As episode 4 of the 7th season kicked off last night, no one had a clue about what the challenge had in store. In typical designer fashion, the thought of designing for “full-figured” models was not at the top of their list, but as Heidi revealed what this weeks touching challenge was, the design room overwhelmingly became a space for heartfelt sharing and stories of bravery.  The designers were to create a evening dress for heart disease survivors with the winner for the Campbells adDRESS Your Heart program, being worn at the Red Dress awards during NY fashion week. Atlanta favorite, Anthony, even shared his personal experiences and opened up about his mother’s battle with the disease.

After overcoming the emotional draw of this episode, the actual designing was just “ok.” The designers came off as a little timid or reserved with their evening dresses, which was dissapointing. There is certainly a necessary balance between meeting the needs of your client, your challenge and you personal design asthetic, and some designers just were not capable. Nevertheless, there must be a winner and a loser. Top three was dominated by all women: Mila, Maya and Amy. All three of the top designs had impressive elements and as usual, the judges ( including guest judge, designer Georgina Chapman) had interesting commentary to share. Mila’s Campbell star usage and flattering neckline grasped attention, Maya’s abstract heart-shaped construction surprised the judges and really highlighted her craftemenship, but it would be the mighty Amy that stole the show. It was Amy’s floor-length strapless goddess dress that took top prize. Her usage of multiple fabrics presented a very flattering, free- flowing silhouette that the judges felt was tastefully modern, while still maintaining its feminiity and elegance. As a result Amy was the clear winner of this challenge.

As for the less desirable designs, there was a new diversity in the bottom three with Jesus, Anna and Jesse. There was no mix of words with how the judges felt. None of the dresses flattered their models in anyway. Anna highlighted her models broad shoulder, Jesse drew attention to his model bust and then tried to hide it with a sub-par jacket while Jesus just did not know that sometimes less really is more, resulting in an over detailed dress. All three over thought and over designed the challenege (or vice versa), it was Jesus that took his final bow. As judge and designer Michael Kors accurately expressed  “taste is something you just can’t learn.” Luckily for some designers, taste is subjective and be it good or bad, there is always someone with a similar palate. Check out the extended judging videos along with Jesus’ exit interview below!