The day after her aufing aired, Stella dropped us a line and told us she wanted to send a little message of thanks to our readers for being so supportive of her. We opted to call her and let her say whatever she wanted, but when we did, she informed us that her father had passed away suddenly the day before. What started out as a planned one or two-line "thank you" message turned into a full-blown (and completely off the cuff) interview with her as she got a little introspective about life and career.
We were so sorry to hear about your father. When did you find out about it?
I found out Wednesday at about 4 p.m.
That kind of put things in perspective, doesn't it?
Pretty much, pretty much. My dad was a special person. My parents weren't together. We came to America in 1975 and in 1977 they broke up. My mother supported us, worked really hard and started her own business being a fur finisher. She gave us a really good childhood, sent us to Greece every summer for two months. We had after-school Greek lessons or ballet or hockey. Whatever we wanted we had. We had a very solid upbringing from my mother and she reinforced education tremendously. My dad was more of a friend to us. He was a very talented machinist in the fur industry, one of the best, I heard.
My brother put himself through college working as a machinist in the fur industry and I did too for a short while. My dad decided to go to Greece and stay there a few years back in the mountains of Greece where we're from, it's called Kastoria, it's up northern Greece and that's where the fur traders and the fur manufacturers and the whole fur trade is. It was very big back in the 70s and in the 80s and all that. I didn't get to see him that often but we were good friends, we spoke all the time.
I miss him; I didn't get to see him for four years because that was the last time he was here and I had my business and I really couldn't afford to be going to Greece and just hanging around there. It's pretty upsetting because I was trying to get a hold of him for weeks and then I get this call from my uncle that he's not around anymore.
And you still had go do the Watch What Happens - After the Sew online show hosted by Andy Cohen after finding out about your father.
It was almost a blessing, because it just took me out of my head space, being on the phone with people in Greece, with my sister and brother. You know, mourning is really for the people who are left behind. I never lost a parent before. It just blew me away. My father cried when I told him I was going to be on Project Runway. He didn't even know what it was. When I explained the importance of it, what I could win, all the exposure, he started to cry. He always wanted the best for us.
And you didn't mention anything on the show.
I told Andy privately and the reason I didn't talk about it on air it's because there was almost no room for it. I just said to myself 'Do I need to dampen anybody's spirit here and create a pity party for myself?' No, right now it's about the show, it's about me as a contestant; give the audience what they want. And that's what I did.
By the way, we loved the hair and makeup, is that a new haircut?
It's not a haircut. I just flat-ironed it and put it up.
You looked great.Thank you. You know, on the show, I couldn't keep myself together. I wasn't feeling well to begin with, I had a respiratory infection; I didn't take antibiotics; I was doing holistic with it and it went away when I went on the show but my energy was so low on the show for a really long time and the fact that we only slept for three to four hours, I couldn't even get straight with myself. I was very disoriented for the first challenge especially. I didn't feel well, I felt like I couldn't do it, oh well…and this is why the show is very funny to me right now because when I went on the show I lost someone else in the family and that blew me away too, so I didn't even think to pack enough clothes for myself and whatever it is that I needed. I'm stuck with my striped pants and they don't even fit that well, with all the clothes that I make and that I have, I had two pants and that's all. I didn't bring enough lipstick with me. I was like, I'm going to wear red lipstick on the Andy Cohen show. I'm going to look vibrant.
We love the dress with the detachable sleeve.
I made that. I'm interested in making a dress collection now, which I'm doing and it's going to be in leather and that's one of the dresses. That's a very simple one, that's my, almost my everyday type of dress. It's a new dress, so I'm wearing to feel it out, see how the zipper stands and all that. Leather is a very different type of fabric, it stretches out and I need to see how it sustains.
We were very touched by your little interaction with Heidi when you said you had learned and grown. Did you really enjoy the experience?
I really enjoyed it because it helped push me. I was a person very comfortable where I was, and you need to keep growing as a person and as a designer, everything you can be. This show pushed me forward, and what it did for me was it taught me how to edit it, just by the judges' critique. Unlike Keith, I never felt like they were insulting me, I did feel that sometimes was a little obnoxious because it is a reality TV show, but in my head and I always said to myself 'you know, if you take your clothes to buyers they will say very obnoxious things to you.'
Absolutely, they're actually worse.
Yes, and the judges are individuals with their own opinions and that's what you're getting. It taught me to edit it, it taught me to clean up the heavy, rock, punk vibe and that's what that dress I wore on the Andy Cohen show was about. It also taught me how to step up my game a little bit. I design leather, you do flat pattern making, it's a sharp tailor that I go for, I need a little more. Now I'm interested in teaching myself how to do more draping, adding a little bit more softness, bring fashion to the rock. So Project Runway made me grow and think about how I want to design my new collection, maybe use other fabrics too. It also taught me that people do critique your stuff. I know I said 'if you don't like it, keep walking.' and it's true but if you want to make money you have to branch out your vision, your aesthetic.
A lot of our readers are commenting about how Tim Gunn perhaps was a little harsh on you and some even think he didn't like you at all.
I didn't get that from him on the show at all. He was very polite to me, we had a couple of nice conversations, we live in the same neighborhood, I don't know, I didn't get that at all. At the end I said I was exhausted, that that was a great experience, that I felt like I won regardless and that's when he said that he was happy to send me home, so it looked like he was a little snippety with me.
Tim picked me [during auditions] because I was different and I also think that he wanted me to bring some of what he saw in my collection during the audition, but I couldn't do that because I didn't have the resources or the machinery. You can't do what I do on those types of machines. I have a serious walking foot, heavy-duty machine that uses twenty needles and those machines will break down with heavy denim.
Tim could not believe how well made my collection was and he asked where I had that manufactured and I said 'Who's going to manufacture this without charging me more than I could sell it for?' He was amazed with my skills and my craftsmanship on what I showed him at the audition and that's how I design every piece, each and everyone, with a lot of care, with a lot of work into it.
Now how did you meet Ratbones?I know Ratbones from a while back. He used to date this woman who was a makeup agent, and I kind of knew him through there, and then when I opened up my shop on the lower East side next to New York Hardcore tattoo shop owned by Jimmy G, lead singer of Murphy's Law, who gave me the name Barbarella and that was back in the early 90s because of the way I dressed so he said 'You're Stella Barbarella.' Ratbones was at the store one day and then he came to my store, we started talking and the next thing we know we started to date.
You guys need your own show.
We hope we get one. How do you think that's looking for us?
Speaking of Barbarella and your fabulous body, how do you keep in shape? You looked amazing making that coffee.
I don't know. I don't work out, which is terrible, because I'm not in that great shape. I'm going to start doing yoga again, I'm not disciplined enough. I go once every two weeks. I walk my dog and I eat really well. I don't eat processed food, we cook a lot at home, we eat a lot of vegetables; it's genetic, I guess.
Getting back to the collection you're working on, where are you going to be selling it?
