Utah's fashion scene is known for collecting national nods. Keith Bryce repped the Salty State on "Project Runway" last year by snipping and stitching his way through challenges; his efforts on the show meriting Brooke Shields wearing one of his dresses on "Lipstick Jungle." But that's not where Salt Lake's passion for fashion ends. In addition to yards more nationally-renowned designers, Utah proves its penchant for patterns through bountiful boutiques, as well as runway shows at Salt Lake Community College -- Utah's only college offering a fashion program -- and SLC's monthly Fashion Stroll. Any way you slice it, our local fashion scene is bursting at the seams, which is good news for holiday shoppers. Feast your eyes on decadent designs soon to be offered by Utah retailers this holiday season

1. KRISTA NIELSON

IN's fashion columnist Krista Nielson not only follow fashion, but she also makes it herself. After working in the stock market for 15 years, she left to pursue her dream of designing full-time. Her passion for the art translates into innovative, sophisticated and feminine designs that frequently win awards at Salt Lake Community College fashion shows. She also reveled in the national spotlight when big-brand shoe company Steve Madden liked one of her designs so much, they produced the "Kristaa" boot and sold it in their stores. The accomplished designer says she likes to mix masculine and feminine, often toughening up "girly" looks with menswear patterns like houndstooth and plaid. Look for her holiday season showcase that will combine fitted, uniquely patterned jackets with "fluffy party dresses."

Contact » www.kristanielson.com

2. NAPPI CLOTHING

Danny Nappi's another designer who's making a name nationally. Nappi inked a deal earlier this year to clothe David Archuleta's band and other celebrities, and has showed his stuff at high-profile runway events during Sundance Film Festival and LA Fashion Week. The Salt Laker describes his style as "classic with an edge," and specializes in adding splashes of color to a dominant palette of grays and blacks. This season, be sure to snag a Nappi peacoat and scarf to keep you looking hot in the cold.

Where » 2105 S. Main St. in Salt Lake City

Contact » 801.652.4876, www.nappiclothing.com

3. ALBERT CHLOE

Albert Chloe -- the name a composite of owner Albert Preble and his 19-year-old daughter Chloe who works at the store -- might sell bags that could break the bank, but the sophisticated shop makes sure to accommodate the bargain hunter. 80 percent of the boutique's merchandise is under $80, thus hedging the price points between upscale statement pieces and affordable women's clothing. And here's a first: The classy clothier leases their delicious, made-in-Italy bags for as little as $100 a month. For the holidays, opt for warm colors and floral patterns sure to bring out the socialite in every woman.

Where » 1510 S. 1500 East in Salt Lake City

Contact » 801-486-0300, www.albertchloe.com

4. URBAN OUTFITTERS

The game's in the name when it comes to the metropolitan designs found at Urban Outfitters. Though it's a national chain, Urban Outfitters makes our holiday hotlist by offering unique clothing that's worshipped by hipster trendsetters and casual city-dwellers alike. This season, it's all about warmth as the store stocks its shelves with luxuriously thick scarves, woven tights and retro gloves.

Where » 12 S. 400 West in Salt Lake City

Contact » 801.456.2455, www.urbanoutfitters.com

5. LEONE COLLECTION

Want a custom Italian suit for a wholesale price? Talk to Roberto Leone, the designer behind Leone Collection custom suits. Starting at $450, Leone's men's and women's suits can be tailored from slim-fit to classic. Funky interior prints and personalized embroidery see to it that these suits are anything but uniform.

Where » 3667 Highland Drive in Salt Lake City

Contact » 801.466.7189, www.leonecollection.com