The residency began on January 1, 2012. The Pin Show expects to see growth in its national reach with the introduction of the Artist in Residence Program and affiliation with The Fairmont Dallas, known for its support of the arts.
This year’s Artist in Residence is Isabel Varela, she can be seen crafting her contemporary womenswear line IZAVEL on the “O” level of the hotel from 9am to 5pm every weekday. In addition, The Pin Show will award more than $2000 in awards to individual designers to use towards furthering their independent fashion businesses at this years event.
The high energy annual event has become known for featuring the latest in locally produced, independent fashion on a runway, boasting over 220 looks from more than 38 designers to the deep house sounds of Dallas DJ Demarkus Lewis. Most of the designers are Dallas based, however, this year The Pin Show will feature designers from Houston, Austin, Atlanta, North Carolina and Los Angeles. The Looks for 2012 will include Menswear, Ready to Wear, Evening Wear, Plus Size, Denim, Undergarments and even a Milliner!
While The Pin Show is still the original grassroots show for Independent Designers, the production itself is all grown up. The changes for the 2012 show are incredible under the new creative direction , with 2 giant live feed screens, state of the art sound and lighting, and an 8 foot wide runway, viewers can expect a completely upgraded experience. This fast paced, high energy runway show will also feature two live photoshoots.
Julie McCullough – Executive Producer & Founder
Bryan Embry – Executive Director
The 2012 Team:
Mike Thompson – Creative Director
Steven Wallace – Photography and Film Director
Ashlee Erickson – Hair and Make up Director
Willie Johnson – Talent & Runway Director
The Pin Show gives regional boutiques and buyers an opportunity to view independent lines during one showcase as well as meet with designers and discuss future business opportunities. In addition, guests will have a unique fashion experience that is generally reserved for high-end designers and their clientele. The show has been the first of its kind in the Southwest region to showcase a growing group of slow-fashion designers on one runway for an audience of over 1800 people, ranging from fashion hipsters to Dallas’ influential fashion industry leaders.
2012 Advisory Board
The Pin Show is proud to announce its new advisory board, which will play an important role in selecting the recipients of the Artist in Residence Program and the awarded grant money:
John R. Conte, Vice President of Education of Wade College
Sarah Jane Semrad, Founder of La Reunion TX and Event Producer, Dallas Social Venture Partners
Sharon Lyle, Director of TedxSMU
Stacy Caldwell, President of Dallas Social Venture Partners
Tim Leamy, Operating Partner of Sebastian’s Closet















