Fashionably San Diego

A Fashionable San Diegan - Scott Wagner

 

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego? 

Scott: Four years.

FSD: Where are you from originally? 

Scott: Oregon, Wiscosin. A small podunk farmtown.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego? 

Scott: The people by far! Good peeps!

FSD: Tell me about your business or job? 

Scott: Life of an artisan chef carving his way into San Diego’s catering world – ChileCo has finally earned the reputation as the best of the best here and now we’re opening a restaurant, café & club.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style? 

Scott: Whimisically balanced cuisine of the Gods.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory? 

Scott: Parachute pants and oversized coca-cola shirts.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next? 

Scott: Versace white pants – I dripped gazpacho down my last pair.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers? 

Scott: Love, Love, Love - Randal Graham.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego? 

Scott: So many randomn places that there names are forgettable! The little shop around the corner from Urban Solace – awesomeness! (next door to a kung foo place I think).

A Fashionable San Diegan - Preston Swirnoff

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego? 

Preston: On and off for 20 years!

FSD: Where are you from originally? 

Preston: Phoenix and Mission Beach. 

FSD: Tell me about your business? 

Preston: I run a nutritional health and preventive wellness consulting practice called Abundant Brain and Health working with clients here in San Diego and elsewhere. I also teach neuroscience and physiology to medical students and undergrads. I received my Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCSD and have chosen to use my knowledge and experience to help people become educated and empowered in taking control of their own health. I am also a musician and dj and release records, play locally, and tour overseas a few times a year- gives me a good balance.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style? 

Preston:  I really like fashion and do pay attention to my style and how I present myself. I like mid-century minimalism, European/Meditteranean summers, and rock n roll attitude. So I think I’m a blend of those depending on the time/place. I don’t try too hard and I keep it simple but I’m not afraid to rock things I know I can pull off. Also I’m tall and lean so I like form fitting clothing and hate baggy stuff- but I do draw the line with skin tight hipsterism- because I am a man over 22 with muscles and thighs and shoulders, not an anorexic heroin addict creampuff.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory? 

Preston:  Hmmm—probably parachute pants in 7th grade- not good. 

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next? 

Preston: A nice pair of desert boots and some good (not too long or baggy) swim trunks for this spring/summer. Not to be worn together. Or maybe….. 

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Preston: Best fashion advice I can give another man is- find a good tailor. Tailored clothing is mandatory for any real man- buying all your clothes just off the shelf and not making sure they fit you well is for philistines. You can also get shirts and suits custom made pretty reasonably online these days- there is nothing better. Secret shopping scene tip for men would be Le Chauvinist Resale for Men in La Jolla. But don’t everyone start going there and take all the good stuff. Last piece of man fashion advice- don’t try too hard and be yourself- understated confidence and quality is much more attractive than douchebaggery and desperation. Don’t try to outshine a beautiful woman on your arm. 

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego? 

Preston: Of course the weather and living in our charming neighborhood of South Park in our craftsman slice of heaven. Add to that amazing beaches and ocean nearby, the easy lifestyle, and proximity to LA and SF and you can see why I haven’t left. 

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego? 

Preston: Found some amazing like-new vintage Pierre Cardin and Christian Dior suits and shirts from a strange tweeker guy at the Sports Arena swap meet a few years ago. He didn’t tell me where he got them and I didn’t ask. Then they all got stolen out of my car a few months later- karma?

A Fashionable San Diegan - Helene Cornell

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Helene: I have been in San Diego for about 3 1/2 years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Helene: I was born in Edmonton Alberta, Canada and graduated from University of Victoria, British Columbia, with a BFA and Honors in Photography.

FSD: Tell me about your business?

Helene: I am a fashion and destination photography specialist. I have shot for fashion magazines in LA like Flaunt, 944, Genlux, Black Book, and have been featured in several European Avant Guard fashion publications. I have shot the cover of magazines around the world, from Nostika in Mexico to Pacific in California and most recently Destination Wedding Magazine. I frequent the pages of San Diego Magazine among many other Southern California editorials such as Exquisite Weddings and The Knot. Last year I was happy to receive the award for CANADA'S BEST CANDID WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER by Wedluxe Toronto.

