As Heidi Klum says, “One day you’re in, and the next you’re out,” but Angelo Rosa and Martha Luna just proved that Project Runway is officially back in.
Anthony Steverson
Fashion Meets Flavor
Celebrating Rosa’s participation in the new season, their exclusive event at Mission Ceviche’s Sub-Mission blended fashion, flavor, and flair, kicking off a season that’s already turning heads. As guests made their way across the carpet, mingling with familiar faces and new ones alike, they were treated to a standout trio of hors d’oeuvres by Michelin-starred Chef Jose Luis Chavez.
Signature Sips & High Spirits
Signature sips, from Topo Chico’s crisp sparkling water to Chloe Wine’s elegant pours, kept the crowd refreshed and ready to cheer for Team Rosa.
Rafael Gonzalez
DJ Prizzy kept the energy high until it was time to move into the main space for the live premiere—but not before the duo took a moment to thank the crowd of NYC socialites, friends, and family.
“People who believe in each other, especially in this industry, are rare,” stated celebrity stylist Martha Luna, who, for the evening, wore many hats: publicist, event planner, and host—all while looking effortlessly chic.
Rosa, Cult of Individuality’s head designer, concurred.
“You’re one person, you act as a village,” he said while thanking her. For him, the night, Project Runway, was a culmination of everything he’d worked for, starting from his humble beginnings in Rhode Island.
“I’ve always dreamt of being on the show, so for it to happen now, finally, and to be a part of it and a part of history means a lot to me.”
Rafael Gonzalez
Premiere Night Energy
As the episode began, the room fell quiet until Rosa appeared onscreen. Cheers broke out the moment he walked into the design room. One of his designs has yet to air, but guests at Sub-Mission enjoyed an exclusive preview of an upcoming look on display in the space. During commercial breaks, tables buzzed with familiar chatter: “Are you a regular watcher?” and “I’m so glad it’s back to the original format.”
Rafael Gonzalez
The Project Runway We’ve Been Missing
For longtime fans, Project Runway’s return to form has been a welcome one. After Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn departed in 2018 and the show moved to Bravo, many felt the magic shifted. Now, Project Runway is back under Klum’s lead on Freeform. The show is tapping into its early-era charm, with a fresh slate of designers ready to make it work.
The final hour, meant for mingling over Selfie Cookies, quickly turned into an impromptu binge session. No one budged from their seat until episode two played as well. Listen—it’s been a minute since our favorite fashion show graced the screen. Clearly, the crowd wasn’t ready to say goodbye just yet.
Anthony Steverson
When it was finally time to say au revoir, guests were gifted luxe bags featuring unisex scents from Initio Parfums Privés. The scent lineup featured Side Effect for the men and Atomic Rose for the women.
For Rosa, it was more than a watch party. A dream stitched together over years of friendship, ambition, and hustle finally came to life. If this premiere party was any indication, the season won’t just be runway-ready; it’ll be unforgettable.
Season 21 of Project Runway is available now on Disney+.