Eighteen designers have made it through the application stage, but the judges need to pare down the group to fifteen contestants. Later in the workroom, they learn that a designer from a previous season will join them. For their first challenge, the designers are asked to create a Spring look from the provided fabrics that will give the judges a preview of their Fashion Week collections. They have one day to complete the challenge.

The designers must draw from their past to inspire a look they think will be relevant 20 years into the future. They have $200 and one day to complete the challenge.

The designers are each assigned a man's vintage suit which will serve as the materials and inspiration for a high fashion look. They have $100 for supplemental fabric and one day to complete the challenge.