Top 2012 Shopping Newcomers From Friends of Racked SF

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As 2012 draws to a close, we're surveying our friends in the fashion industry about the year's biggest news stories and most exciting developments. We've looked at the best and worst trends of 2012; and we asked our local luminaries to describe it all in one word. Today, we ask for their thoughts on their favorite newcomers in Bay Area retail. Readers, let us know what you think in the comments.

Adrienne Armstrong and Jamie Kidson, co-owners of Atomic Garden: We love the shops at Temescal Alley. Each one has its own personality and you can find everything from an artisan donut to handmade jewlery or even get your hair cut in a vintage style barber shop.

Jessica Mullens Engelman, founder of Mullens Public Relations: Cavalier (a cleverly-curated collection of uncommon goods), Mulberry (iconic bags), Industrie Denim (cult denim collections, from the team behind American Rag)

Sarah Sung, San Francisco editor at Urban Daddy: Mill Mercantile, from the guys behind Unionmade; Wilkes Bashford's complete remodel (their jewelry selection sparkles).

Katie Hintz-Zambrano, Senior Editor, West Coast, Refinery 29: I think City Target moving into the Metreon was a huge move for San Francisco. It's an awesome location and the convenience factor is incredible. On the indie-boutique front, Good Stock on Piedmont Avenue is so dreamy! You can't leave without coveting a handful of items. I also love that we now have a Muji store. Oh, and Fillmore & 5th, a designer-focused offshoot of Crossroads Trading Co., is dangerous for a thrifter like myself!

Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly, plastic surgeon and menswear aficionado: The Dior Homme opening in San Francisco is a great addition to menswear fashion. The larger presence that Tom Ford has carried at Neiman Marcus this year has also been a huge improvement to our local men's fashion.

Erin Hiemstra of Apartment 34: This is a tough choice but I love Mill for fashion and In Bed for home decor.

Melissa Davis, founder of Ruby Press: I am obsessed with Marin Country Mart. Obsessed. Would you think I'm superficial if I say that it is the happiest place on earth? With Calypso Home, Roberta Roller Rabbit, Erica Tanov, Unionmade, Miette, Rustic Bakery, El Huarache Loco, and Poppy Store, it's total heaven.

Joanna Riedl, publicist: Well it's not new new but I'm obsessed with Decades of Fashion's new spot on Haight in Villain's Vault's old location. It's a vintage dream with endless inspiration.

Azadeh Riaz, designer and owner of Azadeh: I am a big Jimmy Choo fan, the shoes are perfect for my couture gowns and I am so happy the store is now around the corner from Azadeh in Union Square!

Claudia Ross, founder of Cross Marketing: Topshop coming to Nordstrom in Union Square this year was very exciting since British style has been a fashion-forward trend, gaining more public interest over summer with the focus on the Olympics in London.