by Toni Ferrara
Fashion is about cutting edge meets couture. Our Top 10 Most Wanted designers of 2012 push the envelope of creativity as true fashion innovators. From a celebrity milliner who designs one-of-a-kind pieces for Lady Gaga, to a former Bond girl turned ready-to-wear designer, these editor favorites are currently making waves in the fashion scene. These are the new, the need to know, and the veteran designers that are sure to keep you “Best Dressed” from head to toe.
TWO OF A KIND
When you mix the style of former Bond girl, Izabella Scorupco and the savvy of blonde bombshell, Jenna Mikos Dadich, you get ZBogini. ZBogini translates to “with Goddess” because this dynamic duo was inspired by their Polish background. The ready-to-wear line consists of easy pieces that take you from day to night effortlessly. www.zbogini.com
LEADING MAN
Talent agent turned fashion designer, Jason Mandler knew that fashion was his true calling from the conception of his line, Jason Scott. This Chicago-native blends the casual vibe of his Midwest roots with the cool, laid back lifestyle of LA. This menswear delivers on their promise of comfort with emphasis on fit. www.jasonscottclothing.com
MAD HATTER.
Couture hat designer, Arturo Rios is a visionary beyond his years. As a highly sought after designer amongst celebrities and international royalty, Rios continues to create one-of-a-kind hats that exceed the wildest of imaginations. His pieces have graced the catwalks with the help of supermodels, Tyra Banks and Adriana Lima. His top secret project for Lady Gaga is sure to be over the top! www.arturorios.com
GLAM ROCK.
Go deep inside the creative mind of fashion innovator, Sheri Bodell. This rare self-taught designer took a brilliant but unorthodox approach to her wild fashion career. As a buyer, before becoming a designer, Bodell was able to tap into the hearts and minds of her consumer. Designing all of her fabrics in-house keeps her unique pieces forever individual. With a strong celebrity fan base that includes, Katy Perry, Fergie, Demi Lovato, and Pink, her red carpet pieces are dramatic works of art. www.sheribodell.com
CLASS ACT.
In 2006, Adolfo Sanchez decided it was up to him to take you on a journey where women dare to be strong and different. Always steps ahead of trends, Sanchez’s visionary pieces allow women to embrace a fashion-forward outlook while discovering their true style self. His collections are a culmination of life experiences he’s personally encountered in his travels. www.adolfosanchezdesigns.com
DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH.
Contemporary jewelry designer, Jessica Matrasko is known for accessorizing our favorite celebrities, such as, Rihanna, Vanessa Hudgens, and Lindsay Lohan. After losing her mother to diabetes in 2005, Matrasko turned her hobby into a very successful career. Her jewelry is composed of rough cut gemstones and natural materials that are wrapped in wire by hand, each piece is completely unique. www.jessicamatraskojewelry.com.
THE BAG LADY
Long time luxury handbag collector, Susan Paek was inspired to design the Jessica Grant collection allowing women to own beautiful works of arts. To Paek, “A woman’s handbag is more than an accessory to carry one’s personal belongings. The handbag is an extension of the woman who carries it.” www.jessicagranthandbags.com
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.
With a strong background in costume design, Anthony Franco continues to elevate his talent as a celeb favorite fashion designer. From Angelina Jolie to Snoop Dogg, his designs have no boundaries. Designing for both men and women alike, allows Franco to showcase his brilliant tailoring skills. Red carpet gowns to great tunics and structured suiting to dapper dress shirts, talent like this is hard to find, but beyond admired. www.anthonyfrancodesigns.com
SUIT, SUIT, RIOT.
There is nothing sexier than a man in a well-tailored suit. The guys of Klein, Epstein + Parker know that to have truly iconic style, a man must possess the right combination of fabric and fit. Their made-to-measure approach brings the details into the spotlight. From custom bow ties, to vests, dress shirts, and suits in a variety of colors and patterns, personalizing your individual style has never been easier.
www.kleinepsteinparker.com
SOLE SISTER.
Shoe connoisseur, Kate Ferguson is strutting her high heels into our hearts and closets this year. With a ready-to-wear line and a boutique that will make customizing your own heels a breeze, Ferguson’s elevating her love of heels to a new level. Her use of crystals to feathers and intricate designs, make us fall head over heels in love.
www.kate-ferguson.com