruffled and sequined purple (of course) lace top-and-black leggings jumpsuit, and Scott wore a black Revere collared top with black pants outfit. Both looks reflected the 80's theme of the Prince music and I think were effective and not too Halloween Costume tacky. 





Virtue and Moir of Canada Free Dance Pilgrims on a Long Journey by Coeur de Pirate

Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith: I cannot say enough words of fashion praise for these gorgeous costumes worn by Virtue and Moir for their Free Skate. They were modern, chic and oh-so fashionable. I LOVED Tessa's putty colored "band" dress; it was very Herve Leger fab. And Scott was the perfect fashion foil to her in his clean and sleek deep blue outfit. They both looked like they should be on the cover of "Vogue: The Figure Skating Edition", if  there ever was such a thing!







Alexandra Stepanova and Ivan Bukin of Russia Short Dance to Blues and Hip Hop mix: This very handsome Ice Dance couple of Stepanova and Bukin wore these non-costumes for their Short Dance. He had a white muscle t-shirt, motorcycle jacket and black trousers, and she had a bustier/corset  and low-slung skinny pants. They looked very early 90's retro, yet I'm not sure that might have been the point. To me, they looked like dancers in a Cruise Ship Dinner Show...in 1996.





Stepanova and Bukin of Russia Free Dance to Libertango by Astor Piazzolla, arranged by E. Runge, J. Ammon Verano Porteno, Primavera Portena, Libertango by Astor Piazzolla: For their Free Dance, they went into a Tango-themed territory with the music and the red and black costumes. Alexandra's was a simple red side draped dress which was simple-pretty in its style. Ivan looked as if he was coming in for his morning rehearsals at the Bolshoi Ballet. I admire the simplicity of both looks especially when they're both so good-looking and have such perfect bodies...why distract from that with overly designed costumes. 







Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me

Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--I love this Ice Dance couple from Italy. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances. For their Short Dance, they donned these bold looks. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his Shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit.







Cappellini and Lanotte of Italy Free Dance Limelight by Charlie Chaplin, Chaplin Medley and

City Lights: Overture by Charlie Chaplin--Another great Costume Look from Italy's Cappellini and Lanotte. The theme was Charlie Chaplin and well, especially for Luca: Nailed it! I also liked her "Charlie Chaplin paramour" powder pink and wine red dress. She looked delicate, lovely and a perfect costume foil for his kooky Chaplin. Bravo!









Madison Chock and Evan Bates of USA Short Dance to Blues: Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood, Hip Hop: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars--These were interesting, sexy looks from USA's Chock and Bates for their Short Dance. Madison looked punk-tastic in her turtleneck crop top with "ripped" sleeves and sexy low-slung faux leather super-skinny pants. Evan was looking like he went to Zara and bought a jersey knit top, under t-shirt and sleek denim skinny pants. I still liked it.







Chock and Bates of USA Free Dance to Under Pressure by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury: I really liked these costumes worn by Chock and Bates for their Free Dance. The designs were directional and fashion fab and I especially LOVED the delicate crystal beading on Evan's side seam of Evan's shirt--which matched Madison's beading on her dress' shoulder. If there was any critique, it was the dangling "fishtail" hem of her asymmetrical hemline; it was a bit distracting if not downright slightly annoying during the program. I'm hoping they cut some of that off for their future competitions.








Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier of Canada Short Dance to Blues: Oh What a Night for Dancing by Barry White, Vance Wilson, Disco: Disco Inferno by Leroy Green and Ron Kersey: Seriously, where do I start with these costumes? I think they are so Disco-Kooky that I have no reason but to LOVE THEM! Piper's dress was like a costume straight out of "Blades of Glory" and Paul...WOW! He was from "Boogie Nights"! And can I just add how much I am obsessed with his John Travolta pouffy blow-dried hair and "pornstache" mustache!!?? #Hot









Gilles and Poirier of Canada Free Dance to Con Buena Onda by Daniel Lomuto, Ernesto Baffa, Hector M. Arce: For their Free Dance, Gilles and Poirier went more "Tango Eleganza" with these looks above. Paul was all things Muy Sexy with his double breasted suit and tie ensemble. His gelled hair was perfect and once again, his 'stache works perfectly well! And Piper's lilac dress was very pretty and 1930's/40's retro elegant with its neckline and draped-front detail. 



PAIRS-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------







Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford of Canada Short Program to Killer by Seal: For their Short Program to Seal, Duhamel and Radford went modern, sleek and slightly directional. Meagan wore a black sequined jumpsuit with crystal applique and Eric was the perfect costumed partner with his matching black-and-crystal sequined batteau neckline long sleeved top and pants.







