The Project Runway Blog

"Project Runway" Season 8 Designer Valerie Mayen stays true to her roots — she was modeling the very first garment she made, way back in high school, when she gave us a mini swing-dance lesson and tour of her closet. The Cleveland-based designer has come a long way since that dress and is geared up (with capelets and coats aplenty) to wow on Season 8.

Don’t miss Valerie Mayen's casting session, where you'll get to see a real-life "fanny pack that doesn't suck," then check out more of her past designs and current inspirations in her portfolio!