Liris Crosse, a plus-size model on Season 22 of Project Runway, is speaking out after a particularly rough challenge.
During Episode 7, the remaining designers were tasked with creating a look using unconventional materials.
Liris was paired with designer Bryan Barrientos, whose original concept featured a bubble wrap dress.
Although Bryan had immunity, the show’s mentor, Christian Siriano, stepped in and encouraged him to push himself during the challenge.
However, Bryan’s new design left Liris feeling heartbroken.
“My heart was broken that day, but it has been filled by so many of the Project Runway viewers who have backed me up and shown so much love with their messages of support,” the model told PEOPLE.
Liris acknowledged that she has seen some “lackluster designs” this season.
However, she believes this particular look “hit a chord, no pun intended, with the audience because it read thoughtless, unintentional and lazy.”
“He designed what he wanted and not for the model he had,” Liris continued.
“It also struck up a conversation about how all designers should be able to find the inspiration and design for a fuller body as well, no matter the challenge. If not, are you really a designer?!”
Bryan initially asked Liris if she would feel comfortable walking down the runway wearing only undergarments beneath the unconventional materials.
Understandably, the model pushed back.
In a last-minute attempt to send something down the runway, Bryan pivoted to using a garbage bag and tape to line the outfit.
“It just felt thoughtless. It felt like he just had no idea. It felt careless. It felt lazy. My spirit, in that moment, was broken,” Liris explained.
Project Runway airs Thursdays on Freeform and is available to stream on Hulu and Disney+ the following day.
Watch more of Liris’ take below:
