Notes. Women and Reality Television

No matter how educated (or lack thereof) and regardless of how well dressed or made up, financially independent or dependent, young or old, experienced or inexperienced - a bad attitude is still ugly no matter the form it comes in for many of the women of reality television as well as in life. Great wardrobe, glamorous hair, polished make-up, big bank account and even career achievement does not give anyone class. What you do and what you have does not define who a person is nor their character.

These shows expose and yes - exploit more of who these women really are. If you're naturally a conniving person, it's easier to be conniving in a competition. If you're too quiet and laid back, it's probably difficult to come out of that shell and you'll probably be eaten alive. Anyone who signs up knows exactly what they're getting in to; and we all know drama, backstabbing and controversy sells especially in entertainment. Remember the popular scripted shows Dynasty and Dallas? Viewers (myself included) loved to hate Alexis aka Joan Collins and enjoyed the classic catty scenes with Crystal aka Linda Evans.
It's annoying when people get too judgmental or condescending on TV or off and that includes participants in these shows. People have lessons to learn and personal growth to achieve, or let's hope so.

Be it for pure entertainment value, raising money for charity or simply looking for greater visibility for one's career; this thought is always in the back of my mind - as a viewer, professional and as a woman. It's all entertainment - but ugly is still ugly no matter how one tries to justify and no matter how dressed up.

Notes. Project Runway Finale Thoughts

I was underwhelmed overall with the season finale of Project Runway. I don't know if it's just me but I expected more of each designer.
Although I could see the trend appeal of Gretchen's designs and despite my disdain for her personality, she did create some 'cute' pieces and jewelry. But to emerge as the overall winner of Project Runway - I didn't see it. Mondo's collection was my favorite. Good luck to them all.

Looking forward to Bravo's "The Fashion Show" with Iman and Isaac Mizrahi.


Photo's: (via) zimbio.com

Notes. Project Runway Season 8 Finale

Design. Mondo

Mondo and Michael Costello in one of the best moments of the season.

I must admit I've found season 8 of Project Runway designers a bit lackluster. It's also taken some getting used to with the show being on Lifetime and not Bravo. With that said, I'm still a fan of  Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors and the show itself as one of the best in reality TV.

This season I grew to really like Michael Costello and was so sad to see him go last week.  His departure had me reaching for the Kleenex feeling his extreme disappointment. He seemed like such a humble person despite the numerous daggers he endured from fellow cast mates and his workmanship was always better than he was given credit for by the competing designers. The drama was the pull of the season and perhaps that was intended but the extra half hour wasn't needed. There was another episode where Mondo discussed his HIV status and relationship with his Mom that also made me emotional. Had Michael made it to Bryant Park it would have been priceless just to see Gretchen's face when he walked through the door declaring "I made it."

My pick to win it is Mondo, although his designs are a bit kitsch, I like the way he uses color and mixes bold patterns. On top of that, he was open enough to admit he had misjudged Michael as a designer and a person.