Cheryl Shops

Where & When: Friday, February 12 at 3 p.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Part of what makes Christian Siriano so appealing as a designer is his exuberance; he's all catch phrases and witticisms, yes, but he's also extremely talented--perhaps the most worthy designer ever to win Project Runway. (After all, he's the only former contestant still showing in the tents.) And while Siriano has approached growing his brand in a smart way--collaborations with Starbucks, Victoria's Secret Beauty, and of course Payless generate extra cash to fund his ready-to-wear business--I can't help but wonder if his backers laid down the law and told him to start showing more sellable clothing. You could almost sense Siriano's restraint in the lovely, ladylike suits and sheath dresses that opened the show. Of course, you can only contain a designer's spirit for so long, and thus when a series of nicely ruffled cocktail dresses gave way to showstopping ballgowns, the Christian we all know and love was back, exhaling a sigh of relief. While he clearly excels at eveningwear, it's the daytime looks that pay the bills; let's hope he can find a way to, as Tim Gunn might say, "make it work."
Standout Look: Sesilee Lopez, who's had a relationship with Siriano from the start of Project Runway and who's now a top model, opened and closed the show. This gorgeously ruffled fuchsia gown drew an enthusiastic response from the crowd, and Sesilee worked it to perfection.
Bonus Points: The front row was stocked with a random but noteworthy assortment of celebs: Mena Suvari, Kat Deluna, Caridee English (of ANTM fame), real model Veronica Webb, Leigh Lezark, and Amber Rose.
Where to Buy: Click here for store locations.