Duhamel and Radford of Canada Free Skate to No, je ne regrette rien performed by Patricia Kaas: When it was time for their Free Skate, Duhamel and Radford went more Traditional with these costumes. Meagan wore this lilac-hued sequined, illusion and chiffon costume that was a bit too Prom-and-Pageant. Not sure if it was the color or the neck-piece or the sweetheart neckline or a combination of all of those. I did, however, like her slicked back top-chignon hair. Eric looked polished and good prom-tastic with his pleated-front lilac shirt and midnight blue pants.  







Nicole Della Monica and Mateo Guarise of Italy Short Program to Carmina Burana by Carl Orff performed by The Piano Guys: Well, well, well...Della Monica and Guarise really went for it when it came to their Short Program costumes to Carmina Burana. It is Carmina Burana, after all so I can understand the slight fire-fab cray-cray aspect of these designs. I must say, part of me loves these and the other--more tasteful part--doesn't. One think I do like is the nude illusion backs with the superimposed writing. While these might be a bit kooky, they still do look Sexy-licious.





Xiaoyu Yu and Hao Zhang of China Short Program to Eternal Flame, Fearless by Brand X Music: I liked these costumes worn by this Chinese Pairs couple. I loved the bold violet color and, especially her draped and sequin embroidered costume. His top was also kind of fabulous for its center front crystal detail. These costumes look expensive and custom-made Figure Skating Couture.







Yu and Zhang Free Skate to Cavatina Larghetto amoroso: Another gorgeous costume pair here on Yu and Zhang. Her sequined applique costume featured flowers, ombre shading and crystal detailing with a Chanel Couture-like design sensibility. His gray outfit was elegant and a nice masculine contrast to her superb femininity. I especially admired the diagonal pleating detail in his shirt.



Finally...



Yuko Kavaguti and Alexander Smirnov of Russia Short Program to All Alone by Joe Satriani: Kavaguti and Smirnov were Feminine Pretty and 90's Male Stripper in their contrasting costumes. These seemed a bit disjointed to say the least. I really didn't get the costume connection. On a good note: Her costume's sequined detail down the center front and sleeve edges was quite Haute. 

ICE STYLE.....2016 Skate Canada International Figure Skating Costumes RECAP: ICE DANCE and PAIRS!

Skate Canada International Ice Dancers: Costumes from Ice Dance competitors at 2016 Skate Canada International 





Pairs Couture: Costumes from Pairs figure skating competitors at 2016 Skate Canada International



Finishing off with my 2016 Skate Canada International "Ice Style" blogs--You can read my LADIES and MEN Costumes Recap HERE--now it's time to discuss the costumes from the Ice Dance and Pairs skaters. As usual, there were lots of fun costumes, featuring diverse designs for the "Blues" and "Hip Hop" mix of Ice Dance Short Dances, as well as some interesting creations that ranged from Traditional to "Oh Dear!" for the Pairs. So...let's get started!



ICE DANCE---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------





Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada Short Dance to Hip Hop: Kiss by Prince, Blues: Five Women by Prince, Blues: Purple Rain by Prince--For their return to the International skating stage at the 2016 Skate Canada International, 2010 Olympic champions and 2014 Olympic silver medalists, Virtue and Moir wore these looks above. Tessa's costume featured a Prince-inspired ruffled and sequined purple (of course) lace top-and-black leggings jumpsuit, and Scott wore a black Revere collared top with black pants outfit. Both looks reflected the 80's theme of the Prince music and I think were effective and not too Halloween Costume tacky. 





Virtue and Moir of Canada Free Dance Pilgrims on a Long Journey by Coeur de Pirate

Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith: I cannot say enough words of fashion praise for these gorgeous costumes worn by Virtue and Moir for their Free Skate. They were modern, chic and oh-so fashionable. I LOVED Tessa's putty colored "band" dress; it was very Herve Leger fab. And Scott was the perfect fashion foil to her in his clean and sleek deep blue outfit. They both looked like they should be on the cover of "Vogue: The Figure Skating Edition", if  there ever was such a thing!







Alexandra Stepanova and Ivan Bukin of Russia Short Dance to Blues and Hip Hop mix: This very handsome Ice Dance couple of Stepanova and Bukin wore these non-costumes for their Short Dance. He had a white muscle t-shirt, motorcycle jacket and black trousers, and she had a bustier/corset  and low-slung skinny pants. They looked very early 90's retro, yet I'm not sure that might have been the point. To me, they looked like dancers in a Cruise Ship Dinner Show...in 1996.





Stepanova and Bukin of Russia Free Dance to Libertango by Astor Piazzolla, arranged by E. Runge, J. Ammon Verano Porteno, Primavera Portena, Libertango by Astor Piazzolla: For their Free Dance, they went into a Tango-themed territory with the music and the red and black costumes. Alexandra's was a simple red side draped dress which was simple-pretty in its style. Ivan looked as if he was coming in for his morning rehearsals at the Bolshoi Ballet. I admire the simplicity of both looks especially when they're both so good-looking and have such perfect bodies...why distract from that with overly designed costumes. 







Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me

Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--I love this Ice Dance couple from Italy. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances. For their Short Dance, they donned these bold looks. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his Shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit.







