A Delectable Sense of Style
Dashing Quinn Wharton of the San Francisco Ballet may look as fetching off stage as on. With hip-hop tendencies, a hankering for classic men’s accessories and a belief that casual has gone too far, this young man describes a great sense of style and conjures some spectacular images of an undone bow tie.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/01/21/LVMT1H7K3S.DTL
From SF Gate: January 21, 2011, Carolyn Zinko Chronicle Staff Writer
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Valencia Street Cool As Ever
Kudos to the Valencia Street businesses featured in this week’s edition of California Apparel News. Their independent streak paid off and kept an American Apparel from opening along this popular stretch of locally grown boutiques.
http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/071610-Valencias-Independent-Mission-in-San-Francisco
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Tags: American Apparel, Independent boutiques, Mission district, San Francisco Shopping, Valencia street
San Francisco’s young fashion talent was out in full force tonight as many design students from San Francisco State University (SFSU) presented their collections at the school’s 16th annual fashion show, Runway 2010: Nouvelle.
From the standing room only crowd, you could easily tell that the students poured their heart and soul into their debut collections. Each line featured seven to eight pieces uniquely inspired by a concept of importance to each student. Watching their collections parade the runway was a remarkable site and undoubtedly a moment of pride and excitement for each budding designer.
Inspiration came from many different sources including industrial materials, colors, nature, history, movies and fairytale romances. The Bouquet of Rainbow collection by Ayako Iwamoto featured vibrant colors, breathy fabrics and whimsical silhouettes.
Wish I would have shot a picture, but I was taking in the collection and enjoying each colorful dress. But, I do remember my favorite, a halter dress in varying shades of green – from bright grass green to the whispering shades of a newly sprouted flower bud. It was a delight! And perfectly suited for a carefree summer’s day.
Here are some okay photos from earlier in the show. Not the greatest, but images none the less of a spectacular moment for San Francisco’s rising talent. Congratulations on a job well done!
A strapless dress from the "Industrial Looks" segment
The gossamer overskirt and blue slipdress created an effect much like blending watercolors.
Just one of the cute frocks from this sweet, girly collection.
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The magic of the Inner Sunset
Golden Gate Park provides the backdrop to the Inner Sunset’s Ninth and Irving neighborhood making it more than a local haunt for San Francisco residents. With one of the world’s most popular parks right in its backyard, this casual neighborhood provides many relaxing options for tourists and Bay Area residents alike.
Its calm neighborhoody vibe makes it an ideal spot for families and visitors to wrap up an afternoon at the Park and experience a true down-to-earth San Francisco neighborhood. Sure, you won’t find the most posh boutiques or the most elegant fare, but you will find friendly shop owners and restaurateurs to happily greet out-of-town guests. When traveling from a far or making an infrequent trip to the city, receiving a warm hospitable welcome is often the best memory.
The neighborhood shops and restaurants cater to a diverse crowd – from curious kids and trendy teens to thrifty moms and do-it-yourself dads as well as urban hipsters and doting pet owners. You’ll find a little something for everyone in this warm and friendly neighborhood.
Paragraph
Proprietor: Vanessa
Backstory: Stemming from a long line of entrepreneurs (Vanessa’s grandparents owned a pawn shop and her mom a clothing store), opening her own business was a natural step. Paragraph blends Vanessa’s love of fashion and natural business savvy.
Vibe: Artistic and modern with a splash of childhood whimsy.
The Goods: A stunning combination of local and independent designers. Delicate ethereal pieces from local jewelry designer Liliana Swearingen. Eco-conscious independent lines out of San Francisco and L.A. and children’s wear made by designers from within the neighborhood.
Clientele: Travelers and foot traffic venturing from the Park. Local urban hipsters and trendy moms.
Must Haves: Chrildren’s superhero capes. Flowy tube dresses fashioned from vintage 80′s fabrics.
The 415: 1234 9th Ave.; 415.759.1234; paragraphsf@yahoo.com; Mon. – Fri. Noon – 7 PM, Sat. & Sun. Noon – 6 PM.
Misdirections Magic Shop
Proprietor: Joe Pon
Backstory: Pon fell in love with magic as a kid while watching an uncle make a silk scarf disappear. He was lured by the craft ever since. After high school he considered pursuing hospitality and restaurant management, but magic continued to call to him. Thirteen years ago, he and his wife opened Misdirections Magic Shop where he is always available with a trick up his sleeve.
