CFW Emerging Designer Competition: Top 3

Charleston Fashion Week kicked off Tuesday night with the Emerging Designer Competition, where eight designers from the Southeast battled it out Project-Runway-style. Each of them worked diligently for months making sure that their collection was runway ready, and most didn't disappoint. Out of eight designers, three were chosen to move on in the competition. Each are being forced to take on one final design challenge before a winner is decided. The three remaining designers include Barbara Beach Children's Ready-to-wear, Jamie Lin Snyder Women's Ready-to-wear, and Larika Page Women's Ready-to-wear.

Runway Re-cap - (Tuesday night at Charleston Fashion Week)

Barbara Beach presented a collection filled with simple, sweet, and stylish frocks and separates that any little girl would want to covet. The audience filled the tent with oohs and awws as the adorable munchkin models strutted on the runway.

Jamie Lin Snider presented a collection of dresses, rompers, and jackets that exuded sophistication and glamour. I really fancied the one legged dress/romper, and the raised collar coat. I thought her designs were innovative and fresh, she showed a great balance between modern and feminine.

Larika Page showed us looks inspired by Miami Beach in the 40's. I loved her use of fun bold colors and great spring prints in addition to pieces with tulle overlays that created a soft and feminine touch.

The Emerging Designer Competition is nothing to write off, the success from past CFW ED has proven itself times over. Carol Hannah Whitfield, competed in the Emerging Designer Competition in 2008. She recently went on to compete in the hit reality show Project Runway, almost winning it! She is now back in the low country, showcasing her latest Bridal collection today at CFW. Marysia Reeves swimsuit designer, won the CFW ED competition last year, and she too has had great things come from it. Her swimsuit line Marysia was recently picked up by Urban Outfitters and one of her bathing suits was featured in the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue (2010). Maryisa is also back in Charleston as CFW show-ender tonight under the tents.

The 3 lovely ladies will be duking it out as the winner is revealed tonight at the last night of Charleston Fashion Week. I wish them all the best of luck! Winner or not I am sure great things will come of this, for all of them!

[ Photo credit: King Street Studios]