San Diego native Ashley Nell Tipton has accomplished many things in her life – and now she can add to that list winning the title of Lifetime’s Emmy®-nominated series “Project Runway” (#ProjectRunway)! Last night, the colorful and talented Latina became the first ever plus-sized designer in the show’s 14 seasons to take home the grand prize, beating out her fellow finalists Candice Cuoco of San Francisco, Kelly Dempsey of Boston and Edmond Newton of Atlanta. An advocate for the celebration of women of every size through clothing, Tipton quickly became a fan super favorite this season. Having launched her own line of plus sized womens’ apparel in 2012, the designer showed she wasn’t a one trick pony with her inventive designs that repeatedly captivated the judges.
The unique buzz Tipton created was seen at New York Fashion Week where she sent her collection of designs down the runway featuring all plus-sized models. Her inspiration for the winning collection was “1950’s Mexico City” and featured signature headpieces made from flowers currently in bloom in Mexico. Her one-of-a-kind collection impressed the show’s judges Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Zac Posen and this year’s guest judge, singer Carrie Underwood.
As the winner, Tipton receives $100,000 to further her business and a Celebrity Cruises® modern luxury vacation for two to almost anywhere in the world. She also receives a year’s worth of products from Sally Beauty Supply and the opportunity to consult with Sally Beauty to create a limited edition “FingerPaints” nail color collection. Travel and hotel accommodations to inspiring destinations around the world will be provided by Best Western International and from Mary Kay, Tipton receives an entire year’s worth of beauty products for her fashion shows and professional makeup artist services for their debut show. Additionally, Ashley receives a 2015 Lexus RC 350 and a complete sewing and crafting studio from Brother Sewing and Embroidery as well as a fashion spread for her and her model in Marie Claire magazine.
