"Runway" down to final cut

Three designers have survived "Project Runway," but only one will win

By Suzanne S. Brown

It's down to the final three.

After what seemed like the longest and weepiest season yet of "Project Runway," it's finally time for the finale.

The original 16 designers stitched and witched their way through challenges that included dressing drag queens and even each other, in outfits based on a musical style — we'll never forget the punk Suede or the country-star-styled Korto.

We're used to the contestants getting emotional, but when Tim Gunn dabbed at his eyes in the workroom near the end, it was a bit of foreshadowing. Jennifer Lopez was supposed to be the guest judge for the final collections. When she excused herself from duty because of a reported foot injury, in stepped Gunn.

Runway" show during Fashion Week, which was a month ago, six designers originally presented their collections. But we now know that Joe, Suede and Jerrell had been cut.

I accurately predicted then that it would come down to these three women. I think Leanne made the strongest design statement, but any of them could be the winner. Who do you think will take home the $100,000 prize?

Leanne Marshall, 27

Bio: The Portland, Ore., native with the artsy oversized glasses and long straight hair studied fashion at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco. She lists Rodarte, Maison Martin Margiela and Zac Posen as favorite designers and is influenced by the five years she spent in graphic design.

Why she could win: Leanne's designs are carefully thought out and meticulously crafted. They're also original and modern, unlike anything else in the market. She says her final collection was inspired by waves, which explains the fullness, the layers, and soft blue-and-white color palette.

Why she might not: Some of her designs are more art pieces than wearable clothing. When she's not creating pastel gowns, her color palette and fabric choices can be a little drab.

What
Korto uses vivid silks and jewelrylike embellishment in her designs. (Scott Gries, Getty Images)
the judges said after seeing her wedding and bridesmaid dresses: "Leanne, I have to say, this is so chic, so beautifully crafted and right away, the minute it turned the corner, I knew it was yours," said Michael Kors. Nina Garcia was no less complimentary, saying, "It's modern, it's dreamy, and it's you."Continued...