The time has come to crown an All Star on Project Runway Season 20. There are three incredible designers battling it out in the finale: Bishme, Brittany, and Laurence. Each are tasked with putting $10,000 to good use, creating a collection of eight looks in eight days. So who was able to secure that $250,000 prize, along with all of the incredible stuff that comes with it? Here’s everything that happened in the Project Runway Season 20 finale…
Eight days, eight looks, and a little help
As mentioned, designers have to create eight looks in eight days. So, three of the eliminated All Stars from the season are returning to give them a helping hand: Prajjé, Fabio, and Kara Saun. They are paired up with Bishme, Brittany, and Laurence respectively.
Brittany is looking to create a “collection to embrace the activewear path … then activewear as evening wear.” Laurence, meanwhile, is “really playing with the masculine and feminine … my collection is a marriage of the two.” Finally, Bishme is “inspired by my process of grieving … how I’m feeling.” His late sister will be who plays a huge part in his collection’s design.
Christian brings the models in for selection
Christian has been an incredible mentor this season. It continues in the finale, as he gives some notes to the competitors. Well, two of them. With Bishme, he simply said he was impressed, and gave him a hug!
“What about even making a very classic, beautiful suit?” Christian suggested to Laurence. He also said she should sketch, so she would “have a better plan.”
As for Brittany? “It’s girly and cool and young and fun … maybe you need that one sophisticated thing.” She heard him, and promised to follow through.
As for the models casting? Lots of shrieking, and standout Mimi ate it up. She was the first pick, going to Brittany by random draw. The models this season have done an impeccable job. That didn’t end here.
Bishme’s feeling the pressure
As the days go by, Bishme is feeling down. Christian tells Prajjé to look after him, and Bishme later opens up. He’s not only dealing with the pressure of this competition, but he’s going through the grieving process. That’s not something easy to do in the middle of Project Runway. Especially when it comes to the finale.
Though his mind is playing tricks on him and telling him to quit, Prajjé pulls him away from the edge. “It’s like someone telling you great news and then pushing you off a cliff,” Bishme mused on the fifth night of creation.
Thankfully, by day seven, he’s back on track. A visitor from the CFDA arrives, and gives each of the finalists some insight. He says that Brittany is “ahead of a lot of designers,” as she knows exactly who her customer is. Bishme has “real range,” which is important when building a business. And Laurence is “very smart” to mix fabrics, rather than just sticking to her signature leather.
It’s showtime!
The day of the finale arrives, and it’s time to see some collections!
Brittany is up first. Her DNA is woven throughout each and every single look. You could have been shown this collection blind, and immediately come to the conclusion that Brittany created it. She is undoubtedly talented, creating some stunning looks with iconic fits. They’re thoroughly modern, and the final gown on Mimi is a true showstopper.
Next up is Bishme. His style is clear and classic. There’s a real range in his designs and fabric used, and the final “anxiety gown” is a moment that Project Runway fans will remember for a long time. Pride radiates off his mother in the crowd, and it’s easy to see why. This collection seems like the most cohesive of the three.
Finally, Laurence delivers “One Night In Paris.” Not the Paris Hilton tape, thankfully. I did laugh, though. This collection is distinctly Laurence. It’s edgy and demands attention. She proves the versatility of leather, while mixing it up with other fabrics at the same time.
Judges Nina Garcia, Elaine Welteroth, and guests Billy Porter and Zac Posen, are all very impressed. Sadly, Brandon Maxwell couldn’t make the finale.
Who won Project Runway Season 20?
Bishme Cromartie was named the winner of Project Runway Season 20.
After a fierce season packed full of some of the most talented All Stars the show has ever seen, Bishme brought it home, as his late sister had predicted. “The kid in me is extremely proud and excited as hell,” he said in interview. “All I had to do is believe,” he said, recalling his sister’s words.
Nina noted that “all of [the designers] have that superpower that will make them a phenomenal winner.” It’s true. Everybody killed it.
And that, guys, gals, and non-binary pals, is that! What an incredible season. I’ve loved every minute. Bishme is the perfect winner, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes him next. Until next time!
TELL US – WERE YOU HAPPY TO SEE BISHME WIN THE PROJECT RUNWAY SEASON 20 FINALE? WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE FINAL COLLECTIONS?