My company Booty Boudoir is a branch of my wedding and fashion photography which attracts a lot of new brides, moms, and wives looking for a perfectly spicy gift for their love interests and themselves! We provide a full team of hair, makeup, art direction, and of course, the best fashion stylist in San Diego, Vanessa Valiente, is a part of my glam squad. Booty Boudoir is based on the principles of female empowerment, and I am currently touring the world promoting my specialized posing and empowerment techniques to beginner photographers, models, makeup artists and creative professionals on the right ways to set up your company for success.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Helene: In terms of my wardrobe, I am inspired by people with personality and culture. I would rather start a bad conversation then no conversation at all when networking. Playing it safe is not an option when you work in the fashion industry. Controversy and adversity are key points to getting attention, and when you work for yourself you cant expect to promote your self if you are boring. I find San Diego to be completely stagnant and predictable. That is why I have to leave every week to see that people don't wear board shorts and flip flops to the bar in the rest of the world. Put in some effort. You deserve it and so do the people looking at you. When I meet someone who says they work in fashion in San Diego, sometimes I ask myself, really? That should not be my first response. I approach people all the time who have unique style here and congratulate them. I say, "How refreshing it is to see you today! Thank you for being you! "

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Helene: I am so proud of all of my desperately stupid outfits. At least I wasn't ever boring. That would be a huge mistake- to blend into the masses! I am honored to say I have worn a thong bikini to the standard pool and I loved shaving my name into the side of my head with my fashion mullet proudly blowing in the wind. I am and continue to be a hot mess on a regular basis.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Helene: I plan on buying a new pair of pointy black flats as my last pair died. And a European cut tuxedo suit.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Helene: Secret shopping: Off 5th, Last Call. My advice is not to follow trends, its a waste of fabric and money. Don't be visual clutter. Stay away from non-permanent riff raff like American Apparel and Urban Outfitters, unless you are under the age of 16. If you spot two people wearing the same outfit or accessories as you, it's time to revisit what you think is so unique about yourself. If you are clueless, hire a professional.

FSD: Sheesh. What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Helene: The weather and that I don't have to pay $25 to valet my car at whole foods- I can run errands efficiently. I have a great husband who doesn't want me to change and loves all of my lovely lady lumps, and that is not something that existed for me in L.A.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Helene: Is that an oxymoron like military intelligence or tax break? Ha. Just kidding... garage sales here ROCK! But, I furnished my first apartment by dumpster diving in the Beverly Hills. I am not afraid to get dirty and dig for some gems.

A Fashionable San Diegan - Jeffrey Parish

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Jeffrey: 24 Years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Jeffrey: Denver Colorado.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Jeffrey: I could say the weather like everybody does…but truthfully I miss the seasons and the snow. I would have to say the connections I have made...The people I have met have been a great blessing to me and my life here in San Diego.

FSD: Tell me about your business?

Jeffrey: I was teaching Yoga from my home and really not feeling too inspired, believe it or not. One day I was walking to the store in my Normal Heights neighborhood and found a small (really small 300sq ft.) space for rent. I decided that I would open a boutique and give it a go. I opened Sugar Ltd. In June of 2005…It was more successful than I even thought possible…. So I found myself searching for a bigger location.

In March 2007 I decided to move to South Park because of its charm and really strong community. I changed the name of the boutique to Junc Boutique & Gallery because I wanted to carry more than just clothing…so I added things like home furnishings, gifts, books and also supported local artists through art shows and community events. The other focus I have here for Junc is affordability…I think you can have a chic place to shop that is affordable for all demographics. JUNC just won the “Best retail-store role model” award from City Beat Magazine…so I must be doing something right... J

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Jeffrey: Defiantly eclectic…my style changes daily depending on my mood.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Jeffrey: While the music is still my favorite…The 80’s (not all of it) was pretty disastrous. I did have a few groupies when I managed GAMMA GAMMA in Hillcrest that had a “Dress like Jeffrey day” they would come in and model their outfits inspired by my style which was flattering…but still a train wreck.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Jeffrey: New Prada sunglasses and a pair of Vintage Leather flip flops.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Jeffrey: I often get asked this question: For part one, fashion advice… March to your own drum…I think we all should. Be your authentic self, not a derivative of someone else. Style icons and trends are great but strong personal style is forever. For part two, Secret shopping… My answer is simple…Get out in your communities and walk around. Explore the local small business you never know what you may find. Supporting the small business is still in my mind a “secret” get the word out! With out ‘em we would all be Wal-mart shoppers.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Jeffrey: I think it would have to be a vintage Balenciaga Leather Jacket from the nastiest little thrift store in Lemon Grove. I paid 5 bucks for it. It is circa 1970 and worth about $2500.00! Keep your eyes open!!!

A Fashionable San Diegan - Scott Wicken

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Scott:  Almost 8 years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Scott: Newport Beach, CA.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Scott: It is the perfect mix of beach town and city. There are lots of vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, the weather and beaches are incredible, and the people are great.

FSD: Tell me about your business or job?

