“Project Runway” contestant Anya Ayoung-Chee takes home the prize
The latest season of “Project Runway” came to a close last night after Anya Ayoung-Chee was named the winner.
In the final episode, the remaining four — yes, FOUR — “Project Runway” contestants faced off during New York Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. Last week’s episode shocked the finalists and fans when Viktor Luna, Kimberly Goldson, Josh McKinley and Anya were all allowed the opportunity to show at Fashion Week, and they did not disappoint.
Heeding the words of the judges last week, the “Project Runway” contestants returned to their collections to improve upon their work. Viktor added several sheer and see-through pieces to his collection, which made it feel a little conflicted and, in Heidi’s words “cheap.” Kimberly toned down the makeup and accessories on her models, while maintaining her urban vibe. Josh revised his Grecian catsuit, giving it a more refined look, but added lime green shorts that Tim Gunn shyed away from. And Anya, who had the weakest mini-collection last week, embraced her Caribbean point of view, showing a collection of sexy, easy and beautiful pieces.
Although the judges had praise for all of the finalists, Viktor, Kimberly and Josh were all eliminated, leaving the underdog of the season, Anya, the winner of “Project Runway” season nine.
As the winner, Anya was awarded with $100,000 from L’Oréal Paris to start her own line, a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a $50,000 technology suite by HP and the opportunity to design and sell an exclusive collection on Piperlime.com. In addition, Anya’s model will appear in Anya’s editorial feature in Marie Claire and receive $25,000 from L’Oréal Studio Secrets Professional.
Watch footage from the “Project Runway” season finale here.
