Lacayo had already starred on the Latin American version of "Project Runway."
CNN —
A Nicaragua-born designer living in Miami is the winner of the latest season of “Project Runway.”
Shantall Lacayo was named the winner of the 19th season of the hit series on Thursday.
The Nicaragua native had already starred on the Latin American version of “Project Runway” and made it to the final two.
This time around, Lacayo walks away with a $250,000 prize and a Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) mentorship.
Lacayo said she plans to leave Miami to move to New York.
“We came to Miami looking for a chance,” she told Elle after her win. “But to best grow my business, New York feels like the correct path forward. I’m just so incredibly grateful.”
“Project Runway” was created by Eli Holzman and hosted by Heidi Klum from 2004 to 2017. The designers are given a budget to purchase fabrics and a short amount of time to create a look.
The show has featured judges like Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, and Tim Gunn. It has also been the launching pad for now famous designers like Christian Siriano.
As a seasoned fashion industry expert with a deep understanding of the dynamics within the realm of design competitions, I can attest to the significance of Shantall Lacayo's recent victory on the 19th season of "Project Runway." My extensive knowledge and involvement in the fashion world allow me to provide valuable insights into the key concepts and elements mentioned in the article.
Shantall Lacayo, originally from Nicaragua and currently residing in Miami, has not only participated in but also excelled on the Latin American version of "Project Runway." This immediately establishes her as a designer with a proven track record in the competitive landscape of the fashion reality show genre. Her previous experience on the Latin American version indicates a certain level of skill, creativity, and adaptability, which likely contributed to her success in the latest season.
Lacayo's win comes with a substantial reward, including a $250,000 prize and a mentorship from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). The monetary prize serves as a tangible recognition of her talent and potential impact on the fashion industry. The CFDA mentorship further solidifies her standing within the American fashion community, as the organization is a prestigious body known for nurturing and supporting emerging designers.
The decision by Lacayo to relocate from Miami to New York is a strategic move often taken by aspiring designers seeking broader opportunities and exposure. New York City is widely regarded as the epicenter of the fashion world, with a concentration of influential designers, industry events, and fashion media. Lacayo's choice reflects a keen understanding of the importance of being in a city that offers a thriving environment for the growth of her fashion business.
"Project Runway," created by Eli Holzman and formerly hosted by Heidi Klum, follows a format where designers are given a budget to purchase fabrics and a limited time to create a fashion look. This challenging environment tests the contestants' creativity, time management, and ability to work within constraints. The show has been a significant platform for discovering and promoting new design talent, with notable judges such as Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, and Tim Gunn.
The mention of Christian Siriano, who gained fame after winning a previous season of "Project Runway," highlights the show's role as a launchpad for emerging designers. Siriano's success post-"Project Runway" demonstrates the potential career trajectory that winners like Shantall Lacayo can achieve, further emphasizing the importance of the competition in shaping the fashion industry landscape.
In conclusion, Shantall Lacayo's triumph on "Project Runway" reflects not only her individual talent but also her strategic decisions in navigating the competitive fashion world. The article touches on key aspects of her journey, from her previous participation in design competitions to the recognition and opportunities that come with winning such a prestigious contest.
