Project Runway season one contestants Lui Hon and Leigh Buchanan, took time out of their busy schedule in Melbourne last month to speak to the design students about life after Project Runway and breaking into the industry.

What was it like during filming on the show?
“It was so tough; you don’t realise before you go on the show that you’re going to give up music, television, and just the space to be by yourself – and you’re expected to be creative every day!” Leigh tells, “Lui was the Zen master. He was meticulous with his patternmaking while I just threw fabric on the floor and started cutting!”

What advice would you give design students?
Lui advised the students to work in retail for a few days; by keeping close to the customer, whether it is a mass or niche market, you are able to understand first hand what to design. Watch carefully how the boss does the buying and the display, and always ask yourself, does your design fit with your aesthetic?

When asked what their plans are for the future, Leigh spoke highly of his experience at Easton Pearson but would like to move into made to measure bridal.

Leigh closed by telling the students, “You’re in the beautiful world of Whitehouse now; the real world is tough, enjoy school while you can.”

[Photo courtesy of Foxtel]

Article from Whitehouse Design