'Project Runway' Season 22 Winner Jude Mikulencak Talks 'Dancing With the Stars' and More
Jude Mikulencak, a 23‑year‑old Brooklyn designer, won Project Runway Season 22 after a rapid transition from painting to sewing. The show highlighted his skill in menswear during a crossover with Dancing with the Stars, and he plans to elevate his brand with bespoke, goth‑inspired pieces.
Jude Mikulencak, only 23, has taken the fashion world by storm after claiming the $200,000 prize on Project Runway Season 22. The Brooklyn‑based designer’s rise from a late‑starting hobbyist to a televised champion illustrates how passion, mentorship, and relentless practice can fast‑track a career in fashion.
From New Orleans to Brooklyn: A Late‑Blooming Talent
Growing up in New Orleans, Mikulencak’s early creative outlets were the canvas and the sketchbook. He didn’t touch a sewing machine until the age of 17, a surprisingly late start for a future runway winner. The catalyst came when he moved to Brooklyn at 18, seeking a broader artistic community and a chance to hone his newfound interest in textiles.
In Brooklyn, he quickly found a mentor in Craig Robinson, a renowned tailor whose guidance helped Mikulencak transition from hobbyist to professional. While studying fashion design at Pratt Institute, he absorbed the fundamentals of construction, drape, and garment structure—skills that would become his signature on the show.
Project Runway: A Rapid Production Sprint
When Project Runway called, Mikulencak had only a few months of formal training. Over the course of seven weeks, he produced 16 looks—an impressive output that matched the pace of a two‑year design cycle. The competition forced him to master time management, quick decision‑making, and the ability to translate ideas into finished garments under pressure.
His standout moment came during the “Designing with the Stars” challenge, a crossover with Dancing with the Stars. Mikulencak created a menswear look for professional ballroom dancer Alan Bersten, a departure from his usual womenswear focus. The project showcased his versatility and deep understanding of movement, earning praise from the panel.
Critique and Growth: Learning from the Judges
Facing a panel that included Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks, Law Roach, and Nina Garcia, Mikulencak initially felt nervous. However, he grew to view their feedback as invaluable. Law Roach’s comment that he needed to improve how he presented his work pushed Mikulencak to refine his communication skills—a lesson he carries into every client interaction.
Mentor Christian Siriano, who himself won the show at 21, offered guidance that resonated deeply. Siriano encouraged Mikulencak to push boundaries and embrace his unique aesthetic, reinforcing the importance of authenticity in a saturated market.
Beyond the Show: Building a Brand with Purpose
With the win and the $200,000 prize, Mikulencak is poised to elevate his brand. He plans to focus on one‑of‑a‑kind pieces that blend tailored precision with historical and goth‑adjacent influences. “I love finding beauty in the mundane,” he says, citing his fascination with the romance of gray, rainy days and how that mood translates into his designs.
His future strategy involves creating bespoke garments for a discerning clientele, leveraging the visibility from Project Runway to secure commissions and collaborations. Mikulencak’s journey from a late‑starter to a televised champion serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring designers worldwide.
What’s Next for Jude Mikulencak?
While the exact timeline for his brand’s expansion remains fluid, Mikulencak is already in talks with boutique retailers and fashion houses interested in his distinct aesthetic. He also plans to launch a limited‑edition line that reflects his signature blend of tailoring and gothic elements, aiming to capture the niche market that appreciates both craftsmanship and avant‑garde design.
As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Mikulencak’s story underscores the power of late‑career pivots, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of skill. His success on Project Runway is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the opportunities available for those willing to learn and adapt.
Key Takeaways
- Jude Mikulencak, a 23‑year‑old Brooklyn designer, won Project Runway Season 22.
- He began sewing at 17 and moved to Brooklyn at 18 to pursue fashion.
- Mentorship from Craig Robinson and Christian Siriano were pivotal to his growth.
- His standout menswear look for Dancing with the Stars highlighted his versatility.
- Post‑show, he plans to offer bespoke, goth‑inspired garments to a niche clientele.
FAQs
- What was Jude Mikulencak’s background before Project Runway? He was a painter and sketch artist who started sewing at 17 and studied fashion at Pratt Institute.
- How many looks did he produce during the competition? He completed 16 looks over seven weeks.
- What is his future brand strategy? He aims to create one‑of‑a‑kind pieces with a tailored, goth‑inspired aesthetic.
Why it matters
Mikulencak’s victory demonstrates that late‑comers can achieve top-tier success in fashion through dedication, mentorship, and strategic use of media platforms.
Key points
- Jude Mikulencak won Project Runway Season 22 at 23 years old
- He began sewing at 17 after a background in painting
- Mentors Craig Robinson and Christian Siriano shaped his craft
- His menswear look for Dancing with the Stars was a highlight
- He plans to launch a bespoke, goth‑inspired brand
Frequently asked questions
What was Jude Mikulencak’s background before Project Runway?
He was a painter and sketch artist who started sewing at 17 and studied fashion at Pratt Institute.
How many looks did he produce during the competition?
He completed 16 looks over seven weeks.
What is his future brand strategy?
He aims to create one‑of‑a‑kind pieces with a tailored, goth‑inspired aesthetic.
