Ah, season 9 of project runway has finally come to an end. I was excited that the winner was finally unveiled but at the same time, was sad to no longer be sitting in front of the TV every Thursday at 9. Writing this Runway Recap every week forced me to really learn about the designers of this season. I loved everyone of them for different reasons and as a whole, thought that this was truly an amazing season.  
Only four designers remain on the show, all competing to win that $100,000. Last weeks' episode we saw a glimpse into what the inspiration was behind each designers' collection by showing their three strongest pieces. There were a lot of things that needed to be done from the time they gave the judges a preview to the time they were showing at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. With two days left before their looks hit the big runway, the pressure was on! 
Anya was told last episode that she needed to stick to what she's best at which can be summed up to prints and dresses. Josh was told to tone it down a bit. Kim over accessorized her models was told she  needed to think about the accessories she chose to be paired with her designs. Viktor on the other hand, seemed to be on top of things with minimal critiquing. 
As the designers started making their adjustments to the garments, Tim pops into the work room with a little surprise. I was expecting him to say they needed to create one more look or something along those lines. But, luckily for the designers, this wasn't the case at all. Instead he gave each of the designers $500 with one last trip to Mood Fabrics.  All of the designers saw this as a great opportunity to recreate some of their looks.  While at Mood, Anya was immediately drawn to this beautiful black and white print. Tim caught Kimberly looking at embellishments and told her to be careful not to over think things.  
Back in the workroom, tears poured and tension was in the air.  I get it. This is a pretty big deal for all four of the designers, not to mention they have to be completely exhausted. While it may not seem like it would be that hard to create 10 looks to send down a runway, it is. Believe me, it is! There is so much that goes into a collection.  I think more than anything,  it is the mental exhaustion, because you can't turn off the "What if I changed this hem line to look like this?" or "Hmm..would this cropped jacket look better with the black dress or white?" It's tough! During the break-down fest,  Anya was pretty much telling Tim her goodbyes as he critiqued her work. Kim seemed as though she had no idea what she was doing because her response to every question Tim asked her was I don't know.  A few more minutes into the show after a few more tearful moments, the designers made it to the runway where they'd be showcasing the garments they poured their hearts and souls into.  The chairs were all neatly in rows and the runway was gleaming. 
The stress was on was again as the models were slipping into the clothing. Kim lost her mini sewing kit and seriously started freaking out.  Lovingly, Anya saved Kim from a heart attack my loaning her the supplies she needed. This wasn't the first time Anya loaned out something to a competitor and that's one of the things I love about her. 
First up was Kimberlys' collection, inspired by the urban girl in Brooklyn mixed with bold colors and a touch of sophistication. Josh really thought outside the box but made sure not go to over-the-top. His unusual mix of plastics used a fabric and bright colors really wowed the  audience. Viktor brought out his Mexico inspired collection that consisted of printed fabric he designed and a lot of translucent tops. Of course, the parts that needed to be covered up were. Anya brought out the Caribbean. Just looking at her gorgeous collection made me want to take a trip to an exotic island and have a Corona.  Ultimately it was up to the judges who would win the show and joining them to make the tough decision was costume designer L'Wren Scott. Yes! Project Runway has a real designer helping judge!  
All four designers seemed to get mostly positive reviews. Kim was told that the bubble skirt she created mixed with a poofy jacket wasn't the best piece they'd seen but they liked the overall "hyper glamour urban" feel, as L'wren put it. 
Josh said he was wanting to show off his stong tailoring and draping skills while using unconventional plastic and neoprene as fabric. Heidi liked the risk-taking print he used. As a group, the judges were impressed with his editing capabilities and Nina claimed she thought he was the most improved. 
Viktors looks went over okay, but I didn't think he showed as great of a collection as everyone was anticipating. His beach girl meets city looks seemed like two different collections to Heidi. There was too much transparency which made the collection look cheap. 
Last judged was Anya with her Tobago inspired collection that brought on an easy yet sexy vibe. The problem with Anyas collection was that 8 of the 10 looks she sent down the runway had the same neck line and most of the dresses wouldn't be wearable for the everyday woman. 
But ultimately after the long discussion the judges had, they decided Kim needed more time, Viktor messed up with showing all the transparent black chiffon looks and Anyas vibe could be translated into not just fashion but home accents and accessories,  which made her the winner of this season. Yay Anya! It just goes to show that anything can be accomplished if you put your mind to it.  
Next week is a segment that is called "Behind the Seams", where Tim talks with the designers to get their perspective. Should be interesting! Thursday night @ 9pm. Same time. Same place.