Project Runway Season 3, which aired in 2006, was a pivotal season for the popular fashion design competition. Hosted by supermodel Heidi Klum, with fashion designer Michael Kors and Elle magazine editor-in-chief Nina Garcia as judges, the show featured aspiring designers competing for a chance to showcase their work at New York Fashion Week and win a cash prize to start their own brand. The season was filled with creativity, drama, and memorable designs. But what has happened to these designers since the show ended? Let’s take a look at where they are now.
Jeffrey Sebelia – Season 3 Winner
Jeffrey Sebelia, known for his edgy designs and rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic, was the winner of Season 3. After his victory, Sebelia continued to work on his brand, Cosa Nostra, which he had established before appearing on the show. He has since transitioned into costume design, working on children’s clothing for the brand La Miniatura. Sebelia has also designed costumes for bands and musicians, showcasing his continued influence in the fashion and entertainment industries.
Uli Herzner – Runner-Up
Uli Herzner, the runner-up of Season 3, was beloved for her flowy, beach-inspired designs. Post-Project Runway, Herzner launched her own line and has been involved in numerous fashion shows and events. She has also made appearances on television, including on Project Runway All Stars, and continues to work on her eponymous brand, which focuses on feminine and wearable pieces.
Laura Bennett – Finalist
Laura Bennett, known for her sophisticated and elegant designs, finished as a finalist in Season 3. Bennett has since authored a book, “Didn’t I Feed You Yesterday? A Mother’s Guide to Sanity in Stilettos,” and has contributed to various publications. She has also continued to work in design, though she has shifted her focus more towards lifestyle and writing.
Michael Knight – Finalist
Michael Knight, another finalist from Season 3, was known for his sleek and sexy designs. Tragically, Knight passed away in 2017. Before his untimely death, he had launched his own label, Mychael Knight, and had shown collections at New York Fashion Week and BET’s Rip the Runway. His legacy in fashion continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.
Kayne Gillaspie – Contestant
Kayne Gillaspie, often referred to as “Kayne of Many Colors,” was known for his pageant and evening wear designs on the show. After Project Runway, Gillaspie continued to work in the pageant industry, designing gowns for Miss America and Miss USA contestants. He has also launched his own bridal collection and remains active in the fashion industry.
Alison Kelly – Contestant
Alison Kelly, who was eliminated mid-season, has since launched her own brand, Dahl, which focuses on sustainable and locally produced garments. Kelly’s commitment to ethical fashion has earned her a dedicated following, and she continues to design with a focus on craftsmanship and sustainability.
Robert Best – Contestant
Robert Best, known for his classic and chic designs, has had a successful career post-Project Runway. Best, who had worked for Mattel as a Barbie designer before the show, returned to the company and has since become a Senior Director of Product Design. His work with Barbie has been influential in shaping the iconic doll’s fashion direction.
Bradley Baumkirchner – Contestant
Bradley Baumkirchner, remembered for his quirky and unique designs, has kept a lower profile since his time on Project Runway. While information about his current endeavors is limited, he has worked on various design projects and has maintained a presence in the creative community.
Malan Breton – Contestant
Malan Breton, the Taiwanese-born designer with a flair for the dramatic, has built a successful brand since his appearance on Project Runway. Breton has shown collections at fashion weeks around the world and has expanded into film, music, and television, showcasing his versatility as a creative professional.
Angela Keslar – Contestant
Angela Keslar, known for her “rosette” designs on the show, has continued to work in fashion and design. Keslar has focused on sustainable fashion practices and has been involved in various design projects that emphasize eco-friendly and ethical production methods.
Keith Michael – Contestant
Keith Michael, who was disqualified from the show for breaking the rules, has since continued his work in fashion. Michael has worked on his own collections and has been involved in the New York fashion scene. Despite the controversy on the show, he has maintained a career in the industry.
Bonnie Dominguez – Contestant
Bonnie Dominguez, who had a brief stint on the show, has since returned to her roots in graphic design. While she may not be as active in the fashion industry as some of her fellow contestants, Dominguez has applied her design skills to various projects and continues to work as a creative professional.
Vincent Libretti – Contestant
Vincent Libretti, known for his sometimes eccentric designs and personality, has continued to pursue his passion for design post-Project Runway. Libretti has worked on various fashion and art projects and has remained an active member of the creative community.
Stacey Estrella – Contestant
Stacey Estrella, the first contestant to be eliminated in Season 3, has kept a low profile since her time on the show. While specific details about her current career are scarce, she has continued to be involved in fashion and design in some capacity.
Impact of Project Runway Season 3 on Fashion
Project Runway Season 3 had a significant impact on the fashion industry, launching the careers of several designers and influencing trends. The show also brought attention to the importance of personality and storytelling in fashion, elements that have become increasingly important in the industry.
FAQ Section
- What has Jeffrey Sebelia done since winning Project Runway Season 3? Jeffrey Sebelia has worked on his brand Cosa Nostra, transitioned into costume design, and launched a children’s clothing line called La Miniatura.
- Has Uli Herzner continued to work in fashion after Project Runway? Yes, Uli Herzner has launched her own line, participated in fashion shows, and appeared on television, including Project Runway All Stars.
- Did any of the Project Runway Season 3 designers leave the fashion industry? While most designers have continued in the fashion industry, some, like Bonnie Dominguez, have returned to other forms of design such as graphic design.
- Who among the contestants have thrived in sustainable fashion? Alison Kelly and Angela Keslar have both focused heavily on sustainable fashion practices in their work since appearing on Project Runway.
- What impact did Michael Knight’s passing have on his brand? Michael Knight’s passing was a significant loss to the fashion community, but his brand Mychael Knight continued to influence others and his collections are remembered fondly.
Conclusion
Project Runway Season 3 was a memorable chapter in the series’ history, and its contestants have taken diverse paths in the years since the show aired. From Jeffrey Sebelia’s costume design work to Uli Herzner’s continued success in fashion, these designers have made their mark in various ways. While some have stayed in the spotlight and others have chosen quieter careers, their collective impact on fashion remains significant. The legacy of Project Runway Season 3 lives on through the continued creativity and success of its designers. The net worth figures and related information presented here are derived from a variety of public sources. These figures should not be regarded as definitive or fully accurate, as financial positions and valuations are subject to change over time.
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