Vibe: Eerily fun!
The Goods: Pon stocks everything from traditional card and coin tricks, juggling supplies and the inevitable practical jokes to the craftier how-to books and videos that showcase the art of performing seances, mind reading techniques and magical illusions.
Clientele: Everyone from the curious trickster to the professional magician convenes here. Pon has taught, mentored and sold to doctors wanting to improve their bedside manner, kids intrigued by an air or mystery, the hostess wanting to be the life of the party, the novice magician and the professional Houdini in need of renewed inspiration. Oh yea, David Copperfield has been known to drop by too!
Must Have: Books on mentalism and mind reading – imagine the practical applications these could have!
The 415: 1236 9th Ave.; 415.566.2180; misdirection@earthlink.net; Tues.-Sat. 11 AM – 6 PM, Sun. Noon – 5 PM.
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A Different Beat
Writing about San Francisco fashion and style is really what I want to do, but right now time is short and my plate is full. Between school, a freelance gig and a part-time job it’s not easy to get out to buy milk let alone review cool independent boutiques and local designers.
It kills me to change course, but in order to keep writing I’m gonna have too. You see, I’m planning a local summer music series (that’s the freelance gig). So, with about a months worth of music to review I’ve got more than enough content to keep me occupied for awhile.
It’s not entirely off topic – fashion and music often go hand in hand, and judging from the publicity photos I’ve seen – many of these bands could use a fashionable helping hand. I mean, just because Jimi Hendrix wrote Purple Haze doesn’t mean you have to become one.
Anyway, one local singer/songwriter that caught my attention is Anna Laube. This songstress has a sweet ethereal voice that’s a pure delight to hear. Check out clips from her latest release at www.annalaube.com.
Anna Laube Publicity Shot - taken by Cooper Carras
Anna Laube studio shot
Photo credit: www.annalaube.com
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Pinup Possibilities
Dollhouse Bettie specializes in pinup style and vintage lingerie
Cocktail hats, garter belts and sexy novelties - designed by owner, Michelle and made with vintage trim from the 1920's and 30's
The pinup girl – beautiful, curvaceous and the ultimate sex kitten of the 1940′s – who hasn’t fantasized about being her. Dream no more, become the bombshell you always envisioned with a trip to Dollhouse Bettie.
Located on Haight Street, Dollhouse Bettie is inpired by the ultimate pinup girl, Bettie Grable, and specializes in vintage and pinup style lingerie.
Think not your grandmother’s closet, this classically sexy boutique features a fabulous selection of unique one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that boast pure sex appeal. Curve enhancing corsets and waist cinchers, sensuous slips and peignoirs, as well as sexy garters, stockings and so much more will ignite your boudoir for an evening or set the foundation for your next glamorous night on the town.
Dollhouse Bettie also carries a wide array of national lines including Blush, Elle McPherson and Carol Malony as well as collections from local designers Mary Green and Chanteuse that all portray the boutique’s retro, pinup girl vibe.
Celebrate your pinup girl fantasy! Make your way to Dollhouse Bettie and add a bit of classic glamour, mystery and romance to your life.
Visit Dollhouse Bettie online at: www.dollhousebettie.com or in person at: 1641 Haight Street.
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To Your Liking
Lemon Twist - gearing up to merchandise for spring
At work in the studio - cutting styles for the latest collection
Look for Lemon Twist's robin's egg blue storefront on Octavia in trendy Hayes Valley
Style and taste are truly individual concepts. We all strive to define a look and create our own uniquely fabulous style. That’s why Lemon Twist is so amazing – you will find a little something that makes each individual piece precisely to your liking.
Lemon Twist began as a wholesale business in 1999 and four years ago opened on Octavia Boulevard in trendy Hayes Valley. Now focusing on collections for the retail location, the husband and wife team, Eric and Danette Scheib fuse true creative artistry with functional design. The result – playful whimsical pieces that rock street smart style.
Much of the line is inspired by the styles and colors of the 60′s and 70′s. You’ll find contrasting colors, hand-painted fabrics and delightful details that set your imagination to life. The design studio is always bustling with activity as new ideas take shape. This spring, some of what you’ll find includes simple sheaths, snazzy shorts, ladylike blouses and original graphic tees.
