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Frayed or Fab? 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Season Recap: Rosé

Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 3 MIN.

For most of this season, Rosé has been pitch-perfect – so much so that the judges wanted to see her unravel a bit to show more of her authentic self. Rosé listened and landed a spot in the finale. Will she take the crown? Here's a look at what she brought to the runway.

Episode 1
Rosé – She stuck to her signature color palate. A monochromatic opening look takes (tucked) balls. VERDICT: FAB

Since the contestants were split into two groups, Rosé didn't compete in Episode 2.

Episode 3
Rosé returned with her signature baby pink coif and a "custom rippled and dyed fantasy" described by its creator Casey Caldwell. The juxtaposition of the oversized, billowing sleeves with the jewel-toned plastic dominated the runway. Guest judge Nicole Byer called it a "gay loofah fantasy." We're ready for a Rosé bubble bath. Verdict: FAB

Rosé sported a marine blue tuxedo, wide white satin lapels, and a similar ruffled sleeve accent as last week. While she had the confidence to pull it off, the train seemed like an afterthought. Verdict: FRAYED

Episode 5
Rosé displayed both style and substance this week, with three looks, including this bag-tastic creation, that kept her at the front of the pack.

Episode 6
"If you squeeze her dress, her tulle pops out," joked guest judge Loni Love of Rosé's tulle-trimmed little black dress. "This look is definitely a little bit camp," said Rosé, "but it's also very sexy." Is it? Verdict: FRAYED

Episode 7
"I'm a little Tinkerbell made of plastic," said Rosé as she vamped down the runway. Though the corseted back and intricate beading showcased meticulous construction, Rosé looked stiff – better on the pages of J.M. Barrie's classic than the stage. Verdict: FRAYED

Episode 8
Rosé found inspiration in Jim Carrey's 1994 film "The Mask," turning his yellow Zoot suit into a heavily pleated mini with exaggerated collar and signature green face. "I'm a cartoon character come to life," exclaimed Rosé, though Michelle Visage complained that the look read more orange than yellow. Verdict: FAB


Episode 9
Rosé lived up to her name in a pedal-perfect, one-shoulder rose-inspired gown with a matching rose fascinator. Rosé, who took top honors last week and landed in the top three this week thanks to her modern spin on Mary Queen of Scots, is coming into full bloom. Verdict: FAB

Episode 10: The queens stepped into the stockings of their competitors in meta-makeovers, so there was no final runway challenge.

Episode 11
Devilishly delicious in deep red, Rosé continues to step into the spotlight, owning the runway and refining her presence. This week's look, conceptualized with Stephanie's Child co-member Lagoona Bloo and designed and built by Casey Caldwell, scored high marks and with good reason. Rosé has her eye on the prize. Verdict: FAB

Episode 12
Rosé Reigns Supreme – Hitting the podium in homage to Sheila E. circa 1984 in striking silver, Rosé struck gold. "You owned it," said Michelle Visage of Rosé's sharply timed act. "You have the total package," Loni Love exclaimed. We can't wait to unwrap it and see what else is inside. Verdict: FAB

Episode 13
"I'm serving black and white mod realness, baby," said Rosé as she strutted down the runway in white knee-high socks and a 60s flared overcoat, which she tossed off to reveal a pocket-full of genius. Verdict: FAB

Episode 14
Once again embracing her Scottish heritage, Rosé's pleated and flaired tartan plaid evening gown displayed a queen that knows her brand and wants that crown. Verdict: FAB


by Matthew Wexler

Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.

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