Again, this is another one that I was dreading calling ( I have had the Flu, honest- I’ve not just been avoiding you!) but really there’s a hands down winner here, all things considered. That said, Nekorifik! has really come into it’s own this year, with Lawra Fredrikkson mad busy building her shopping empire in SL yet still finding the time to produce some pretty nifty garb of her own. Noam Sprocket ( Gritty Kitty) on the other hand needs no introduction to anyone, the guy is a legend and creates the most amazing bags, hairstyles and Neko items that you’ll find anywhere on the grid. He has an ardent band of followers and when a he produces a new release it doesn’t take long until you start to see it being worn by all and sundry across the grid, but that is no bad thing; his pieces are so individual that they can be worn by anyone and still look fresh as a daisy. BUT, there can only be one winner and I’ve concluded that she spends practically ALL her time at her keyboard. If she doesn’t, then she’s either a clone or a doppelganger, because the volume of work from this uber-creatrix is beyond compare. Ivey Deschanel should be viewed as an inspiration by new designers on the grid, as she really has worked her arse off to secure the status that Sn@tch has acquired on the grid. Not only that, she manages to be uber generous with gifts to store visitors and group members alike, and is a perfect example of how to use a distribution group;each week she sends out an essay to members stating what’s new and what bargains are to be had. But that’s all paperwork- the proof of the pudding is in the eating, or in this case, greedy devouring as Sn@tch fashion makes you want to gobble it all down in one fell swoop. Everything in the store is pitched perfectly towards it’s audience, is colourful when it needs to be, and fits like a dream. Not only that, but the ink and skins and shapes and entire range are just so damn wonderful that it’s hard to not be swept along by the gloriousness of it all..no wonder that her store is always busy! Incidentally, if you’re not into Neko or Goth or Grunge…don’t be put off. I’ve found some stunning pieces that can be dressed up, down or just slopped on with a pair of heels and a bag and you would never believe that the finished look started out in Sn@tch.

Ivey Deschanel, you’ve been a source of wonder during 2008- I wonder how you’re going to wow us all in 2009?