First, I want to show it, contact buyers, and so on. For right now, I'll be selling my dresses at my sister's art gallery at 170 East 2nd Street, between A and B. I'm going to have my sewing machine there, bring a rack of clothes and people can see my clothes and see me sewing until I get situated. I would like to get into a showroom, more importantly.
That's what I had on Stanton Street. I had everything right there in front. I sewed right there, people would come in, try clothes on, I'd be sewing, they'd be looking at me sewing. It was really cute, I liked it like that. I miss it. I really hate working from my apartment, it's always a mess in here, with all my patterns and my fabrics and you try to live in it too.That is basically why I did this show, because I'm isolated where I'm at, and those who know know, but most don't know. Now they have a chance to see me, follow what I'm doing. This was really a win for me any which way it went. I'm glad I wasn't eliminated after that first challenge because that would have been a lost time for me.
But I've lasted this long, I don't know why and how or what was the reasoning, but I'm really glad and it is what it is and I'm going to try to do the best I can with it. I can't change my personality and my aesthetic. I simply can't and I think people appreciate that. People go to a certain designer for their art and for their signature so people will come to me for what I have to offer, for my art.
[Photos: Katrina del Mar/Stella Zotis' MySpace Page - Screencap: Projectrungay.blogspot.com]
Post a Comment
9/6/08 8:44 AM
Stella, many condolences for the passing of your father. You will be missed on PR, and Bravo-please give this woman her own show!
9/6/08 8:46 AM
Aw, I just love her!
9/6/08 9:05 AM
You know what I love about Stella? She's the real deal and she loves to learn and grow.
Stella, condolences to you and your family. Best of luck with your career. Keep being open to change because you're headed in a wonderful direction.
TLo, thank you for the interview. You guys never cease to amaze.
9/6/08 9:15 AM
I initially started cheering for Stella because she was not a teeny-bopper but someone more close to my age, but as I kept watching her (and her clothes), I became a big fan of her personality, talent, and honesty. She's a class act and made some of the others look pretty juvenile. I don't think Tim disliked her in any way. In fact, she is the first one he's said "I love you" to as she was leaving, and I don't think he throws that word around much. Stella is a great role model and a true artist (and I'm sorry about her dad). Interesting that her family was in fur and she's in leathah. Good thoughts to her.
9/6/08 9:18 AM
Stella is one classy lady.
9/6/08 9:19 AM
TLO, wonderful interview.
Stella, so sorry about your father. It takes a while to get over.
And I am really going to miss you on PR. I loved your adult approach to things, the different viewpoint with what you produced - off the cuff, without a lot of time to meld your view with other approaches. I can't wait to see what you produce.
Stella, who is this gorgeous girl that models for you? Is it a sister or a daughter?
9/6/08 9:20 AM
I hope being on PR helps her to get her business going again. Maybe she will win the 10,000 fan favorite.Condolences to her for the passing of her Dad.
9/6/08 9:24 AM
Maybe we should add an "e" to the end of her nickname. Eliminate the drug reference while pronouncing it the same. Any votes for Cheroine? (I know it's kind of cheesy and it looks lame in print, I'm just sayin'...).
After all her interviews, "Cheroin" just doesn't cut it for me anymore. She's frickin' amazing.
9/6/08 9:25 AM
I love La Leatha, and I was sorry to hear about her dad:
"I told Andy privately and the reason I didn't talk about it on air it's because there was almost no room for it. I just said to myself 'Do I need to dampen anybody's spirit here and create a pity party for myself?' No, right now it's about the show, it's about me as a contestant; give the audience what they want. And that's what I did."
Take a lesson, Suede....
9/6/08 9:26 AM
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Stella's father. And for her to go on with the Andy Cohen thing after finding out? Wow!
Bravo needs Stella. And we do, too.
God bless the Zotis family.
9/6/08 9:30 AM
She is really amazing, I can't believe how much she grew on me. She embodies what PR is supposed to be about. Voting for her for fan favorite for sure.
9/6/08 9:31 AM
And she looked FANTABULOUS on Andy's show.
How many 40-pluses can rock the shit out of a side ponytail?
If PR cancelled the reunion show, then I guess the Fan Favorite contest may be cancelled, too. If so, PR productions are a bunch of pricks...
9/6/08 9:31 AM
Also, many condolences to her and her family. It shows real strength to keep going through TV shows and interviews and etc. through that and real class not to use it in the slightest way.
9/6/08 9:31 AM
what a great interview.... I'm glad it gave us the chance to see a side of her we couldn't even guess from the show...
I wish Stella all the best for her career....
9/6/08 9:32 AM
That's so sad about Stella's father. Talk about being knocked for a loop. Stella, if you're reading this, I'm sorry for your loss. But dayum girl - you looked awesome on the after-show!
9/6/08 9:33 AM
Stella Miss Her said...
who is this gorgeous girl that models for you? Is it a sister or a daughter?
Hi Stella Miss Her,
That's actually Alex, Jennifer's model (and Jerell's model for the first challenge). Isn't she gorgeous?
XO
T Lo
9/6/08 9:36 AM
Oh guys, this is so cool. Thank you so much for this interview.
Stella, my sincere condolences and best of luck to you.
9/6/08 9:48 AM
Love and light to you and yours. My sympathy on the passing of your father; I know how difficult that can be.
On a lighter note, you looked fantastic on the Andy Coen show and I love your style and self-confidence; couple that with your talent and you will have every success.
9/6/08 9:48 AM
I like Stella. She's one of my fave PR contestants ever.
I don't like lace up flies.
9/6/08 9:57 AM
First of all TLo, thank you for being who you are and making this blog. If not we would be denied moments like this. Stella has done plenty of the obligatory post-auf interviews but this is by far the most in depth and informative. Only you guys would be able to let us know of her loss. My condolensces Cheroin
What an amazing adult Stella seems. No wonder most of the designers took to her. She's got a real perspective on life and clearly is very professional. Hopefully the youngin's will learn from her.
BTW I love how now we know the makeup issue people brought up a few weeks back. And of course the machines at Parsons would not be suitable for leather crafting. Great she just says it matter of factly but doesn't come across as whining or using it as an excuse for her less successful projects
While i think of it I suspect Tim likes Stella as a person and clealry admired what she submitted in her audition, but more likely he got overly frustrated with her as a contestant-the way a teacher would with a student.
anyway I'm thinking regardless, I will be so said to see Stella gone. Defintely my fave on the show and amongst my faves alltime. Regardless of what people think of the state of PR, it still brings us enjoyable and talented people like Uncle Nick, Laura, Sissybear, the Puppet girl and Stella!
Frank
9/6/08 9:58 AM
Sincere condolences for the loss of your father. I've been there. Remember, he'll always be with you.
Stella is a class act. Brava!
9/6/08 9:58 AM
Thanks for the interview TLo! Like everyone else, my condolences go out to Stella and her family.
Talent is important in life (and she is talented) but just being a good person is hard in these times - Stella is a good person.
And I agree with Chris March, Stella for Fan Favorite!!!
