What was your journey on Project Accessory like? How did it feel to make it all the way to the end?

Like everyone from the show has said, it was a total roller coaster. One second I was super happy with my design, then I would look around the room and feel intimidated and second guess myself. As far as highs and lows of the coaster ride, the first day I swore I was going home, so you can imagine how great making it to the final two felt!

Have you always wanted to create jewelry?

I was always a creative person, always inventing something to make. I played around with some jewelry, which when I see it now I can’t help but laugh, but hey, you have to start somewhere. But it wasn’t until I took a metal-smithing class in college I decided this was what I wanted to do.

What are your inspirations for your upcoming collection?

I’m really bringing it home this year. I’m always looking out to find inspiration, but my Miami girl roots are really coming through for this next line. I’m really feeling the beach but the earthy side of it. Industrial diamonds pulling the color from our sands, Apatite for our unmistakable ocean – I love it. I’m really excited for this line. It’s my favorite to date!

On body image:

I think I sit today in a place of greater acceptance of my body, and that includes not just my weight but all of the things that come with your changing body as you age to now experiencing my body as extremely thin — thin in a way that I never imagined somebody would be saying to me, “You’re too thin, and you don’t look good.”

On her guilty pleasure:

Watching Jersey Shore, because it’s such a train wreck. It’s excessive behavior being rewarded, which in truth is painful to watch, but you just can’t look away!

On being “abandoned”:

I used to think that what scared me was the idea of being abandoned until someone said to me, “Only children can be abandoned. Adults can’t be abandoned because we have a choice. Children don’t have a choice.” So I started to rethink. “Okay, it’s not that. What’s the underlying thread that really scares me?” I think what scares me is not having the courage to reach my full potential…If I were to answer it just kind of bold-faced, I would say what scares me is that I’m going to ultimately find out at the end of my life that I’m really not lovable, that I’m not worthy of being loved. That there’s something fundamentally wrong with me.

On her idea of freedom:

Letting go of the outcome. Truly being in the moment. Not reflecting on the past. Not projecting into the future. That’s freedom. Not caring more about what other people think than what you think. That’s freedom…Somebody wrote something to me that said, “Don’t let your wounds make you become someone you’re not.” That’s really powerful. And not taking life too seriously.

[Harper's Bazaar]

Heidi Klum will be portrayed by Angela Lindvall. The role of Nina Garcia will be played by Marchesa‘s Georgina Chapman. Joanna Coles, editor-in-chief of Marie Claire will star as mentor-in residence Tim Gunn. And returning to the fashion reality competition show stage is Isaac Mizrahi as Michael Kors. Guest judges will include Diane von Furstenberg, Miranda Kerr, Miss Piggy, Pharrell Williams, Nanette Lepore, Rachel Roy, Catherine Malandrino, and Mark Badgley and James Mischka.

The All-Stars in question are past Runway contestants who weren’t quite up to snuff, such as Austin Scarlett, Sweet P, Kara Janx and that much-reviled whiny copycat, Kenley Collins. Personally, I stopped watching Project Runway as soon as it hopped from Bravo to Lifetime,  deciding along the way that a season in L.A. was a good idea, but this new spin-off series could bring some much-needed fresh air into the franchise.

The All-Stars will compete for a handsome set of prizes, the most lucrative in Runway history: “an exclusive designer boutique in select Neiman Marcus stores and on neimanmarcus.com; $100,000 in technology and office space to help expand their business from HP and Intel; $100,000 cash from L’Oréal Paris; a feature spread in Marie Claire, for which he or she will serve as a guest editor for one year, and a sewing and embroidery studio provided by Brother International.” Well, at least they made returning to the scene of one’s former and very public embarrassment suitably enticing.

Will you watch Project Runway All-Stars when it premieres January 5 on Lifetime, television for women unemployed gay men? [WWD]

Ah, just imagine the stresses that will boil in this pressure cooker of a show. Will you tune in?

*Any resemblance to persons living or dead is intentional and fictional.

Dear Diary,

Last night, I decided to stay in with a bottle of cheap tequila, a pizza bagel and my freshly renewed prescription of Oxycotin to watch William and Kate: Let Love Rule on Lifetime. It might have been the near coma I was in, but that shit was BANGIN’!

