Who Will be Texas' Next Top Designer?

It's our favorite time of year in Dallas, in spite of the heat. Want to know why? We've got four words for you: Texas' Next Top Designer. This year's winner of the coveted title will be announced shortly, and one lucky label will go from obscurity to fashion obsession in an instant. We can't wait.

The top 20 finalists have been chosen, and during the announcement bash -- happening this Wednesday, June 29 -- each contender will showcase their work on the runway.

Those in the competition represent a cross-section of creative pursuits, and in addition to chic apparel designers,Texas' Next Top Designer also includes jewelers, handbag makers, and lingerie lines.

Previous victors like Abi Ferrin and Megan Summerville have achieved major fashion credibility -- Ferrin's label was recently picked up by Nordstrom -- and their success a testament to the importance of Texas' Next Top Designer. Those who claim the title receive indispensable support to launch their lines via financial grants and in-kind business development assistance, including everything from showroom spaces to resources for collateral production. Not to mention the winner has the chance to network with Texas-based industry leaders thanks to the strong team that makes up Texas' Next Top Designer's board of directors.

We've made our top picks among this year's competitors, and we can't get enough of jewelry by LILAHGABRIEL and the cool clothing from Varela + Brooks.

To attend the announcement gala and check out the designers' looks on the runway, simply buy tickets online. Join the fashionable fun tonight at The Venue, 1500 Dragon Street #D, from 7 to 9 p.m., and don't miss the killer after party at Glass to celebrate the night's winner. We'll see you there.

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