Wren

The number one spot on our list of AFW’s Top 10, without a doubt, goes to the action-packed and emotional awards show that brought a great 2011 Austin Fashion Week to a close. The show, hosted by radio personality Kim Iverson, started with a high-energy break dance performance that quickly segued into a celebration of the week’s crème of the crop: the incredibly talented jewelry designer Kendra Scott took the night’s top honor, Best Designer (Industry Choice). Rounding out the evening was Josh Vietti, who wowed us with his offbeat violin renditions of hip-hop tunes.

The closing night event featured four incredible runway shows, each offering something different. An eerily ethereal black-and-white show styled by local boutique owner Gail Chovan was followed up by the international debut of Rory Beca’s Holiday 2011 collection. Michelle Weisman, former head designer for Shoshanna, had the first-ever runway show for her new label, 81 Poppies, in addition to Fall 2011 ensembles from Melissa Coker’s ultra-girly line, Wren.

And after a few more awards, inappropriate jokes and a heartfelt thank you from founder Matt Swinney, AFW came to a close, leaving guests already marking their calendars for 2012.