Ep 9. Fashion Cents

In this episode of Project Runway All-Stars season 3, titled "Fashion Cents," the remaining five designers are taken to Mood, a popular fabric store in New York City. There, they are given a budget of only $150 to create an entire look for a fashion-forward, cost-conscious woman. The designers have to work within their given budget, but also have to create a customized look that is both functional and fashionable.

The contestants display diverse aesthetics when it comes to design, with some of them favoring minimalistic designs while others opt for more eclectic styles. For instance, one of the designers chooses to focus on the practicality of their designs by creating garments that can transition between formal and casual settings with ease. Another designer prefers to work with natural fibers, embracing the natural beauty and texture of materials such as linen and cotton.

As the designers work on their garments in the workroom, several of them start to feel the pressure of the challenge. They are concerned that they will not be able to create an elevated look while adhering to their budget. Others find it challenging to work within the limited range of fabrics available, with some of them having to change their initial designs based on what is available in the store.

The episode also features a surprise visit from fashion designer Nanette Lepore, who gives the contestants insights and inspiration for their designs. Nanette advises the designers on how to work with different fabrics, and gives tips on how to create stylish designs while keeping an eye on their budget.

As the runway show approaches, the contestants become increasingly nervous about their designs. They worry that their designs may not be cohesive enough or will not be able to stand out among their fellow contestants. The judges for this episode include Isaac Mizrahi, Georgina Chapman, and guest judge Laverne Cox. They evaluate each designer's design, taking into account elements such as fit, style, and functionality.

After careful consideration, the judges announce the winner of the challenge, as well as the contestant who will be sent home. The winning designer is awarded a prize, and all of the designers reflect on what they learned from the challenge, with some of them feeling inspired to incorporate budget-consciousness into their future designs.

Overall, this episode of Project Runway All-Stars season 3 is a thought-provoking and inspiring exploration of what it means to create stylish and functional garments while keeping an eye on costs. It showcases the diverse design aesthetics that the contestants bring to the table, and offers insights into the creative process of designing clothing. Any fan of fashion, design, or reality television will find this episode to be a captivating and entertaining watch.