Several top designers who will be showing their spring 2014 looks at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in a few days are headed to Houston.
Fashion Houston has released a stellar lineup of eclectic international designers who will appear before the city's fashion faithful at the Wortham Theater Center Nov. 12-15. Organizers are also in serious negotiations with a premier U.S. designer to bring his collection to the Bayou City for the fall fashion extravaganza and hope to make that announcement soon.
Among those confirmed to hit the Houston runway with collections directly from New York are:
The New Zealand-born designer is known for feminine styles with soft silhouettes, sophisticated detailing, unconventional color combinations and unique embellishment. Among her celebrity clients are Alexa Chung, Reese Witherspoon, Rashida Jones and Emmy Rossum. Taylor has added shoes, handbags and jewelry to her growing fashion empire.
Influenced by Jean-Paul Gaultier and Azzedine Alaïa, both of whom she worked closely with, the French-born designer launched her label in 2007. Two years later she won the coveted CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Her designs are known for subtle sexiness and style. First lady Michelle Obama is among her fans.
Born and raised in Israel of French-Moroccan descent, Azrouël launched his women's wear label in 1998. Known for ultra-feminine, modern styles and expert draping, he added a contemporary line called Cut25 in 2010. He will show both collections at Fashion Houston.
Born and raised on the east coast of India, Mohapatra was design director for J. Mendel before launching his own label in 2009. Known for sumptuous eveningwear in eye-catching colors, he previously made an appearance at Fashion Houston in 2011.
A 30-year fashion industry veteran, Miller is known for sexy, yet classic, styles in bold colors and futuristic fabrics. She designs several high-end collections that are favorites of such celebrities as Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Joss Stone and Jordin Sparks. as well as a more moderately-priced collection for JC Penney. With Texas roots (she was born in Fort Worth before her family moved to Massachusettes), she was a big hit at the recent Women of Wardrobe fundraiser at Tootsies.
Also on the Fashion Houston schedule are South African-born designer Catherine Deane, a rising star in evening couture and bridal gowns; Talbot Runhof, an American/German duo known for creating womenʼs resort and sportswear in bright hues and whimsical patterns, London-based designer Marios Schwab, Wall Street investor-turned-menswear designer Zachary Prell, and Chris Knott for Peter Millar, a distinctive menswear collection emphasizing classic American style.
Local favorites David Peck and Chloe Dao will also showcase their collections as well as Episcopal High School student Amir Taghi, who will be showing in the emerging designer category.
Tickets for Fashion Houston 2013 go on sale Sept. 10. Tickets range in price from $24 - $274, with VIP ticket upgrades available. Visit FashionHouston.net for more information.
Chloe Dao at Fashion Houston in 2012
Texas-based artist Kyle Steed adds to the local appeal of the new Highland Village store. Photos courtesy of Lululemon 
