You know how the designers emit a collective groan whenever team challenges come up on “Project Runway”? Guess what! The 11th season of the show (premiering Thurs. Jan. 24 at 9:00 p.m.) will be the first-ever teams edition. The designers will have to work together for every challenge (yes, every challenge). Did you hear that? I think it was sobbing!
Other changes are also afoot. Heidi Klum and Nina Garcia will be joined by “featured judge” designer Zac Posen, while Michael Kors will be a “finale guest judge.” While the judges table will be changed, the good news is that Tim Gunn will be returning to mentor the designers. Phew!
Celebrity guest judges will include, Bette Midler, Susan Sarandon, Miranda Lambert, John Legend, Joan and Melissa Rivers, Emmy Rossum, Kristin Davis, Jordana Brewster and designers Rachel Roy, Tracy Reese, Chris Benz and “Project Runway” winner Christian Siriano.
Lifetime will also air the special “Road to the Runway” prior to the premiere at 8pm ET/PT as an introduction to the new designers. Hosted by Marie Claire”s Zanna Roberts Rassi, the special will also feature commentary from “Project Runway All Stars” winner Mondo Guerra and designer alum Laura Kathleen.
As usual, the prize package will be stuffed with goodies. This season”s lucky designer will receive $100,000 from L”Oréal Paris to start his/her own line, a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a 2013 Lexus GS 350, a $50,000 technology suite by HP and Intel to create his/her own vision and run his/her business and the opportunity to design and sell an exclusive collection at Lord & Taylor. The model paired with the winner of Project Runway will also appear in the designer’sMarie Claire editorial feature and receive $25,000 from L’Oréal Paris EverStyle.