I’m no film expert, but from what I can tell, Lifetime is a purveyor of high-quality, well-thought-out, beautifully-produced and thrillingly-acted fare. The BBC could take a note or two, cuz frankly I’m, tired of all those goddamn Jane Austen adaptations.

The only thing that really ground my fucking gears was that bitch who was supposed to be me, Camilla Luddington. That heifer looked nothing like me, and between me and you, Diary, I don’t even think that bitch was British.

Now you tell me which one is going to be the Princess of Wales and which one is going to be auditioning to play a corpse next season on NCIS LA?

And furthermore, ho was pathetic. Crying in a bathtub with a glass of wine because the Fresh Prince ditched her to hang with his boys and shit? It’s like, get a life or hang it the fuck up. That was only partially true, anyway.

Yes, there was a glass of wine, or several…bottles, and a bathtub, but I was sharing the bathtub with half of the St. Andrews lacrosse team, thank you. I gets mines, that’s all I’m sayin’.

Speaking of getting mines, the dude who played Will, Nico Evers-Swindell was kind of totally fuckable even though his name is kind of totally gay.

Not that I would ever cheat on Will — especially since the St. Andrews lacrosse team is also kind of totally gay, who knew? Nico does have all of his hair though…

I’m just fucking with ya, Diary! All in all, I’d give it two royal thumbs up, mostly because this actually did happen.

What can I say? I’m a sucker for really shitty karaoke.

– K.M.O.D.B.

- Vivienne Westwood is opening up her first flagship store in the states and she’s doing it in Los Angeles. Why L.A.? ”I don’t actually like New York.” She explains. “New York people are a bit stuck up and self important, and think that just the fact that they live in New York makes them better than anybody else.” Not better than anybody else. Better than everybody else. So-what? Who-cares? Is it our fault our city kicks every other city’s ass? I don’t think so. Please don’t punish us for being the bestest, Viv. [W]

- As if there weren’t enough fashion reality shows hosted by supermodels, now NBC has thrown their chapeau into the ring with Fashion Star, hosted by Elle Macpherson. But don’t expect high concept challenges requiring yards of tulle and a metric ton of beading; this show will focus on everyday items, “like bathing suits or lingerie, or surf wear and jeans.” And the winner gets a multi-million dollar contract and the chance to have their line sold at a “massive retail store.” I don’t know about you, but I’ve all but given up on PJ Runway (Lifetime? Ew.) and The Fashion Show, despite Iman being the best person ever, just doesn’t make the cut. Will a show about designers making mass-retail jeans intrigue you? Especially on NBC? [Modelina]

- Gisele‘s ads for H&M have been slightly altered for the Dubai marketplace. The supers luscious limbs and daring decolletage are covered up by some sort of digital spanx. Dubai has been so conservative ever since those Sex and the City (2) gals rode in on their humps…and camels. [Fashionista]

Photo: Fashionista

- When she was just an 18 year old up and coming skank, rather than the seasoned vet she is now, Paris Hilton apparently couldn’t “stand black guys.” Which would explain why she forced Nicole Richie to have that sexual reassignment surgery before The Simple Life 2. [Gawker]

- There are few words in the English language that inspire confidence as much as “Lifetime Original Movie.” Inspired by true events (i.e. based on what some intern read in OK! Magazine), William & Kate chronicles the legendary romance between Prince William and his lady Kate Middleton. The movie premieres April 18, 11 days before the royal wedding, meaning they basically threw this movie together during a 5-day coke binge. [YouTube]

- Androgynous ladyman, Andrej Pejic sees why many would compare him to transexual supermodel Lea T., but he thinks he’s more versatile. “When it comes to our professional lives, well she only does women’s wear and I think I cover more fields.” The only thing I have to say to that, missy, is never underestimate a tranny. They’ll soon cut you as look at you. [Fashionologie]

- William Shatner is 80 years old today. Capt. Kirk is still working, still schticking and still getting us the best price on hotels, air travel and car rentals, proving once again that the pre-baby-boomers come from a much heartier stock than the rest of us. Shatner, Betty White and Cloris Leachman could probably carry the entire NY Giants football team on their arthritic backs without nary a complaint. [Daily Beast]

We all know there was an odd void when Project Runway was moved to Lifetime and Bravo was sans a fashion reality competition.  Last year they tried to feed us The Fashion Show and I know that every self respecting fashion lover was not about it.

