'Real Housewives of New York City': The catwalk

It finally happened.

No, not a bug-eyed Ramona walking down the runway -- that happened later in the episode. But first, we were finally introduced to one of two new “Housewives” this season: Sonja Morgan. She’s socially friendly with the same groups as LuAnn … but don’t hold that against her. She’s also known Ramona for 20 years. And in a lovely little montage, we got a snapshot of what we can expect. She loves men, parties and plastic surgery. She’s neighbors with Scorsese. She’s the straw that stirs the drink. She considers sex to be a healthy part of life, much in the same way yoga or good wine is. Oh, and remember Max, the dude who overlooked Kelly’s hideous pink rain boots last season and still hung out with her? Well, Sonja knows him, too. Very well. Maybe a little too well for Kelly’s liking. I can already feel the drama -- finally, something to distract us from this never-ending Jill-Bethenny feud!

Speaking of that teeny tiny misunderstanding, it seems Jill is reaching for an excuse to finally forgive Bethenny. 

I couldn’t exactly hear what she was saying -- I blame the train passing by -- but it involved re-examining the last year and letting go all her resentments toward people who may have done her wrong. Or something to that effect. To be honest, I was still processing LuAnn’s entrance into Central Park. Were all the horse carriages occupied? 

But before I could even register that, there was Ramona’s thigh. What was up with that? You know the scene: her in a negligee, awaiting the arrival of her necklace-wearing husband, Mario. Um, I so did not need to see THAT much thigh from Ramona. In fact, I didn’t need to see any of it. All I wanted to see was her runway walk. It’s what I’ve been waiting for all season (you know the same applies to you). After sitting through the awkward not-so-private moment between Ramona and her hubby, it was finally time.

Now I’m still befuddled by this whole Brooklyn Fashion Week extravaganza. The way they hyped it up, I expected to see white tents, lots of heels, stunning designer duds and fur -- worn by Kelly, I’m sure; we all know how well she wears it. Uh, yeah, not so much. But who cares? Oh, Jill does. It seems the only reason she went was so she could criticize everything. She managed to stay mum when Kelly walked the runway in that unflattering yellow getup -- I’m so glad Kelly acknowledged that strapless frocks make her look like a linebacker because that was my first thought when I saw her walking down. And, then, it happened. Ramona, in a form-fitting black dress, strutted down the runway. I couldn’t even tell you what embellishments were on the dress because my eyes bulged out watching her eyes bulge out. What would Tyra say? 

Other notable moments:

-- Was this episode all about showing skin? I also didn’t need to see Bethenny on a toilet. 

-- Um, was Kelly really giving Simon fashion advice? Sure, he’s known to wear bright-red leather pants, but I hardly think a chick with a huge horse’s face emblazoned on a sweater should be shelling out advice. Oh, and she was wearing that horrid beanie, too.

-- And when she’s not giving fashion advice, Kelly’s giving PR advice? What was all that talk about PR 102? Here’s PR 103, Kelly: stop the nonsense.

-- “I can’t talk to you; you have no brain” -- the showdown between Ramona and Kelly during Jill’s presentation at the Kodak event was priceless. More priceless: Jill putting all the blame on Ramona. Hello, Kelly was just as vocal. 

So Show Trackers, what did you think of Thursday’s episode? Does Ramona have a career in modeling? What do you think of the new housewife? Share your comments below.

-- Yvonne Villarreal

Photo: Sonja Morgan. Credit: Bravo

Comments

[Chukkal]

Ramona and LuAnn and Jill are all witches!!!!!! Ramona sells religious symbol jewelry and swears like a trooper........no thank you! LuAnn is all wrapped up in her royal title of Princess.......YUK........and Jill is a self-righteous beeeeeatch!

[Genna]

