Q) Who would you love to have as a "Project Runway" judge?

A) My number one dream would be first lady Michelle Obama. I think she's super hip, cool and fashionable.

Q) How did you get some of the guest judges this season?

A) I cornered Phillip Treacy (designer) at this year's "Oscars" and talked him into judging a hat-inspired challenge. He flew over with fifteen wild, crazy avant-garde hats and we had the designers do something to go with them. Also guest judging this season are Selma Blair and Betsey Johnson, who will weigh in on a challenge with unconventional materials.

Q) Do you wear any clothes from past contestants?

A) I wear Christian Siriano. He has the most business brain. He doesn't forget to send things. He sends look books. He makes sure when he has a fashion show, he invites you. Others mosey on with their business as usual. He sends things for me to see and try. I'm busy myself and he makes it easy. He's clever.

Q) How fashionable are your children?

A) John doesn't care much about what he's wearing. Henry is very particular, even with his pajamas. Leni loves dresses and loves being girlie. She came to the "Project Runway" set and the fashion show. She wasn't too impressed. I don't think she thought the clothes were girlie enough.

Q) Are there any particular contestants on season eight that really shine?

A) If you are talking a McQueen or Galliano, their clothes are so spectacular and only a few can do what they do. I don't know if you can put our designers in that same box.

Q) Will the show ever return to LA?

A) I'd like to return to the West Coast, but Lifetime didn't like the idea. People seem to respond better when the show is in New York.

Q) What made the show switch to a ninety minute format?

A) People would tell us, "We don't understand why this person or that person left. Elimination day goes on for four or five hours and we wanted people to see more of that.

Q) How do you feel about judge Nina Garcia saying that you have changed into the show's toughest critic?

A) I hope not. I say what I think. Maybe it comes across as mean sometimes, but there are four judges. I don't make the call myself.