John Randolph Manucom

Veejay Floresca Project Runway 2025 Winner

Article (news)

<p><strong>Project Runway Season 21</strong> crowned a new champion, and it is a name that carries both talent and pride: <strong>Veejay Floresca</strong>. The Filipino designer made history as the first openly transgender woman winner of the hit fashion competition, solidifying her place as one of the most groundbreaking figures to ever walk onto its runway.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1758869095794553536957_18528141979033981_9012920006952195431_n.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo courtesy of @heidiklum </span></span></span></div><p>Born in Pasay, Philippines, Veejay spent much of her early career in Manila. She built a name in bridal couture and red-carpet gowns, known locally and internationally for her ability to weave drama, softness, and structure into one design. Before joining the U.S. version of Project Runway, she had already appeared on Project Runway Philippines, where she was a finalist. Her move to a global stage felt like the natural next step. Even on the show, she infused subtle Filipino references: like the use of boning reminiscent of the traditional <em>terno</em> into her work.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:808px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1758869129574554661271_18530089438000956_4922212335684275965_n.jpg" style="width:1000px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Veejay Floresca&#x27;s work at the &quot;Wicked&quot;-themed design week </span></span></span></div><p>Since its debut in 2004, Project Runway has been a launchpad for designers, balancing creativity under pressure with the guidance of mentors and the scrutiny of judges. Season 21 brought together a high-profile panel: Heidi Klum returned as host and judge, Nina García, editor-in-chief of a fashion magazine, provided her sharp editorial eye, and Law Roach, one of today’s most influential celebrity stylists, joined as a first-time full judge. Christian Siriano, himself a past Project Runway winner, returned as mentor, stepping into a role once held by Tim Gunn. </p><p>The finale confirmed Floresca’s mastery. Judges praised her work for balancing elegance with edge, always executed with fine detail and emotional depth. Her collection celebrated identity and inclusivity, demonstrating how deeply personal narratives can translate into universally resonant fashion.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:808px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1758869158951538209454_18524355874000956_5243255586397395944_n.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Veejay&#x27;s work feature dresses made from shuttlecocks</span></span></span></div><p>Her victory resonates beyond the runway, too. As a proud Filipina and member of the trans community, Floresca’s achievement represents visibility and progress on a global stage. She becomes not only a symbol of what Filipino designers can achieve internationally but also an inspiration for trans creatives everywhere who aspire to make their mark in industries where representation is still limited.</p><p>With her Project Runway title secured—along with $200,000, mentorship from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), and a feature in a fashion magazine—Veejay Floresca stands poised to bring her designs and her story to an even bigger audience. We are proud of you Veejay!</p><div><br/></div><div><em>Photos from @veejayfloresca</em></div>

<p>The Filipina designer rises from Pasay to the global stage, winning Project Runway US Season 21</p>

The Filipina designer rises from Pasay to the global stage, winning Project Runway US Season 21

Project Runway’s Newest Champion: Meet Filipina Designer Veejay Floresca

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Project Runway’s Newest Champion: Meet Filipina Designer Veejay Floresca

Randz Manucom

Published September 26, 2025 02:49 PM PHT

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Veejay Floresca

Project Runway Season 21

Project Runway winner

Filipino fashion designer

Filipina designer

Project Runway finale

Heidi Klum

Nina Garcia

Law Roach

Christian Siriano

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