Season 6 of Project Runway is finally airing on Lifetime TV after much legal drama and a very long wait for fans. I remember Tim Gunn telling our New York based crowd at GMHC’s Fashion Forward fundraiser last November they had just wrapped up the taping in Los Angeles.  I’m sure the designers who appeared in Season 6 were ready for Lifetime to take over and the show to finally hit our television sets.

This season started out with Christopher Straub winning the Red Carpet Challenge in Episode 1. Christopher used 6-7 yards of cut petals to cover the top and the skirt of his gorgeous design.  He spent over 10 hours machine stitching each one into place.

Christopher is a 30 year old visual merchandiser from Shakopee, Minnesota.

CG: Christopher, can you share a little bit about yourself and how you got started?

CS: I have always been an artist and have put my focus on fashion design within the past 10 years.

CG: Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

CS: I am really inspired by nature and natural shapes.  I look for repetition of leaves or ripples in the water…that sorta thing.

CG: What designs have been your favorites?

CS: If you’re referring to which designs on the show have been my favorites…From the Red Carpet Challenge, episode 1, I LOVED Carol Hanna’s and Irina’s.  They both know how to work with fine fabrics.  From the prego challenge, episode 2, I liked mine the best.

CG: What are your future plans?

CS: I have been designing a collection of handbags and accessories for a major retailer.  Also, I have a collection of men’s and women’s accessories available at www.christopherstraub.com.

Photo Credit: Kannie Yu LaPack@Lifetime Entertainment Services

Tags: celebrities, designer, fashion, Project Runway