Auntie L
9/6/08 10:04 AM
Stella, my sincere condolences and strength to you and your loved ones.
I want to hang out with Stella and Laura Bennett. Love the interview, Tlo! You're the best!
9/6/08 10:10 AM
Thanks for sharing your dad with us for a minute, Stella. What a beautiful way to honor him...to introduce him to those of us who didn't get the chance to meet him. Loved you on PR and wish you the very best.
9/6/08 10:12 AM
I'm so sorry about your father, Stella. But thanks for the great interview. I hope Bravo gets on board with the idea of giving you your own show. I'd watch it!
9/6/08 10:21 AM
Kudos to TLo for this interview! After the first episode I figured Stella was going be an early exit. But the humor, the verve, the LIFE she added to this season's show was wonderful.
To Stella and her family, my condolences on your father's passing.
I hated to see her go, but the way she handled herself upon her auf'ing was so classy and mature. A true role model for those younger, self-centered contestants who shall remain nameless...
Her style isn't mine, but I have tremendous respect for her talent and her fashion and wish her much success. Stella, you rock, girl!
9/6/08 10:23 AM
Stella, you are an amazing woman and I have so much respect for you. My condolences at the passing of your father. May you go on to accomplish incredible things and make him proud. <3 <3 <3
9/6/08 10:33 AM
Forgot to mention that the white outfit worn by Alex in the posted image is superb. If only she had made it to bryant park-even as a decoy-the collection would have been energetic, edgy and fun.
It also would have been, pardon the expression, fierce
Frank
9/6/08 10:36 AM
What a wonderful interview! Thank you so much, Tlo.
And to Stella, (I'm going to call her Stellar!):
So sorry to hear about your father.
Sending many blessings to you and your family.
On a happier note, you look great, and I am confident that you will have much success!
9/6/08 10:44 AM
The interview was great. Stella, sorry for your loss.
Career-wise, I look forward to seeing what Stella does in the future. I love what she does with leatha!
9/6/08 10:44 AM
Love her to death.
9/6/08 10:51 AM
Love her!
9/6/08 10:59 AM
I have a question/observation regarding the sewing machines that they use on PR. The 1st and 2nd seasons they used the Singer 191 which is a standard industrial machine that is also used at a lot of schools and factories. It is an extremely simple and durable machine. It is tough too. You can sew right through your own finger if you're not careful. The third season they used ConSew machines which is another very old standard brand of industial machine, that I imagine where donated to Parsons for the publicity of being on the show, ConSEw did offer home sew versions for sale on the Bravo PR website.
Now they are using Brother machines that look very fragile to me. I do know that Brother makes a home sew machine, but I was not aware of an industrial machine. I have never seen them in a factory. I suppose they were donated to Parsons for the publicity as well.
My last point is that even little ol' Pratt had a rickty old machine that was used for leather and fur, we called "the dog foot"( I don't know why). Why wouldn't a well outfitted school like Parsons have one? That's weird.
9/6/08 11:07 AM
Thanks, TLo for another thoughtful and insightful interview. You boys are so good.
Stella, my condolences to both you and your family for the loss of your father. You are an amazing person; talent, class, intelligence, spirit and humor. I'm sorry you left PR so soon ---too soon. Season five would've been NOTHING without your presence. You should have been on the BP track. But, I do see a left future ahead for you --- a book deal, a tv show, a chain of boutiques and an international line of womenswear/menswear.
- edina -
9/6/08 11:10 AM
Luv Huh!
Thanks for another great interview boys! The difference between your interviews and the interviews by the general press is remarkable. Maybe you could teach the so-called professionals how its done. (Or better yet, could YOU boys interview the candidates?)
And as for Stella: So she lives in Tim's neighborhood? That means she lives in MY neighborhood. And wow, did she look different in that still, sitting next to DVF. I would not have recognized her if I passed her on the street.
I wish her the best in her future endeavors. It is rare to see someone genuine & non-exploitive on reality tv. She's a diamond.
--GothamTomato
9/6/08 11:17 AM
Stella, my deepest sympathies on the passing of you father. Losing a parent, even as an adult, is hard. You have my prayers.
I am excited that you took this experience and made it into what it should be, a learning experience. I will miss seeing you every week but I am glad to know that I will be hearing more from you in the future.
9/6/08 11:19 AM
Stella, you left PR before your time.
I am sorry to hear about your father. It speaks volumes about your character that you didn't use that tragedy on TV (unlike some other people who seem to regularly hold séances in the workroom.)
Good luck with your future ventures.
9/6/08 11:27 AM
Stella - she may just be my favorite contestant in five seasons of PR. Its a shame she wont be at Bryant Park, I really want to see her cut loose on 12 looks. Leathuh or not. Her model was gorgeous too. If I see her store ever, I'd totally stop in and buy something, instead of walking on by.
9/6/08 11:28 AM
Oh Stella! My sympathies about the loss of your father. And - what a trooper! going on with that awful Andy Cohen while dealing with that kind of a loss.
Stella is really an amazing woman. One of the things that struck me is how very articulate and intelligent she is - so many of the designers can't really put together coherent sentences without using stale cliches, or misusing words or phrases. But Stella - she's clearly a very, very smart woman. And classy, as everyone else has pointed out. I so admire anyone who is willing to learn, anyone who understands that there is *always* more to learn.
Stella's terrific, and I really hope she gets a ton of wonderful opportunities (and some very lucrative ones as well) as a result of this show.
Brava, Stella! we all love you!
9/6/08 11:31 AM
Stella, I am sorry to hear about the loss of your father, especially since you couldn't be there or talk to him beforehand. I do empathize.
This 'interview' was fantastic. Stella has shown herself to be intelligent, creative, thoughtful, wonderful.
I didn't get to see After the Sew, and would really like a transcript of everything. What was her interaction with DVF?
Stella, good luck in all of your work. I hope you are extraordinarily successful.
9/6/08 11:40 AM
Stella, I have grown to adore you and was sad to see you Aufed. I'm so sorry for the passing of your father.
You are amazing!
9/6/08 11:44 AM
Stella IS stellar. Condolences on your father's passing, and all good wishes as your business grows. You're total class.
9/6/08 11:46 AM
Stella,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your
family.
TLo thanks for all the great posts - I'm always
telling PR fans about your blog.
Jane from Boston
9/6/08 11:52 AM
My sincere condolences to Stella and her family.
9/6/08 11:52 AM
Stella and Tabitha....it's a show made in heaven....!
Stella could guest star with Tab...start writing letters people!
9/6/08 11:53 AM
Sewing Siren said, "You can sew right through your own finger if you're not careful."
During my brief teenage flirtation with sewing, I did just that: ended up with a needle right through my thumb, in through the nail and out the other side. No one was home to help me get it out, so I had to grip it in my teeth and yank!
9/6/08 11:57 AM
I love Stella!
Sending condolences..so sorry for your loss.
Kara
9/6/08 11:58 AM
She sounds like such a cool person. It's great that she took so much from the show and that her work is evolving because of it.
