Sixteen talented designers from all walks of life arrive in New York City for the ultimate fashion competition. Their first challenge is to create a look inspired by one of the four judges' "Fashion First" photographs. They have $250 and two days to complete their garments.

The designers are tasked with creating bold, editorial head-to-toe looks using a single print. They have $250 and one day to complete the challenge.

For their next challenge, the designers must create their own female video game character with a functional and fashionable look. They have $300 and two days to complete their garments.

The designers must create an over-the-top performance piece inspired by Elton John and the movie "Rocketman." They have $700 and two days to complete the challenge.

Each of the remaining designers is given five months and $10,000 to design a 10-piece collection. In the interim, each gets a special visit in their hometown from Christian Siriano. Back in New York, they must choose three outfits to show as part of a mini-collection in order to secure their spot in the final runway show, including a newly created eleventh look. They have $400 to create the new look and complete their collections.

With luggage still in tow, 16 new designers are greeted at the iconic TWA Hotel at JFK airport. Paired off, they receive their first assignment: to create innovative jumpsuit and cocktail looks inspired by humanity's continued push into space exploration. They have $400 per team and two days to complete the challenge.

The designers must create a chic street style look using animal prints while taking inspiration from the upcoming film "Cats." They have $250 and two days to complete the challenge.

The designers are tasked to create a party cocktail dress using winter holiday decorations. They have two days to complete the challenge.

The designers must create a look for Karlie Kloss to wear to a Parisian event made of fabrics upcycled from garments found at Goodwill. They have $150 and one day to complete the challenge.

Split into two teams, the designers must create cohesive mini-collections that pay homage to Cyndi Lauper and her iconic fashion style, including their own accessories. They have $300 per team member for fabric, $200 per team for accessory materials, and two days to complete the challenge.

The designers are asked to create any look of their choosing using their own personal heritage as inspiration. They have $300 and one day to complete the challenge.

The designers must create a look in collaboration with artist Ashley Longshore, using her custom pop art prints as both inspiration and fabric. They have $175 and two days to complete the challenge.