Don McCunn's Blog

Homage to Heidi Klum and Project Runway

January 14, 2010 on 6:13 pm | In Bikinis & Bandeaus, Favorite Designs, Online Classes, Pattern Design Guides | No Comments

I have been a fan of the TV series Project Runway since the first season. I find the challenges interesting as each designer uses their individual aesthetic to resolve the issues. I also appreciate the fact that this show is encouraging more people, not just the contestants, to explore their creativity through fashion design.

When I started to explore the background of the series I ran across the YouTube videos of Heidi Klum modeling the 11 Million Dollar Bra for Victoria Secret. I immediately knew I had to make a similar garment. I had just completed my eBook How to Make Bikinis and Bandeaux and knew I could use this design system to create my version. When my model Alex agreed to model this garment I went ahead with this project.

While the bra Heidi Klum modeled was made up of diamonds, sapphires, and rubies I did not have the budget to do an exact replica. So my version is made of Swarovski crystals and rhinestones. Still the materials cost over $250 and it took a week of careful hand sewing to complete.

With the introduction of my class Swimsuits, Lingerie, and Empire Dresses which uses this same unique design system I felt the time had come to pay homage to Heidi and Project Runway. Fortunately Alex once again agreed to be my model. So here it is.

I have additional photographs of this garment in my Photo Galleries.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my model Alex for all the wonderful work she has done to make my Online Patternmaking classes possible.