Castaway at Runway Auditions

April 16, 2007

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For "Project Runway" fans, it’s no surprise that castings have been taking place over the past few weeks for the 4th season of the show. I was lucky enough to be asked to participate once again on the “casting panel,” and to choose who moves forward … and who gets sent packing. It's always an arduous process for everyone involved, and an obviously extremely long day for designers, judges and crew alike. I can say that for the most part, things run fairly smoothly, but I must admit that it’s always a bit amusing to see some of the characters who come our way … man, if I was only able to name names!

The day began at 8 a.m. at the Westin hotel here in New York City, and after a quick drive-by of the hopeful designers already in line (I think the first girl had been there since the ungodly hour of 3 a.m!) I made my way upstairs to find the producer I was supposed to meet and who would lead me to where I needed to be. In holding, I met up with one of last year’s judges … and I must admi t… one of my personal favorites, Joann Pailey. She is currently the Senior Market Editor at Elle magazine and one of the few women I know who can rock the 5” metal/stone Balenciaga heels at 8 o’clock in the morning!

Known for being a cut-through-the-bullshit, no-nonsense critic, I find her point of view not only accurate but thorough and well thought out. Someone who knows what she’s looking for and how to find it. Besides, she’s fab and we always have a great time kicking one another under the table when the occasional obstinate designer is having a go at Tim about why the poorly sewn, pink taffeta, beaded evening gown they brought in flopped over a wire hanger ... is a new and modern point-of-view.

Next I was introduced to Lee Twimble from GenArt, an amazingly warm woman who was passed the torch from the astute Mary Gehlar. I soon fell in love with Lee as well -- though I’m not sure why exactly -- it may have been the kind eyes, warm smile, or the fact that her vocabulary rivaled that of Tim’s.

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