**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
Welcome Back to the Recaps!
If you’re just joining us, welcome to Style Files’ Next in Fashion reviews! Here we review the latest episodes from season 2 of one of our favorite fashion competition shows: Next in Fashion.
To catch up from the beginning, check out our Season 2 Episode 1 Review now.
To read our most recent recap, check out our Season 2 Episode 8 Review.
Now that you’re caught up, you’re ready for episode 9!
It’s Time for a Transformation
Episode 9 opened with sad news: Desyreé was eliminated. At this point in the competition, every designer is clearly skilled so her elimination doesn’t speak to any real error. It’s a matter of numbers now, and they simply need to move on with fewer contestants. I’m excited to see more of Desyreé’s work outside of Next in Fashion!
After the elimination, the next challenge was introduced: Transformation. Transformation means the garment will go down the runway in one form and return in another. No colors or other features were required beyond the theme.
As the designers worked on their transformative looks, our co-hosts Tan France and Gigi Hadid did their usual banter. They danced a little, laughed a lot and spoke with each designer about their process. Maybe it was because this is the episode before the season finale or maybe it was pure coincidence, but the designers were especially nostalgic.
Designers Transformed
Bao and Nigel shared the inspiration behind each of their looks was a family member. For Bao, it was her mother who worked in a sweatshop since Bao was a toddler. Her memory of sitting at her mother’s feet while the industrial sewing machines hummed around her is forever imprinted on her mind. And she credits those experiences with leading her to become a designer.
This blog seeks to highlight garment workers that are often disregarded in the global scale of fashion. We seek to promote ethically made brands which prioritize people as much as they do quality products. Bao’s story resonated with Style Files’ purpose. And it was truly touching to hear about someone as influential as her mother.
Nigel also shared more about his past. His struggles in adolescence were rectified by his father taking charge in his life. When his father became his primary role model, he saved Nigel from the dangerous path he was going on. Nigel spoke so fondly of his father, and even FaceTimed him during his work time. It was heartening to see their dynamic. His father is truly very proud and supportive of him.
This challenge is an ode to each designer’s journey both on Next in Fashion and in their craft during the years leading up to it. They worked for years to be skillful. Now, they worked under intense pressure for 9 weeks. And we know what happens to rocks under pressure. Diamonds, baby!!
It’s safe to assume every designer has transformed over the course of Next in Fashion.
The Show
Time to work is up! We’re ready for a fashion show. This episode, my love Jason Bolden returns to give expert critiques to our lovely designers. Alongside Mr. Bolden is… Ashley Park!
Frankly, I didn’t know who Ashley Park was until 2 weeks ago when I watched and finished Beef on Netflix within 3 days. She is a great actress. Although I am a little confused on what she’s doing on Next in Fashion. I can’t even blame this choice on Gigi Hadid’s Gen Z connections, I assume this one came from the Netflix camp instead.
While Ashley Park was a confusing decision, she looked beautiful and her reactions to the looks were entertaining. Especially her (rightfully so) gasp at Bao’s incredible transformative look. See the look in action below –
I also loved Deontré’s transformed look. The yellow asymmetrical maxi top paired with black leather leggings was doing everything for me. I loved that look, but I didn’t like that bulky letterman jacket it transformed out from.
The fashion shows are shorter and shorter. This one ended all too soon. After some deliberation from the judges, Amari was chosen to leave 🙁
At this point in the competition we know every designer is talented. But that’s the standard of reality competition series. Eliminations are necessary to move the show forward. They are not indicative of one designer’s talent over another.
And I think what it really came down to was the final three was best suited with Bao, Deontré and Nigel. Although we will miss Amari’s cute outfits and joyous energy.
I can’t believe it’s already season finale time! Check back to Style Files for our review of the next episode.
What did you think of episode 9? Tell us below!
