16 new designers arrive in New York with an eye to being named champion of Project Runway's 15th season. At the launch party, they are given their first challenge: use the party's spirit, aura, and vibe as inspiration (and the decorations as materials) for an outfit of their choosing. They have one day to complete their looks.

The designers must create an outfit to flatter all body types, with the winning look to be sold by JustFab.com. They have $150 and one day to complete the challenge.

The designers are asked to create a look that transitions from daylight to blacklight on the runway. They have $200 and one day to complete their garments.

The designers are challenged to create a swimsuit and an accompanying coverup. The looks are to be inspired by Heidi Klum's swim collection, and the winning outfit will be reproduced and sold as part of the collection. They are also asked to design the fabric they will use. They have $100 and one day to complete their looks.

In two teams, the designers must create a four piece mini-collection. Each team will pitch their vision to a group of investors to obtain a portion of their $3,000 investment fund. They have one day to complete the challenge.

After attending a press cocktail party at Elyx House, the designers are challenged to create a luxurious cocktail dress inspired by the venue. They have $300 and one day to complete their garments.

Working in teams of three, the designers must create three-piece collections inspired by Sally Beauty colors for a SoHo pop-up shop. They have $600 per team and one day to complete the challenge.

They designers are asked to create new garments for a makeover for very special clients… their own friends and family. They have $250 and two days to complete the challenge.

Using the sights from a helicopter ride above New York City as inspiration, the designers must create an editorial look for a powerful woman to be featured in Marie Claire magazine. They have $300 and one day to complete the challenge.

The designers are tasked to create an avant-garde look using conventional fabric and unconventional metal materials. They have $150 and two days to complete the challenge.

During an inspirational trip to Austin, Texas, the designers must purchase their garment materials from a farm supply store and a music & barbeque venue. Back in New York, they must use these materials to create a high fashion look. They have $500 and two days to complete the challenge. Later, they are given an additional $200 to create a corresponding look using conventional materials.

Each of the remaining designers is given six weeks and $9000 to design a 10-piece collection for Fashion Week. In the interim, each gets a special visit in their hometown from Tim Gunn. Back in New York, they must choose three of their outfits, and create a brand logo, to show to the judges for critiques and feedback.

In the conclusion of the finale, the remaining contestants ready their collections for the runway. They are given an additional $500 to spend at Mood to finish their looks. Then they present their lines to industry insiders at Fashion Week.