Designs, from left to right, are from Project Runway alumni Christopher Straub, Laurence Basse, and Mondo.
All Photos by Anna Bjorlin
Lights, camera, fashion! Style-savvy fashionistas dressed to impress on Friday, Oct. 5, filling Mall of America’s rotunda for its Curated Style: Straight from the Runway fashion show, which featured eight Project Runway designers and performances by So You Think You Can Dance winner Kida The Great.
Now in its fourth year, Curated Style kicked off the evening with a pre-party hosted at the Radisson Blu’s FireLake Grill House + Cocktail Bar, where VIP guests sipped on wine and cocktails, snacked on light hors d’oeuvres, and mingled with other attendees. New to this year was the After the Runway post-party, featuring music by DJ Strange Love and exclusive swag bags. Even with the extra partying, it was the runway show that truly stole the spotlight.
The featured designers (Christopher Straub from Season 6, Candice Cuoco from Season 14, Joshua Christensen from Season 9,Valerie Mayen from Season 8, Laurence Basse from Season 15, Viktor Luna from Season 9, Justin LeBlanc from Season 12, and Mondo Guerra from Season 8) each showcased 10-12 different looks ranging from elegant and refined to fun and playful. Below is just a sampling of some of our favorite looks and designers of the night.
Christopher Straub found inspiration for his colorful collection from Venus flytraps, and his clothing reflected the bright tropical tones, sharp angles, and delicately ruffled edges found in the plant. Spiky headpieces finished off the looks.
Going for an elegant-yet-tomboyish vibe, Laurence Basse showcased a beautiful line of structured women’s clothes. The staple color was black, accented with bright pops of cherry red, intricate gold embroidery, pearl details, and more.
Viktor Luna debuted his new line of menswear, which featured dramatic monochromatic-themed looks. Creative accents and accessories including sequins, garters, canes, and riding crops completed the polished ensembles.
Mondo Guerra went full-on “Rhinestone Cowboy” for his collection, a playful and eclectic mix full of fun fringes, textures, and shades. “I always say if my designs aren’t hurting your eyes, I’m doing something wrong,” the designer joked.
