Remembering Chris March: A Visionary Fashion Designer’s Enduring Legacy from Project Runway to Hollywood Stars

The fashion world mourned the profound loss of a truly unique visionary with the passing of Chris March. The beloved fashion and costume designer, renowned for his vibrant personality and extraordinary avant-garde creations, sadly died from a heart attack on September 5, 2019. Sources close to the family of the celebrated Project Runway alum confirmed the news to TMZ, revealing that March was only 56 years old. While Chris had bravely contended with significant health challenges since 2017, the sudden heart attack came as a “surprise to doctors and relatives,” according to these reports. Chris March was a familiar and cherished face across several Bravo shows, and a spokesperson for the network released a heartfelt statement to HollywoodLife, expressing their condolences: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Chris March’s passing. He was a favorite among Bravo fans and the fashion community. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. He will truly be missed.” His passing left a void in an industry he so passionately helped shape, reminding us of his incredible talent and infectious spirit.

Chris March was an undisputed pioneer, consistently pushing the boundaries of conventional design with his inventive and often whimsical approach. He famously captivated audiences on Project Runway with his daring designs, including an unforgettable collection crafted entirely from human hair. This fearlessness and his fun-loving spirit made him an instant icon, not just in fashion circles but among a wide audience. His innovative designs, coupled with a genuine, captivating personality, ensured he would be remembered as a true original. The industry and his fans will undoubtedly miss his unique perspective and the sheer joy he brought to the art of fashion. Below, we delve deeper into the extraordinary life and multifaceted career of this famed costume and fashion designer, celebrating his indelible mark on the creative world.

The Battle for Health: Chris March’s Debilitating Accident and Recovery Journey

Chris March faced immense personal challenges in the years leading up to his passing. In June 2017, he suffered a “debilitating accident” after a “nasty fall” that dramatically altered the course of his life. The severity of the incident necessitated that Chris be placed in a medically-induced coma for several weeks as doctors fought to stabilize him. This unfortunate event triggered a cascade of severe health problems that demanded continuous and intensive care. The physical toll was immense: his right arm became paralyzed, significantly limiting the use of his hands and legs. Beyond the physical impairments, Chris also contended with serious respiratory issues, requiring constant medical attention and support. The mounting medical bills quickly exceeded the coverage provided by his health insurance, creating an overwhelming financial burden during an already difficult time.

In response to his urgent need for ongoing assistance, a GoFundMe page was established in March 2018 by his close friend, Nelson Caraballo. Caraballo eloquently detailed Chris’s struggles, emphasizing his desperate need for continuous physical therapy to regain some semblance of his former life and mobility. Chris himself added a poignant personal note to the fundraising page, bravely revealing the emotional and psychological weight of his condition. He confessed to seeking a new living arrangement that could better accommodate his needs and, in a raw moment of vulnerability, admitted that he had “considered suicide many times.” This honest disclosure underscored the profound despair and isolation he experienced while battling his health issues. Despite these formidable obstacles, Chris continued to inspire those around him with his resilience and determination, even as he navigated an incredibly challenging chapter of his life.

A Reality TV Icon: Chris March’s Journey Through Project Runway and Beyond

Chris March’s journey to becoming a household name began in the competitive world of reality television, solidifying his status as an icon in fashion design reality programming. He first captivated audiences on Season 4 of the hit Bravo series Project Runway, where his unique vision and unconventional materials propelled him to a respectable fourth-place finish. His distinctive avant-garde aesthetic and charmingly quirky personality made him a fan favorite, leaving an unforgettable impression. Chris’s designs, always a blend of artistry and audacity, were once again showcased on Project Runway All Stars, where he continued to demonstrate his boundless creativity and ability to transform unexpected items into high fashion. His talent and charisma were so undeniable that he was eventually granted his own Bravo spin-off series, aptly titled Mad Fashion, which offered viewers an intimate look into his extraordinary design process and elaborate custom creations.

Chris delightfully recounted the serendipitous story of his Bravo debut in 2007, crediting none other than the legendary host Tim Gunn. In an interview with Escama Studio, published in October 2014, Chris recalled the pivotal moment: “I was doing a promotion for Wishbone Salad Dressing in Grand Central Station. There was a catwalk with models dressed in outfits that I had designed in vegetables, skirts made out of lettuce. It was a new product launch – Wishbone salad dressing in a spray form. The emcee of the show was Tim Gunn of Project Runway and he came up to me afterwards and said that I should try out. That I HAD to try out (!)” This chance encounter with Gunn proved to be a turning point, launching Chris March into the national spotlight and allowing millions to witness his unparalleled talent and imaginative spirit. His appearances on these shows not only entertained but also inspired, demonstrating that true creativity knows no bounds and that unconventional beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.

