Project Runway All Stars 2023 LIVE — Rami walks away with first win as fans slam Brittany for being a 'copy cat'

Contestant Anna Zhou says her ‘avant-garde’ designs set her apart

Anna has been a fan favorite since winning Project Runway in season 19, where she was celebrated for her unique style.

“I take great pride in the distinct design aesthetic of my brand, which is rarely seen in the industry. Additionally, a significant portion of my work is meticulously handcrafted in a couture manner,” she told E! Online.

“While all the all-star designers are exceptionally talented, my avant-garde approach sets me apart from the others.”

Anna also wanted fans to know that this has been a particularly challenging season for her because of her status as a new mom.

“I’ve had to deal with physical and emotional discomfort, but I have maintained a high standard for my work. If there are any instances where I didn’t execute perfectly, I hope my fans can understand that I have given my absolute best in this competition,” she said.

Season 20 cast

The season 20 cast of Project Runway All Stars includes 14 contestants:

• Brittany Allen (season 18)
• Prajjé Oscar Jean-Baptiste (season 19) – Eliminated in episode 12
• Laurence Basse (season 15)
• Fabio Costa (season 10) – Eliminated in episode 7
• Bishme Cromartie (season 17)
• Johnathan “Kayne” Gillaspie (season 3) – Eliminated in episode 6
• Mila Hermanovski (season 7) – Eliminated in episode 3
• Rami Kashou (season 4) – Eliminated in espisode 8
• Viktor Luna (season 9) – Eliminated in episode 4
• Korto Momolu (season 5) – Eliminated in episode 11
• Nora Pagel (season 1) – Eliminated in episode 1/2
• Kara Saun (season 1) – Eliminated in episode 9
• Anna Yinan Zhou (season 19) – Eliminated in episode 9
• Hester Sunshine (season 17) – Eliminated in episode 5

Compensation for Project Runway contestants

Project Runway does not pay the contestants and many find themselves having to quit their jobs to be on the show, according to the Monthly Portland.

The winner may get a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a new car, $50,000 in design software, and $100,000 to start a new clothing line.

But all the losers get is their 15 minutes of fame.

The models who walk the runway on Project Runway, showing off the designers’ garments, are not paid either – but they do receive free food. 

Hopping around networks

Project Runway has been around for 20 seasons.

The show originally aired on Bravo in 2004, and was switched to Lifetime in 2009.

It made its return to Bravo in 2019 and is currently in an all-star season.

Long days ahead

Filming day on Project Runway can last up to 18 hours.

Contestants endure a grueling schedule, working tirelessly to create their designs.

Both models and designers must face long days with few breaks to eat or rest.