Heidi Klum has opened up about how contestants weren't "too happy" about dressing models of all sizes for the new Project Runway. The German-American model and fashion journalist Nina Garcia have both been judges on the TV series, which propels aspiring designers into the spotlight, since its beginnings in 2004.
Over a decade later the show is gearing up for its 16th season, with esteemed designer Zac Posen also returning to join Heidi and Nina to share his expertise. And for the first time, the show celebrates different body types by incorporating size-inclusive models on the catwalk, with models ranging from size zero to 22.
Heidi Klum has been a judge on Project Runway since 2004
However, Heidi noted this year's participants struggled with the concept of catering to women of different shapes and builds.
"They kind of went like this, 'Ah?'" the supermodel told Entertainment tonight, admitting bringing in non-sample size ladies should of happened “years and years ago”. "A lot of them actually weren't too happy about it.
"But this is the real world. Not everyone is, you know, runway figure or what the runway figure used to be. You have to dress real people, and real people come in different sizes: short, tall, more voluptuous, skinny. There is (sic) many of us, and so a real designer needs to know how to do that. So get with it."
The new series of Project Runway kicks off on Thursday
Heidi, who was busy promoting her other TV venture America's Got Talent while discussing the fashion show, teased the return of Project Runway on her Twitter page with a short video showing her, Zac and Nina posing and dancing for the camera as confetti flies around them. The series kicks off on Thursday, with guest judges set to appear including actress Katie Holmes, singer Demi Lovato and Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman.
“We're getting ready for the @ProjectRunway #Season16 premiere tomorrow! Can't wait for you all to watch! @Zac_Posen @ninagarcia,” Heidi captioned her social media upload.