DC Fashion Week is the largest exhibition of fashion apparel in the District of Columbia. The designers of DC Fashion Week are an eclectic group of designing talent who come from around the globe. From the high fashion capitol of New York City, to the exotic coasts of New Zealand, to the exquisite city life of Belgium, they taking the nation's capital by storm.

 

 

Amore - Designer and owner Benny Osamor has been a milliner for many years. Originally from the United Kingdom by way of Nigeria , she is now based in the Washington , DC area. On display at her retail location in Silver Spring , Maryland , Benny designs a variety of hats from casual to formal to highly flamboyant. Clients state that her hats transform them from feeling ordinary to feeling like elegant celebrities.The Official First Lady Hat Designer for several churches, Benny is also commissioned to design for theater presentations in the metropolitan area.

 

 

BethelHelena - is a Fashion House launched by two Eritrean sisters, Bethel and Helen Adhanom. Fusing classy, elegant designs with edge and sass, the BethelHelena line is made for any woman who wants to exude originality. While the couture designers specialize in Evening Wear, their collections include a range of casual and business wear, as well as bridal

 

Betsey Johnson - New York designer Betsey Johnson has built her long-standing career in fashion by following her own set of rules. Known for her celebration of the exuberant, the embellished, and the over the top, Betsey has been rocking the fashion industry with her unique and original designs since the 1960. Her commitment to remain true to her one-of-a-kind vision has afforded Betsey continued success in an industry known for its fickleness. Her ability to change with the times while keeping her designs pure has not gone unnoticed. At the 1999 CFDA Awards, Betsey was presented The Timeless Talent Award created especially for her, which recognized her influence on fashion throughout her career.

 

Bonnidacci - Several college students founded Bonidacci Bionzo the clothing company in 1994 in the Nations Capitol. After months of working independently, these students, with the guidance from their Marketing Professor, united their individual companies together and formed one Company. After an immediate success of this merger, these students in return paid respect to their Professor by naming the company after the Professor's mentor. After a few vowel changes, the company was trademarked as Bonidacci Bionzo. Today when asked, these former students and present day designers view the name Bonidacci Bionzo as (Embracing our Diversity), for that our clothing has been embraced by all nationalities, sexes, age groups and social statues. So if ever asked by someone what the name is or the meaning of the clothes you are wearing, just say it means "Be Original Never Ignore Diversity Adversity Culture Courage Integrity" in other words (Embrace Diversity). Having a great success with the line of shirts retailed as Vonteff in the early 90's Mr. Calhoun partnered with a follow businessmen Mr. Newman and began producing the line Bonidacci Bionzo in 1994. With the immediate success of the introduction of Bonidacci Bionzo in 1994 and 1995, both Calhoun and Newman traveled the United States at all the major trade shows with their line Bonidacci Bionzo. After several years of what seemed to be nonstop traveling both Calhoun and Newman returned to the Nations Capitol where they opened their own Bonidacci Bionzo stores in Maryland areas Forestville, Waldorf, and Landover Hills. Today you can find Bonidacci in almost every shopping mall in Maryland and Virginia.

 

 

 

 

Dee 's Fashions - This Richmond Designer inherited her talent from her grandmother. She states her grandmother could make anything. She never used a pattern. At the age of nine, Dee started making doll clothes, and then she started making clothes for sister and for herself. A self-taught seamstress who loves fashion design, Dee feels that she has been bless with a gift from God. A gift that has enabled her to build a strong clientele, in the Richmond area, Dees Fashions is a favorite at proms and weddings.

 

Descai - There aren't many words used to describe a fashion house as unique as DESCAI, but Distinctive, Elegance, Style, Class, Attitude and Intrigue were a few of the words chosen. Recognized for their glamour and creativity, Devon Jones and Brandon Boardley have made a trademark of their theory that simplistic extravagance goes a long way. They are two designers which know how to interpret world-wide fashion and make it their own and are known for beautiful garments and highly themed shows. The Descai brand was created in 2002 and has since become well-known in the Baltimore-Metropolitan Area. Their design studio is located in the historic community of Bolton Hill where the two designers collaborate to make history/magic. With the motto "Descai is the limit," where else is there to go but up? Descai comes equipped with the drive to withstand the many obstacles of the fashion business.