Stella - I loved what you did on the show and I was sad to see you go. I'm so sorry to hear about your dad and my prayers are with you and your family. O theos anabapsi ti psychi tou.
9/6/08 11:58 AM
Hey, did she know you were recording this? The intro to this post sounds like you called to say thanks then started writing down a conversation. Just wondering; I'm sure you were tasteful regardless.
I do love her. She needs a Bravo show STAT.
9/6/08 12:03 PM
I was sorry to see you go Stella and even sorrier to read that your father had passed away. I'm going to add my voice to the chorus and say that you are class personified and clad in leather; pure, poise with and sharp hard edge.
9/6/08 12:04 PM
TLo, add my thanks to your ever-growing list of fans for these interviews.
Stella: my condolences. My father was (and still is) my hero, and I wish you the very best. You brought such joy to PR this season.
9/6/08 12:10 PM
um said...
Hey, did she know you were recording this? The intro to this post sounds like you called to say thanks then started writing down a conversation. Just wondering; I'm sure you were tasteful regardless.
Yes, she was aware. We sent both Stella and our Bravo Overlords a copy of the transcript for approval before posting it.
9/6/08 12:16 PM
I'd like to add my sincere condolences, too. I think her father would be very proud of how she handled herself on the show and since then.
And I really appreciate the insights that Stella in her two TLo interviews has added to our understanding of what happens on this show. It almost sounds as if people should approach the experience like the Tour de France!
9/6/08 12:20 PM
I'd really like to see her make some leather belts/accessories for those of us who can't afford/get away with outfits made entirely of leather. Her craftsmanship is amazing and I'd be happy to wear a bit 'o Stella!
9/6/08 12:36 PM
I'm so sorry to hear about Stella's father. My father was from a small village near Kastoria, and immigrated to the States as a teenager - so we're connected!
Stella is amazing. To think that she went on "After the Sew" just after learning of her father's passing, worked so hard at PR even though she was ill (which may well explain that first outfit!) - well, a lot of folks would have just given up. She didn't! Not only did she not give up, but she was so open. I love the fact that she really learned, and is taking those lessons to heart. That is the mark of a real professional. No "this is the way I've always done it, so that's the way I'll always do it." So many of the designers on this show (not just this season, and not just the younger ones) seem to want to use the show merely to showcase what they already do, and not to learn and grow.
She's a class act, and, quite frankly, I wish her aesthetic were mine because I'd love to support her by buying some of her clothes. Alas, even in my youth I was never a rocker chick, so my support must be confined to saying, "You GO, Stella!"
9/6/08 12:39 PM
She's definitely one of my favorite PR contestants and I wanted her to go home the very first day.
My sincere condolences, Stella! You have our love and wishes of a very successful career.
9/6/08 12:39 PM
Lilithcat said...
I'm so sorry to hear about Stella's father. My father was from a small village near Kastoria, and immigrated to the States as a teenager - so we're connected!
Wow, that's so interesting, Lilithcat!
9/6/08 12:44 PM
Will miss Stella.
From the RunGay guys to Bravo's ear - Stella needs a show!!!
9/6/08 12:48 PM
Stella, my condolences.
Initially I thought Stella would be an early exit from the show. But I became so impressed with her and as our PRgay boys pointed out, she had the skill to keep her aesthetic while meeting the challenges. That's a rare quality and speaks to a true designer.
I'm so sad she was eliminated as I think she would have made a very interesting and unique Bryant Park collection.
9/6/08 1:02 PM
Thanks for the Saturday treat, guys! Great interview, I will totally miss Stella on my TV every week. It's so rare to see a fully formed, mature woman on any TV program. Many condolences on the loss of your father.
9/6/08 1:12 PM
hugs & love, miss stella.
wishing you great success!
xo
9/6/08 1:13 PM
I'm more impressed with Stella than ever - how utterly classy and mature. Had I gone on that show sick and reeling from another loss I would have been whining and making excuses until the other designers came at me with the scissors. She just sucked it up and quietly pushed on. Wow. A truly classy lady. And seriously talented! I'm sad for our loss, not getting to see her at BP and for having the endure all the rest of the episodes without her (why are we still watching?) but I'm also happy for her - she did get her name out, she's expanded her fan base, and hopefully soon she'll have her fantastic sewing studio. Next time in NY I'll definitely be stopping by to pick up a fabulous accessory or three. My deepest condolences for her loss, though ... it's hard. Stella, take care of yourself and give yourself space and time to adjust to the new life you're in, the good and the bad!
9/6/08 1:18 PM
My condolences, Stella! You're truly an amazing woman. Boys, you did it again, I was very touched by this interview and look forward to reading more about her future endeavors. Good luck, Stella! We were lucky to have you on the show.
9/6/08 1:20 PM
"But I've lasted this long, I don't know why and how or what was the reasoning, but I'm really glad and it is what it is and I'm going to try to do the best I can with it."
How refreshing! Great interview!! Good luck to you, Stella! You rock!
9/6/08 1:22 PM
How said :( This part especially got me:
"When I explained the importance of it, what I could win, all the exposure, he started to cry. He always wanted the best for us."
You go, Stella!!
9/6/08 1:22 PM
My sincere condolences on your loss, Stella; thoughts of peace and comfort to you. I can't wait to watch your show.
9/6/08 1:24 PM
I am very sad to hear the news about you father and send you my sincere condolences. I felt like I was sitting next to Stella listening to her say every word in the interview.
What a great person you are, Stella. Good luck and keep in touch!!
9/6/08 1:32 PM
Thanks for posting this interview!!!
I saw her walking her dog this morning in Chelsea and I was in such awe of her.
9/6/08 1:34 PM
I'm very sorry about your father, Stella. Best wishes, you're the real deal.
9/6/08 1:40 PM
After hearing Stella talk about her having had to use machines that aren't adequate, it is hard to think of her not going to Bryant Park. What she could have made using the equipment she needs could have blown people away!
Stella, I want that dress you are wearing. Badly.
9/6/08 1:40 PM
Stella, peace be with you and your family at this time.
9/6/08 1:56 PM
Lotta Greek bitches on PRgay! I am pleased but not particularly surprised ;) Stella, you comprise the best characteristics of Greeks and Americans. I admire you greatly.
Stella mou, lipithika poli otan diavasa ta nea yia ton patera sou. Aionia i mnimni kai zoi se mas.
9/6/08 2:02 PM
Stella, I am so sorry about your dad. I'm sure he was very proud of the woman you have become.
I am a suburban mom who has never had the confience to wear leather. Now I see leather in a whole new light. If it's the last thing I do, I'm going to get to NYC and purchase a leather jacket designed and made by you.
In the meantime, you've got a big in Texas who wishes you the very best of luck in every area of your life.
Kate
9/6/08 2:26 PM
I don't know Ratbones, I'm pretty sure he's nice and all but I'm not chomping at the bit to see Stella and him with their own show. Now Stella and Blayne, that's another story. That's right, I said Blayne, dammit!!! That will be must see TV for me. Little Blayne comes to New York in a quest to find Mary Kate Olsen and declare his love for her. His mission is to find her before his he turns back into a white boy. He moves in with Stella and starts an apprenticeship (to learn the leather trade) and also be her in-house barista.
