Sacramento is in full-blown holiday mode, and fashion plays a big, big role in the festivities.

For parties and galas, we wrap ourselves in fancy fabrics – satin, velvet, etc. – and wedge our tootsies into stilettos and boots that aren't necessarily made for walking.

However, if your holiday closet needs a little oomph, a fashion show next Friday night offers ideas and the opportunity to actually buy something right off the runway.

Local designers will participate in the "Couturians: An Evening of Illustrious Fashion." This is the fourth annual holiday show, and it's grown from five designers to six (2006, 2007) to 11 this year.

One of them, Richard Hallmarq, has participated in every show. He says the annual fashion fest has been a sellout every year, and he anticipates the same on Dec. 5.

"All 11 of us will be putting our best foot forward to show off our collections," Hallmarq says. "What you'll see, however, are 11 different spins on holiday fashions."

The designers will be working with local salons on their models' hair and makeup. And each gets a 10-minute runway presentation.

Afterward, there will be a trunk show where attendees will have the opportunity to peruse the collections – even buy on the spot.

TV personality Bobby Trendy will host; music is being spun by DJ Shaun Slaughter.

The show will take place at midtown's Faces nightclub, 2000 K St. Doors open at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 8.

Let's meet the designers:

Tomicko Abella

Age: 38 From: Sacramento

Day job: Works for Apple Computer Inc.

Design experience: Six years

Inspiration for her collection: "My collection is inspired by 1940s and '50s Hollywood glamour but for a modern-day silhouette. It's both luxurious and edgy. Everything is handmade using a variety of fabrics, including silks and wools and a combination of vintage tulle, slips and lace."

Her favorite things for holiday? "A vintage rhinestone bracelet and necklace given to me by my grandmother. And I love a little black dress."

Dee Aguilar

Age: 25

From: Natomas

Day job: FPI Management Inc. in Folsom

Design experience: Five years

Inspiration for her collection: "I named my collection 'Ice Baby's.' The inspiration comes from a cold, frosted winter night. I'm mixing chiffons and silks with a little bit of knit to keep warm. I went with winter white, arctic blue and silver – intense and cool."

Her favorite things for holiday? "I love winter! It's a fun time to get your hats on because they're very functional, fun and affordable. My favorite is the Juicy Couture wool newsboy beret."

Mercedes Ben

Age: 26

From: Sacramento

Day job: Student at California State University, Sacramento. She's also expecting her first child in a couple of months.

Design experience: Designing since age 14. She's participated in more than 15 shows.

Inspiration for her collection: "Benzo Couture is designed for young ladies and women who use their everyday life as a runway. The 'Midnight Starlet' collection is a mix of dark colors and sparkle. It combines elegance with ready-to-wear for the holidays."

Her favorite things for holiday? "I love setting off any holiday outfit with a pair of sexy diamond-studded heels and a clutch, which make a simple dress instantly glamorous."

Monte Christo

Age: 25

From: Sacramento

Day job: Visual manager for Guess Inc. retail

Design experience: Nine years ("Gosh, it seems like forever!")

Inspiration for his collection: "This collection was inspired by New York City, in particular its architecture and vibrant colors. That's why the cuts and silhouettes are both sharp and simple. I love it because it's very uptown, high fashion streetwear. It's like Audrey Hepburn meets Lil' Kim."

His favorite things for holiday? "My vintage bomber jacket and pitch-black sunglasses."

Richard Hallmarq

Age: 36

From: Sacramento

Day job: Full-time designer

Design experience: Four years

Inspiration for his collection: "My collection is inspired by the legacy of the late Leigh Bowery, who was an Australian performance artist and actor. It doesn't push the envelope, it opens boxes."

Call The Bee's Leigh Grogan, (916) 321-1129.