Chris March

Here is a detailed, SEO-optimized biography of Chris March (1963–2019), American fashion & costume designer.

Chris March – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes

Chris March (1963–2019) was an American fashion and costume designer known for his dramatic, avant-garde creations, appearances on Project Runway, and work for high-profile clients. Explore his life, artistry, trials, and legacy.

Introduction

Chris March was a flamboyant, boundary-pushing designer whose aesthetic blurred the lines between fashion, costume, and performance art. Known to many from his appearances on Project Runway, March’s designs were bold, theatrical, and often conversation-starting. His journey was marked by creative triumphs, health struggles, and an indomitable spirit, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire in fashion, drag, and costume circles.

Early Life and Family

Christopher Andrew March was born on February 25, 1963 in Alameda, California. He was the youngest of five brothers in his family. His parents were Carl Allen March and Dolores March.

Growing up in the Bay Area, March immersed himself in the vibrant art, drag, and performance communities—spaces that would deeply inform his creative identity.

Early Career & Costume Work

Before gaining mainstream recognition, March spent a decade working as a costume designer for Beach Blanket Babylon, a long-running musical revue in San Francisco known for its over-the-top satire and extravagant costumes.

He first got the job after submitting a portfolio of Halloween costumes, and the role allowed him to hone his craft in theatrical exaggeration, wig work, and visual storytelling.

In 2001, March moved to New York City, where he expanded into fashion and couture, while retaining his flair for dramatic, artful designs.

He was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 2002 for his costumes in Christmas With the Crawfords in New York.

Breakthrough & Television Fame

Project Runway Appearances

Chris March first became widely known when he competed on Season 4 of Project Runway (2007–2008). On the show, he became notable (and at times controversial) for his use of unexpected materials—most famously human hair in one of his garment designs. He ultimately placed fourth in Season 4 behind winner Christian Siriano.

He later returned for Project Runway All Stars (Season 4, 2014–2015), finishing in 12th place. He also competed in Project Runway: All-Star Challenge (2009), finishing as third runner-up.

Mad Fashion and Media Presence

In 2011, March starred in his own Bravo reality show, Mad Fashion, which followed his design work and celebrity commissions. The show ran for 10 episodes.

He also appeared as a guest on The Real Housewives of New York City, particularly in relation to his friendships in that social circle.

Signature Work and Clients

Chris March’s portfolio of clients and creations was wide and eclectic, reflecting his theater-meets-fashion sensibility:

• Beyoncé: He designed costumes for Beyoncé’s I Am... tour.

• Lady Gaga and Madonna: His bold, avant-garde aesthetic aligned with their performance personas.

• Meryl Streep: He created dresses for her for the Oscars and Golden Globes in 2010.

• Prince: Among his celebrity clients.

• Target: In 2013, March launched a line of whimsical foam wigs sold through Target stores.

His works often included elements of fantasy, exaggerated scale, bold structure, and theatrical flair—garments and costumes that spoke visually as much as they functioned.

Health Struggles, Injury & Final Years

In June 2017, March had a serious accident: he fell in his apartment, struck his head, and remained unconscious for four days. He was then placed in a medically induced coma for two months.

When he awoke, he had lost function in both legs (paralysis from the knees down) and in his right arm and hand. He returned to California and lived in a long-term care facility in Stockton, California, where he continued designing as able.

Despite his health decline, March persisted in creative effort—continuing to conceptualize and finish designs where possible.

On September 5, 2019, Chris March died of a heart attack in Stockton, California. He was 56 years old.

His death came after a prolonged battle with medical complications from the earlier injury.

Personality, Creative Ethos & Legacy

Chris March was known for a larger-than-life personality: flamboyant, humorous, outspoken, and unafraid to take aesthetic risks.

He embraced spectacle, theatricality, and bold visual storytelling in his designs. His background in drag and stage costuming gave him a unique vantage point among fashion designers.

He also had a generous spirit: friends and collaborators often noted that if he believed in someone, he gave them opportunities to shine in his work.

In drag and performance communities, as well as among aspiring costume designers, March remains a touchstone—a reminder that fashion can be joyful, exaggerated, and deeply personal.

Selected Quotes

Chris March expressed his creative philosophy and personal struggles candidly. A few of his more cited statements:

“I try to add humor, glamour, and a little glitter to my world.” After his accident, he shared: “I have good days and bad days … but I still have my brain, and for that miracle I am forever grateful.”

These remarks reflect his commitment to creativity even amid hardship.

Lessons & Influence

1. Art is resilience
   Even after a devastating injury, March persisted—designing from a care facility—showing that creative spirit need not be silenced.

2. Go big or go home
   His designs pushed boundaries—his legacy encourages others not to shy away from bold ideas.

3. Cross between fashion and performance
   March’s work reminds us fashion can tell stories, assume characters, and be part stagecraft, not just wearable garments.

4. Authenticity matters
   He remained true to his vision, even when it diverged from mainstream trends, securing a unique place in fashion history.

5. Support creative voices
   March’s willingness to champion others underscores how mentorship and opportunity can amplify new talent.

Conclusion

Chris March (February 25, 1963 – September 5, 2019) was a singular force in fashion and costume design. From his roots in theatrical costuming at Beach Blanket Babylon to becoming a beloved Project Runway figure and celebrity designer, his career blended art, flamboyance, and fearless self-expression. Though his life was cut short by health struggles, his daring work, infectious humor, and courageous persistence continue to inspire designers, performers, and fans around the world.

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