Stars in Waiting at 'Project Runway'

“Project Runway” producers are gearing up for the fourth season of the hit fashion reality show and kicked off their latest round of auditions recently in Los Angeles.

Despite hometown boy Jeffrey Sebelia’s win last season on Bravo TV’s fashion runway reality hit, “Project Runway,” by April 1—the third day of the show’s open casting in Los Angeles—only about 218 local hopefuls had tried their luck.

But, apparently, the quality of the designers trumped the quantity of the turnout.

“I can’t really talk about it, but I can say the people we chose from L.A. are really good designers,” said Sebelia, who this season acted as a judge during the auditions. “The bar has been raised each season,” Sebelia added. Besides, many of the designers who waited in line to wow the judges seemed confident in their skills—and their made-for-TV worthiness.

Mattel designer and former “Runway” contestant Robert Best also played judge during the Los Angeles auditions.

California Apparel News Manufacturing Editor Erin Barajas dove into the trenches to meet the next would-be cast of “Project Runway.” Angelenos who missed the casting can try again later this month at additional casting calls in Miami, New York and Chicago. Go to www.bravotv.com for additional information.

Albert Coria Designer

Do you have your own line?

I’m working on launching one called Pymp Styles. It’s for all different types of women, from the hoochie mommas to the dolls.

What’s your day job?

I work in the store-concept department at BCBG.

Is this your first time auditioning?

No. I auditioned for season two. I flew to Miami.

Why are you back?

I need the abuse. Actually, I think I can do better this time. When I first auditioned, I hadn’t watched the show. I didn’t know what they were looking for. Now I know better, and I want to show people what I’ve got. Even if I don’t win, I’m hoping this will get me into the design side of the business.

What’s the game plan?

Have fun with it. Be fun, easy. I’m already such a TV character as it is.

Zoe CorsellisDesigner

Are you a fan of the show?

I originally saw the British version.

Where are you from?

England. I moved here four weeks ago to be with my boyfriend. He’s an actor. And I thought my collection might work better here.

Do you have your own line?

I started a line, Corsellis, three seasons ago in England. I sell it online and at a store in London but not in any stores in California yet. It’s very girly, very frilly, loads of bright colors.

Why are you auditioning?

Absolute spur of the moment. I love the program.

Did you audition back home?

No. This is my first time auditioning. But I think it would be a crazy situation here or at home.

Jadie Kadletz Designer

What’s your background?

I was a designer at [contemporary knits brand] Three Dots for eight years.

Do you have your own brand?

Perfectly mperfect. It’s an organic knits line with T-shirts, dresses and lingerie. I’m wearing a top right now. It is sold at stores like Fred Segal, Active Endeavors and Milk.

It sounds like you’re building a solid business. Why are you auditioning?

Being on the show would be great exposure.

Are you a fan of the show?

I’ve been a big fan since the first season, and I like so many of the cast members.I like Santino [Rice] because he is so over the top. And Austin [Scarlett] has great style.

Nathalie Seaver Designer, Retailer

Do you have your own brand?

Yes. I’ve had one for 10 years, and it’s called Nathalie Seaver. It’s women’s apparel, ready-to-wear. I also own a shop by the same name on West Third Street. the same name on West Third Street.

Did you study design?

I’m self-taught.

Do you think the show’s format emulates real life?

All designers are always working on a deadline—so it emulates reality in that way. But some aspects are definitely manufactured for the sake of drama.

What character would you be on the show?

The nice one who’s cranky.

Why are you auditioning?.

The hope is that it would be good marketing. I’m a good designer, and not enough people know about me. I’d like to spread the word..

Sarah Staskauskas Wardrobe Designer, Stylist

Do you have your own brand?

Yes. It’s called Peel Out. It’s kind of retro, rock ’n’ roll. My big thing is hosiery dresses.I’m showing some to the judges today. I also make bags based on internal organs. EM & Co. bought a few.

Is this your first time auditioning for the show? Yes.

What made you want to audition?

Exposure, for myself and the line. That would be good. Every single person I know has told me to [audition] since the show started.

Did you study design?

I studied Fine Arts at Columbia College.