The highly anticipated 22nd season of “Project Runway” is set to launch, introducing a diverse cast of designers eager to showcase their talent in the competitive world of fashion. Following its debut on July 9, the show will be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+, and will continue to air weekly on Freeform. The returning panel of judges—Heidi Klum, Law Roach, and Nina Garcia—will be reunited with season four winner Christian Siriano, who returns as mentor for this exciting series.
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Among the participants is Aaron Potts, who has established a unisex fashion line named A.Potts, offering a blend of functionality and modern design with a touch of theatrical flair. Alongside him is Andrea Moore, a street fashion designer and mother of three, celebrated for her gender-neutral silhouettes and innovative use of textiles that highlight meticulous craftsmanship.
Ukrainian designer Andriy Volkov brings an international perspective to the competition, embodying a couture artistry influenced by his cultural heritage while retaining a strong commitment to traditional craftsmanship. In a similar vein, Anna Molinari, a rising star in sustainable fashion, aims to prove that creative design can coexist with environmentally responsible practices.
Also making waves this season is Bao Tranchi, a finalist from “Next in Fashion” who juggles motherhood with a successful career within costume and celebrity design. Bi Pham, born in Vietnam and raised in the Pacific Northwest, made a significant shift from a scientific background to fashion, focusing on exploring sensuality through premium ready-to-wear items.
Bryan Barrientos, a Peruvian-American designer recognised for his work showcased at New York Fashion Week and the Met Gala, adds further depth to the designer lineup. From Utah, Chloe Magleby is set to challenge notions of sustainable fashion with her brand, Public Parts, which pushes the boundaries of eco-friendly design.
The emergence of Dani Bennett from a small-town upbringing has led her to embrace upcycling, leading to her brand, moonhAg. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Shevelev, based in New York City, is known for her experimental approach to textiles and her anti-perfectionist philosophy in design.
The Lebanese-American designer Jeffrey Kelly Abess is set to unveil high-fashion statement pieces through his brand, while Jennifer Daniels returns to “Project Runway” after previously participating as a model in past seasons. Joseph McRae is back, having made his mark in Season 21 with his New York label JOSEPHMcRAE, continuing his exploration of innovative fashion.
Brooklyn-based Jude Mikulencak hails from New Orleans, emphasizing classic tailoring styles in his work. Inglewood’s Naheim Muhammad distinguishes himself with spiritually inspired and functional designs, showcasing a unique approach to contemporary menswear. Octavius Terry, head designer of OCTAVIUS MARSION, brings his expertise from designing for celebrities on red carpets to the forefront of the competition.
Omolara “LRÉ the Artist” Odupita, upon returning to the series, shares her dual identity as a disabled Air Force veteran and first-generation Nigerian creative, infusing her designs with a transformative sense of emotion and silhouette. The drag performer Plane Jane adds a burst of vibrancy to the season, having previously appeared on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and known for hosting the podcast Kudos for Spilling.
R’Bonney Nola Gabriel is a multifaceted designer and the reigning Miss Universe 2022, merging her modelling career with sustainable fashion practices while proudly representing her Filipina American identity. Costume designer Robert Crone, with a focus on creating custom work for drag artists, approaches design with a highly theatrical and fashion-forward lens.
Varvara “Bobby” Diakonenkova, who emigrated from Moscow, aims to use her fashion designs to spark conversations surrounding feminism and international politics. Finally, Yangyang Xu bridges cultures as a womenswear and print designer, honing her skills through diverse global experiences, having trained in London and currently residing in New York.
As this illustrious cohort embarks on their journeys within the legendary design competition, audiences can expect a season rich in creativity, cultural narratives, and a celebration of individuality. “Project Runway” season 22 promises not only to showcase breathtaking collections but also to highlight the inspiring stories and backgrounds of these talented designers, each vying for a chance to elevate their careers to new heights.