Bravotv.com: What is it like working with Tim Gunn?

Gretta Monahan: Oh my gosh, honestly, I pinch myself - it's the best. It's a dream come true. Tim is like your teacher and your husband all wrapped up in one! I want to make him my man, he's so cute! He's the best, he really is. I get to work with someone I truly admire. Not only has Tim been a mentor, but he has been an industry idol of mine for a long time, long before television.

How did you get your start in fashion?

I came to New York and spent some time at F.I.T., and ended up pursuing beauty first. I got into fashion by way of opening my first boutique. I started styling a bit and picking up clients, and then figured I was shopping all over the world, why not open my own boutique - it has always been a dream of mine. So I opened up Gretta Luxe in Boston, and always worked in tandem between New York and Boston. Now I spend a lot of my time in New York. I buy all over the world - I go to the shows in Paris, Milan, and New York to buy for my boutique. My boutique has primarily European and American designers, and it's mostly ready-to-wear. But it's a great mix. I call it casual couture - things you can buy that you can actually wear. I buy with a practical eye so that real women can take advantage of great fashion.

And you were at New York Fashion Week this year?

Yes, I was! I went to the Couture Fashion Week in Paris in July and then Fashion Week in New York. I really thought it was great. One of my favorite collections was Michael Kors. I carry his line in my stores, so there was a lot to buy there, and I really enjoyed it. I think New York still has the best Fashion Week. A lot people didn't know what to expect, but fashion is forging ahead, regardless of the economy. I think that people will always invest in quality.

Did you get to see the Project Runway show?

I was there! Oh my God - honestly, my head was spinning. I was thrilled to be there and I really enjoyed it. You have to have mercy on Tim and the judges, because there was a lot of terrific talent there. The essence of each designer really came through in the collections. I thought they turned out great work.