BPR: Merline - top five is amazing!
ML: I know - it's crazy!
BPR: Congratulations on your very strong showing!
ML: Thank you so much!
BPR: Tell us about your signature hats. When did you begin wearing the hat? Was it just for the show?
ML: I started with a fade - and then I wanted something new, so I chopped off my hair and I felt like I had a peanut head, so I thought a hat would add a little style.
BPR: Tell us about your non-profit - provokestyle.org
ML: I teach fashion to inner-city kids and I travel to Poland and work with a ministry there.
BPR: Merline, tell us about your experience in architecture. Do you have a degree in architecture?
ML: I started with an AA degree in architecture and then when I got to SCAD I realized that I wanted to study fashion. My family did not completely support me but they understood that I had to follow my dream. So, halfway through I decided to major in fashion and minor in architecture.
BPR: Are you a full-time designer?
ML: Yes.
BPR: Did you watch the previous seasons of the show?
ML: Yes, some of them.
BPR: After reflection, did you recognize Kini's umbrella dress in your design last night?
ML: No. I don't even know who he is! I remember the season with Jeffrey...
BPR: Season three? That was a while ago....
BPR: Which was your favorite challenge?
ML: Well the one I won was the Heidi Klum challenge, so I guess that was my favorite.
BPR: Who is your best friend from the cast?
ML: I don't like to say "best friend," but I have remained in touch with Edmond and Swapnil.
BPR: What are you working on now?
ML: I'm working on my Spring/Summer 2016 collection, which will be in production. This presents a lot of challenges. My non-profit, Provoke Style Fashion Camp, continues and we are growing. Right now we are looking for a permanent location and we have a grant-writer.
BPR: Merline, we are almost out of time, is there anything else you would like to say to your fans?
ML: I had a great time - it was an amazing experience!
BPR: Thanks Merline!
ML: Thank you!
