Michelle du Pont
Washington native Michelle du Pont has been designing jewelry for years that has been featured in Saks Fifth Avenue and Vivre catalogues. Her style is constantly evolving and this fall's collection incorporates pearl jewelry, as well as her usual bold stones, in necklaces and bracelets that can be worn as cuffs. Harlequin Freshwater Pearl Choker and Cuff Bracelet, $1250 and $525. Available at Michelle du Pont studio, 703-847-7901.

Stephanie Fornash

Stephanie Fornash thanks her former employer, Accenture, for her current success. Their sabbatical program allowed her to take an eight-month sojourn to St. Thomas where she was inspired by the tropical vibe. Upon her return, she began creating bags with bamboo handles and bright colors. Their popularity, (plus being laid off) led her to grab a seasonal lease at the Georgetown Park Mall, and to try turning her hobby into a profession. Business has been great and she extended her lease and her product line, Fornash Designs, which now includes belts, visors and funky jewelry.

www.FornashDesigns.com Kate Spade calf-skin bag in pink, $395, available at Neiman Marcus.

Chantal Wienecke

For designer and first-time mom Chantal Wienecke, finding a diaper bag that combined fashion and function proved to be a fruitless quest, that is until she took matters into her own hands - literally, and began to make bags for both the maternal and mod. This tote is from her fall collection, which features many exciting fabrics, not all of which have monkey s on them! Palm Springs Monkey tote, $75.

www.monkeygeardesigns.com

Pink Dot

From the "Whimsical, Chic, Elegant" line of evening bags by Pink Dot Handbags. Designers Jeff Akseizer and Mary Amons are incorporating modern fabrics and designs with vintage pieces. They have recently launched this fashionable venture that also includes custom-made stationery.

www.pinkdothandbags.com

Purveyor

Purveyor is Modern. American. Luxe. That's how Mark Dillingham describes Purveyor, the womenswear label he's designed for over three years. While starting with day and eveningwear, Purveyor now focuses on cocktail and evening looks, trying to bring a bit of the sexiness of Gucci and Versace, "at prices that won't make you faint" and that can be worn by women of all ages. (888) 383-4022 or visit www.PurveyorUSA.com

Allison Priebe Brooks

Allison Priebe Brooks, while working for United States Senator Max Cleland, began creating jewelry made from distinct pieces she was not finding anywhere. After selling numerous necklaces right off of her neck, she decided it was time to turn her passion into her business. Necklaces like this bronze freshwater pearl with mother-of-pearl shell pendant, $90, are helping to build the buzz on Queen Bee Designs.

www.queenbeedesigns.com