by Todd Betzold

The final three designers took to the runway on Project Runway All Stars this week and got the chance to show everyone their final collections. While the judges enjoyed each collection and thought it was the best final runway in the show's history, but unfortunately they all couldn't win. The first designer to be sent home was Michael Costello, whose "Serengeti" collection didn't win the judges over completely. Today he spoke to RealityWanted in an exclusive interview about his experiences on Project Runway All Stars.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: What made you want to come back and do Project Runway All Stars?
A. Michael: Cause I wanted to win. I felt like I was robbed and wanted to show the world that I have other talents and of course to promote my business.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: During your initial season, you took it pretty rough when you were sent home. You seemed to keep it together this time. Was it easier this time around?
A. Michael: Yeah it was I felt like I did grow this past year and learned to deal with things a little easier than before. Also, my Mom and Dad came around a lot more and have been more then supportive. And that took a lot of pressure off me. So knowing that everything home was taken care of and things were good, I was able to stay focused on the challenges and I was friends with most of the designers there so that made my stay way easy.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: Georgina said you went too commercial with your final collection. How do you feel about that statement?
A. Michael: What exactly is wrong with commercial? I'm trying to sell clothes not make a fantasy someone can't buy! I love Georgina and she sells fantasy pretty well. I wanted to show the world the commercial side of me for my clients, my fans, and the buyers.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: What was your favorite challenge this season?
A. Michael: I think it would have to be the Diane von Furstenberg "gelato." Not because I won, but it's been a dream of mine to meet her and even work for her, so when she offered me to call her and you see my reaction on TV... it's like your real dream coming true!!!

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: When all the other designers came back to help you out for 24 hours, what made you choose April?
A. Michael: We may have had our own drama but when given the right amount of time and elimination is not on the table, she can execute and sew very damn well... she's great! And her skills are very impressive. So I knew why I wanted her.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: What can we expect next from you?
A. Michael: I don't want to be the face of the next charity for diabetes or Weight Watchers or promote an album or try and get a show about nothing or a book deal! I wish I can say that Tommy Hilfiger hired me or Diane von Furstenberger offered me the head designer position or lie to you and tell you something different, but I can tell you that I am making money, my bills are paid, my life is fantastic, my mom, my dad, my son, my whole family support me and my fashion business is doing very well. Being a fashion designer, I focus on my collections. I have been in talks with a very wonderful department store and I just showed my NYC fashion week show on February 10 and a very familiar face to the show and friend stopped by and was very interested in my collection and was very impressed. I love Mondo he knows that I love his creativity and think he will do well.

(Image courtesy of Lifetime)

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