I never comment on this stuff, but now, can't help it. Is it as obvious to others as it is to me that Jill, LuAnn, Sonja, Romona, and Kelly seem to be very interested in dropping constant lines referring to their contacts, money, or status? It's starting to come across very pretentious. Sonja told her assistant that Scorsese is her neighbor- I think he probably knows that. I think she's saying that for the cameras. LuAnn discusses her need (want) of another apt. (yes LuAnn it's Ok to call it an apartment) and occasionally drops a french phrase adding what it's meaning is b/c, of course, we wouldn't know. This seems like she needs her piedestal a little too much. And Jill, jill- jill (yes w/ a lowercase j) Wow! You seem to like manipulating each conversation you have (at least what's seen on the program) right up to shine on your suffering. Are you ready for Mr. DeMille's close up? You play innocent, yet whoa, it's not working. You have really bashed a good friend. I think Bethany might have a reason to right you off. Yet! -She's too nice for that. She also seems completely overwhelmed by the extreme highs and lows she's having right now- to the point that she's unaware the camera's are watching her pee. Bethany, focus honey. And camera guys- shame on you! Ramona- the eye thing I guess is a natural part of your expressions, yet you need to be more aware of that- plus what's coming out of your mouth. You cried on the boat about what people were saying to you, yet I might think this has something to do with your karma. Kelly, I'm starting to feel you are actually kind. I was not comfortable with you last season, yet you actually show you learn from your mistakes. You like lots of attention, hence the scene with the interviewer where you verbally handcuffed him until he gave you compliments, but all in all you are a girl with a heart. Simon and his wife are the only ones who seem to keep out of the drama and retain some sense of reasonable friendliness. And ladies- that IS a good example for their children- contrary to your occasional catty remarks. Well ladies, I wish I could say that the show is giving me that traditional understanding that money brings class, grace, and poise- along with some freedom to experience more; but I know women with little money and little time who have more grace in their pockets than most of you. Please think this over before no one with any intelligence will want to watch anymore.

[Diane L]

I would go to every fashion show if Ramona walked the runway...Priceless!

[Genna]

I'd like to add that my previous comment is dedicated to the late Dixie Carter who gave a genuinely accurate portrayal of a southern lady; i.e. Julia Sugarbaker!

[Murphy]

Is it just me or does there seem to be something missing from the Jill/Bethenny thing? Jill fights and makes up with everyone...but Bethenny. And it seems like such a petty fight to me. Could it be...is it possible...this has all been made up for ratings! And Ramona. I can't stand people who excuse their bad behavior by saying "I have to say what I think." They seem to think that somehow gives them permission to behave badly. Think again!

[Margaret]

This article had me cracking up, can we be best friends please? ;) Thanks for the mid-afternoon break, can't wait for the next one.

[Pink]

Ramona needs a sitcom and a shrink. She is the hammer for every raw nerve that these ladies have. I think it's best when she doesn't plan it.

Roseann Bar move over because Ramona is on the air!

Free Advice from the other end of the Boob Tube:

1. Sonja Morgan get a hobby. The straw and drink thing is weak.

2. Jill get a clue, hobby and spend more time with your husband and mother.

3. Kelly get something to get the hair out of your face.

4. Bethany, relax girl it's going to be a ride being a new wife and mom! BTW, did Jason ever call back?

5. Classless Countless get a hobby and a horse. PS, not buying your new classless digg ads either. If you show some kindness it may earn you a few more $$$ as we say on this side of the pond. European class elitism isn't a big hit with me. Once the ash is out of the sky fly to France.

6. Alex you can get paid for running fashion shows and being strong!

7. Simon, keep your pants on.

8. Mario you are so funny and cool, but let go of the jewelery stuff for a little bit.

9. Bobby, I hope you heal. Your wife is a nut.

10. Kodak Executives, you would have been on the cutting floor with just Jill. Jill needs to bring her nutty brood to be a hit during prime time. Trump did a better job of spotlighting your products but it was much more fun to see the ladies flip with Jill trying to appear professional. The Ramona - Kelly show was priceless.

Maybe you could give Kelly a camera in New York and have the gang try at printing pictures like Trumps celebs failed to figure out. You can have a slogan, "Pictures so easy to print that it works with the nuts on reality TV most of the time."

I hope your Kodak stock goes up soon. The BAMSTER's economy is hard on all of us, well except the Real Housewives of New York City.

[Shaila]

I agree with Genna on everything. The rest is my personal opinion. I think that Bethenny is right when she said on the show that Jill is just waiting for other people to fail. It's like nothing is ever right for Jill. I think that Jill is jealous of Bethenney's success, because i never knew who Jill was before watching the show, but I knew Bethenney. I am not saying that Bethenney is not hungry for press...but so is Jill! You are on a reality show for crying out loud-which won't last forever. everyone on the show wants to establish recognition during the show, so after its (finally!) over, they have the publicity to move on to other things. And frankly, Bethenney is way ahead of the rest.

Ramona is crazy and might have a drinking problem. LuAnn needs to get off her high horse or rickshaw, but she seems otherwise elegant and sophisticated. Kelly is sweet and nice, but i like Alex best. She seems grounded and practical and is the best role-model for children amongst the other housewives.

