I think what the judges were trying to say was that the dress should compliment the hat not compete for the attention, though all the designs were creatively done they found beauty in the effortlessness of Michael C. I think they underestimate him because of his lack of skill, but the underdog has prevailed on more than one occasion.
It definitely was a challenge as you had to work with someone else's vision and try to make your vision coincide with theirs. To be quite honest it was a little unfair but it is a show and they have to come up with a new spin. The judges decisions this season are surprisingly unexpected.
I'm finding myself gravitating toward Mondo, Michael D and Christopher in each episode as they go unnoticed. They may rise to the occasion in the end.

the winning piece was whimsical. it kind of reminded me of Marchesa. It was a good use of the colour and fabric.
As the challenge was really boxed in where the lengths of your creativity were restricted with red which is a colour if not the right hue or type fabric can be translated tacky. But the women felt empowered which was the point but difficult all the same as it's a competition.

Sigh....
For a few episodes back I've been wondering why they're sending designers that have true potential home and keeping Christopher and Logan who've been making hot messes in the same episodes.
I still think Shirin was sent home too early. And I mean they weren't my favorites but they sent home Epperson ( who sews impeccably), Ramon and Nicholas before they sent home Christopher and Logan... I'm baffled as to what goes through the judges minds sometimes when they choose who's going home.
Christopher's dress had schizophrenia and well Logan was sent home for his space cadet, alien outfit.

To be quite honest I thought Christopher should have been sent home. Don't get me wrong the guy is talented but his designs are depleting in the oomf factor. And he's been in the bottom two so often.

Shirin showed so much more promise. I was upset because I have my faves that I would actually wear and it goes on the list of Carol Hannah, Althea and Shirin. Their designs are youthful and fresh and wearable. I mean does anybody remember Carol Hannah's dress for the newspaper challenge it looked like real fabric as did Althea's. Now that's what being creative is all about.

I will miss Shirin.

As for Christopher, he has to redeem himself big time.

And I agree with Kate about Irina and Nicholas. I mean it's a competition but no need to be so nasty about it with the insulting comments.