Guest blogger Jamie Baker is an attorney with Thompson Coe and a past board member of Texas Next Top Designer.

Judging the Top Twenty proved to be quite a challenge with so many diverse and talented contestants.  Proverbial cats tried to make their way out of the bag, but they didn’t get far.  Rumors and speculation swirled like martinis.  The truth is, everyone is just anxious and excited to find out who will win this year’s “Top Designer” crown.

Luckily, the wait is nearly over.

On Wednesday, June 29, 2011, the Texas Next Top Designer Announcement Gala will be held in the Dallas Design District at Em the Venue from 7-10 p.m.  Em the Venue is located at 1500 Dragon Street, #D, Dallas, TX 75207.  The Gala will feature all Top Twenty finalists from around the state.  The event is open to the public.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the runway show starts at 8:30 p.m.  Beats by DJ OB-Jen and Juice – voted a D Magazine best DJ in Dallas.  Cocktails by Belvedere Vodka There will also be an after party at Glass, 1899 McKinney Ave..

This event is unlike any runway show Dallas has ever seen, with today’s independent Texas designers’ fashions hitting the catwalk.  Of course, the crowd will bestow honors on the new winner while meeting and mingling with Texas’ new faces of fashion.  The event provides an opportunity to support your favorite Texas designers and the non-profit Texas Next Top Designer organization that makes this all happen.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.texasnexttopdesigner.org Student tickets are $25 with proper I.D. at the door (standing only).  General tickets are $45 (standing only).  VIP tickets are $75 and include full access to all VIP lounges, VIP seating, swag bag & VIP access to the after party at Glass.