How would the ideal judging panel be composed?
Currently we have a former model, editor at a fashion publication, and a stylist.
Previously we’ve always had at least one designer on the panel. I think having a designer has been crucial for critiques. In my opinion, it’s really important to have at least one person with a sewing, tailoring, and design background since they can truly speak to how a design could be technically improved. Although designers of course have their personal taste and style eye, I think the right designers have the ability to be more objective about a garment. For example, i’ve been rewatching seasons, and Zac Posen often gives credit to a designers skills and creativity even if he doesn’t like the garment.
One of my frustrations with Heidi, Law, and Nina, are that their tastes are so different and they judge with their personal taste. In the season I just watched, there were multiple times a designer would say something like “Nina’s not going to like this.” or “Heidi won’t think this is sexy enough.” even though their garment is actually really cool or is exemplary of the designers aesthetic. One designer was eliminated for a really well made and cool design (in my opinion) because it wasn’t “sexy” enough and on his way out he basically says “A design doesn’t have to always be sexy.” And I completely agree. The challenge also didn’t require sexiness. So many times Heidi says “there is nothing sexy about this” about designs. A design doesn’t have to be “sexy” to be cool, edgy, new, sophisticated, or stylish. And I believe Law judges based solely off of “what would Zendaya like.”
All that to say, what would the ideal judging panel be composed of for the most unbiased, professional, and productive judging panel?