We're nearing the finale of Project Runway match but it appears the producers are trying to stretch this out much like the designers did with their spandex on last week's Divas of the WWE episode. Maybe it's because Fashion Week was a mere two weeks ago and they have to edit the finale. In any case, the last competition to determine the final three contestants ended on a definitive note for three designers, while two of them have to wait just a bit longer.
 
 The final five designers were taken a yet another field trip--this time to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Once there Tim Gunn, acting like more like a docent than a fashion consultant, told the designers that their final task was to create a design based on a work of art.  It was narrowed down to Greco-Roman sculpture, an ancient Egyptian exhibit, and European paintings. They were given cameras and allowed to go through these three exhibits and take pictures for reference.  Obviously, this was done while the museum was closed but we were shocked that they allowed flash photography on those paintings!  Doesn't  the NYC museum (like other museums) have a rule against that? It can fade a picture for art's sake! 

 After hundreds of pictures taken by the designers, four of the five chose European art as their inspiration. And shockingly (NOT) Rami chose an Aphrodite sculpture for the drapery. Sweet P chose a painting of a peacock, Chris picked an 18th century portrait of noblewoman, Christian chose a portrait of a Spanish military nobleman. and Jillian used a tiny figure in a larger painting telling the story of the Argonauts. The choices and the executions of the choices were very telling.

                         
 Although he's been chastised time after time for his draping designs, Rami forged right ahead with a goddess-style dress in a dark lavender shade. We admire his talent and his taste and craftsmanship, but Rami is a stubborn one. He is so controlled in his mannerisms, his posture, and his taste that he must be somewhat difficult in the boyfriend department. Oh sure, he has a nice tight  body (we caught a glimpse in this episode) but those red flags keep popping up.

 Jillian did a fairly literal translation of a Joan of Arc type character, seeking to create a look of armor without metal. This was a perfect episode to showcase all that irritates us about her. She acts very disciplined (except with time) but comes across as very cold. Does she even know how to have any fun? And as for that time factor, she always seems very put upon and she gets so close to being a whiner that when Christian and Jillian had a few words this episode, we were on HIS side!

 Chris' noblewoman translation was a bit of a cheat. He used the same muted colors as the painting and recreated the couture collar (on a smaller scale) of the avant-garde design that he Christian teamed up on. Chris finished early (or so he thought) and retreated to take a nap. Naturally Tim Gunn had to rouse papa bear and get him back to work.
                            
 Christian was the most ambitious by recreating his inspiration for a woman in a multi-piece ensemble. One thing that has been obvious from the start is that Christian is a stickler for details. Even his unsuccessful designs showed a lot of work. This one was as close to couture as possible. Christian is also a whiz putting it all together in a timely fashion. All that said, Christian has a bitchy arrogant demeanor and one HUGE ego. Granted, it's important to be self-confident but he loves to toot his own horn---sometimes at others' expenses. This could change with age, but we have a feeling it'll get worse.

 On the flip side is Sweet P. This poor dear was in over her head virtually all season long and had her share of unforeseen obstacles. But she also seemed (if you'll pardon the expression) hemmed in by these obstacles instead of coming up with a plan B. The tardiness of her model was a handicap that we think the Project Runway folks should have taken into consideration. The outcome of her design might have changed. She definitely had the peacock colors for her design----just not the overflowing feathery look.

                         

  At the judges' table the guest was Roberto Cavalli who came in with an interesting perspective. Obviously he had done no research on the designers' previous works and made his opinions strictly on what he saw here. But he did manage to give a remarkably accurate appraisal of these designers based on one piece.  Jillian didn't quite get her gold dress done correctly but the wow factor of the metallic look overshadowed the misstep (maybe they didn't see it!) It seemed as though she might win, but Christian took top honors. Again, you could have issues with his personality, but there's no denying his talent. Sweet P was eliminated proving that likability can't overcome design flaws. The judges couldn't decide between Rami and Chris for the third slot in the finals so BOTH
have to show three Fashion Week pieces to the judges to see which will go. 

                               

 When we see this decision is two weeks away. Next week is a "reunion" special where all the designers gather for a discussion/bitch session/"where are they now/" type show. Plus we see who the viewers picked as their favorite. Sweet P seems the logical choice.

 The week after we SHOULD see the final three. However, if you've seen the Fashion Week recap on several Bravo sites you might have noticed that the final five designers all showed their designs. Could Chris and Rami have both tied? Was Sweet P given a pas because her model showed up late? Or were all five allowed to show to throw us off the scent? We'll find out soon enough.