The Seine and the Not-So Sane - Week 9

Before Jeffrey even had a chance to celebrate his first victory (and more importantly, Angela's auffing), Catherine Malandrino gave them their next challenge: create a couture-like gown in two days with a US$375 budget.

Couture is all about intricate handwork and attention to details – which are two things in which Angela took pride. I shudder just thinking about the floral arrangement we would have seen, had she not been auffed.


After a relaxing dinner and a good night's rest, the designers started the new day with a wake-up call from Tim Gunn. They then headed off to the Sacre Coeur to do their sketching. On the way there, Jeffrey befriended a cute Parisian guy on the Métro, to Vincent's dismay.


Uli resisted the bright prints, but fell back on her standby "effort"less look. Laura relied on her simple, classic lines, then added a Swiffer Duster collar for dramatic flair. Michael wanted to try something new - a hand ruching technique that worked so well for Malan. Kayne contrasted a soft chiffon skirt with a gold, beaded corset. Jeffrey combined two similar plaids to make a fun and hip frock. And, Vincent constructed a chaise lounge.

The designers were then invited to a party on a boat, hosted by Catherine Malandrino. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as she was finishing up her welding project. (Remember, always think safety first!)


Now it's time for the designers to sell their gowns. Catherine strolled around from one designer to the next, examining their handiwork and asking them questions.

Not one to be topped by a woman, Vincent had other ideas in mind.


Last week, Kayne was channeling Elvis. This week, it's Pepe Le Pew.


The designers then flew back to New York, eager to show the judges what they've learned on their field trip. Jeffrey's plaid-extravagownza clinched him his second victory. It came closest to what a couture gown was supposed to be. (I think the word couture, roughly translated, means: Too ugly to reproduce.)

Uli's dress was pretty, but somewhat expected. Too bad for Laura, her collar went flaccid on her.

Nina Garcia thought the top on Vincent's gown was poorly fitted, so they spun the model's head around.


Michael had a little malfunction on the runway. His bunny rabbit didn't cooperate. Heidi quickly pointed out the bunny ears peeking out of Nazri's chest area. Boy, it nearly ruined his act.


So, Vincent finally got his walking papers. I thought I'd give him a proper sendoff. For the man who is still living in the '70s, let's do the time-warp ... again. Let's do the time-warp ... again.