Vote for president

The New York Times published an article today about the upcoming selection of a new president for the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Apparently, it’s being reduced to a popularity contest between Joseph Abboud and Diane von Furstenberg. Mucking up matters, Ms Wintour took it upon herself to endorse Ms. von Furstenberg.

Vogue editor Anna Wintour…lyrically described Ms. Von Furstenberg as “perfectly poised for her potential new position,” which it said was “an ideal spot from which to power-share.”

Evidently I’m not the only one who thought this untoward. The current president of CFDA said the same in no uncertain terms and reiterated that the selection would be made by the board.

There is also a contingent of less celebrated designers, some of whom said privately that they would support Mr. Abboud because he is the underdog. Ms. Wintour’s endorsement of Ms. Von Furstenberg may also have agitated designers who feel ignored by the magazine. It is as if the unpopular kids are seeking their revenge.

Of course, there is a little intrigue. Nicole Miller, another board member, said that when Mr. Abboud first proposed himself, Ms. Von Furstenberg suggested he would make a good president. “I was under the impression she was behind Joseph,” Ms. Miller said. “I was surprised when she wrote everybody a letter saying she wanted the job.”

By way of explanation, von Furstenberg explains

…the council needed a more exciting candidate. She added that her example as president could inspire other marquee designers to run in the future.

oh great. Like we need more drama in fashion. If I could ask the average person one thing, I’d ask, isn’t project runway enough for you? Haven’t we done enough for you in the drama department? Honestly, I really don’t care. Do any of you? For the heck of it, I’ve created this dandy poll. Feel free to express your presidential selection or as the case may be, cynicism.

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7 comments

  1. J C Sprowls says:

    Isn’t it interesting that the two candidates are neck-and-neck; but, the “I don’t care” category appears to win, hands down.

  2. Judith says:

    the ” I dont care ” catergory appears to win , hands down.

    I must say I think this is quite funny.
    I just found out about project runway this last week. I was turning the t.v. channels and stumbled across it. I got sucked in for 5 hrs. I wanted to go to the movies so dh had to record it for me. I watched it later when I got home. Talk about drama. I watched this Wednesdays episode too. I dont know how long I will watch it. Im interested in seeing what they design. I cant stand 2 of the judges on there. There certainly is drama. I would never make it on the show. I don’t like reality shows in the first place.

  3. J C Sprowls says:

    I feel you… I caught the premiere of Season 3 last night – you know, when they’re filtering through the cattle call…

    I saw several talented folks whose working style is professional and realistic. One of the judges said something to the effect of: “what does this garment tell me about you, as a designer?” I never once heard anyone say: “I show up, I deliver when I say I will, my process is efficient, and it’s replicatable.”

    I was uncertain if the judges were looking for wearable art or strong design skills. I saw several people who already had lines saying they wanted to use the show as a platform to increase the exposure of their lines.

    I found that candid response to be refreshing and real. Unfortunately, the producers (or, whomever) elected to not invite these honest folks to the game. Presumably, because they knew too much about the real world to make for “good entertainment”.

  4. Karen C. says:

    Re: Project Runway. As a former semi-finalist for another “designer” reality show, trust me, they really do want the drama before the talent. But I do think there is definitely some talented designers on Season 3, which is refreshing. And, alas, some of this talent also has a talent for drama. But IT is TV.

  5. Kathleen says:

    Manolo posted his take on PR 3rd season. I’m not a good judge (not being a fan of PR) but his post seems to be a thoughtfully considered analysis of the cast and his picks for the upcoming season. Interesting.

  6. Judith says:

    JC I totaly agree with your post. I read Manolo’s take on project runway. I believe he’s got it pegged. I guess if you have talent that’s great but you better have some drama too or you will not get on the show. Reality t.v. what can I say.

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