by Todd Betzold

Austin Scarlett was known for his glamorous gowns and eccentric personality during Season 1 of Project Runway. He went far during that season, but lost one challenge before the finale. In return to the runway, Austin designed his way to the finale of Project Runway All Stars. He took second place to Mondo Guerra, but second place out of 13 all star designers is nothing to complain about. Today, we got an exclusive interview with Austin as he talked about what brought him back to Project Runway, what to expect from him next and much more.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: What made you want to come back and do Project Runway All Stars?
A. Austin: Honestly I love being in a workroom full of so much intense creativity. I love being inspired by the different designer's stories and points of view. The winner's prize was pretty motivating, and the chance to meet a lot of wonderful new people from the world of fashion: Georgina, Joanna, Isaac and everyone.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: During the finale, you seemed like an outsider to Michael and Mondo and the close relationship they had. How did that make you feel?
A. Austin: The road to fulfillment is often shadowed with heartache and loneliness. I did feel somewhat put in the corner. I remember wishing I could call Santino Rice to come for moral support!

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: The wedding dress in your final collection got high praise from all the judges. How did create such a beautiful dress in only four days?
A. Austin: Creating true beauty is only possible if there is true love put into it.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: Isaac said your collection was more of a "best of Austin" and not a complete collection. How do you feel about that statement?
A. Austin: Actually, I sort of took that as an unintended compliment, even though I disagreed with the comment. I wanted to do something where each piece made a strong individual statement, but when you see the whole collection together on the runway, the colors, the textures, the silhouettes as a group have a distinct cohesive attitude: glamorous, feminine, luxurious.

Q. Todd, RealityWanted: What can we expect next from you?
A. Austin: I am very exited to be launching my signature line of evening and wedding dresses for fall 2012! The collection will be available in select department stores and boutiques across the country. We will be releasing more information in the next few months.

(Image courtesy of Lifetime)

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