Time: 4 days.
Budget: $3,000
As soon as Angela described the challenge, Mondo's face set into a panic. Then the whole episode centered around his immediate tailspin into terror and self-loathing. I suppose the producers had to pick a theme since they weren't about to show us any finalized fashions before the finale, and Mondo's personal struggle and process was as good a theme as any.
But I really enjoyed the format of this episode and how it played out...aside from Mondo's tantrum. (He's still my favorite.) I thought it especially nice that the designers got these mini mentoring sessions with Joanna, Georgina, and Isaac. It helped calm and center the designers. My favorite moment was at the end of Georgina's visit when she ever so gently called Mondo out on his mood and attitude. He bitterly explains to her that "he's tired of everyone telling him what to do." She gracefully, patiently, and kindly says, "That's okay." That's okay. With two words she empathically allows him his process no matter how tumultuous and dark it is, and he's able to cut himself some slack and move on. It felt like magic. Although I'm sure editing had something to do with that.
And that's all I really have to talk about for this finale eve episode, because no one seems to be taking a surprising tack with their collection. We'll just have to wait and see who does their aesthetic best.
Quotes!
Austin describing his inspiration: "It's Fraganard, Madame de Pompadour, 21st century rockstar, Williamsburg, Hasidic gentleman." Cut to Anthony laughing hysterically. Just... I don't... Huh?
Austin does a little dance while looking at a dress: "I'm having a glamour excitement fit!"
Mondo seeking advice for a dress: "Now that I put the sleeves on, I don't know if it takes it into wizard territory."
Mondo on Austin's moustache: "He went from Errol Flynn to Kermit the Frog." It was a little mean, but apt.
Other!
