Do you keep the contestants in mind when picking and choosing items for the Bluefly accessory wall?
MD: Even though I get ZERO ahead-of-time scoop about what the challenges’ll be, I definitely keep the craziness of past episodes in mind when choosing the accessories for The Wall. I know the contestants will be asked to work with eclectic materials and fabrics, so I make sure to pick pieces that will complement the uniqueness of the anticipated looks. MIT: What are some items the Project Runway designers usually fight for first? MD: For the Fashion Week finale, the contestants tend to fight over the strappy stiletto sandals and chunky bangles. It’s their big moment to impress the judges and the fans and they’re going for high-impact on the runway so a sick pair of shoes or a dramatic stack of statement bangles are often the fastest shortcut to setting the mood they’re going for. For Season 5, Leanne used one pair of woven raffia Nanette Lepore platforms with all her looks—I think those shoes did a great job of communicating her natural, sustainable eco-chic aesthetic. MIT: What are yo
