Stress And Destiny

This isn't exactly hot off the press, but I want to show some appreciation for Portland's Gretchen Jones and her win on Project Runway, especially because of how up in arms the world seems to be about it! Exciting for Portland --third Portland (Portland-area, thanks Seth) winner on the show and fourth to compete! (For those who've been napping: Leanne Marshell won Season 5, Janeane Marie and Seth Aaron competed
Season 7, Seth taking the crown.) 

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I watch zero TV (not necessarily out of principle), so I had to get all my Gretchen updates from Jezebel, where the writers took an uncharacteristically rude approach to the coverage. I brushed it off each week, figuring I was biased. (Not only hometown bias--a little white Moth Love dress by Gretchen from Francis May with a deep fluttery back has been my 95 degrees and above go-to now for two consecutive summers.) As a huge fan of "blah colors" (Gretchen's pallet choice as described by the Jezebel writer) I had no problem with her hashing out a design idea without throwing in superfluous color. The (ahem) neutrals not only stayed true to Gretchen's style, but also allowed for some true exploration of design. Some of the more interesting collections have been made from an entirely simple pallet--see Spring '11 Chloe, Stella McCartney and Francisco Costa's Calvin Klein. It is with obvious respect to the environment that designers chose less harmful dyes and chemicals. Plus, as it sounds, Mondo will have no trouble gaining deserved attention and support as he continues his career.

 My personal experience with Gretchen? She's honest, gracious and focused on what she wants.

What's not to respect?