HIGH ART

In last night's episode, Tim escorted the designers to the MET where they were told to pick a piece of art to inspire their next creation. Rami, of course, chose a sculpture of Aphrodite, Christian chose a portrait of a spanish gentleman by Bartolome Esteban Murillo, Sweet P picked a painting of peacocks, Chris chose a portrait of an 18th century French madame, and Jillian chose "Master of the Argonauts."

Sweet P was at a disadvantage from the beginning when her model didn't show up at fittings due to a family emergency. Ultimately, Sweet P was sent home for her lovely, ready-to-wear dress. It just wasn't high art enough. She could have really taken it to the next level and instead she made another pretty dress (loved the red zipper down the back!). I really liked Sweet P; she definitely lived up to her nickname. And her dresses were so cute. I hope she starts a line.

I was sure that Chris would be going home for repeating himself. Roberto Cavalli, who served as this week's guest judge, said Chris' gown was his favorite and he would definitely be showing in Paris. He obviously didn't see the exact same gown Chris had constructed with Christian earlier in the season.
I was also worried about Rami who did exactly what was expected of him when he chose Aphrodite and started draping his dress form with what looked like his previous dresses. In a twist ending, however, Chris and Rami were given a second-chance to impress the judges who will decide which of them will show at Bryant Park.

Jillian's take on Master of the Argonauts was my favorite outfit - so feminine and tailored. The gold piping was impeccably sewn into the back and the jacket was lined in gold. The model did the "reveal" on the runway to show a glitzy dress beneath. Heidi looked agog, obviously impressed. The whole outfit was flashy without being flashy. Jillian needs to design a line of jackets, asap.

In the end, Christian was the clear winner. He whipped together his intricate version of Murillo's portrait, replete with enormous puffy sleeves and exquisite detailing. He made the outfit so effortlessly and beautifully, it was more like a magic trick. I'm honestly surprised he didn't pull a black taffeta rabbit out of his ass. In the end, I'm pretty confident he's going to take the big prize. His speed, creativity, and cohesive vision are pretty hard to compete with.

Looks like next week they're going to air a show in which they'll be interviewing the whole cast (awffed and all). I can't wait, of course, because my man Marion will be back!