Coordinate with other pieces from the collection or mix and match with your own finds – Lemon Twist will have you looking your own personal best – dressed in a style that is entirely to your liking.
Visit Lemon Twist online at: www.lemontwist.net or in person at: 537 Octavia Boulevard.
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Saffron Rare Threads caters to the girl on the go.
A spacious and inviting shop at One Embarcadero Center is well suited for the working girl
Just because you work in the corporate world, doesn’t mean you have to look it. Saffron Rare Threads is here to save working women from the doldrums of board room black and grey.
Jet set girls, often too busy to search for fashionable clothing appropriate for work and beyond, will appreciate the collections created by Priya Saraswati, founder and designer of Saffron Rare Threads. A former investment banker, she left the corporate world in 2002 to pursue her love of fashion and design. Since launching her first collection in 2004, many women have come to rely on its clean lines, soft fabrics and unique details.
Fabulous detail makes all the difference and is what sets Saffron Rare Threads apart. A classic trench stands out with an asymmetrical hem and belted waist, while a simple blouse with a mandarin collar becomes a unique layering piece. Smartly tailored slacks, skirts and dresses and the use of soft fabrics that travel well are essentials for the jet set career girl.
Smart successful women know the importance of self differentiation. A dynamite wardrobe will surely top off your stellar portfolio and well connected Blackberry. Saffron Rare Threads will take you where you need to go.
Visit Saffron Rare Threads online at: www.saffronrarethreads.com or in person at: One Embarcadero Center on Sacramento Street.
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Hopelessly Devoted
Sarah Shaw located at 3095 Sacramento Street in posh Pacific Heights
New spring arrivals include Jodi Arnold, Geren Ford, Shoshanna and many more!
At the beginning of the new millennium, I discovered Sarah Shaw on a cold, blustery January afternoon. It was love at first site! How I marveled over the boutique’s elegant decor and the array of emerging designers. Since then, I’ve remained a devoted fan.
Now this March, Sarah Shaw will celebrate her 11th anniversary and continues to be one of San Francisco’s best merchandised boutiques. Located in the posh Pacific Heights neighborhood, she was one of the first independently run boutiques to specialize in emerging American designers such as Trina Turk, Diane Von Furstenberg, Rebecca Taylor, Robert Rodriguez and many others.
Eleven years later, she continues to discover new lines that have yet to hit department stores or mainstream retail. By keeping her eyes and ears open, Sarah and her staff stock the store with a discerning selection of new talent from Los Angeles and New York. Some of the fresh faces you’ll see today include designers like Parker, Laila Azhar, A.L.C., Jodi Arnold and Mara Hoffman.
You can count on Sarah Shaw to introduce you to the latest talent and trends – undoubtedly sparking your next fashion crush. And for that, we remain hopelessly devoted.
Visit Sarah Shaw online at: www.sarahshaw.com or in person at: 3095 Sacramento Street
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The Coolest Girl On The Block
DEMA's spring line is sprinkled with shades of yellow, blue and grey.
We all aspire to be her – that girl with the best clothes, rockin’ hair and killer style. What we wouldn’t do to be that girl. DEMA helps us get there.
Located in San Francisco’s hip Mission District at 1038 Valencia, DEMA offers a style that is a little bit mod, a little bit punk with undercurrents of rock-n-roll.
Inspired by bold, colorful fabrics, DEMA has a knack for mixing and matching prints and colors. Cheery dresses, ladylike skirts and marine blue sailor pants all boast rich saturated hues accented with contrasting prints and colors that show up in the details of each garment.
Her spring collection is perfect for the young at heart – light fabrics, floral prints and an entire palette of colors bring your imagination to life as you coordinate DEMA‘s easy to wear pieces with staples from your own wardrobe or the national lines she carries.
The coolest girls are never all matchy-matchy and right now there’s no reason to be. Take the yellow and grey floral print dress, pair it with coordinating tights and a contrasting green skinny belt for a cool spring has sprung look!
For the girl looking to make a true statement and call her fashion her own, DEMA makes it easy to mix prints, fabrics and colors – creating the foundation and inspiration to build a totally cool wardrobe.
Visit DEMA online at: www.godemago.com or in person at: 1038 Valencia Street.
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