Project Runway Season 5 aired back in 2008, marking the end of the show's era on Bravo before it moved to Lifetime. It brought a mix of high-stress workrooms, memorable personalities like Suede and Kenley Collins, and distinct design aesthetics to the screen. Viewers often wonder what happened to these contestants after the cameras stopped rolling and Bryant Park wrapped up.
While a few cast members carved out lasting careers in the fashion industry, others stepped away from the spotlight entirely. Let's look at where the standout designers of Project Runway Season 5 stand today.
Leanne Marshall
Leanne Marshall captured the season 5 victory with her signature flowing, wave-inspired petal dresses. After winning the competition, she didn't fade into the background. She built a successful independent bridal and ready-to-wear label based in New York.
Her ethereal gowns became a red-carpet staple for celebrities and a sought-after option for high-end brides. Over the years, her work has been featured in major fashion publications, and she continues to run her independent fashion business while speaking out candidly about the evolution of the reality television industry.
Korto Momolu
Though Korto Momolu finished as the runner-up, she remained one of the most prominent fan favorites to emerge from the season. Known for her vibrant use of color, cultural prints, and sharp tailoring, Korto built a lasting footprint in the fashion world.
She returned to the franchise multiple times, competing on Project Runway All Stars and later joining the cast of Project Runway Season 20. Outside of television, she has designed collections for major brands, released accessory lines, and focused on sustainable, African-inspired contemporary fashion.
Kenley Collins
Kenley Collins drove much of the season's dramatic tension with her vintage-inspired 1950s aesthetic and outspoken personality. After placing in the finale, Kenley stayed active in the New York fashion scene.
She launched her own independent clothing line featuring her trademark retro silhouettes, playful prints, and pin-up styling. She also returned for Project Runway All Stars, proving that her distinct point of view hadn't softened. Over the years, she has expanded her creative work into styling and custom apparel design.
Jerell Scott
Jerell Scott brought theatrical flair and bold streetwear sensibilities to the workroom. Following his fourth-place finish on season 5, Jerell continued designing and eventually returned for Project Runway All Stars.
Beyond traditional apparel design, Jerell transitioned heavily into celebrity styling and costume design. He has worked with prominent musicians and actors, bringing his dramatic eye to red carpets, music videos, and stage performances.
Other Notable Contestants
- Stella Zotis: Known for her tough-girl persona and obsession with leather, Stella continued to work in New York City's independent design scene and later appeared on Project Runway All Stars.
- Blayne Walsh: Famous for trying to popularize his own slang, Blayne shifted focus toward men's contemporary wear and graphic design after the show.
- Suede: Remembered for referring to himself in the third person, Suede maintained a career in commercial apparel design and licensing.
Common Paths and Industry Realities
Reality television offers a powerful temporary microphone, but sustaining a brand requires capital and resilience. Many contestants from this era found that the real work began only after the broadcast ended.
- Bridal and Evening Wear: Designers like Leanne Marshall found that pivoting to custom bridal wear offered a stable business model that mass-market retail couldn't match.
- The All-Stars Circuit: Returning for spin-off seasons provided a secondary wave of media visibility and retail partnerships.
- Niche Independence: Several contestants abandoned large-scale wholesale production to focus on direct-to-consumer digital sales and bespoke client work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Project Runway Season 5?
Leanne Marshall won the fifth season, presenting a final collection inspired by water and waves at Bryant Park.
Did any season 5 designers return for All Stars?
Yes. Jerell Scott, Kenley Collins, Suede, Stella Zotis, and Korto Momolu all returned for various iterations of Project Runway All Stars or subsequent legacy seasons.
Are any season 5 contestants still designing full-time?
Leanne Marshall and Korto Momolu maintained active, long-term careers in the fashion industry, with Korto regularly showing new collections and participating in later franchise milestones.
What prizes did the season 5 winner receive?
Leanne Marshall received $100,000 from TRESemmé to start her own line, an editorial feature in Elle magazine, a chance to sell clothes on Bluefly.com, and a new car.
