Okay, so I’m late.  We’re already three episodes into the fifth season of Project Runway, and I’m just now getting my stuff together.  Onward and forward.

Quick synopsis of season challenges so far:

First, the designers had to craft garments out of stuff from a grocery store. (The idea itself was recycled from season one.) Many of the contestants got torn a new one at judging because they wimped out and used tablecloths or shower curtains – i.e., fabric-like materials.  Kelli won with a coffee filter-vacuum bag concoction (which I would worry about wearing in the rain.) Jerry got booted for his raincoat/rainboot/murderess getup.  Maybe he could style the next “Carrie” movie.

In the second challenge, the designers made duds out of eco-friendly products chosen by their models.  One of my favorite actresses, Natalie Portman, was a guest judge.  (She has just launched a vegan shoe line.)  Suede took top honors for his complicated, woven-style dress with a tulle skirt – super cute and not something I could pull off in my wildest dreams.  (My favorite was Kenley’s chic champagne number with the black belt.)  Auf Wiedersehen to Wesley, whose shiny, copper-colored mini-dress with the “auf’d” up hem showed him the door.

In last night’s third round, the designers soaked in New York City’s sights for inspiration in creating a dress for a night on the town.  I loved Terri’s blue abstract dress with the satin pants.  It was bold, surprising and fun.  I liked winner Kenley’s dress too, though it kind of looked like someone sprayed a can of ‘80s paint all over it.  I thought for sure Jennifer’s “boring, matronly” offering would send her packing, but the judges instead axed Emily for her black dress, which had a neon ruffle interrupting its front.  Not a bad choice; the dress reminded me of something a showgirl would wear on a cruise.

A few general observations.

The judges seem particularly acidic this season.  I love that.

Blane annoys me.  I’d like to give him a haircut and some sunscreen.

My favorite contestant so far is Kenley.  I’ve liked her designs pretty well, but I like her personal, 50s-era style even more. She’s on my short list of early contenders to take the top prize. 

I also include Kelli, Suede and Korto on that list. I thought Korto’s grocery store dress was striking – even though I’d never wear produce as a broach.

Stay tuned!  Holla at ya boy.