 

 

Diallo DeJaun - is an up-scale designer label, which specializes, in creating and manufacturing haute couture and ready-to-wear (RTW). DialloDeJaun is based in Loundoun County in the Washington , DC area. Diallo DeJaun has an haute couture house in Rome , Italy . Our local presences ensure that only the best fabrics in the world are used alongside natural artistic ability. Diallo DeJaun's mission is to bring unique style and creativity to our couture and ready-to-wear (RTW) product that will inspire and empower fashion to the next level. Inspired by bold diversity, we are dedicated to providing and attracting a new look for our high-end clientele, based on sophistication and the quality of our fabrics.

D-Maxsi -Designer Afua A. Sam's passion for designing began in her home country of Ghana. Her inspiration came from her extensive travel to exotic places in the world. Other influences include old classic designs from the U.K. and Hollywood glamour, and hip hop in America. She is very popular with local high schools, where scores of young women commission her for a unique prom dress.She specializes in creating clothes embodying the concept of individuality or uniqueness, and classy and sassy styling.

Donita Vann of Philadelphia - currently residing in the Washington DC metropolitan area has been in the business for more than 25 years.She started making her own clothes by turning her jeans into skirts by sewing them hand by hand. Soon she was making them for everyone, and started her own business, To Top it Off! by donita. She has been featured in seven fashion layouts for Sisters in Style Magazine. She has sewn for many celebrities such as the late Phyllis Hyman, Patti Labelle, Janice Combs (PDiddy's Mom) Teddy Pendergrass, Ananda Lewis (BET/MTV). She has also done many shows for FIT, Parsons School of Designs , Ballys Casino and Fashion Cafe.

Earle Bannister - self-taught designer and acclaimed couture fashion designer teamed with two other designers in 2004 to open Park Avenue Custom Design Center. A couture design center where he specializes in custom-made and couture apparel, formal wear, bridal wear, and suits for men and women. Since the beginning of his career, he has been given many credits, awards, accolades, achievements, and commissions. Some of them are: Featured Designer in The Absolut Africa Tour in the USA, The National Congressional Black Caucus Fashion Shows, and The Bronner Brothers Hair and Fashion Shows. Additionally, his designs have been seen on The Ricki Lake Show, The Jenny Jones Show, and Homicide. His celebrity clients include: Dru Hill, Ultra Nate, 4pm, The Choir Boyz, Sommore, and The Man of the Year 2004 for John Blassingame.

Elantes Clothing - has been turning heads and building a reputation for innovation, collaboration, and creativity by infusing the energy of art and music in every piece of the collection. More than just an average clothing line, Elantes makes a statement without pigeon-holing the consumer. At a glance, you won't say, this person is from NY, DC, Miami , or LA.You are only going to know that they are one step ahead, on the cutting edge of music, art, and fashion.

 

 

Emore'J Couture - started in Washington , D.C at the senior high school of F.W. Ballou . His business has branched off to various venues and clients in the DC/MD/VA area. With goals of becoming an International entrepreneur, his role models inspiring him are Sean Combs and Tyra Banks. Now at the age of 19 and producing 4 successful fashion shows seating over 400 people, owning his own clothing line, full time attendance at the University of the District of Columbia for Business Management, and working a part time job, Emore'J say's "It's still not enough, until I become a mainstream success!"

Evocative! Designs - creator and owner, Jeri S. Wood is a 31 year old female designer who has been designing women's clothing for 15 years. Still residing in her hometown of Baltimore , Maryland , Jeri participates in local fashion shows within the Baltimore , Washington D.C. area as well as out of state events. She specializes in unique and individual clothing that brings out the sexuality in all women. Jeri is very popular with young women (17 - 25) because of proms and fashion shows. However, she makes clothing for all ages, specializing in sizes 0 - 16.

Fatou Mata - Pierre Cardin's spiritual daughter and for glamour's side : Versace. In some words an aristocratic-looking collection. This Belgium designer is quoted as saying she works on identities, codes, symbols all this is translated in beauty, proportions, know-how haute couture. The critics agree, often gracing the fashion editorial pages of numerous European publications, Identity is one of France's couturiers making her mark. DCFASHIONWEEK is the first to bring this talented designer to premier her collection in the United States .

