The orders came directly from MC Editor-in-Chief and Project Runway guest judge Joanna Coles: "Design a look that tells the audience in a single, brief glance who the Marie Claire woman is: intelligent, practical, and fashion-forward." In a first for the series, the winning design would be splashed across a 40-foot billboard in Times Square. Gretchen Jones, a 28-year-old designer from Portland, Oregon, made the risky move of creating her first pair of pants—a jumpsuit, actually—that impressed the judges with its versatility and modern aesthetic. "I wanted something that was sweet enough that it wouldn't be out of reach to a mainstream audience," she says. "It's for a girl whom people can relate to without being too edgy."
The Shoot
Little-known fact: On Runway, designers aren't allowed any tools of assistance for their final looks. That means no double-sided tape and absolutely no Spanx. It's a testament to Jones' craftsmanship that her jumpsuit could withstand model Coco Rocha's every jump during our photo shoot with famed fashion photographer James Macari. Then again, Rocha has some experience with onesies. "I love jumpsuits," she gushes. "I have a huge collection of them," adding, "It can be tricky to get the right fit, especially for models." That's a subtle reference to the risk of unsightly downstairs décolletage (camel toe, if you will) that tall girls often face. But all went smoothly. The stylings of MC's senior fashion editor, Zanna Roberts Rassi, helped bring the big picture together.
The Model
Among the many things you need to know about Coco Rocha: She was discovered at an Irish dancing competition when she was 15; she's as addicted to Facebook, blogging, and Twitter as the average cubicle monkey; and she is obsessed with Glee. (Asked if a cameo is possible, she exclaims, "Wouldn't it be great? I'll teach the Cheerios Irish dancing!") This fall marks the launch of Rocha's first clothing collection—appropriately dubbed Rococo by the 22-year-old and her husband, interior designer James Conran. Soon, not only will her face be on billboards, but her designs, too.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-
Bitten Lips Took Center Stage at Dior Fall 2024 Show
Models at the Dior Fall 2024 show paired bitten lips with bare skin, a beauty trend that will take precedence this season.
By Deena Campbell Published
-
30 Spring Items That Solve My Expensive-Taste-on-a-Humble-Budget Dilemma
See every under-$300 spring item on my wish list.
By Natalie Gray Herder Published
-
Your Makeup Won't Budge With These Setting Sprays
Prepare for 12-hour wear.
By Sophia Vilensky Published
-
Meghan Markle Wore Her Beloved Cartier Tank Watch for Her Vax Live Appearance
In her pre-taped video appearance for Global Citizen's Vax Live event, Meghan Markle wore a Cartier Tank watch similar to that owned by Princess Diana.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
'Real Housewives of Atlanta' Star Cynthia Bailey Shares Her Beloved Jewelry Pieces
Fact: She loves watches.
By Marina Liao Published
-
Ariana Grande's Massive, Six-Figure Engagement Ring Might Have a Sentimental Backstory
Ariana Grande is engaged to Dalton Gomez and her engagement ring is said to be valued at six figures and might include a family heirloom.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
Jewel Has Some Great Stories Behind Her Eclectic Jewelry Collection
Like her necklace made from bird bones.
By Marina Liao Published
-
Did Meghan Markle Wear Princess Diana's Cartier Watch?
In her new portraits with Prince Harry, a familiar accessory seems to grace the Duchess's wrist.
By Chloe Foussianes Published
-
Bethenny Frankel's Watch Collection Is Absolutely Mesmerizing
Rolexes for days.
By Marina Liao Published
-
Jessica Rothe's Jewelry Collection Has So Much Sentimental Value
Okay, we teared up.
By Marina Liao Published
-
Trixie Mattel & Katya Show Off Their Most Colorful and Bold Jewelry
"I love an earring that makes you want to build a whole outfit around that earring."
By Marina Liao Published