The words "reality television" and "makeover" seem to go hand-in-hand. Once a staple only of daytime talk shows, now a considerable number of prime time television series are devoted to fashion or beauty overhauls. Is there room for one more?
Always Room for Tim Gunn
If the fashion guru in charge is Tim Gunn, then the answer is yes. An industry professional (taught at Parsons New School of Design for 23 years – served as Chair of the Department of Fashion Design), Gunn’s new show Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style debuts Thursday, September 6 on Bravo. Anyone who’s watched Bravo during the past several weeks has likely seen at least one (if not ten) commercials promoting the program. After all, they know that they have a star in Gunn.
Bravo is the channel that made Gunn a household name after he first appeared in Heidi Klum’s Project Runway. In the show’s three seasons, Gunn became a fan favorite not only for his go-for-it mantras of “Make it work” and “Carry on”, but for his design knowledge and mentoring relationship with the aspiring designers. The designers show respect for Gunn and it's always beneficial that they listen to his advice.
Gunn Now at Liz Claiborne
Though Gunn now works as chief creative officer at Liz Claiborne, published reports indicate that he is involved with the upcoming season (not yet aired) of Project Runway.
His own show, meanwhile, is based upon his nonfiction book Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste & Style, published in May, by Gunn and Kate Moloney. Each episode will show Gunn and the show’s co-host, model Veronica Webb, assisting women in need of fashion help. (The women are not nominated for the wardrobe makeovers; apparently they know they need the assistance.) Sample topics that are covered include finding clothes that fit correctly, accesorizing well, planning a wardrobe and carrying oneself with confidence and grace.
Webb is a former runway and magazine supermodel. She is also a successful journalist, author and actress. A notable thing about her career – besides enormous success – is that she was one of the first black super-models to have a cosmetic campaign (Revlon).
Consider this a kick-off to the new fall television season. There are eight one-hour episodes in the series. Despite the abundance of style shows already on television, this is one not to be missed! With Gunn in charge, expect fashion with taste and elegance… and a bevy of catchphrases.
