Lisa Weiss is an enthusiastic supporter of new designers. In fact, her year-old Nolita boutique, aptly named Debut, has expressly this purpose: to launch emerging collections. Weiss developed the idea while studying fashion merchandising at FIT. “The inspiration for Debut comes from the designers themselves,” she explains. “I realized one of the greatest challenges they would face was to find a retailer who would believe in them. I wanted to give them their first step in the door.”

Today, the sunny, gallery-like space serves as a neutral backdrop for a seasonal lineup of new womenswear, shoe and accessory designers. “When buying, I typically look for a designer with a unique vision and the possibility for longevity and growth,” she says of her screening process. For Spring/Summer 2009, out of the approximately 20 designers currently sold at Debut, Weiss is happy to name a few favorites. “Michael Angel and Cathy Pill work with unique prints and construction; Lana Chun uses interesting manipulation of fabrics; Death by Drone bring the intellectual and ironic to ready-to-wear; and Savant produced a collection encompassing a range of both innocent and sexy looks,” she explains.

Staying true to its concept of nurturing young talent, for one week starting June 16th, Debut will host its second annual showcase of Parsons graduate collections, offering a chance to peek at the new crop of up-and-coming designers.

Debut: 298 Mulberry St New York, NY 10012, (212) 343-2717