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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Wednesday, November 28, 2007

'Project Runway' mentor takes shot at unflattering looks

By Samantha Critchell
Associated Press

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Tim Gunn says fashion today has something for everyone — but just be careful.

JOHN SMOCK | Associated Press

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NEW YORK — Tim Gunn doesn't get the final word on Bravo TV's "Project Runway" as he is the mentor — not the judge — to the aspiring fashion designers.

But don't think he doesn't have opinions.

"I have to say that one of the things I love about fashion today is that there is something for everybody," says Gunn, whose day job is now the chief creative officer of Liz Claiborne Inc. "Whether you're a classicist, bohemian, minimalist — it's out there. And if you're exuberant and over the top, it's there for you, too."

It's hard to pin down "in" or "out" with so many choices, Gunn says. But here are some of his thoughts on current looks as the fourth season of "Project Runway" continues:

  • Gunn hopes the dress is here to stay. It provides so many options to women, he says, but it also is the easiest solution for day-to-day dressing.

  • He won't go so far to say he doesn't like the high-waisted pants trend, but he acknowledges it can be difficult for most women to wear.

  • The round-toe pump is another item he's not so keen on. "It tends to cut you off. I'd stay away from that if I was a woman," Gunn notes.

  • For men, he is a fan of the slimmer silhouette that's been adopted in recent seasons.

    Less bulk is flattering on everyone, even men who think they're hiding a little bit of girth under an oversized jacket, he says.

    But the shorter pant — aka flood pant — is taking modern menswear too far. "Who wants to walk around looking like Pee-wee Herman?"