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The cast of "Project Runway" Season 6

The long-awaited sixth season of Project Runway is finally kicking off this Thursday, and the city of St. Paul and l’etoile magazine will play host for the local premiere of the obsession-inducing fashion reality show. If you haven’t heard by now, two of the show’s contestants – Ra’mon-Lawrence Coleman and Christopher Straub - have strong connections to the Twin Cities, and both will be making a special appearance at the screening event.

Ra'mon-Lawrence Coleman

While Coleman no longer resides in our fair state (he moved to Milwaukee last winter to take a design position with Kohl’s) and is originally from Chicago, he felt a strong enough connection here to honor us with his presence for the premiere. The Voltage 2007 alum was a big part of the local fashion scene for the five years he lived here while working for Target, particularly when he showed a 52-piece collection in spring 2008 during MNfashion Week. Check out Coleman’s design portfolio at Lifetime’s website.

Christopher Straub

Straub, conversely, was born and raised in the Twin Cities, but his presence had been a bit more obscure – until now. The gorgeous designs in his design portfolio make it clear he’s finally in the spotlight he deserves. Look for Straub’s handbag and accessory designs coming to an online retailer this fall.

It’s your chance to see the designers up close – before they become reality stars. It’s also a great opportunity to mingle with Twin Cities’ most stylish while watching the premiere on a 40-foot screen on the outdoor plaza. Later on, enjoy cocktails at the post-party at the ultra-swanky St. Paul Hotel.

Event details:
Screening at Landmark Center: 7:30-10 p.m. Free. 75 W. 5th St.
Post-party at St. Paul Hotel: 10 p.m.-midnight. Free. 350 Market St.
Post-post-party at Camp Bar: Midnight-2 a.m. Free. 490 N. Robert St.
View the facebook invite for more info.