Know how the 20 winners of Project Runway are changing the world of fashion and what they are doing today?
From the Runway to Real Life
Project Runway, the show that showed us the magic of the fashion world, is back for its 21st season!
But do you know where the winners of the last 20 seasons are and what they are doing today?
Let’s take a look at the stories of these talented designers.
Christian Siriano: The Brightest Star
Season 4 winner Christian Siriano proved that talent knows no age!
Christian, who won at just 21 years old, is now Hollywood’s favorite designer.
Be it Billy Porter’s Oscar tuxedo gown or Janelle Monáe’s Met Gala look, Christian has made his mark.
And now he’s back on the show as a mentor to new designers!
Interesting twist: The story of Jay McCarroll
Season 1 winner Jay surprised everyone when he turned down the prize money!
The reason? A clause in his contract that gave 10% of his brand to The Weinstein Company.
Today, they work in the wardrobe department of HBO shows like Mare of Easttown.
From wedding dresses to swimwear
Each winner chose a different path. Leanne Marshall (Season 5) designs beautiful wedding dresses, while Sean Kelly (Season 13) launched swimwear line Hercules New York (closing in 2024, though).
Beyond fashion: New paths
Some winners found success outside of fashion.
Gretchen Jones (Season 8) earned a master’s degree and started a creative consulting company.
Erin Robertson (Season 15) started a pickleball facility as well as fashion art!
On the path of inclusivity
Ashley Nell Tipton (Season 14) played a key role in bringing plus-size fashion to the mainstream.
Her campaign with JCPenney was one of the first steps in body positivity.
Shantall Lacayo (Season 19) became the first Latin American female winner.
Waiting for new stars
As Season 21 approaches, Heidi Klum is once again on the lookout for new talent.
In her words, “You always see these amazing designers with sparkling eyes…
they get a chance to make their mark in the industry.”
In this way, Project Runway is not just a reality show, but a platform to turn dreams into reality. From Bishme Cromartie to Dom Streater, every winner is making the fashion world colorful in their own unique style!
So are you as excited for Season 21 as we are? Who knows who will be the next fashion star!