Tim Gunn's Guide to Style

Fans of "Project Runway" were elated when designer mentor Tim Gunn got his own show, "Tim Gunn's Guide to Style." And as talented as Tim is, why shouldn't he share his expertise with all of us? The one-hour show focuses on style and fashion and it began airing the first of its eight episodes on the Bravo network on September 6, 2007.

Tim is the former department chair of the Parsons The New School for Design (and still retains the title of honorary chair of fashion design for the school) and the current chief creative officer at Liz Claiborne, Inc. Tim began work on "Project Runway" in 2004 and was immediately a fan favorite.

Tim's co-host is Veronica Webb, a supermodel, actress, writer, and journalist. She has appeared on the covers of Vogue, Essense, and Elle magazines. She has also done runway work for Victoria's Secret and Chanel. She has appeared in a number of feature films, being a favorite of director Spike Lee.

Together, the two fashion mavens meet a fashion-challenged contestant and review her interview tape. While reviewing, Tim and Veronica get rid of everything that does not work in her wardrobe, which is usually almost everything.

The contestant gets to choose from a list of fashion icons, such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis or Sarah Jessica Parker to see what inspires her own personal style. Tim and Veronica then use OptiTex fashion design software to see how different fashions would look on a computer simulation of the contestant. They send the contestant on a solo shopping spree to purchase what Tim refers to as the "essential shopping list," which includes ten basic items that each woman should have in her closet such as a great pair of jeans.

Tim and Veronica then comment on the choices made by the contestant. The contestant also meets with other specialists to improve her image such as hairdressers, makeup experts, and runway coaches. At the end of the episode, the family and friends of the contestant show up to see the changes that have been made and her new look.

Along the way, the contestant learns tips on not only how to shop but also find the right fit, as too many women wear the wrong size and it is unflattering. Tim focuses on the bigger picture of fashion and style, while Veronica steers the woman towards certain shopping choices and listens when she had concerns.

Tim recognizes that looking good can be hard work, but it can also be fun too. "My hope is that we'll inspire others to achieve their own stylish identities." But even if you aren't chosen for the show, you can still have Tim's help in finding your own style. Visit Bravofor the interactive dress up game and the "get this look" feature. You also have access to exclusive fashion tips and if you join the Tim Gunn SMS Fan Club, you have access to even more!

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