So I guess if Ratbones is willing to take Blayne in and raise him with Stella, then he can stay. If they can sing and do comedy sketches, then they can be a modern day version of Sonny and Cher, with Blayne as Chastity.
9/6/08 2:33 PM
Stella- my heart goes out to you for your father :( much love, i hope to see you around soon! I FRICKEN LOVE YOU!
did you guys know the model in stella's pics is alex, Jennifer's model? GET IT GIRL!
xoxo
karalyn
kwestblogsrunway.blogspot.com
9/6/08 2:36 PM
Stella, your relationship with your dad sounds a lot like mine with my dad. He died in 1999, while I was also in the middle of a big project that took a lot of my attention. I can't say I know how you feel, exactly, but I can tell you that it will get better and that you will still have a relationship with your father that will go on.
It really, really means a lot to me that PR casts people who aren't all 25 years old. I know I was drawn to Stella, Chris March, Sweet P, Elisa, etc., in part because of their ages. (I'm 47.) Unless you're a total asshole, there's something that happens to you in your 40s where you get a certain perspective, a certain wisdom. So much of television, of media in general today, is in that "young" mindset. Not "immature," exactly, but lacking a certain view of the big picture.
I deeply admire Stella, and I laud the PR people for bringing her unique and wonderful self to the screen for us. I hope this isn't the last we'll see of her on TV.
My only regret is that there's no way in hell I could wear her designs. I'm not quite built like Sweetie, but I'm up there....
9/6/08 2:39 PM
Total class! My condolences to Stella and her family. I hope I see her soon on her own show!
9/6/08 2:39 PM
She is fantastic! I think I'll head over to Greektown tonight and raise a glass to her and her father.
9/6/08 2:45 PM
Stella can do a renegade show at Bryant Park like Kara Saun did. It will fit in with her rebel persona, Ratbones and Zotis don't need no stinking tent!
9/6/08 2:57 PM
Thank you so much for this heartfelt interview. I love Stella and I'm glad she was part of S5.
9/6/08 2:59 PM
Not my aesthetic but my kind of human being. Good luck to you, Barbarella!
9/6/08 3:00 PM
WE LOVE YOU, STELLA!
Greetings from Taiwan!!!
9/6/08 3:00 PM
dont give her a show...
GIVE HER A CHANNEL!
I would watch!
love her soooo much!
9/6/08 3:01 PM
Stella for fan favorite, please and thank you.
9/6/08 3:07 PM
Best of luck to you, Stella!
Great interview, Tlo, it's nice to see a more "human" side to her as opposed to just her Project Runway competitive side.
That's what I like about you boys is that you balance witty, snarky, juicy, entertaining commentary with deep, heartfelt posts.
9/6/08 3:10 PM
Stella, you are an amazing person — and you father was too. I'm sure of it.
My deepest condolences.
9/6/08 3:17 PM
YES - STELLA FOR FAN FAVORITE!
let's make it so!
9/6/08 3:20 PM
"personette said...
YES - STELLA FOR FAN FAVORITE!
let's make it so!"
YES, YES, YES!!!
Love you Miss Leatha : )
9/6/08 3:21 PM
Great interview, guys. So sorry for the loss of her father.
9/6/08 3:29 PM
Stella,
You’re unique and talented in your own respect, and that’s what will allow you to achieve your dreams.
Thank you for sharing with those who really admired you on the show.
9/6/08 3:34 PM
From the RunGay guys to Bravo's ear - Stella needs a show!!!
Speak for yourself, I've seen (and read) enough of her.
9/6/08 3:37 PM
I miss her even more now.
9/6/08 3:44 PM
Aw, Stella! My condolences to you and your family, and congratulations to you for going through life with such grace, honestly, and class.
And a big-ass hug just because.
Well done, you!
9/6/08 3:51 PM
Sweetheart, that's the hardest thing in the world.
We're sending you and your family all our love.
9/6/08 3:52 PM
She has grown on me since the beginning of PR.
I appreciate her candor and her maturity.
I am sorry to hear about your father--
best of luck to you!
TLo thank you for all that you do!
I only read your interviews now because they show the real people and their true personalities.
9/6/08 3:54 PM
Best of luck to you and your family during this tough time, Stella.
9/6/08 3:57 PM
Stella,
The maturity and clarity with which you’ve approached and handled this situation and the show amazes me, even if I simply observe from afar. You should be proud of yourself.
Best wishes!!!
9/6/08 3:59 PM
I loved you on the show and wish you much success. Good luck in your new adventures.
9/6/08 4:01 PM
Stella,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your father will be with you always, wherever you are.
I'm Greek too! I didn't know there was so many Greeks here!
Thank you for the interview, Tlo!
9/6/08 4:07 PM
I still say she was robbed- Joe should have gone home- period the end. I would have given anything to see what she would have sent down a runway at Bryant Park.
9/6/08 4:08 PM
So sorry for your loss, Stella.
Είσαι μέσα στην σκέψη μου.
9/6/08 4:16 PM
How do we vote for fan fave? Txting?
Greeks represent on PRGay! Opa!
9/6/08 4:32 PM
I was very disappointed that Stella was only able to get 5 minutes in that 30-minute video. She was so gracious and poised, even as the old windbag hogged the entire interview. Stella is a very special, sweet-spirited toughie who completely out-classed the entire cast of fools this season. Here's to a new star...
9/6/08 5:02 PM
Stella, you have my vote for fan favorite.
9/6/08 5:07 PM
I love Stella even more now.
Do you know if she's got a website?
9/6/08 5:30 PM
Good luck Stella on your career. It was enjoyable watching you!
I have a question for the NYC fans: where can I watch PR with others in NYC? 9/17 is my last nite there and I'd love to watch in public with other fans. Thanks to all! Diane
9/6/08 5:35 PM
Aww, what a great interview. I like her a lot - she's got a great attitude towards life. Condolences on the loss of her father, and I admire how she handled it - the exact opposite of Suede.
9/6/08 5:35 PM
Laura said...
Do you know if she's got a website?
On After the Sew, she said she's establishing stellazotis.net but it's not up yet.
9/6/08 5:38 PM
Good luck Stella, love you.
and thank you TLo for the blog and great interview
9/6/08 5:38 PM
Even though I'm partial to Mychael Knight, Stella may be my favortie PRdesigner of all time. She was really a breath of fresh air, and really put those supposed "rocker" designers to shame!
(Santino, Jeffrey, Keith, this means YOU)
And Mr. Bones can rock a neck tattoo like nobody's business. (Once again, take THAT, Jeffrey!)
Honestly, Bravo really should give this broad a show. If they can make shows around those idiots on Date My Ex, and Rachel Zoe, there's really no reason not to make a fascinating show around La Leatha and Mr. Bones.
