2012 year in review: best in Dallas fashion

As everyone excitedly looks forward and prepares for a prosperous and inspiring 2013, a toast should be raised to all of the enormous feats that were achieved by those involved in the Dallas fashion industry. From lavish charity events to "fashion week" worthy designer presentations, Dallas has so much to be proud of from 2012 and certainly a mountain of expectations to fulfill for 2013. Who needs to covet the New York or Los Angeles lifestyle when Dallas is continuously producing superior fashion designers, stellar photographers and retail sales that continue to soar? With just a quick glimpse back at 2012, 2013 will be an even greater year for Dallas fashion and its most talented constituents.

Fashion Designers

Have you ever seen designs so beautifully created that you can feel the passion of the designer radiating from each piece of clothing? Such can be said of the works of Edgar Gomez. (See: Edgar Gomez Spring and Summer 2013 Collection) Just fresh off of opening his online store recently which features pre-sale items and of course those items that can be specially tailored--Edgar Gomez is gnawing at the cusp of capitalizing on all that is in store for both his flourishing talent and his career.

Dallas also welcomed with open arms fashion veteran and menswear aficionado Jim Duran and his BLKLN menswear collection back in November. Duran set the foundation for fashion-forward, tailored and innovative fashions for men who dare to push all boundaries. Expect to see more from Duran in 2013 that will receive celebrity-worthy attention. (See: The exception to the rule: Jim Duran and BLKLN menswear)

Abi Ferrin...is there more to be said? This talented and passionate women's wear designer creates versatile pieces that can fit virtually most body types and span across women of all ages. In addition to her national notoriety, Ferrin is not only unselfishly philanthropic through her "Freedom Project" initiatives, she is also an all around local favorite. Ferrin's spring and summer 2013 line is already a huge hit and we can only anticipate greater things from her in 2013. The sky is the limit for this designer. (See: Every jetsetter's dream: the Abi Ferrin spring 2013 collection)

Only if you were living under a rock would you fail to notice that designer brand, Nha Khanh was being photographed all over Hollywood. From accentuating the silhouette of Kim Kardashian to captivating the red carpet on Brooklyn Decker, Nha Khanh rapidly escalated to the top of the ranks as a celebrity coveted brand. As 2012 draws to a near, all awaits to see what is in store for this luxury brand come 2013.

Other designers that were outstanding and memorable were Isabel Varelas of designer label Izavel who was named as one of the few "Designers to Watch" and Prashi Shah of Prashe who recently rocked Sisu Uptown with her vibrant and impeccably embroidered designs of contemporary, formal, bridal and cocktail attire. When a model is draped in the finest of linens, gleaming with jewels and beautifully floating in a canoe center "pool" of the fashion show--it will always be an event to remember.

Fashion Bloggers

2012 was a huge year for fashion blogger, Jen Smith of "Blank White Frames." Named as Tootsies "Top Blogger for 2012", Smith is touching the hearts and closets of all Dallas fashionistas. With great affordable finds, immaculate style and awe inspring natural hair, Smith's blog was definitely a hit for 2012.

Let's face it...any blogger that is featured on Kim Kardashian's blog has indefinitely received the Midas touch. Such can be said of Mayte Hauxwell of Dallas-based fashion blog "Maytedoll." Hauxwell's style is virtually flawless with blog postings that make every shopaholic swoon. Just fresh off of celebrating her blog's three year anniversary, Hauxwell is another blogger that will continue to slay the fashion scene in 2013.

A 2012 year-end wrap would be meaningless without giving much love and adoration to Dallas' own Courtney Kerr of "What Courtney Wore." This Dallas reality star is fierce every time she graces the Dallas scene and leaves all knowing that Kerr was just born with the fashion gene. Kerr's reality show, Courtney Loves Dallas is set to air in 2013, so definitely tune in and get ready to see why Kerr is one of the top representatives for the Dallas trendsetters. (See: Dallas reality star Courtney Kerr dishes on fashion, dating and new reality show)

Fashion Accessories

If you were paying close attention in 2012, you probably saw Shamequia Cason's "Black Beauty Accessories" adorned on The Real Housewives of Atlanta's Nene Leakes, or Kendra Scott regularly being worn on morning news reports. Flip to a bridal magazine and take in the beauty of the barefoot accessories designed by Chelsea Bond of "Red[i] by Chelsea"--the jetsetter inspired jewelry collection. If you were browsing through the society pages of popular Dallas magazines (you know you do), you should have noticed much favor and preference for the classic and timeless pieces of Shona C. Gilbert who is currently traveling on a national tour for her luxuriously designed jewelry collection.

These women were amongst local and national favorites for accessories in 2012 and 2013 is only promising to further showcase the endless creativity and gifted talents of these top jewelry designers or accessory providers.

2012 was undoubtedly the year for Dallas' reign as one of the top fashion meccas in the nation. 2013 is promising to be of even greater and substantial influence. When all is said and done, Dallas fashion enthusiasts should take a bow; 2012 was a great year. Now wipe your brow, get on your mark and get ready to race into another year of fashion as 2013 is merely just a blink away.

(Much praise should also be given to Dallas area boutiques Elements, Piermarini, Tootsies and Nicole Kwon's concept boutique for a fabulous 2012 year. Also of mention were exceptional events such as: Pin Show, Fashion's Living Canvas, Italian Fashion Week and all of the Fashion's Night Out events for 2012.)

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, Dallas Fashion Trends Examiner

Leah Frazier is the owner of consultant company, Diamond Icon Image and Styling Consultants. With a keen eye for fashion and style, Leah works around the clock diligently to stay on top of beauty and fashion trends. Leah is a certified elite personal shopper and writes fashion articles regularly...

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