Twenty-six-year-old Duncan Chambers-Watson from Christchurch is the second New Zealander to hit fashion reality show Project Runway, following in the footsteps of Sean Kelly. But unlike Sean, who won the last season, Duncan was the first contestant voted off season 14. We talked to the aspiring designer about his short-lived experience on the show, and what he plans to do next.
What were you doing up until going on the show?
I was working as a workroom assistant for World in Auckland. There's an amazing team there who have been incredibly supportive in helping me get to NYC and I am very grateful.
Why did you decide to go on the show?
My principal, Margo, from Otago Polytech sent me the form and I thought, what have I got to lose?
Describe your design aesthetic?
Masculine, tailored and conceptual.
You were the first designer to be voted off Project Runway season 14 - what is your plan now?
I am living in NYC, meeting awesome people and eating big meals. We shall see where the future takes me.
In retrospect would you have changed anything about what you designed for the first episode?
I feel it's better not to dwell on the past. I was flown to New York to do something I love and meet amazing people. Why focus on what could have been?
What have you learned from the experience?
I have met amazing people from all walks of life who I still talk to about design, fashion, business and the future. The network of people I met on the show has helped me plan where I want to be and how to get there.
Who do you predict will win the show?
I think Swapnil will do very well. He has such a distinctive eye and people should see the gowns he produces for his label.
What keeps you inspired?
Life right now has been very inspiring. Having the luxury to go visit amazing galleries, see colourful characters with amazing style and enjoy the zeitgeist of New York is a blessing.
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Advertise with NZME.- Project Runway season 14 screens Thursdays at 9.30pm on Vibe, with an encore Sundays at 7.30pm.
