by Gina Scarpa

 

This season on Project Runway, nobody won more challenges than Emilio Sosa. He earned his first win on the very first challenge, in which the designers had to create an outfit that showed the judges who they were and what their point of view was. That win set the pace for Emilio for the rest of the season. He went on to win three more challenges and found himself in the final two after his strong showing at Bryant Park. Emilio ultimately lost to Seth Aaron, but don't count him out. His brand ESOSA was born on Project Runway and he's working on making sure his clothes are seen and will able to be purchased all over the world. Today, Emilio spoke to RealityWanted in an exclusive interview about his experiences on Project Runway and what he thinks of Seth Aaron's win.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: When did your interest in designing first begin?
A. Emilio: I became interested in design at the age of 14.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What made you decide to try out for Project Runway this season?
A. Emilio: I like to give myself challenges and getting to show at Bryant Park was always on my "Bucket List".

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Which designers stood out for you for their work in the competition? Who were you a fan of or whose work did you appreciate?
A. Emilio: Jay's work always stood out, from day one. I'm a fan of all 16 designers, though.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: You often did not take the advice that Tim Gunn gave to you. Do you regret not listening to him or are you glad that you stood by your convictions and did what you thought was best in the competition?
A. Emilio: I respected Tim's advice, but I always listen to my own inner voice.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: You won a lot of challenges this season. Which win was the best or most meaningful?
A. Emilio: The most meaningful challenge was creating a signature print, for 2 reasons. It was the first time Tim and I really disagreed and I had to fight for my vision and secondly, ESOSA, the brand was born!

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: How did you feel about your collection for Bryant Park? How long did it take you to finish it?
A. Emilio: My collection, "Color Me Bad", was exactly what I wanted. It showed my use of color and my versatility as a designer. It took 8 weeks to put together, including the manufacturing of the ESOSA signature print.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Were you confident going into the final panel?
A. Emilio: I felt very confident going into the final judgment.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: How do you feel about Seth Aaron's collection and his win?
A. Emilio: Seth Aaron is a brilliant designer and great guy. I'm very happy for him, and he owes me dinner!

 

(Image courtesy of Lifetime)

 

Follow Gina at twitter.com/ginascarpa

 

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