When the ads for this season of The Fashion Show came up first I was a little apprehensive but the more clips of Iman I saw, the better. I saw the first episode and was pretty pleased. I hate the stereotypes but all my favorites were included such as The Villian, Cute Straight Guy, Sassy Black Girl, and Boy Who Looks Like a Girl.

I was so moved by the first episode to check out the 2nd that aired last night. SHIT WENT DOWN! There was drama, quitings, sucess, and failures. Not to mention Iman saying the best line of the night: “That dress had more tricks than a hooker!”

Good job Bravo you have me hooked!

As episode 7 of Project Runway kicked off last night, it was on our way to the hardware store! Designers were given a small budget to make pieces out of pretty difficult materials. After a night of molding copper and tying washers it was clear that this one was going to be a close call. Emilio even had to make a bikini due to the lack of materials he got with his budget! But at the end of the day it was Jay who took the prize with his leather looking pants, (which were actually garbage bags!), and Jesse was sent back home.

LINK LOVE: Lifetime

The new season starts on August 20th at 10PM Eastern Standard Time on Lifetime. One month, folks!

As Project Runway runs to Lifetime, or maybe not, we all thought Bravo would be left all lonely and out in the cold. Well, their here to prove us wrong! And I have to say, I’m quite happy about it. Word has it that Bravo execs are in talks about featuring five new fashion-themed shows. Yes, we just said five! Three of them are straight-up intoxicating fashion, whilst the others are more lifestyle shows.

First on the list is Fashionality, a discussion and interview rich entertainment base. Number two is Celebrity Sew-Off, in which featured celebrities attempt to make their own clothes. Next is Double Exposure and Polo. Double Exposure follows the everyday life of Markus Klinko, a fashion photographer, whilst Polo documents the lives of top polo players. And finally, we have The Dubai Projects, featuring top lifestyles in an awesome city! This is crazy exciting, but let’s hope at least one of these budding reality series doesn’t crash and burn- we know how easy it is for that to happen. What are you most excited for?

So, I was really trying to be optimistic about this one, but it doesn’t seem like there’s much place for optimism in this situation. Yes, this is the third time another move on the Project Runway lawsuits has come into play. Just to make sure everyone’s up to date-First, NBC sued Weinstein Co. because they sold the show to Lifetime, then, Lifetime moved the issue to federal court, and now, just for the hell of it, Weinstein Co. is suing Bravo. It makes me dizzy just thinking about it! Weinstein Co. claims that Bravo intentionally cut-back advertising for Project Runway’s season 5 because the were resentful that the show moved to Lifetime. It was revealed what Weinstein said about Bravo’s harsh actions:

“[they were] changing the show’s airtime; running a small number of ads; creating ‘mundane and unappealing’ ads; providing little information for the press about the season premiere; and revealing spoilers about future episodes.”

Let’s just get it all over with! We need season 6!

Thanks NYMag!

Well, I’ll be the first to admit I thought the lawsuit concerning Project Runway and NBC would be over before the air date was postponed; however, ‘m really not so sure anymore! It’s time we really started feeling sorry for these designers! These talented individuals have already finished wrapping up the season and it’s likely it won’t air for a year! Yes, that’s right. A year.

Though the lawsuit was primarily between NBC and Weinstein Company, Lifetime has felt it necessary to hop on in and get all up in their business! Further postponing the air date for season 6, Lifetime has voiced their desire for the case to move from state to federal courts on the account of matters concerning federal copyright law.

Let’s just hope they at least get to strut their stuff on the catwalks next February. Sounds ambitious, but you never know!

Thanks NYMag!

Though we’ve been cruelly teased with the terrible rumor that Project Runway’s season 6 may not premiere on schedule, we’re pretty sure it’s a definite. Yes, it’s time to whip out those recording devices as we soak up every last minute of contestant rivalry occurring on the current season 5. What’s the reason for the malice? Word has it Project Runway is being smacked with a lawsuit. Though we knew there was a dispute between NBC and Lifetime, it was supposed to be reconciled in time for the show to air on January 7. Well wouldn’t that have been lovely. Seems as though the wish we thought was granted has been yet again crushed.