9/6/08 5:39 PM
Stella, I'm sorry to hear about your father. I hope you will be able to mourn and move forward in time.
I think you showed lots of class in wanting to give the viewer's the PR experience they were looking for - but I think that most people wouldn't grudge you if you did share the news of your Dad.
Good luck with everything, I am sure you will succeed.
BRAVO - Pls give Stella and Ratbones their own show =)
9/6/08 5:45 PM
bestest wishes.
9/6/08 6:07 PM
As much as I'd love to see a show with Stella & 'Bones, I still can't believe the execs at Bravo haven't given TLo their own show or after party or something. Talk about a missed opportunity.
Thoughts & prayers to you, Stella.
9/6/08 6:15 PM
The more I see of Stella, the more I like her. The first impression wasn't so great, but she's one of those people who just grow on you.
It shows real maturity and character that she went on with the show even after hearing her father died, and didn't make it about herself. I offer her my most sincere condolences to her and her family.
9/6/08 6:18 PM
What a fantastic interview. I wish her all the best, and will definitely be checking out the stuff in her sister's studio. And I admire the hell out of her for her classy exit from the show, and for the completely positive tone of this interview. No bashing of judges or other contestants, no blaming other people. I love that she looked at the show as a learning experience, and that she intends to take what she's learned and apply it to her craft. Stella, you are a class act, start to finish. We miss your presence on PR like crazy, girl!
9/6/08 6:36 PM
Stella, of all of the Project Runway contestants - ever - you seem the most genuine. I really hope you get your own show.
9/6/08 6:48 PM
Stella -
I'm so sorry about your dad. He would have been proud of you on the show. And it's great to hear how PR made you grow as a designer, and that you welcomed the opportunity to stretch as an artist. You are rock 'n' roll at its finest. I wish you the best of success in the future.
And great job as always, T Lo.
9/6/08 7:18 PM
Great interview with Stella. We really don't get to know the contestants well enough from what we see on the show. I am grateful to have had this interview to get to know Stella better. She has endured a lot lately and I wish her the best. She is quite charming.
9/6/08 7:28 PM
Stella, bless your heart for letting us get to "meet" you. I was an early skeptic, but found that I started looking forward to seeing you on the show. This heartfelt, gracious interview capped it all off. As you see here, you've won over many hearts. Best wishes to you.
TLo, thank you for this interview. Your way is the right way. It felt like Stella was really talking to all of us and no public relations nonsense.
9/6/08 7:30 PM
Loved Stella on the show and have even more admiration for her now.
She is intelligent, capable, and creative and she deserves the fulfillment of her goals as she is certainly willing to do the work it takes to get there.
Stella, I wish you peace as you mourn the loss of your father.
9/6/08 7:41 PM
How ironic that the "biker chick" is, in reality, PR's ultimate class act.
Congratulations on everything you've achieved, Stella, and condolences for your loss. I'm a fairly preppy/conservative soccer-mom type, and I'll probably never wear your stuff, but I'll always admire your style and skill. There is a huge market for high-end "rocker" style stuff, and I suspect that we'll be seeing plenty of Stella on the red carpet in the future -- if not for the Oscars, than definitely for the VMAs, the Grammy's, and certain movie premieres!
9/6/08 7:43 PM
My sincere condolences to Stella and her family. It is always tough to lose a loved one, and I can't believe she still went on After the Sew for the fans.
You're a freakin' diamond in the sea of poseurs of reality tv, Stella. I wish you only the very best.
Great interview, boys. She's got no excuses, no regrets and didn't trot out any BS. I have only the greatest respect for Stella Barbarella!
9/6/08 7:43 PM
I've been a long time lurker on this site (since Season 3) and never commented before, but I think this warrants it.
I never liked Stella on the show. I thought she was obnoxious and I couldn't get into her aesthetic even though after reading this blog I tried really hard to like her. I just never could.
But after this interview, I think that I just got the totally wrong impression from the show; in fact, the opposite impression! Instead of the impetuousness I got from Project Runway, I saw a very mature woman with a great capacity to learn and grow and boundless skill (I hadn't even considered the machines being too weak for leather, stupid me).
Stella, I'm really sorry about your father, and I'm sorry I wasn't able to resonate with you more on the show. You seem like a really amazing person, and I'm sure that you've got a great deal to look forward to with your fabulous personality and skill. I'll be keeping an eye out for your future collections and wishing you the very best!
p.s. even though I wasn't a fan on the show, I didn't think you should have been kicked for that design; it was way better than Joe's. :X
9/6/08 8:31 PM
Stella is indeed one classy lady. My condolences on the loss of your dad.
You're a true original, and all the best to you!
9/6/08 8:38 PM
My sympathies for your loss, Stella. Good luck in the future - you have such an amazing style and a wonderful attitude about your PR experience.
9/6/08 8:57 PM
Stella...that PR door closed, but other doors will open to a woman of your honesty and talent. Take care of yourself and I hope you'll soon have your OWN reality show.
9/6/08 9:16 PM
Stella is smoking hot and an awesome designer. I can't wait for the dress line; I need to drop 5 lbs, save some cash, and get my hands on one of them!
Very sorry to hear about your recent loss, as well.
9/6/08 9:16 PM
Stella,
Μου συλλυπητήρια. The Project Runway workroom at Parsons will not be nearly as interesting (or as loud) now that you're gone.
It's nice to know that the leather work has been in your family for generations--it's in your DNA.
All the best. I'm sure your father was so proud and your mother and family continue to be. Keep us posted on your future exploits.
9/6/08 9:36 PM
See, I completely thought that Tim's tone of voice conveyed that he was happy to send her home in a very caring way. I love Stella even more now and can't wait to see where she goes from here. Thanks for bringing us this interview!
9/6/08 9:37 PM
prfanalapenn ---
"And Mr. Bones can rock a neck tattoo like nobody's business (Once again, take THAT Jeffrey!)"
Oh, yeah! I'm glad I'm not the only person who thought of Jeffrey while looking at Mr. Bones' tatts. I'm not a tattoo person at all, but can appreciate a good, well-designed and executed one. I only wish TLo had posted a pic of Jeffrey alongside Ratbones'... just for yuks of course.
- edina -
9/6/08 9:46 PM
Stella, condolences on the loss of your dad.
Of all the designers on this season, you are the only one who showed maturity & class. Yes, class. You didn't go off on you model, you were never nasty with people, you played to your strengths without sacrificing the need to grow.
I hope you get your own show!
9/6/08 9:48 PM
Her gratitude for being on the show is really touching. Great interview, guys!
9/6/08 9:57 PM
Stella,
The deepest of condolences for your loss.
You're truly an original.
20 years ago when I'd hang @ the Roxy & the Cathouse in LA, you definitely would have been my designer of choice.
Unlike you, I can't rock those hot leather looks like I used to, but your integrity is still an inspiration to an old Hollywood hack like me.
Here's to your continued success...
9/6/08 10:06 PM
Stella, you have my deepest sympathies. I lost my dad
two months ago. It gets better but I still can't believe he's
gone.
