Everyone knows that Fashion Valley is the ultimate San Diego shopping destination, and Insiders have witnessed Fashion Valley dress models for fashion show parties across town. But no matter how many shopping trips and fashion shows you have on your lifestyle resume, you still may not know the savvy and oh-so-stylish lady behind the brand.
Francine Miley is the Director of Marketing and Business Development for Fashion Valley.
Francine brings style out of Fashion Valley and onto downtown rooftop runways. She is addicted to Jimmy Choo kicks, adores Aubrey Hepburn’s classic style, foresees a “Chic-onomical” future, and vows to always say NO to high-waisted paints. But mostly we love Francine because she’s a Gaslamp-going girly girl who will only be swayed out of a dress by True Religions and Gucci Mules.
Get to know Francine in this week’s Local Style Spotlight.
DiscoverSD: Tell us about your role at Fashion Valley and in the San Diego fashion scene.
Francine: As Director of Marketing and Business Development for Fashion Valley, I strive to keep Fashion Valley at the forefront of shopper’s minds. Since I started in 2007, it has been my personal goal and objective to bring the excitement and fashion from the mall, out of the mall. Through various fashion shows and events hosted at some of the best hot spots in town, to rooftop modeling for the last two years, I feel that we have been able to keep and add to the momentum of this great city! We bring in over 18 million annual shoppers to Fashion Valley each year and it’s my job to make sure this center is the shopping destination for locals and visitors alike.
DSD: Outside of work, where can we find you in San Diego?
F: Syrah just happens to be my favorite little hideaway…if I could, I would move in! In fact, we just hosted a “Down the Rabbit Hole” fashion show with Betsey Johnson and Custo Barcelona in mid-August which was fantastic! It truly was a perfect setting for a fun and unique fashion show.
I also love La Puerta and Café Sevilla for my “International Fix” for food and salsa dancing! I’m also a huge live music fan, so I enjoy hitting up HOB or Cricket Amphitheatre, though as far as concerts are concerned, I’m really looking forward to yet another great year of Street Scene! Bring on Thievery Corporation!
DSD: In 5 words, predict the future of San Diego style 5 years from now.
F: Fashion Forward – “Chic-onomical” – Eco Conscious
I believe we will continue to see shoppers on the look-out for fashions that are not only in style now, but are also sustainable to remain in their wardrobe – avoiding the previous “disposable fashion” mentality. Whether it’s adding accessories to keep the look current or changing it up with a new trend, it’s about knowing how to bring timeless pieces together with today’s hottest trends, that creates a unique look that is truly your own. This helps budget savvy shoppers, as well as those who are of the mindset of “Waste Not, Want Not!”
DSD: Who is your female celebrity fashion icon?
F: Audrey Hepburn. She epitomized classic style and elegance which I greatly appreciate – a true style icon. From the simplistic designs and patterns she wore to the way she carried herself so effortlessly with the utmost sophistication.
DSD: What style era was the worst for you?
F: Without a Doubt, the ‘80s. Didn’t like it then, don’t care for the “revival” now. Something about neon, lace, leg warmers, doesn’t bode well for me. Though for those who love that the ‘80s are back, I say embrace it!
DSD: What is your go-to outfit for a night out in Gaslamp?
F: I’m a true “Girly Girl” who loves wearing dresses! You will almost always see me in a dress. However, on the rare occasion that I change it up, more than likely I will be in True Religions, with a pair or Gucci Mules or Tory Burch heels and some new top I just picked up over lunch at Fashion Valley. And, yes, it is dangerous to work in such a fantastic mall when you love to shop! As for my accessories, that could be an entirely separate interview, as I can never seem to get enough bags!
DSD: You are the official Fashion Valley expert. What are some of your favorite boutiques at Fashion Valley, and what do we have to look forward to?
F: Although I’d love to share the exciting openings we have set for future, a girl can’t share all her secrets! I can tell you that in the last two years we have had so many amazing new store openings to complement our already stellar collection of retailers. I feel we are very fortunate with what we have to offer here in San Diego. Karen Millen is hot on my list at present, as their designs and overall style seems to flatter most anyone’s girlish figure!
Don’t even get me started on shoes… OK, if you must, then I will have to express my adoration for the beloved Jimmy Choo’s! I truly feel like a girl in a candy store every time I go in. I get to play dress up with gorgeous shoes that are sure to make your day. Also, as I am often referred to as the “bag lady” I love Henri Bendel for truly unique, stylish accessories! From classic jewelry pieces to signature striped Bendel bags, I am a Bendel Girl!
DSD: Why do you think fashion show parties are important to the San Diego scene, and what are some cool events coming up this season?
F: For so long, everyone has viewed San Diego as this casual, “flip flop” town that doesn’t have a passion for style. As we have seen here at Fashion Valley, we know that this is not the case. In 2008 alone, we had 30 new store openings, bringing in some of the hottest designers for apparel, shoes and accessories!
With the many exciting changes that America’s Finest City has seen over the last few years, it has become apparent that there is a desire for more: luxury designers, haute couture, boutique hotels, rooftop lounges and a nightlife scene with much to offer. It’s similar to that of a big city, just without the “pretentious feel” that you might see in LA.
We are hosting our second annual fall fashion event, Simon Fashion Now taking place September 11th & 12th here at Fashion Valley. The event consists of 7 runway shows, style stops throughout the center focusing on beauty and trends in addition to hosting a ticketed luncheon with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
We will also be hosting a special evening on Friday, September 11th called “Trends & Friends” that is open to the public which consists of 2 runway shows- at 6 and 7pm. During that evening, guests will have the opportunity to see some of fall’s hottest trends, access new health and beauty tips and have an opportunity to bid on fabulous items through our silent auction, once again benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We are thrilled to host this event since it is an ideal way to keep our shoppers up-to-date on trends of the season while also serving our community by fund-raising for a great cause!
DSD: Where else do you shop in San Diego?
F: Time to shop anywhere but Fashion Valley?! IF I go anywhere else, it would have to be Urban Outfitters in Gaslamp, since I can walk there from my house. Not to mention, I am originally from outside of Philly, where Urban Outfitters is headquartered, so I feel as though I am supporting my “motherland” every time I shop there!
DSD: What trend will you never support?
F: I would have to say NO to high-waisted pants. They are uncomfortable, unflattering and just plain wrong. Since my main motivation in choosing my wardrobe is, and has always been, comfort, I’d have to say I’ll be avoiding high-waisted pants. It’s great to see what the hottest trends are for the season, though I think it’s even more important knowing what works for your body type in establishing your own sense of style.
Love Francine? So do we. Go seek style inspiration from Francine at Fashion Valley and during Simon Fashion Now at Fashion Valley September 11-12, 2009. Get details here.
