Background
Her namesake collection led her company to receive the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Award, the Cartier Women's Initiative Award, as well as extensive coverage in Vogue, Elle, WWD, and other magazines.

Strengths
Angel's not afraid to use innovative materials to create fun and flashy looks for women on the go.

Weaknesses
She believes life is more about the journey than the destination. But in a game where there's only one prize, she needs to prove that she's in it to win it.

Background
After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design, Anna moved to New York City and launched her own knitwear line, "Annabelle NYC." She currently teaches Fashion Merchandising.

Strengths
She can make a statement with daring bright colors and quirky details.

Weaknesses
Anna may not believe that money means power and thin means beautiful, but raging against the machine doesn't always lead to inspired garments.

Background
After completing a BFA with Honors from London College of Fashion, Daniella worked with industry greats such as Luca Luca, Les Chiffoniers, Alexander McQueen.

Strengths
She's perfected the modern, edgy look and adds a punk flair that's just fun enough to be fabulous.

Weaknesses
She's still young and relatively inexperienced in the fashion industry.

Background
After attending architecture school in his home country Honduras, Merlin became head designer of his own label. Celebrity clients include Paula Abdul, N' Sync, Paris Hilton, and Marilyn Manson.

Strengths
His designs have an aesthetic that's uniquely "Merlin," and his flare for eccentric style could make him one of the competition's biggest threats.

Weaknesses
He isn't a team player -- which may cause conflicts with competitors. And conflicts don't help to make great clothes.

Background
Approaching his tenth year as a freelance designer, Reco owns the studio 423 Clothing Boutique of Chattanooga and is the creative director of "The House of Chapple," his own lifestyle line.

Strengths
After years of climbing industry ranks, his need to prove himself as a design genius might kick him into high gear and take him to the top.

Weaknesses
Reco's larger-than-life personality might distract from his designs.

Background
Having conquered the world of designer underwear, Andrew started his own brand, "Andrew Christian" in 1997.

Strengths
If he maintains his confidence, he'll be hard to intimidate.

Weaknesses
He's a perfectionist, who's prone to throw fits if things don't go his way.

Background
Markus graduated with a BA Honors in Fashion Design and Marketing from the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London. He is currently the Fashion Director at Nolcha magazine, and working on his label, MARKUS KETTY.

Strengths
His impressive resume and commercial success prove that he's already a winner in the fashion industry.

Weaknesses
If he creates commercialized cookie-cutter clothes we've seen before, they'll likely be overshadowed by more daring competitors.

Background
After finishing two Bachelor Degrees in women's wear, James-Paul worked for Vivienne Westwood, perfecting his "post-colonialist" approach to fabrication and silhouette.

Strengths
He pushes the limits of fashion to the breaking point without coming apart at the seams.

Weaknesses
There's nothing wrong with trial and error, but there's no room for mistakes in competition.

Background
After studying at The London College of Fashion, Keith went on to design for Perry Ellis and Ralph Lauren. He recently launched "Keith Lissner," a line of demi-couture evening wear.

Strengths
His timeless style and comprehensive knowledge of hot urban trends make him a strong competitor.

Weaknesses
He can design for the latest "it" girl, but he may have trouble creating essential looks for a larger market.

Background
After graduating from the Illinois Institute of Art, Kristin began "organiK Revolution," a line that specializes in eco-friendly apparel.

Strengths
She may be young, but her fresh fashion perspective and business savvy may play to her advantage.

Weaknesses
She may not get far if she gets too emotional and refuses to take suggestions for self-improvement.

Background
After attending the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Johnny R. developed private labels for Urban Outfitters, Arden B., and Macys, eventually creating his own collection, Grandma's Glock, a modern day streetwear line.

Strengths
Johnny's avant-garde, flamboyant style may help him stand out among mainstream designers.

Weaknesses
He may be this competition's wild child; if he can't show a little restraint, this rule breaker could get booted.

Background
After attending the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Haven worked as a stylist on the Chelsea Lately Show.

Strengths
She knows how to create clothes to make woman feel sexy, confident, and feminine.

Weaknesses
As a control freak, she might not be able to handle the hectic schedule with as much poise as her competitors.

Background
After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology, she began working under Diane von Furstenberg and designed her own award-winning line for private clients.

Strengths
Lidia's impressive education, along with her notable awards and industry accolades, make her one of the most accomplished competitors.

Weaknesses
She may feel like she's at the top of her game, but over-confidence could get her in trouble.