9/6/08 10:08 PM
Favorite contestant on PR. She never stops being inspired, and that's inspiring.
9/6/08 10:16 PM
Maybe we viewers should be allowed to select the third contestant to go to BP! It would certainly be a more interesting match-up if we could throw La Leatha into the final mix!
Condolences, Stella. We'll miss you!
9/6/08 10:17 PM
Yasou, Stella. True design can go beyond one clientel and onto another. I love the dress you wore in the aftershow interview.
And I could never reconcile your wardrobe on the show with your much larger sense of style. Glad to know you just packed too light.
9/6/08 10:46 PM
dear stella,
so sorry to hear/read about your loss. use the love on this board to maybe heal just a wee bit of you heart.
next time i am in new york, i hope to find your shop.
thanks boys for the interview.
one more reason to love stellah!
xo
9/6/08 11:30 PM
Ah Stella, I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad.
Thanks for taking the time to do this interview (which was amazing btw) and demonstrates once again what a class act you are. And thanks to Tom & Lorenzo too for consistantly being the best interviewers out there. I heart you guys!
You will be sorely missed on PR . Now if only the Bravo will get you a show I will be a very happy fan indeed. Thank you for your wonderful spirit and heart.
9/6/08 11:35 PM
My condolences, Stella. Thank you for being so gracious and showing the viewers how even though a "tough leatha-lovin' broad" can be a classy dame at the same time!
9/6/08 11:46 PM
Stella, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. You and your family will be in my prayers.
I adored you on the show; first because we are the same age, and then because you are a smart, classy, elegant girl. I wish you much success, and I will be keeping up with you on the 'net. Take good care and know that you have a lot of fans out there!
9/7/08 1:24 AM
Love you, Stella! Thank you so much for being you.
9/7/08 1:29 AM
edina monsoon said...
prfanalapenn ---
"And Mr. Bones can rock a neck tattoo like nobody's business (Once again, take THAT Jeffrey!)"
Oh, yeah! I'm glad I'm not the only person who thought of Jeffrey while looking at Mr. Bones' tatts. I'm not a tattoo person at all, but can appreciate a good, well-designed and executed one. I only wish TLo had posted a pic of Jeffrey alongside Ratbones'... just for yuks of course.
- edina -
==============================
hhhheheheheheheheheh...Bravo, eddy, Cheers!
9/7/08 2:40 AM
Stone. Cold. FOX.
dagggg.
She'll be missed, for so many reasons.
9/7/08 3:27 AM
Here's another shot of Stella in her dress...on here myspace front page. http://www.myspace.com/stellazotis
9/7/08 8:17 AM
Love you, Stella.
I'm so sorry about your father.
I wish you all the best. You are one awesome person and your clothes are fantastic.
Stay true.
-Matt
9/7/08 8:23 AM
hey just wondering...are you guys going to blog top design as well? and are you ever going to review the shear genius finale??
best wishes to stella and her family. yr going to be missed by a lot of people.
9/7/08 9:07 AM
Oh, Stella, I'm so sorry. I lost my Dad not long ago, it's so hard. I'll think of you often as we go through this journey together. Good luck to you!
9/7/08 9:22 AM
"PRfanalaPenn said...
Honestly, Bravo really should give this broad a show. If they can make shows around those idiots on Date My Ex, and Rachel Zoe, there's really no reason not to make a fascinating show around La Leatha and Mr. Bones."
Ah, but I suspect the premise of the reality show (and the process of getting one made) excludes persons of intelligence, maturity and self-respect, particularly if they conduct themselves so as to extend that respect to others. (shining example: TLo interviews!) It seems that one must be an idiot, or willing to be edited to look like one, to fit well in the genre.
Which is why I hope TLo will one day shine as hosts of an interview show/segment - but don't expect them to be the center of a "reality" show.
9/7/08 9:31 AM
So sorry for your loss, Stella Barbarella.
I only wish the best for your future, which appears to be extremely bright and will be full of new opportunities.
Much love to you.
9/7/08 5:01 PM
Evidently you can't post a comment unless you are part of the Stella fanwagon. Ho hum.
I'm sorry to hear your father passed on. As someone who has lost both my parents as well, I can relate to how hard it is to lose a parent, especially if you are close to them.
Honestly, I'm not your fan and I actively protest the use of fur and cow skin. But that doesn't mean I'm not sympathetic over hearing of your loss. You have my condolences to you and yours all the same.
9/7/08 6:13 PM
Anonymous said...
Honestly, I'm not your fan and I actively protest the use of fur and cow skin.
Ooh! Everyone hide; the Vegginazis have found us.
You're entitled to your opinion, but get your facts sorted out. Cow leather is a byproduct of the meat industry; cows are not killed for their hides. And exactly when on Project Runway did Stella use fur?
None of the readers of this blog come here to be proselytized to, so take your sad little pleather flats and shuffle away.
9/7/08 6:19 PM
You're entitled to your opinion, but get your facts sorted out. Cow leather is a byproduct of the meat industry; cows are not killed for their hides. And exactly when on Project Runway did Stella use fur?
---
Wow. Way to be an asshole.
My personal life is none of your business and nothing relevant to this topic. But, since you drag it up, I'm a vegitarian and strongly oppose the use of animals for food or fashion, so even when it is a byproduct of the meat industry, I don't support it.
Stella said she likes fur on the show, she mentioned it in her interview, and she shows looks that include it. Maybe you should get your facts straight, hm?
None of my opinions matter in this situation, however, because I posted to offer sympathy for Stella because of her loss. Despite how I felt about her on the show or what material she uses in her pieces, it's really horrible going through that kind of tragedy and I feel for her.
So why do you feel the need to attack my beliefs and call me names just because I mentioned I'm not a fan of hers? I said it because I've said before that I don't like her, but despite our differences I hope her pain isn't too bad.
9/7/08 7:10 PM
Stella is awesome-- such a breath of fresh air on this show! I wish she didn't use fur in her stuff, though.
9/7/08 8:26 PM
Stella, you are one classy lady, and I loved you for it on PR. I'm so sorry about your loss! Keep doing what you're doing.
9/7/08 8:33 PM
Anonymous 5:01pm and 6:19pm:
There is a time and a place to post your objections and this is not it. This thread was meant for good wishes to someone who has just experienced the profound loss of a parent. You are being disrepectful and disingenous. Having been through the loss of a parent, I would hope you could show at least a tiny amount of empathy.
---
My point exactly. Which is exactly why I made barely a remark about it, and all I did say I said because I was making the point that, while Stella has never been my favorite, I'm deeply sorry for her loss.
However, if other people are going to start throwing around the word "nazi" and taking my brief comment way out of context, they're being disrespectful. I only wish the best for Stella and her loved ones, not a big stupid scene for no reason.
9/7/08 8:42 PM
Carol in LA:
Except for the first sentence, Anonymous 5:01pm's post was quite gracious. I think it is a good thing when someone who is not in your corner can set aside their differences at a time like this to express condolences.
