Project Accessory

Review

Common Sense Media says

Runway spin-off highlights talented characters, sponsors.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

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Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this spin-off of Project Runway includes fully bleeped swear words, examples of poor sportsmanship, and some emotional distress from the contestants, including crying. The show sponsors, which include eBay Fashion and In Style magazine, get lots of airtime. On the positive, the designers' talents and creativity are inspiring throughout the show.

  • Positive messages2
    The overarching message of the show is that through a combination of talent, luck, and hard work, you can find success in your chosen field. That said, there is some poor sportsmanship on the show that is played up for drama. Also, there's an emphasis on consumerism and luxury items.
  • Positive role models2
    All of the designers exhibit talent, and many try to support their fellow contestants in the work room and on the runway. Many also have compelling backstories about their struggles to realize their artistic dreams, which models positive skills such as determination and tenacity. Not all contestants are equally supportive or charitable.
  • Violence0
    Not applicable.
  • Sex1
    There is some mild flirting between contestants. Some of the models wear revealing clothing.
  • Language2
    Swear words are fully bleeped, to the point that it is difficult to guess what they may be. Some iffy insults, such as "pedophile" are used in the show.
  • Consumerism4
    The show is sponsored in part by eBay Fashion, which is mentioned frequently. Judges include Kenneth Cole, whose business is noted in the show, and Ariel Foxman, the editor of In Style, the magazine that will feature the winner's work within a feature article. Other brand names are mentioned within the show.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking1
    Occasional social drinking.
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What's the story?

In this spin-off from the creators of Project Runway, 12 contestants compete to win $100,000 to start their own line by creating bags, shoes, hairpieces, belts, and other pieces. The series is hosted by model Molly Sims, along with judge Ariel Foxman, the editor of In Style magazine, and with help from Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti, who plays Tim Gunn's role of mentor.

Is it any good?

 

While this competitive reality show is a bit rough around the edges, PROJECT ACCESSORY is worth a look, especially for teens who are interested in jewelry making, sewing, or other creative, crafty endeavors. Fans of Project Runway will likely tune in, and while the show benefits from the relationship with the original program, it also suffers from the inevitable comparisons. Neither Molly Sims or mentor Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti are anywhere near as charismatic or helpful as Heidi Klum or Tim Gunn. Luckily, the designers are engaging and represent an eclectic mix of styles.

In an example of how this show does not translate well from its predecessor: While clothes benefit from a runway-type showing, accessories must be viewed on a nearly microscopic level, and showing them off in the runway setting seems an odd choice. While not perfect, this show could be a good choice for fashion-minded teens.

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What families can talk about

  • Families can talk about competitive reality shows. Why do you think the contestants decided to try out for the show? Do you think the contestants think that they will become famous from the reality show? What are some drawbacks to participating on a reality show?

  • How do you think contestants for this show are selected? Do you think it has anything to do with their looks? Do you think that reality shows are biased in how they select participants?

  • Are these designers are talented? How do you define talent? How do you define success? Do you think that reality shows make people feel more or less talented?

This review was written by Elka Karl
Kid, 12 years old
November 17, 2011
AGE
9
 
Fine for a lot of kids
This is a great show, i don't get why it's 14 and up! It should be 9 and up.
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This review was written by Elka Karl
TV rating:TV-PG
Network:Lifetime Television
Cast:Molly Sims
This review was written by Elka Karl
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.
OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.
Our child development rating guidelines

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