 

 

J-Bri - Designs Debrah Sterling has designed clothing for prestigious fashion shows such as Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington D.C. , For You Bridal Magazine in Philadelphia , PA , Miss Black USA in Miami , FL and the National Association of Fashion and Accessory Designers (NAFAD of Philadelphia). She uses fabrics that flow softly such as silk, georgette and rayon. J-Bri Designs located in Chester , PA right outside of Philadelphia , and carries a collection, which consist of Evening, Bridal and reconstructed Denim wear from sizes 2 to 22. J-Bri is dedicated to the memory of her son John and daughter Bria who inspired her to be the best that she can be.

 

JD7 Couture - JD7 Couture isa fashion house owned by Mrs. Data Okorodudu,a seasoned fashion designer based in Nigeria Data officially exploded into the fashion scene about 3 yrs ago and has since then specialized in high fashion and couture outfits. Her creative master pieces have adorned and graced the bodies of top Nigerian celebrities both at home and abroad. She singlehandedly created and revolutionized the use of African fabric such as ankara, akwete, tie& dye and aso-oke and turned them into high fashion designs. Her creativity and unique style prompted Nokia to hand pick her to launch their L'amour series (fashion hand sets) in Nigeria. Data will present to you her Couture Collection for 2007.

 

Kammaze - Ms. Ali Muhammad's professional experience includes many different areas in the Textile and Apparel industry. After learning the basic techniques of clothing design, Khaleelah worked with various materials to design various products. As sole proprietor of Khaleelah's Kollections and veteran long involved in the seamstress/designer trade, Khaleelah's seamstress and design experience is vast; from producing apparel for professional athletes to the full development and production of children's wear, his and her wear, ladies evening and business wear. Khaleelah was involved in every aspect of clothing design and production and enjoyed considerable success; however, she became interested in "ripaway"

 

Knaf Couture - Kayda Nana Afriyie Frimpong of KNAF COUTURE graduated from college with a B.F.A. in fashion design and marketing, and is an extremely proficient up and coming fashion designer from Ghana, West Africa. Highly stylish, custom-made and original, KNAF COUTURE clothes are designed to accentuate the female figure and make you look twice. Afriyie of KNAF COUTURE derives much of her inspiration from her home country, its culture and its textiles. She is also inspired by fashion greats like Jean Paul Gaultier, Coco Chanel, Dolce and Gabbana, John Galliano and Anna Sui. Afriyie counts her work as an intern for Anna Sui, as well her participation in the designer's Spring 05 showing at New York Fashion Week as one of the highlights of her career. Although relatively new, KNAF COUTURE has already garnered a following and has been featured in Florida runway shows such as the No Limit Fashion Show. It has also been showcased on the ABC Nightly News and in newspapers such as the Tampa Tribune. It is this ensemble of inspiration, experience and raw talent that make KNAF COUTURE clothes such an eclectic blend of genres, cultures and trends. KNAF COUTURE succeeds at finding that very elusive but much sought-after place where the distinctively swanky and the wearable come together.

 

Konstantina Mittas - Fiercely individual and totally fearless, Konstantina Mittas' new "bytinaxxx" Summer 05/06 collection, inspired by the spaghetti westerns of maverick 60's director Sergio Leone, has been celebrated for finally bringing Couture to the denim generation and is sought after in the UK (Harrods), in multiple stores across the USA (New York, San Francisco, LA and Florida), Canada (TNT voted British Vogues "best" store in Toronto), and Taiwan. In the spirit of Leone's iconic Once upon a time in the West, the new bytinaxxx range is an adventurous combination of Wild West bordello sophistication and outlaw style. Taking its cues from the stars of the film (the sexy widow, Claudia Cardinale and slick gunfighter, Dollar Dawson), the Summer 05/06 collection contrasts curvaceous denim corsetry complete with detachable bustles, which are given a contemporary twist in black, petrol, and desert hues with a hint of sunset pink thrown in for good measure, and seriously hard-edged Pony Express accents in rock wash denim. All bytinaxxx fabrics and patterns have been designed by Konstantina and are exclusive to her designs. Anostalgic nod to Saloon girls and gun-toting heroes of the Wild West, bytinaxxx's boldly original Summer 05/06 collection is destined to take fashionistas by storm the world over.

