TV DivaGal has watched Project Runway since the beginning, so it was a real treat to get season two alum Santino Rice on the phone. He’s teamed up with fellow Project Runway alum Austin Scarlett for their fashionable buddy series, On the Road with Austin and Santino, making women across the nation fabulous.
Tonight’s episode is a very special Austin and Santino episode, according to the designer. Read on to find out why.
Tonight’s episode is a bit of a tearjerker?
We go to Asheville, N.C. for Marcy Gallagher. She is celebrating five years cancer-free. It’s a huge milestone and a great celebration. It’s amazing that someone takes control of her body and says “I’m not going to let this beat me.” and perseveres. I get a bit emotional, though there is a lot of fun in the episode.
What’s the most annoying habit of Austin’s that you have deal with on the road?
Sometimes Austin can be a little uptight and flustered when I’m trying having a good time. Also, he does not drive. He has a driver’s license, but he lives in New York City, so he doesn’t need really need it. I have to drive from town to town, and then having to sew after that it’s tiring. It’s no wonder I’m caught more often sleeping when we’re working.
What’s been the hardest fabric to find on the road?
Ultimately, Santino and Austin don’t have a dream fabric. It’s more about just finding something that is appropriate for what we’re designing with really great color and something that moves well. It’s great to be able to find as many options as possible because when you’re meting a client meeting for first time, you want to give them as many choices as possible.
Looking back at Project Runway, how has the show changed since you were on?
It’s definitely grown, and it’s longer now too. If you look past some of the drama and concentrate on the work of these young designers, that’s what is best about the show, and my favorite part of Project Runway. I’ll watch and say to myself, “What would I have done in that challenge?” It’s fun to watch through my lens having already done the show and think what I would have created.
What do you do when you’re not on the road?
I still make one-of-a-kind, custom pieces for amazing professional women. Knowing that they’re wearing the best garment they’ve ever had, that’s rewarding.
On the Road with Austin and Santino airs Thursday, Oct 7 at 10:30 p.m. on Lifetime.
