Project Runway' Finalist Utica On The Cusp Of A Fashion Breakthrough - Chicago...

Earlier this year, the day that Chicago drag queen Utica was named a “Project Runway” contestant, I found myself again in the right place at the right time: the North Side apartment of Miss Toto. It was Pride Month, and I was observing a fitting for the doyenne of the Haus of Gaynz drag family for a story about Chicago drag designers . Miss Toto relayed the news.

Reporting on the local drag design scene gave me helpful context for my call to Utica about “Project Runway.” Utica is part of and nurtured by a creative community of artists who are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And their dazzling looks have been featured everywhere from nightclubs to art exhibitions.

Originally from Minnesota, Mundt competed on Season 13 of “RuPaul's Drag Race.” He was the first alum of “Drag Race” to appear on “Project Runway.” And the 30-year-old Uptown resident had a mission to open doors for other drag performers, who are often dismissed as too over-the-top for the fashion industry.

Mundt's passion to represent his community came through in our interview ahead of the “Project Runway” premiere in July. He also talked about his love for creating avant-garde eveningwear, which has been worn by many other “Drag Race” contestants.

Mundt translated those looks for the world of high fashion each week on “Project Runway.” His diverse ensembles included a Disney villain-inspired gown with a matching glove and cape; an Alexander McQueen-esque dress made of butterfly magnets, zip ties and straws; and a white minidress featuring a hand-painted inkblot design.

One standout creation was a challenge-winning avant-garde gown inspired by “Wicked.” Accentuated with a veil, the flowing emerald dress was made from a combination of crystal fabric, feathers and satin. Mundt said he wanted to pay homage to the Elphaba character and capture the dichotomy of restraint and power, as well as sexiness and modesty.

Mundt became a fan favorite on social media and often received praise from host Heidi Klum and judges including Law Roach and Tyra Banks. He won two challenges and progressed to the finale, where he created his first-ever collection. While he didn't win the overall season — that honor went to Veejay Floresca — fashion designer Michael Kors described a bright future for Mundt in the industry.