The quest to find the next big Fashion Star through reality television has become a popular formula, yet some attempts clearly miss the mark. One particular show stands out for all the wrong reasons, representing a significant waste of viewer time and potential. Imagine a chaotic blend of a business pitch show and a design competition, but executed poorly, and you begin to understand the issues.
Fourteen contestants were initially presented, though confusingly, only ten were actually featured. Each was tasked with creating a single garment, which then faced critique from three individuals presented as “mentors.” However, the reality is less impressive: only one mentor is an actual designer, while the others merely lend their celebrity names to fashion lines. This already weakens the credibility of the mentorship aspect, crucial for nurturing a true fashion star.
Following the critiques, a bizarre element is introduced: representatives from major retailers like H&M, Macy’s, and Saks offer substantial sums of money for these designs. The problem lies in the disconnect from reality. Massive investments are presented for what are often described as poorly made and uninspired garments. Furthermore, these items are supposedly available for sale almost immediately, adding to the unrealistic and rushed feeling of the entire process. The fundamental rules of how designers typically sell to retailers are completely ignored, leaving viewers confused about whether the designers even benefit from these supposed “deals.” The show fails to educate or accurately portray the business side of becoming a fashion star.
The designs themselves offer little to inspire. Instead of groundbreaking creativity, the show presents a parade of already established styles or novelty items lacking any lasting appeal. This raises the question: is the show genuinely seeking a fashion star with innovative vision, or simply creating disposable fast fashion content for television?
Perhaps the most significant flaw is the complete lack of relatable or likable personalities. While Jessica Simpson and Nicole Richie manage to maintain some level of appeal, the majority of participants, including Elle McPherson, come across as arrogant, unpleasant, and lacking genuine talent. This absence of charisma and authentic passion makes it difficult for viewers to invest in anyone’s journey to become a fashion star. A successful fashion star reality show needs compelling personalities that audiences can root for.
To truly work, the show needs a complete overhaul. Firstly, introduce all contestants properly from the start, allowing viewers to connect with their individual stories and aspirations. Secondly, focus on the design process itself. Show the collaboration with pattern makers and seamstresses, and highlight the mentors’ guidance in a meaningful way. This would provide valuable insight into the skills and teamwork required to succeed in the fashion industry and become a recognized fashion star.
Instead of the confusing current format, a weekly fashion show presenting all or a significant portion of the designs would be far more engaging. A clear competition structure with weekly eliminations and a focus on charitable sales of winning designs could add a positive dimension. Ultimately, the season should culminate in announcing a single winner – the true fashion star – who then receives substantial support, such as having their collection produced and sold through a major company. This would provide a tangible and meaningful reward for the aspiring fashion star.
As it stands, the show is a disorganized mess and a missed opportunity. It fails to capture the excitement, creativity, and genuine talent that should be at the heart of a fashion star reality competition. Instead of inspiring the next generation of fashion stars, it leaves viewers with a sense of disappointment and wasted time. A serious rethink is needed to transform this concept into a show that truly celebrates and discovers fashion’s rising stars.
