Twice each year, the Big Apple transforms into a Mecca for designers, press, bloggers, and shoppers from around the world. Despite shifting venues and ongoing controversies, the three-ring runway circus that is New York Fashion Week continues to symbolize all that is haute in our crazy fashion world.  

  To be sure, reaching New York Fashion Week – a.k.a. NYFW and formerly known as Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week - represents a major achievement for any designer. Producing a runway show during these two particularly prestigious weeks in February and September equals a benchmark in the journey of any apparel or accessories brand. Earlier this month, three Dallas-based designers rocked NYFW catwalks, doing our city proud. Favorites of DFW Style Daily, each presented a unique take on Spring 2016, while representing the Big D in sensational style. Read on for the scoop.   Binzario Couture Known for gala gowns, intricate details, and nuanced neutral palettes, Andre Yabin and Luis Nazario are the talented team behind Dallas-based Binzario Couture. Entitled simply White, the brand’s SS16 collection was presented at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre to a crowd which doubled attendance predictions. From bridal to cocktail, a total of 20 looks floated through the airy, light-filled venue. “Showing at New York Fashion Week is a huge milestone, and one of the most exhilarating experiences in our career,” said Yabin, following this first-time NYFW show.  

    Allison Mitchell Rising like a rocket, accessory designer Allison Mitchell presented her latest and greatest at the Lilac Gallery on 5th Avenue. This NYFW show came less than a year – you heard us right – after the launch of her luxe line. In fact, you may have spotted Allison Mitchell’s fabulous fold-over clutches first on DFW Style Daily. Those signature bags featured in her Empire City debut, as well as new spiked styles and amazing Amazon river fish clutches. Said Mitchell of the show, “The press was great, and the experience was great, but what I will remember most is that my friends came to support me.”  

    Esé Azénabor Finally, making her second appearance at NYFW, Esé Azénabor dazzled press and buyers at the Affinia Manhattan with her Garden of Eden collection for SS16. A staggering 42 looks included dresses, jumpsuits, and rompers, asserting the designer’s signature beading, embroidery, and hand-painted prints. In a word, wow. “We worked on this collection for six months leading to the show,” Azénabor, who could steal the spotlight from any runway model, explained. “The whole experience was extremely stressful, but it was absolutely worth it. It was truly a dream come true - and more.”  

  All images credit Thomas Garza Photography.