'Project Runway's' Christopher Palu talks LI at Fashion Week event

Massapequa native Christopher Palu talked about the Island at the "Project Runway" celebration at Lord and Taylor Wednesday.

The 24-year-old designer, whose winning gown is now for sale at the department store, said being from Long Island has shaped his designs.

"Being from Long Island, I'm loud," he said. "I like to be myself. I feel like that influences my personality and, in that, my creations."

The Plainedge High School graduate described his Massapequa home, where he surrounds himself with fashion inspiration.

"It's just a mess," he said of his room. "There's magazines everywhere. I live with my two younger sisters and my parents; it's a big family-- it's really cozy."

Palu's outgoing personality has been a memorable part of season 10, but he says it has also posed a challenge.

"The most difficult thing is probably having myself shine through and also pleasing the judges," he said. "It's a really difficult thing and only a few of us get to do that."

The final runway show will be filmed Friday morning at Lincoln Center, as the top three designers showcase their collections for Fashion Week attendees, but for viewers watching the show on Lifetime, Palu said there is still plenty of excitement coming this season.

"Just expect a lot of creative minds, a lot of drama and fun," he said. "It's a really exciting season and I'm happy to be a part of it."