Step aside, Mr. Blackwell. This year we learned that DCist readers have strong opinions about fashion and you’re not afraid to share them.

From the White House to the workplace, one of the year’s most surprisingly controversial fashion topics was…flip flops. In fact, some readers seem to dislike the ubiquitous rubber and PVC summer staples as much as we abhor white shoes. We thank you, our fashion conscious readers, for helping us debate the relative merits of trends like the denim tuxedo, ginormous bead necklaces and, of course, the look you love to hate (and ban from bars!): popped collars.

Also, banishing stereotypes that D.C. is a city full of pin-striped drones, this year the District welcomed some new places for us to blow our paychecks with the launch of independent designer Web site Unsung as well as the opening of Sosan and the Puma store, and new locations for Nana and Polo. And let’s not forget the new Victoria’s Secret at Tysons, which sparked the great slutty mannequin debate of 2005.

In a world increasingly dominated by overpaid Hollywood stylists creating so-called “fashion icons” out of teenage starlets, one of our favorite things about D.C. is the unique style sensibilities of its residents. From Mousetrap glam to Georgetown preppy, you rock your looks with as much confidence and conviction as you defend your political opinions. In 2006 we’re looking forward to more store openings, more sales and more fabulous/ridiculous trends to adopt/deride. Until then, we’re heading to the post-holiday sales.