Dressing the Stars: Chris March’s Impressive Roster of A-List Clientele

Beyond the realm of reality television, Chris March solidified his reputation as a sought-after designer for some of the biggest names in entertainment. His ability to craft show-stopping, memorable looks made him a favorite among Hollywood’s elite and music industry icons. The Bravo star had the distinct honor of designing multiple exquisite gowns for none other than the legendary Meryl Streep, including the stunning ensembles she wore to both the 2010 Academy Awards and the Golden Globe Awards. These high-profile red carpet appearances showcased March’s sophisticated side, demonstrating his versatility far beyond the wild, avant-garde pieces he was known for on television. His designs for Streep perfectly encapsulated her elegance and grace, earning widespread acclaim and cementing his status as a premier red carpet couturier.

Meryl Streep was just one star in Chris March’s galaxy of impressive A-list clients. His creative genius resonated with a diverse array of global superstars, all of whom sought his unique touch for their iconic looks. His client list boasted names like the powerhouse vocalist Beyoncé, the fashion chameleon Lady Gaga, the pop icon Madonna, the enigmatic legend Prince, and the soulful diva Chaka Khan. Each of these artists is known for their distinctive style and groundbreaking performances, and Chris March’s designs often complemented or even amplified their stage presence and public image. Whether creating theatrical stage costumes or bespoke red-carpet attire, March’s work for these household names underscored his incredible range, his meticulous attention to detail, and his unparalleled ability to translate a star’s vision into a spectacular fashion statement. His contributions to their iconic looks remain a significant part of their visual legacies and a testament to his enduring talent.

Theatrical Masterpiece: Chris March’s Renowned Costume Design for the Stage

Beyond his celebrated work in fashion and celebrity styling, Chris March was also a highly respected figure in the world of theater costume design. His distinctive artistic vision translated seamlessly from the runway to the stage, where he was renowned for creating imaginative and memorable costumes that brought characters and narratives to vivid life. His contributions to the off-Broadway scene were particularly noteworthy, earning him critical acclaim and prestigious nominations. Chris was honored with two Drama Desk Award nominations, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to theatrical artistry. These nominations were for his brilliant work on two distinct productions: The Butt-Cracker Suite! A Trailer Park Ballet in 2012, and Christmas With The Crawfords in 2002. These projects showcased his ability to blend humor, spectacle, and intricate design, demonstrating a profound understanding of how costumes can enhance storytelling and immerse an audience. His theatrical costumes were not merely garments; they were integral elements of the performance, reflecting his innovative spirit and profound creative range in diverse artistic mediums.

A Friendly Face on Reality TV: Chris March on The Real Housewives of New York City

Chris March’s vibrant personality and magnetic charm extended beyond fashion design shows, making him a welcome presence on other popular reality television series. He notably appeared on The Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY), where he endeared himself to a new segment of Bravo fans. Chris was a close friend of cast member Sonja Morgan, and their genuine camaraderie often played out in delightful scenes on the show. His appearances offered a glimpse into his personal life and showcased his authentic, jovial nature, reinforcing why he was so beloved by many. While his time on RHONY might have been brief, it further demonstrated his ability to connect with audiences and bring a touch of glamour and humor to any setting he graced. This allowed viewers to see the kind, supportive friend behind the flamboyant designer, adding another layer to his publicly celebrated persona.

Chris March’s legacy is one of unparalleled creativity, a fearless approach to design, and an indomitable spirit. From his early days on Project Runway, where he introduced the world to his avant-garde brilliance, to dressing some of the most iconic figures in entertainment and contributing to the magic of live theater, he consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what was possible in fashion. Despite his personal health battles, Chris’s dedication to his craft and his vibrant personality never truly dimmed. He will forever be remembered as a kind soul whose imagination knew no limits, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry and the hearts of those who admired his extraordinary talent and genuine spirit. His impact resonates as a testament to the power of authentic self-expression and the enduring allure of true artistic innovation.