Among the designers featured during Dallas Fashion Week 2012 was Lyza Faye, whose American Couture Collection premiered Wednesday. (Spencer J Eggers/The Daily Campus)

The genius behind Fashion Week Dallas, Mahiri Takai, claims that, for him, fashion is the “staple of artistic expression and the foundation of greatness.” Fashion Week Dallas, Jan. 16 to Jan. 22, was something truly for everyone. Mahiri advises those that aspire to work in fashion that “opportunity is not given, it’s taken.”

DAY 1

With a runway presentation from the SOCIAL list and a preview of Carolina Herrera’s Spring/Summer Collection, Mahiri Takai began with a powerful message. Opening night showcased designers Vanita Tahim and Sidra Zaidi of the SOCIAL list. Accessories from local designers Body Elements and Bootglams complemented their looks. Their menswear collection was equally trendy, with clear military influences. The evening’s highlight was a preview of Carolina Herrera’s Spring/Summer 2012 Collection. The collection was true to Herrera’s signature style, with polished suits and refined dresses. Vibrant hues and playful silhouettes contrasted her signature look with a welcomed youthful flair.

DAY 2

The timeless designs of Binzario Couture and Carpe Diem Bride were showcased. Stunning wedding gowns, styled by Carpe Diem Bride, presented a range of options for bridal style. While the gowns were carefully constructed and had a classic appeal, each was styled uniquely. Models slinked down the runway, clad in their dramatic gowns, as Dallas Drum Djam performed an exceptional drum performance. Binzario Couture exclusively designed the finale dress for FWD, a testament to the significance of Fashion Week Dallas.

DAY 4

Fashion Week Dallas continued with three collections. The first was a collection of headpieces from designer Yvette Lynette Lax of It’s Lynette. Her unique collection featured bold headpieces in animated colors and plenty of floral motifs. The second introduced designer Sophia Clarke of Emmaline. Her collection, with clear tropical influences, had a peaceful vibe that felt both easy and trendy. The last runway show highlighted the Sacred Hearts Collection by Brandi Russell. Her collection was sophisticated yet had a youthful edge, with bubbly electric blue hues, beautiful ruffles and metallic touches.