What a thrill it was to chat recently with Suede from Project Runway Season 5! As you all know, the finale has yet to air.  I didn’t ask Suede any questions about the winner, although I wanted desperately to know.  He did promise to talk with me again after the show is over.  Then we’ll dish in chic style!

Suede, can you share a little bit about yourself and how you got started?

Well, I was born in Cleveland, Ohio.  I grew up in suburbia.  I went to Amish School during my younger years.  No, my family was not Amish, but my parents really believed in experiences that would enrich us and help us see things outside our world.   During my high school years I wanted to be an actor but my parents were not supportive of me moving to NYC at 17.  I decided to apply to the Kent State University of Fashion Design and Merchandising.  I was not sure that it would be something I would like or be good at, but much to my surprise it was the right fit on the right boy.

I graduated receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design.  I had also studied with Parson’s in Paris during my time at Kent State University.  After graduation I moved to NYC where I interned with Geoffrey Beene.  I quickly moved into the denim world where I ended up designing for an launching some major brands including:  Fubu, Roc-a-wear, Jordache, Old Navy, Geoffrey Beene Sportswear, Lee 1889 to mention a few.

Project Runway has been an incredible opportunity and I am so blessed to have had this experience and made it so far in the competition.

Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

There is no simple answer to that question.  Anything can bring me inspiration. I do not follow one source of inspiration.  I keep looking to different sources.  While I continue to find and seek out new sources of inspiration, music has been a constant motivator for me.

What designs have been your favorites?

I loved my winning “green” dress with Natalie Portman as the guest judge, I loved my car parts dress, NY Night Life Dress, and the USA dress.

What are your future plans?

I am going to keep designing, and explore other opportunities in TV and Film.

You can keep current with all things “SUEDE” at www.SUEDEsays.com
All my love to the readers of Chic Galleria!!
xoxox
Suede

You can vote for Suede as Fan Favorite at www.bravotv.com.   Voting ends Thursday at 12 pm ET.

Tags: Bravo TV, designer, fashion, Project Runway, Suede