Cappellini and Lanotte of Italy Free Dance Limelight by Charlie Chaplin, Chaplin Medley and

City Lights: Overture by Charlie Chaplin--Another great Costume Look from Italy's Cappellini and Lanotte. The theme was Charlie Chaplin and well, especially for Luca: Nailed it! I also liked her "Charlie Chaplin paramour" powder pink and wine red dress. She looked delicate, lovely and a perfect costume foil for his kooky Chaplin. Bravo!









Madison Chock and Evan Bates of USA Short Dance to Blues: Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood, Hip Hop: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars--These were interesting, sexy looks from USA's Chock and Bates for their Short Dance. Madison looked punk-tastic in her turtleneck crop top with "ripped" sleeves and sexy low-slung faux leather super-skinny pants. Evan was looking like he went to Zara and bought a jersey knit top, under t-shirt and sleek denim skinny pants. I still liked it.







Chock and Bates of USA Free Dance to Under Pressure by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury: I really liked these costumes worn by Chock and Bates for their Free Dance. The designs were directional and fashion fab and I especially LOVED the delicate crystal beading on Evan's side seam of Evan's shirt--which matched Madison's beading on her dress' shoulder. If there was any critique, it was the dangling "fishtail" hem of her asymmetrical hemline; it was a bit distracting if not downright slightly annoying during the program. I'm hoping they cut some of that off for their future competitions.








Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier of Canada Short Dance to Blues: Oh What a Night for Dancing by Barry White, Vance Wilson, Disco: Disco Inferno by Leroy Green and Ron Kersey: Seriously, where do I start with these costumes? I think they are so Disco-Kooky that I have no reason but to LOVE THEM! Piper's dress was like a costume straight out of "Blades of Glory" and Paul...WOW! He was from "Boogie Nights"! And can I just add how much I am obsessed with his John Travolta pouffy blow-dried hair and "pornstache" mustache!!?? #Hot









Gilles and Poirier of Canada Free Dance to Con Buena Onda by Daniel Lomuto, Ernesto Baffa, Hector M. Arce: For their Free Dance, Gilles and Poirier went more "Tango Eleganza" with these looks above. Paul was all things Muy Sexy with his double breasted suit and tie ensemble. His gelled hair was perfect and once again, his 'stache works perfectly well! And Piper's lilac dress was very pretty and 1930's/40's retro elegant with its neckline and draped-front detail. 



PAIRS-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------







Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford of Canada Short Program to Killer by Seal: For their Short Program to Seal, Duhamel and Radford went modern, sleek and slightly directional. Meagan wore a black sequined jumpsuit with crystal applique and Eric was the perfect costumed partner with his matching black-and-crystal sequined batteau neckline long sleeved top and pants.







Duhamel and Radford of Canada Free Skate to No, je ne regrette rien performed by Patricia Kaas: When it was time for their Free Skate, Duhamel and Radford went more Traditional with these costumes. Meagan wore this lilac-hued sequined, illusion and chiffon costume that was a bit too Prom-and-Pageant. Not sure if it was the color or the neck-piece or the sweetheart neckline or a combination of all of those. I did, however, like her slicked back top-chignon hair. Eric looked polished and good prom-tastic with his pleated-front lilac shirt and midnight blue pants.  







Nicole Della Monica and Mateo Guarise of Italy Short Program to Carmina Burana by Carl Orff performed by The Piano Guys: Well, well, well...Della Monica and Guarise really went for it when it came to their Short Program costumes to Carmina Burana. It is Carmina Burana, after all so I can understand the slight fire-fab cray-cray aspect of these designs. I must say, part of me loves these and the other--more tasteful part--doesn't. One think I do like is the nude illusion backs with the superimposed writing. While these might be a bit kooky, they still do look Sexy-licious.





Xiaoyu Yu and Hao Zhang of China Short Program to Eternal Flame, Fearless by Brand X Music: I liked these costumes worn by this Chinese Pairs couple. I loved the bold violet color and, especially her draped and sequin embroidered costume. His top was also kind of fabulous for its center front crystal detail. These costumes look expensive and custom-made Figure Skating Couture.







Yu and Zhang Free Skate to Cavatina Larghetto amoroso: Another gorgeous costume pair here on Yu and Zhang. Her sequined applique costume featured flowers, ombre shading and crystal detailing with a Chanel Couture-like design sensibility. His gray outfit was elegant and a nice masculine contrast to her superb femininity. I especially admired the diagonal pleating detail in his shirt.



Finally...



Yuko Kavaguti and Alexander Smirnov of Russia Short Program to All Alone by Joe Satriani: Kavaguti and Smirnov were Feminine Pretty and 90's Male Stripper in their contrasting costumes. These seemed a bit disjointed to say the least. I really didn't get the costume connection. On a good note: Her costume's sequined detail down the center front and sleeve edges was quite Haute.