Former Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel is reflecting on pride, resilience and Filipino representation after her exit from “Project Runway” Season 22, saying her loss on the show “does not define” her as a designer.
Gabriel, a Filipino American designer and sustainability advocate, struggled in the opening episode, where judges criticized her recycled denim look featuring a bold statement hood. The panel questioned the garment’s construction and cohesion, putting her at risk early in the competition.
Her official exit came in the most recent episode, where the judges again raised concerns about fit, finishing and the overall clarity of her design vision. In her on-air exit remarks and in follow-up social media posts, Gabriel emphasized that the result was only one chapter in a larger creative journey.
“This cannot define me as a designer,” she said. “That doesn’t mean that I’m not talented. I’m proud to represent the Philippines in everything that I do.”
Gabriel also thanked viewers and fellow designers for their support, describing the “Project Runway” workroom as a challenging but transformative space. She noted that the show pushed her to experiment beyond her comfort zone while staying true to her focus on sustainability and culture-driven storytelling through fashion.
“Fashion has always been my way of telling stories — especially about sustainability and culture — and I’m proud that I stayed true to that, even when it was challenging,” Gabriel said in a recent post, adding that she plans to bring lessons from the series into future collections and projects.
Gabriel first gained global recognition when she won the Miss Universe crown in 2022, becoming the first Filipino American titleholder. Away from the pageant stage, she has built a career around eco-friendly materials and upcycled textiles, regularly highlighting Filipino heritage and community in her work.
While her “Project Runway” journey ended short of the finale, Gabriel’s comments have resonated with fans celebrating her message that one televised setback does not define a designer’s worth or trajectory, especially one determined to uplift her roots.
R’Bonney Gabriel was a TOFA Awards honoree in Los Angeles in 2023.
