'PROJECT RUNWAY' AND NEW JERSEY STAR SHA'VI LEWIS DIES AT 39

'PROJECT RUNWAY' AND NEW JERSEY STAR SHA'VI LEWIS DIES AT 39

Fashion designer and "Project Runway" Season 18 contestant Sha'Vi Lewis has passed away at the age of 39. His death was confirmed by his aunt, Deidra DivaDoll Elkerson, in a heartfelt Facebook post, though the cause remains undisclosed. From Hillside, New Jersey, Lewis developed a passion for design at the age of seven, inspired by his seamstress grandmother. He attended Clark Atlanta University to study fashion design and later established his own clothing line. Lewis also served as the creative director for Italian menswear company Stephen F. His designs graced red carpets, appeared on the television series "Pose," and were worn by celebrities such as Cynthia Bailey. Family, friends, and colleagues remember him for his vibrant personality and significant contributions to the fashion industry.

Sha'Vi Lewis's untimely passing has left a profound void in the fashion community and beyond. From his early days in Hillside, New Jersey, where he was nurtured by a family rich in musical and theatrical talent, to his rise as a celebrated designer, Sha'Vi's journey was marked by creativity and passion. His aunt, Deidra DivaDoll Elkerson, poignantly reflected on his impact, stating, "You left a hell of a mark on this earth!!! You will be always loved and never forgotten.

Fellow "Project Runway" contestant Brittany Allen also paid tribute, expressing, "The world and this industry will be dim without your light in it.

Sha'Vi's legacy is one of inspiration, resilience, and a testament to the transformative power of art and design. We want to express our deepest condolences to the family.

 

Sha'Vi Lewis
Sha’Vi Lewis NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

 

Born Franklin Shavi Lewis Frierson Jr. on Dec. 4, 1985, the designer competed on Season 18 of "Project Runway."
Born Franklin Shavi Lewis Frierson Jr. on Dec. 4, 1985, the designer competed on Season 18 of “Project Runway.” NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images
Lewis finished the show in 10th place after being sent home in episode 6.
Lewis finished the show in 10th place after being sent home in episode 6. NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

 

PROJECT RUNWAY -- "Sleigh the Runway" Episode 1803 -- Pictured: Shavi Lewis.
“We are in a state of disbelief as we come to the reality that our star has been cast into eternity,” Sha’Vi Lewis’ sister, Akira. told TMZ. NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

 

 

GET PERSONALIZED ROUNDUP OF OUR BEST STORIES IN YOUR INBOX.

Stay up to date with our weekly Newsletter.

Looks good!
Email is required.
By signing up to the our newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications from JERSEY TALKS that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content.