Season 6 has just about finished recording in Los Angeles; however, the show still has no home! Though the Lifetime network seemed pretty confident that they were going to snatch Project Runway back , it doesn’t seem as though it’s happening. Nor has NBC made any move to feature Project Runway on its prime time listings. We sure do hope something gets worked out! If not, we’re looking at a late summer air date. Oh the horror!

Get ready for the next season of Project Runway! Though we’re not quite finished with the current contestants, some news of the upcoming season, premiering on Lifetime, has been released. Who ever heard of a good sneak peek if it didn’t involve mention of a certain Lohan? That’s right, Lindsay’s set to guest-judge on the first episode of Project Runway, for the new LA based season. I’m not quite sure how Lindsay Lohan and “admirable designer”/fashionista go hand in hand, but hey, I guess we’ll find out.

Actress Lindsay Lohan at a launch last Monday.

Marc Jacobs Spring 2009.

Charles Anastase Spring 2009.

Straw on the street.

Move over Mary Poppins! You may think it was this nanny who started the straw hat trend, but if you took your medicine correctly, you would know it was none other than fashion legend Coco Chanel! For those of you who watched the recent Coco Chanel Lifetime film, you saw hundreds of hat designs, many of them straw hats. Let’s be honest, who else did we expect to craft such dramatic fashion accessories from barnyard food?

This coming Spring season, straw hats are making a comeback! First seen during New York Fashion Week by Marc Jacobs and Charles Anastase, straw hats add a bit of mystery and sex appeal to the innocent girl in the sundress. Dramatically tip the straw hat to the side and we’re in business! For now, keep that head warm with a nice wool beret or a fitted cloche, but come Spring 2009…slap on the straw!

Thanks for the photos STYLE and Facehunter!

Shirley MacLaine at the "Coco Chanel" premier.

ABC News correspondent Cynthia McFadden discusses the role of Coco with Shirley MacLaine.

Last night marked the world premier of Lifetime’s upcoming presentation, “Coco Chanel,” the story of the troubles and triumphs of an icon in fashion history. Joseph Urban Theatre housed the event, filling hundreds of seats with some of the fashion industry’s most crucial players.

As in any event, the evening kicked off with a social event for guests to eat, drink and be merry. Following the hors-d’oeuvres was an interview with ABC’s own Cynthia McFadden and Academy Award winning actress, Shirley MacLaine. MacLaine humorously commented on her experience playing the infamous cavalier, Coco Chanel, and left the guests in stitches over her farewell: “Goodnight, enjoy the bitch.”

The film itself was a bit of a letdown in comparison to MacLaine’s enchanting description of the role. The audience expected scenes filled with dazzling garments, couture fashion and the industry’s drama. What they got, however, was cliche love scenes in the snow, awful French accents and sappy quotes about determination. Sorry Coco, but I think what we wanted was a little more of your couture fashion and a little less of your relationship passion!

 On a lighter note, Shirley MacLaine performed phenomenally as the wicked fashion witch and stirred constant laughter with her sarcasm and believable arrogance.

“Coco Chanel,” starring Shirley MacLaine, premiers on Lifetime on September 13, 2008 8:00ET. If you don’t mind a bit of sap and want to journey through the life this fashion icon, you and your television have got a date!

Thanks Zimbio!

Lifetime is putting its best face on for a potential companion series to its soon-to-be-acquired “Project Runway.” The cabler has given a six-episode order to the reality competish “Blush: The Search for America’s Greatest Makeup Artist.” Hourlong skein, exec produced by Laura Fuest (“The Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious”), will bow on the net in November. IMG Entertainment is producing.

Pickup of “Blush” reflects the ramp-up of unscripted development at Lifetime as it preps for the arrival of its pricey “Project Runway” acquisition this fall. “Blush” will follow eight aspiring makeup mavens as they compete for the grand prize of a one-year contract as a professional makeup artist with Max Factor, $100,000 in cash and a shot at doing the makeup for a major glossy magazine cover shoot.

What a great idea, this show will def be a hit amongst the young beauty savvy crowd who will watch just for makeup tips and ideas.

Keep reading on Variety