 

 

Kiwi Couture - Kathleen P. Newton, renowned New Zealand fashion designer has been designing for the past 20 years. She has worked in various countries around the world including Cairo , Egypt , where her label Cocktails was a big hit with the modern young Egyptian women. Kathy designs under her label 'Kiwi'. The name derives from the national bird of New Zealand . Kathy's designs are modern, sleek, feminine, innovative and sometimes moving towards funky.

 

Kustom Looks -Kustom Looks Clothier is a minority owned custom tailoring company that specializes in creating custom apparel for men and women.Our expert haberdashers and master tailors use a precise measuring system to design apparel fit to form. With over 3,000 fabrics to choose from, our extensive inventory affords you the highest quality designs at affordable prices.

As President and Founder of Kustom Looks, Kwab Asamoah, recognized a market niche in the absence of upscale retail stores and tailoring services in Prince Georges County . Asamoah has created a measuring system that is unique from other tailors. Kustom Looks designs are built on a numerical measurement system derived from Asamoah's knowledge of Physics and Engineering.  Kustom Looks Clothier specializes in making apparel for physiques of all types.

Leona Edmiston - is called Australia's first lady of frocks. Celebrities who have been frocked by Leona Edmiston include: Kristin Davis, Elle MacPherson, Tyra Banks, Bonnie Hunt, Sophie Okonedo, Rebecca Broussard, Melissa George , Emmanuelle Vaugier, Toni Collette, Kylie Minogue, Helena Christiansen, Sean Young, Rachel Perry, Kelly Carlson, and Rebecca Loos. Leona made her mark in fashion in the 80s and 90s as one half of the internationally acclaimed design duo of Morrissey Edmiston, dressing such celebrities as Nicole Kidman, Toni Collette, Kylie Minogue and Helena Christensen to name a few.. Now, six smashing collections later, the dresses have garnered critical acclaim and a growing presence with more than 140 prestige retailers around the world, including Browns, London ; Barney's New York , Japan ; Selfridges - London and Texas 's Tootsies. There are five Leona Edmiston boutiques in Australia , and the label's flagship U.S. store has just opened on Santa Monicas' Montana Avenue .

L~Shandi was created from a Nigerian street slang "Lepa Shandi". Lepa Shandi is the term for women whose clothing, outfit, or ensemble has flattering and sexy fit. So if a guy sees you and says "look at her...lepa shandi or l~shandi", take it as a compliment and enjoy it. 

 

Lara was born and grew up in Nigeria which is where she gained the inspiration for her designs "Having always wanted to be individual in everything I did, I have tried to change things up and stand out. I am fascinated by vintage designs and some of creations have vintage influences.  L~Shandi designs are a mix of western designs with traditional African fabrics in a way that gives you the freedom to create your own look by integrating them with your existing wardrobe.

 

 

Millers Furs - For 84 years, internationally renowned Miller's Furs has met the fashion needs of discerning women. Family-owned and operated with outstanding personal service, Miller's Furs features a complete and extensive collection of furs, shearlings, specialty outerwear, and accessories. Distinctive apparel and complete support services have been their trademark since 1921.

 

Motlapele - "Motlapele" is a Setswana name which meanst "first comer". It is the brand for couture which embodies being African and specifically being a Motswana (Botswana citizen). it captures, depicts, and epitomizes interactions and experiences of a Motswana with other citizens of the world. Basically portrays what iit is like to be aMostswana South Africa, USA and China etc. The epitome of human freedom is able to be yourself, wear what you feel and be the best at being yourself. Motlapele and its sister brands are aimed at inspiring freedom in being yourself.

 

NAWA -The Nilgiris Adivasi Welfare Association (NAWA) is a registered charitable and secular organization working for the welfare and development of the tribal people of the Nilgiris and adjoining areas.  It has been involved in welfare work for over 40 years.

