The competition intensified on Project Runway Season 9 as the final five designers faced a critical challenge to secure a spot in the coveted Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week finale. Episode 12, titled "The Finale Challenge," saw designers Anya Ayoung-Chee, Viktor Luna, Joshua McKinley, Kimberly Goldson, and Laura Kathleen battling to impress the judges. Ultimately, Laura Kathleen was eliminated, leaving four designers to advance to the final stage of the competition.^[1][2] ### The Governors Island Challenge For this crucial challenge, the remaining five designers traveled by ferry to Governors Island in New York City. Their task was to create a mini-collection of three cohesive looks. These designs needed to be inspired by the island's unique landscape, architecture, or art installations.^[3] Each designer received a budget of $500 and had two days to complete their garments.^[4][3] They also received assistance from previously eliminated contestants. Kimberly Goldson worked with Becky Ross, Viktor Luna chose Oliver Green, Laura Kathleen Planck partnered with Anthony Ryan Auld, Anya Ayoung-Chee teamed up with Bert Keeter, and Joshua McKinley collaborated with Bryce Black.^[1] ### Designers Showcase Their Mini-Collections The pressure was palpable as the designers worked to translate their Governors Island inspirations into fashion. Anya Ayoung-Chee, who had previously faced concerns about her sewing skills, surprised the judges with her progress.^[4] Her approach often involved pulling fabrics at whim, a strategy that the judges frequently praised.^[5] Joshua McKinley, known for his strong personality, embraced a "Queen of Styling" persona during this phase.^[5] However, his collection did not fully win over the judges.^[2] Viktor Luna was lauded for his construction abilities, but the judges noted a lack of "gasp-worthy" pieces in his mini-collection.^[2] Tim Gunn, the designers' mentor, provided guidance and encouragement, sometimes acting as a "good cop" after the judges' critiques.^[5] ### Judging Panel Deliberates The judging panel for "The Finale Challenge" included supermodel Heidi Klum, fashion designer Michael Kors, Marie Claire fashion director Nina Garcia, and guest judge actress Zoe Saldana.^[1][4] The judges meticulously evaluated each three-look collection, seeking cohesive visions and strong design execution. Anya's looks were generally well-received, with judges highlighting her taste and resourcefulness.^[5] Zoe Saldana even described Anya's designs as futuristic and sci-fi.^[2] Michael Kors offered Viktor a significant compliment, calling his collection "commercial."^[2] However, Viktor's designs were also criticized for lacking enough innovative ideas.^[4] Joshua McKinley's collection received mixed reviews, with some judges not being "head over heels in love" with his work.^[2] Kimberly Goldson's mini-collection also underwhelmed the panel, though they were not as harsh on her as they could have been.^[5] ### One Designer Departs, Four Advance After intense deliberation, the judges made their decision. Laura Kathleen Planck was eliminated from the competition, ending her journey to Fashion Week.^[1][2] This meant that Anya Ayoung-Chee, Viktor Luna, Joshua McKinley, and Kimberly Goldson secured the final four spots. They earned the right to present their full collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.^[1][2] The decision to advance four designers instead of the usual three was a notable departure for the season.^[6] This set the stage for a competitive finale, with each remaining designer aiming for the ultimate title of "the next great American designer."^[6] The selection of the final four underscored the judges' evolving criteria, and the remaining designers faced the immense pressure of preparing a complete collection in a limited timeframe. The stage is now set for the ultimate showdown, where one designer will be crowned the winner of Project Runway Season 9.

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