I don't think Tyra can sew well! That skirt/poncho thing she made for the country challenge was apparently impressive, but not very well made, from what I can remember. Also, they didn't *have* to make their gowns for the last challenge, but Tatianna did (and unfortunately borrowed that stripey dress, which I still maintain looked really good on her).

Re: Season 1, I wonder how much that economic divide pointed a finger at Shannel.

Yep. Jade mentioned that, re: Shannel -- not in an accusatory way, though (unfortunately in S's case, it didn't help her since Santino decided he hated her style).