If you're in the winter of a drab clothing crisis, look to Nicole Miller to breathe some life into your wardrobe. Miller, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, not only has a degree in fine art but was also trained in classical couture at the Chamber Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. This double skill-set distinguishes her from other designers in the industry who haven’t formally explored the aesthetics, and every day practicality, of ready-to-wear art.

Having dressed celebs including Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Paris Hilton, Beyonce and Eva Longoria Parker, Miller's designs feature complex pieces and flattering silhouettes with vibrant colors and patterns that pop—even a little black dress will feature a high waist and pencil skirt, with an intriguing, shoulder-exposing neckline and a touch of fabric with modern motif. In 2009, a leopard stretch metal taffeta dress highlights her focus on animal prints and accentuates the collarbone with a wide scoop neck.

Though 15 freestanding stores offer everything from bridal wear, cocktail dresses, outerwear, accessories, eyewear and even men’s ties, you can find her designs at 1,200 stores worldwide, including Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom, and on the covers of magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Paper and more. Miller, also a wife and mother, makes her designs accessible to a broad range of women through a partnership with JCPenney: Nicole by Nicole Miller offers separates for under $20. There’s also a line of home goods available exclusively at Bed, Bath & Beyond. Across all her collections, the aesthetic she strives toward is sexy, feminine and refined.