Project Runway's Biggest Names Show at Austin Fashion Week

We’re fashion-lovers, so we’ve all had exciting weeks, soaking in new designs during Austin Fashion Week 2014. We’ve also all seen designers battle it out in front of Tim Gunn and Nina Garcia on Lifetime’s Project Runway, and Friday night, the two combined, as six past contestants revealed their new lines during Austin Fashion Week.
As if seeing these Project Runway stars wasn’t big enough, this was also the largest group of past contestants to ever present looks together, outside of the TV show!
“I love it, these are my peeps, and we have so much respect for each other,” said designer Daniel Esquivel. “I wouldn’t be who I was without them; they’re great influences on not giving up. [Fellow designer] Korto [Momolu] was even helping me hem earlier!” (He told me this right before his mother showed up with homemade enchiladas for Korto – How sweet!)
See the Recap Video!
Designers:
Jeffrey Sebelia:
His rocker line for kids was as wild and eccentric as Jeffrey is, and each of his tiny models owned the runway with attitude, colored hair and amazing outfits. Highlights included a printed suit perfect for any stylish little boy, oversized fur coats (one of which looked amazing on the daughter of AFW founder Matt Swinney) and ensembles of fedoras, plaid pants and suede vests.  Jeffrey was Project Runway winner Season 3.
See Jeffrey’s Runway Gallery
Melissa Fleis:
Melissa stuck true to her rocker vibe, too, sending dark and fabulous pieces down the runway. Clunky shoes, custom leather jewelry and the designer’s signature structured collars rounded out the collection, perfect for strong, young females.
See Melissa’s Runway Gallery
Michelle Lesniak:
I thought we might have seen some more punk looks here, but Michelle showed us more resort/summer collection with neon one-pieces, sheer cover-ups and lace dresses were worn by her toned, sunglass-wearing models.  Michelle was Project Runway winner Season 11.
See Michelle’s Runway Gallery
Daniel Esquivel:
Asian flowers were Dan’s inspiration for a line that started out showcasing a wide-armed orange jacket. High-waisted yellow pants, flirty pink skirts and a custom floral print were scattered throughout the line, which ended with an over-the-top orange gown – complete with the biggest bow you’ve ever seen.
“I was blessed to have fabric printed for this line, and it’s all about color,” our Austin local said. “This is all for next year, 2015, so there are big roomy pieces, yet still some of my structured looks.”
See Daniel’s Runway Gallery
Mychael Knight:
Mychael’s looks fit his girls like gloves, with sexy cut-outs and a perfect use of gold metallic. Two big trends shown here: neon colors (seen in pencil skirts and pantsuits) and capes (Thank you, Lupita;).
See Mychael’s Runway Gallery
Korto Momolu:
Crisp whites and bold reds stood out in this new mother’s line (Baby boy Cameron was born 18 days ago!). We also saw the Korto we all know and love in several flowing maxi dresses, great for the approaching summer days.  Impeccable tailoring was shown with perfectly fitted pants and a watercolored asymmetrical blouse to die for.
See Korto’s Runway Gallery
We would like to thank each and every designer for participating in Austin Fashion Week.  Hope you enjoyed your show in our fine fashion city.