Fall Fashion Preview at Poppy Boutique

Fall is here, and it’s officially time to revamp your wardrobe with autumn’s hottest clothing trends and accessory staples.

Our go-to fashion stop for this season’s shopping spree is Poppy, a brand new upscale women’s boutique in Rancho Santa Fe. Owner Heather Hunter first launched a successful fashion retail website, pinkicing.com, and was soon in-demand to showcase inventory in the local scene. Opened in July 2011, Poppy Boutique is a reflection of Heather’s personal sense of style, featuring feminine and refined pieces from mid-ranged to high-end American contemporary designers. Just a few labels you can shop at Poppy this fall include Diane Von Furstenberg, Ella Moss, Alice + Olivia, Black Halo, and James Perse.

We locals who can’t make it to New York Fashion Week must rely on local style mavens for the Insider scoop. I sat down with Heather Hunter to discover her take on fall fashion in San Diego.

DiscoverSD: What is your background in the fashion and retail industry? 

Heather Hunter: I launched an online boutique back in 2002 called Pink Icing.  Since then I have been evolving my business by developing a local clientele and also renting space within Plume in RSF Village for the two and half years prior to opening Poppy.

DSD: Why did you decide to open the new Poppy Boutique?

Heather: The demand for a boutique in this area was high.  My last location was a very limited space but the customer base kept growing.  In order to provide the selection of styles and sizes I wanted, I needed to expand.  When I was told a space was available I knew it was the right time to open my own store.

DSD: What was your vision for the interior design of Poppy?

Heather: I love the Hollywood Regency feel.  It all started with a white enamel desk from Z Gallerie.  Once I decided on the fuschia and orange color scheme it all came together rather quickly.  The amazing globe lights and vintage chairs completed the vision.

DSD: Why is Poppy different from other boutiques in San Diego?

Heather: Our variety, you can find something for a date night, a special event or the perfect jeans and tees at Poppy. Plus our service. Since I pick each piece I am able to see what my clients gravitate towards, you'll always be able to find something here. 

DSD: What are your favorite brands that you carry at Poppy?

Heather: I love all the brands that we carry at Poppy, I choose each piece myself and I always have a vision in my head as to who it would look great on.  I have known many of my customers for years so I am always thinking of them when I select new styles. 

For the dressier pieces I always know that Milly, Black Halo and Alice + Olivia will be my top sellers.  They are all cut very well and as a result work for many women.   I also like that their pieces are very classic and will last many years.  I have Milly dresses from 4 years ago that still look like they just came down the runway – I love that.

For the more casual day-to-day pieces, I tend to gravitate to Ella Moss, Autumn Cashmere, Velvet, and Splendid.  They always have cute, easy to wear dresses as well as tops and sweaters that pair back to denim with ease.   In terms of denim, I can’t get enough of Rich & Skinny jeans and MOTHER flares and crops.   Also J Brand makes the greatest colored bottoms – another huge trend this season.  My favorite is the aubergine that just came in – it’s so versatile because it looks amazing with black, navy and brown.  They also have a velvet tuxedo skinny pant that is coming out for Holiday – very fun! 

DSD: What are your top must-have trends for fall in San Diego, for her?

Heather: There are always many trends that come around each season.  I tend to gravitate towards the more refined and classic pieces that will take you through many seasons.  Some of the Fall trends that I am most excited for are the bright jewel tones in silks and satins. These fabrics are perfect for San Diego as they can be worn year round.  The colors are also universally flattering and are an unexpected pop amongst the black and browns usually seen this time of year.   

I am also excited for the many styles and colors  of leather coming out this season.  Pencil skirts, pants and shift dresses in red, blush, and cobalt leather.  The leathers are so supple and thin that they don’t add bulk like in the past and with the vibrant colors they make a real statement.

My other favorite trend is a resurgence of the 60’s day dress.  The waist lines have come in and the hems have come down and the resulting silhouette is very lady-like and feminine. 

DSD: When you’re not working, where can we find you shopping and hanging out in San Diego?

Heather: I think because of my e-commerce background, I feel very comfortable buying online.  Whether for my kids or myself, I just prefer the ease of shopping at my convenience from home. When out on the town I of course frequent Flavor Del Mar as well as Sip Wine Bar.  My husband Jeff Hunter owns both but the ambience, food and wine are fabulous so I have good reasons to.

DSD: If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Heather: I have a feeling my life would be very short if this were the case.  I enjoy fashion too much to pigeon hole myself to just one outfit.  However, for fall this year my favorite outfit would be a lush, cashmere cowl neck sweater (short sleeved for SD weather), a pair of colored twill skinny pants and black YSL Tribute platforms.   I love shoes too!

Love Heather? So do we! Upgrade your fall wardrobe at Poppy Boutique in Rancho Santa Fe.

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