Friends of Racked Philly Share Their Favorite Buys of 2012

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As 2012 draws to a close, we're surveying Philly fashion and retail insiders about the year's biggest news stories and most exciting developments. Last week, we got their take on 2012's best and worst fashion trends; now, we want to get a little more personal.

Q: What was your personal favorite purchase of 2012?

Elena Brennan, owner, Bus Stop: A top by the designer Heather that I bought from Arcadia Boutique.

Danielle Audain, blogger, Indie.Electric.Alternative: Alexander Wang's Rockie Duffel. It's the absolute perfect carryall and looks amazing with everything. Quite an investment but it will last forever!

Abby Kessler and Katie Loftus, co-owners, Smak Parlour: My favorite purchase of 2012 was a gray sweater with black skull pattern on it from our own boutique. It's reversible so the background can be black and the skulls are grey. I love things that can be used in more than one way.

Caroline Bean, Director of Social Media, GPTMC: My wedding dress! But I can't say too much more about it since my fiance might read this.

Matthew Vlahos, founder/publicist, MVPR: My pair of Gucci Chelsea boots.

Alina Alter, owner, Aoki Boutique: A bronze and gold double-headed jaguar ring by Rabid Fox that I scored at Concrete Polish in NoLibs.

Liz Scarlett, owner, Scarlett Alley: French enamel lockets from Paris.

Allison Stadd, Editor, Uwishunu: A leather side saddle bag.

Joelle Brodhecker, co-owner, Addiction Studios: Vince Camutto boots.

Liz Sieber, owner, Omoi Zakka Shop: A sunny, tie-dyed Collina Strada backpack.