Heidi Klum proves to be difficult client

Episode 5: "The Klum of Doom"

Last week’s episode of "Project Runway" opens with a Heidi Klum photo montage followed by the model/show host strolling out in a trench coat because, she said, "I have nothing to wear."

The designers are tasked with creating something for her to wear to the Creative Artists Emmy ceremony, and she explained she’s looking for something "unexpected, fashion-forward and fearless," adding that she doesn’t want to end up on the worst-dressed list. This is one of those dreaded challenges, because she’s one tough customer.

Hawaii designer Kini Zamora is excited because if there’s anything a Hawaii designer can do, it’s evening wear. From proms to pageants to weddings, somehow, in the most casual of states, a gown is still associated with life’s special occasions.

Zamora is right at home with the assignment. In each episode, he looks relaxed and seems to be laughing his way through tasks that are all too easy for him.

"I love making glamorous gowns," he said, and once again, is finishing while the other designers seem to be just starting … or starting over.

During the critique session, Klum likes what she sees of Zamora’s work but hates nearly everyone else’s. So much so, that after exiting the workroom, she and the designers’ mentor, Tim Gunn, return, telling the designers they will have an extra $100 to shop for supplemental or new materials. Designers who don’t need the extra boost can give their cash to the other designers. Sandhya Garg asks for Zamora’s share and gets it.

During the judging, designer Zac Posen said of Zamora’s work, "This is somebody who has done red carpet before," while pointing out the horsehair braid used to stiffen the hem. He added that Zamora got his highest score and said, "This is someone who gets it."

Once again, Zamora is in the top two, but the final nod goes to Sean Kelly for an ombre fringe dress with a low-cut back. This was a tough call, but just as last week, I think I have to side with Zamora. His gown was elegant and classy, and fit his model like a glove, with slimming details on the side.

Kelly’s dress had nice movement but the length and bulk of the fringe made it look heavy, shapeless and Yeti-like, even on a tall, thin model! No one wants to photograph fatter on the red carpet.

Because of the poor quality of the work shown this week, two designers — Kristine Guico and Mitchell Perry — got the boot.

New episodes of "Project Runway" air at 7 p.m. Thursdays on Lifetime.