The 6:19pm post was in response to Stubenville moronic and trollish post. Apparently s/he has an issue with people who oppose leather and fur and used someone's fairly benign reference to their opposition as a jumping off point to make an obnoxious rant. For the record, I do eat meat and wear leather.
I don't necessarily think that Stella's situation means that this has to be a lovefest. however if I did feel that way, Anonymous 5:01pm and 6:19 pm was not the one who derailed things.
9/7/08 9:34 PM
Let's drop it, kittens.
9/7/08 10:39 PM
Ah... the elephant in the room has awakened; Stella loves leather, a lot of very vocal people don't.
I just could not see the Weinsteins or Bravo or the Magic Elves letting Stella anywhere near the Bryant Park tents after her statements about her obvious love of leather (which I have no hatred for, btw).
But I could see her inclusion in the final three or four to be a lightening rod for every PETA-esque animal rights group to show up and disrupt the Bryant Park events in front of cameras or there be too large a possibility that PR would be called on the media carpet for putting forward a designer who could potentially show a hella lotta leather on the catwalk.
I mean, could you *imagine* if Natalie Portman (who's been a vegetarian since she was a kid and purportedly will appear in PETA ads next year) was a judge in a non-green challenge and Stella would have made something with leather (or, God forbid, fur)?
Lotsa leather and any fur is just too controversial and I know the Weinsteins are whores for the money and I'm sure they probably thing 'any free publicity is good publicity' but Stella at BP may have been too much, even for them - especially with the show going to a more conservative channel next season.
And I can't see Heidi or Tim wanting to take on the fall-out if Stella would have produced a leather-heavy collection (God forbid she would have included fur).
She's such a strong personality, too, that I don't think she'd take any shit from the producers if they'd tried to steer her away from the leather. She'd have done what she wanted to do, damned the consequences (and I'm sure her show would have been fantastic :::sigh:::). The risks may simply have been too great to keep her around.
So she had to be auffed at a convenient time; with a plausibly 'bad' design (that I actually kinda liked) and right in the late-middle of the season to give viewers a few more weeks to focus on more publicity-friendly designers before the finale.
The 'up' side is that she did leave a very clear impression on viewers, she has a strong aesthetic that either works for you or doesn't and she has chutzpah coming out of her ying-yang so she'll be fine in either a small leather-loving niche market or luxury leather goods or she'll pull back and start producing a lot more non-leather apparel in another line that would actually be better sellers in the end.
Boy. I miss her, though... .
9/8/08 2:34 AM
Was there a lot of fallout from Kara Saun's collection?
9/8/08 4:03 AM
Stella, you're an amazing designer and an absolute breath of fresh air.
9/8/08 8:06 AM
Even though it's a moot point I don't believe there would have been that much negative reaction or any significant amount if Stella had made it to Bryant park
As much as the proclaimed lover of leather you might think could cause a ruckus, the fact is leather is not banned from fashion shows. I mean the models are still wearing shoes and boots made from the traditional materials. As to the issue of fur, that's a non-issue. I recall Laura Bennet saying using real fur was forbidden since people wondered if she used it in her collection. She had used small feathers instead-which was allowable.
again all a moot point
Frank
9/8/08 9:23 AM
Wow, guys. Just wow. I love her even more now. Thanks for taking the time to give this interview to us. She is awesome.
9/8/08 9:43 AM
I watched "After the Sew" and had no clue that Stella had just experienced such a terrible loss. I was also struck with her beauty, pleasantness, and the beautiful outfit she wore that showed her tailoring abilities. She is definitely a gem and what a treat for us - that T/Lo share! I still think she should and will win FAN FAVORITE. I miss her voice already!
9/8/08 9:59 AM
TLo -
It's Monday! You haven't updated since Saturday! Now I've got Monday Morning Whinies, Wahhh!
9/8/08 10:05 AM
Hello this is Stella and I want to start by thanking tom and Lorenzo for being supportive and letting everyone know that my father past away. He pasted on 9/3 the day of my elimination. He was just 70. He pasted of heart failer. So strange how we both moved on that day. I know this is a site for a bitchy perspective, gay or not gay, but all of you wonderful bitchy bloggers are smart ,intelligent and, sensitive and know when its time to bitch and when its time to condol. (If that works from condolences I don't know, but its sounds like It may.) Everyones warm enrgy has made me feel much better. I was so blown away this past week that I couldn't even allow myself to express my feelings to any interviewer in fear of upsetting the entire balance of the interview. For some reason I have felt very comfortable speaking with the TLo boys because they really say it as it is and they truelly get to know who they talk to and deliver to all those who are interested and are avid fans of the show. I must say that my heart was ripped out of my chest with this news mainly because I hadn't seen my dad in 4 years and didn't talk to him for a few weeks because I couldn't get through to him. The guilt and the heartache Im experiencing for not getting on the plane to see him when I came back from filming PR is immense. It just can't leave my thoughts, I didn't even know he wasn't doing well. I thought he was in full recovery. In any case thanks to all you beautiful greeks. sas efhome iyia, agapi kai kali tihi. and all those beautiful non greeks the same. Health, love, and much success.
Thank you TLo boys for being sweet and caring and spreading love for me.
Your support has comforted me greatly,
love, Stella
9/8/08 10:14 AM
Love you Stella!
9/8/08 10:33 AM
Stella, condolences to you and your family.
You're awesome. Best of luck to you!
9/8/08 12:47 PM
Stella, I can't tell you how much of a delight you have been on the show - like a breath of fresh air. You are the kind of people I love - shoot straight from the hip, no playing games or head trips. You are who you are and I love that about you. I am so sorry for the loss of your father. You're in my prayers, sweetheart.
9/8/08 4:34 PM
Stella = Love.
9/8/08 4:50 PM
This is truly a blog worthy of Project Runway. Just had to throw that in.
As far as Stella goes, I didn't think she'd make it till the end but I'm still bummed she's gone. Funny and classy-her reaction to Blayne's imitation of her was completely adorable. If Tabatha can have her own show....Bravo are you listening?
9/8/08 4:50 PM
So sorry to hear about your father, Stella. You are in our thoughts. You are a class act and we will miss you on the show. I know you will have great success in the future.
9/8/08 7:54 PM
Stella,
I know you have to go through feeling like crap, and guilty and sad and all of that. I would never tell someone to not feel what they have to feel. But I hope those feelings will lift soon, so you can feel how much your dad loved you and how proud he was of you. You may feel bad that you weren't there; but he knew where you were, what you were doing, and when he moved on, he was fiercely proud of his daughter, and full of love for his family.
Esther
9/9/08 3:50 PM
Regarding Tim and Stella, I think on the show Tim has been pretty decent to Stella, aside from not helping her with the fabric, but perhaps there was a reason for that.
What I have an issue with is the drumming Stella has been taking on Tim's blog, specifically the last three entries. If he were similarly harsh to the other designers and their shortcomings, I would understand, but he isn't.
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