By Katherine Limon, My Signature Look

When D.C. lost über-cool Unsung Designers last December to New York City, the fashion community was heartbroken. The boutique's claim on emerging designers introduced local fashionistas to a world of hip culture and couture. It was a refuge for bold, funky, and edgy styles that attracted even the shiest of characters. Thankfully, online sales are still possible but if a shopping excursion to New York is not in your future, then where does that leave the designers? The departure may have left L.A.-based designers Stephanie Verrières and Kimi Sako of Verrières-Sako without a second home, but the duo wants to ensure D.C. fashionistas are well stocked with their film noir-inspired collection of pencil skirts and cocktail dresses.

"We fell in love with D.C. and were sad to learn that the store was closing," Verrières said recently from her California design studio. "We would really like to be in the D.C. [retail] market."

And there is plenty of room. The designers' skill for manipulating fabric to create dramatic lines as demonstrated in the double collar blouse or signature defined waist dress appeals to the femme fatale gone glam. The organza dress coats worn over a sultry little cream dress would be the perfect attire for a night at the Kennedy Center. The collection's palette of neutral hues and quality fabrics, which includes bamboo, invokes elegance and sophistication – a perfect description of the modern D.C. woman.

In the months to come, Verrières-Sako plans to return to D.C. to participate in trunk shows. In the meantime, My Signature Look, a local wardrobe consulting company, has acquired items from the collection for private viewings. My Signature Look held the first viewing last week to rave reviews by clients and colleagues.

The District's recent expansion of boutiques and couture living appears ripe for an Unsung Designer replacement, if not the answer to emerging designers east-coast hub.

Contact My Signature Look at 202-445-0590 or katherine@mysignaturelook.com to schedule an appointment to view the collection. Offer is available through the month of February 2008.