Season 4 of Bravo's Project Runway was definitely full of memorable moments: from Chris March’s reappearance on the show to Christian’s hellish prom-aged customer. But the menswear challenge (when they had to design something for NFL star-turned-newsman Tiki Barber to wear on air) definitely produced some memorable scenes – Nina Garcia’s face when she saw Sweet Pea’s crooked and amorphous button-down shirt (which, btw, reminded me of that Cosby Show episode when Denise made Theo that ridiculous shirt) was hilarious. Even more hysterical was her reaction to Carmen's design, which consisted of sweatshirt-style lounge pants and a matching jacket with a scarf tucked in place of a top (hey, shawty ran out of time before she could finish sewing that shirt). Sure, it wasn’t funny for Carmen (especially since she got booted for it), but for most quasi-sadistic viewers, it was pretty darned amusing. Then again, Carmen had produced some promising work before, so it was a bit sad to see her go so early on.
Fortunately, those who were instantly enamored with Carmen’s work can now get some design pointers from the talented lady herself. Along with Carmia Marshall, her partner in the sassy Sistahs of Harlem label, Carmen Webber has penned the book Denim Mania (st. Martin's Griffin), which just hit stores on Saturday. If you’re the crafty type, you’ll definitely dig this book, which includes instructions and suggestions on how to make different tops, bottoms and accessories that incorporate denim fabric in an unusual and intriguing way (dammit, if only she’d made it to that Levi’s challenge on Project Runway!) Sure, you have to possess a basic knowledge of sewing, but once you’ve got that in check, these ladies will teach you how to ruffle sleeves and trim skirts better than any FIT professor (well, that might be a stretch… got a little too amped for a sec). In any case, the directions (complete with step-by-step illustrations are pretty idiot friendly, and the designs are young and fun. So try going DIY for a while – you might just enjoy it.
$19.95; Visit http://www.amazon.com