Renee France Designs- Renee enjoys designing clothing and outerwear for women & children who are on the go. Utilizing interesting colors, textures and shapes to build an exciting piece of work. Starting at an early age, using her Barbie Doll in elementary school to set if off. She began crocheting after learning the craft as a means to keep her busy, naturally taking these skills to the next level. Renee France Designs specializes in Special Occasion, Active wear & Outerwear for all sizes.

Stella Bonds - StellaBonds is an exciting new label from the Nation's Capital. A graduate of design programs in both the US and Europe. StellaBonds unifies old world craftsmanship and elegance with new world style and sensibilities. Centered on men's sportswear and high-end women's shoes, the designer Stella, is a native of Bogota, Colombia, who blends her sensual and sophisticated South American roots with the vision and vitality of her experiences living in the US. The line features bold, brilliant, unique designs.

Troy Artis - At the tender age of ten, Troy Artis designed and stitched a suit for his grandmother that she proudly wore to a wedding, crooked seams and all. After high school, he attended FIT Fashion Institute of Technology. While there he received hands on training interning at clothing companies in the garment district of NY. Artis worked as designer for GirlyGear and YTLA. Artis gained valuable experience in the fashion industry by working with leading edge designers Helen Smith of AllWhite, Robert Rosario, and Robin Tyler Couture. The Studio Artis line of clothing can be purchased at: Lucky You in CA, Old and New in Chicago, GiGi Studio in NY and Artis Boutique in DC.

Valentina Vidrascu - Born in Republic of Moldova , Eastern European country, Valentina Vidrascu was brought up in the best of Moldovan cultural traditions. The knit village community and the natural surrounding beauty of the Moldovan countryside contributed to bringing out some of the best qualities in Valentina.. During that period of life she acquired the keen feeling of color, fabric, and style, which helped her achieve success as a designer later on. In Chisinau (capital of the Republic of Moldova ) Valentina attended the State University , Philology Department however her true passion remained to be the, now called, fashion industry. Valentina is a proud mothers of two successful young men also the director of the agency "Viva Models" in Chisinau , Moldova . Her goal is to promote the Moldovan traditions on the international level through her designs inspired by the national costume worn by the country's ancestors for centuries."

Yndigo Designs - style is a fusion of ethnic and contemporary elements resulting in ethno-chic works of art. Inspired by geometric shapes, music, and all things cultural, she creates pieces that have a distinct identity and enhance a woman's individual style. Yndigo Designs was awarded Best Indie Women's Accessory (Jewelry) at the 2003 Indie Fashion Awards, and nominated (in 2004) for the Fashion Group International's 8th Annual Rising Star Awards Accessories.

Zagodi Fashion- Operated by Mohamed, a renowned fashion designer from Cote d'Ivoire, "Zagodi" represents the traditional name of his wife Sandrine. He has more than 22 years of progressive and diverse experience in clothing design and is considered as one of the most outstanding fashion designers in the Washington, DC area. He is known by diplomatic personalities such as Her Excellency Dr. Inonge Mbikusita-Lewanika, Ambassador of the Republic of Zambia to the U.S., who has chosen Mohamed to be her unique designer. In addition, the international composer, songwriter, producer and singer Kaysha is one of his model and spokesperson. Last, but not least, Mohamed was the exclusive designer of the Miss Africa International Pageant for two consecutive years (2004 and 2005). His signature is to provide a combination of traditional and modern tendencies, inspired by African Prints and Western textiles, available at Zagodi Fashion's boutique.

Zula Studio
Designer Zula Khramov was born in Astrakhan, Russia, in a family with a strong sewing background. She graduated from Moscow Academy of Design in 1991 and in 1995 she moved to the U.S. In 2001 she started herown business, specializing in custom designs and restyling of clothes. In 2005, she started a line of women clothes, named ZULA, which debuted on November 27, 2005,as a part of guest performance in the International Designer of the Year Contest show, New Jersey. Designing is my way of expressing the beauty of a women, my passion and my pleasure.

 

 

Additional information is available on designers including their websites, contact and showroom information. Contact us for details.