Project Runway

About Project Runway

Project Runway is a reality television series that premiered in 2005 and focuses on fashion design. The contestants compete with each other to create the best clothes and are restricted in time, materials, and theme. Their designs are judged, and one or more designers are eliminated each week. It was created by Eli Holzman and was originally hosted by model Heidi Klum. Project Runway offers budding designers an opportunity to launch their careers in fashion, under the watchful eyes of mentor and co-host Tim Gunn.

Making / Production

Produced by The Weinstein Company, Project Runway aired on Bravo for its first five seasons before transferring to Lifetime for seasons six through sixteen. It then moved back to Bravo for the seventeenth season. The show has spawned numerous spin-offs and has participating international versions around the world, proving its global appeal and interest.

Actors

• Heidi Klum: Former host and executive producer, she shaped the course of the show with her charismatic presence and stern critique.
• Tim Gunn: As mentor to the contestants, he provided guidance and constructive feedback, infusing the show with his sharp wit and wisdom.
• Nina Garcia: As one of the mainstay judges, she offered expert fashion industry critique based on her years as Creative Director at Marie Claire and Elle magazines.
• Michael Kors: Made invaluable contributions to the show as a judge with his incisive fashion insights and quippy one-liners.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The phrase "Make it work," often used by mentor Tim Gunn, has become a popular catchphrase.
• The winning designer gets $100,000 to start their own line, but there have been many instances where the show's exposure alone has launched successful careers.
• Project Runway is credited with bringing reality TV into the high fashion world, further democratizing the industry.

Awards

Project Runway has been the recipient of a Peabody Award and has been nominated multiple times for Emmy awards, winning the Outstanding Picture Editing for a Structured Reality or Competition Program category in 2013.

Quotes

• "Make it work." - Tim Gunn
• "One day you're in. And the next day, you're out." - Heidi Klum
• "Fashion is not for sissies." - Michael Kors

Music, Soundtrack

• "Project Runway Theme" was composed by Harold Barefoot Sanders III.
• Each season would feature a variety of tracks from popular and emerging artists tailored to the mood of each episode.