As for the new housewife Sonja-the first shot of her screamed plastic surgery. I don't know how she is considered beautiful! She looks so fake, and seems to be happy riding the alimony pony. I CAN'T wait for the drama she stirs up--that is if i am still watching the show then!

[Ang]

Jill & Luann's friendship seems forced. Bethenny & Jill flowed and seemed real. I can already see trouble brewing with Sonja. All the name dropping & talk of money and shopping was sickening. I may stop watching when Bethenny leaves. Besides Alex, they are the only genuine ones.

[erica stephens]

Well,Finally,the real Jill has shown herself,a horrible,self centered,vindictive jealous petty woman.And I predict,Luanne will be the next one to feel her wrath.When Luanne told her she found a guy (without Jill,s help)and he is Jewish,that didn,t go over too well,but bringing another woman into the mix,who is prettier,richer,lives at a better address and socially unknown to Jill....Wow! the look on her face was priceless...As for Ramona,I don,t get her,she is a business woman,how does she do business when she is obviously crazy? Is it what she says? Or when she says it?

[Elizabeth]

This show is so low class but like an accident i need to watch now and then!

Jill used to give the impression that she had some class but all i see now is her deep-seated anger and blantant insecurities. Her first thot when seeing the new housewife was how pretty she was? Right. And to Bethenny - you are a good person, with some of the same issues we all tend to have. You are so much better than the friendship you wish to mend with Jill. Move on and stand strong. Enjoy the happiness coming your way.

[Alayne]

I think Jill is CRAZY! Jill didn't play the rest of the message for the world to hear because she knew then that everyone would know she was psycho for acting the way she did. I think her true colors have really shown this season and she thinks of no one but Jill.

I think Teresa was right on her Bravo blog, Sonja is a C.O.W. (Crazy Old W*&re)...that was my first thought anyway. But, I can't wait to see all the drama she brings.

Can't wait to watch next week.

[sara]

Does Bethenny do anything in private? Why did I have to see her on the toilet. Good Lord. All of these women are crazy.

[TinaCs42]

I think Ramona was onto something with her claim that Jill only likes the underdog. Bethenny, walk away honey. Jill is not a true friend, but a hovering, narcisitic, want-to-be mother/hen. She is hen pecked and in everyone's business in a bad way. Ramona, I think you're odd, but just may need hormones for those obvious mood swings. ie...change of life hormones aren't plastic surgery. This show makes me jubilant that I have true friends and don't live in NY city. Good luck with the baby Bethenny. One piece of advice, be careful who you expose that kid to. Alex, you're the most intelligent one of the bunch. I hope to see more of you in the future. Kelly, get a clue! LuAnn, learn some manners!

[Country Girl]

Does anyone hold anything back? I don't think so. People I know don't act this way, it consumes too much energy.
I enjoy Bethany and Alex the most. They would make good best friends.
Ramona has a good heart but no head and no ability to edit herself.
LuAnn seems to be enjoying, even hopeful that Jill and Bethany are at odds and if she has anything to say about it, will stay at odds. It's like she is working hard to keep Jill her best friend.
Whatever.

[Chief Lie Detector]

Oh, come on. This show is edited to give certain dramatic impressions.

The only way to really know these people is to actually know them. Until that happens, just take it for what it is: yet another television program. Sheesh.

[Koichi Ito]

Sonja Morgen is just like Tiffany Dubin, both are married to rich Real Estate Developer. One thing is different Sonja Morgen came on Real Housewives of New York! And get to be a friend to Countess LuAnn! We welcome Kelly Ripa and Tiffany Dubin to came on Real Housewives of New York?

[Onewhoknows]

All the other housewives aside, Bethanny has eclipsed Jill on the show and in life. Jill can not handle it. She just can't deal with Bethanny's success and happy life. That's why Jill is now trying to get back to being some kind of friend with Bethanny. However, Bethanny's not having it and good for her!!! I hope she stands her ground - she doesn't need that tired, old, negative, unhappy Jill in her life. I can appreciate Bethanny's life - we are the same age and having children late in life, I feel her happiness. Bethanny's life is happier without Jill in it!

Jill is really pathetic, needy and is basically a walking argument. Happy people don't act like her.

[renaldo]

i had the blessing of actually walking the runway showcase on this episode with loris doran and those beautiful women my name is renaldo im jamaican and i had on the red fitted long sleeve fitted shirt hopefully i can get a part on the show it would be a blessing to me and my family back home and im real as well lol