Scott: I work in Marketing, Sales, and PR. I am also pursuing opportunities in the fashion and apparel industries because that is where my true passion lies.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Scott: American and beach classic with an edge. It’s all about the details.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Scott: Tough question, since everything I wore as a kid in the 80’s is now popular again. I guess maybe parachute pants as a young kid. Zippers everywhere! I also have a high school letterman jacket somewhere in the dark recesses of my closet.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Scott: Warm weather is on the horizon so probably a new pair of slip on Vans, a few graphic t-shirts, and a new pair of seersucker pants for summer weddings and cocktail parties.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Scott: Its all about the effort at Salvation Army and vintage stores, I won’t reveal my go-to locations but persistence is key. I also really like HIS boutique on Cedros in Solana Beach. They have a great mix of labels and styles.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Scott: Salvation Army for vintage western shirts, an unnamed location for a pink ruffled tuxedo shirt, and, while not in San Diego per se, my father’s closet for a vintage 80’s Dior necktie.

A Fashionable San Diegan - Jessica Heller

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Jessica: About six and a half years

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Jessica: I grew up in Half Moon Bay in Northern California, and then moved around for a bit (Scottsdale and Chicago) until high school when I moved back to the bay area. My parents live in San Rafael now.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Jessica: Well, lets be honest… the weather is something we all enjoy every day.

I also really love how many different communities there are. There is a place for every type of scene and every type of style. Each community has such a different dynamic: Downtown, Ocean Beach, Pacific Beach, North Park, Hillcrest, La Jolla, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Carlsbad… I could go ooooon, but every place evokes such different feelings.

I used to live in Pacific Beach, then Old Town, and now Cardiff-by-the-Sea. I like North County, but I do miss my walks around Mission Bay.

FSD: Tell me about what you do?

Jessica: I have been a hairstylist since 2001. Since then, I’ve worked in salons, as well as freelance jobs; delving into weddings and events, and photo shoots for local magazines and ad campaigns for various retailers. I have a degree in Business Admin, with an emphasis in marketing, and am pursuing prospective ownership of a salon of my own.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Jessica: As a passionate and creative person, I honestly have lots of different styles depending on the mood I’m in. I’ve been told I have a bohemian-type style, which makes a lot of sense… there is hippie inside my soul. I do tend to frequent the safari/resort/khaki-colored look as well. I like that classic, sophisticated steeze sometimes… when the situations calls for it. Whatever the case, I love my hats. Hats are THE accessory that’s the most fun to wear. I wear really simple jewelry also… I like single gold bangles, and simple, pendant-type necklaces.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Jessica: Ugh. Sunflowers in the 90s. They were everywhere. My bed sheets, my perfume, picture frames, sundresses, shorts, single ones on T-shirts… It was definitely overkill.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Jessica: I’d been thinking about these brown strappy sandals for a long time that I kept seeing everywhere. I think they’re Jimmy Choos, but I’ve seen them at Nordstrom, and then on the Victoria’s Secret website. They have two criss-crossed straps over the top and bottom of the foot, and they buckle around your ankle. I like that the heel is snake-skin. I ordered them online a couple days ago. I’ll be happy when they come. It does scare me a little that they’re 4 inch heels, but I’m only 5’2” so I need the height.

There’s probably a 85% chance I’ll fall off them and roll my ankle.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Jessica: Hmmmmm… etsey.com is pretty amazing. My friend Amelia discovered it. It’s great because it’s people like you and me that make everything and sell it there. People are pretty creative and everything is hand-made with love.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Jessica: I’ve bought a Brazilian bikini and a silver necklace at my friends ‘Bikini Party’ in Encinitas at her house. There were about 25 of us, we drank wine, ate cheese plates, and laughed at our boyfriends and husbands interpretation of what going to a ‘bikini party’ meant in their minds.

I do also really like shopping on Garnet. It’s sometimes a hit or miss, but when it’s a hit, it satisfies the occasion you’re shopping for, and generally an inexpensive shopping fix.

A Fashionable San Diegan - Sarah Daoust

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Sarah: 9.5 years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Sarah: Toledo, Ohio.

FSD: Tell me about your job?

Sarah: I'm the managing editor of 944 Magazine in San Diego. This means I wear many hats, and say “no” a lot.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Sarah: Feminine, dressy, chic. I don't pull off “casual” very well. Unless I'm going to the gym, in which case I look like a homeless dirt bag unrecognizable by most.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Sarah: I've had so many that I've blocked them all out, repressed them, as a coping mechanism. My entire life up until about age 24 was a fashion DON'T. I do recall wearing bright red lipstick every single day throughout high school. Ouch.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Sarah: Killer wedges for spring and summer. And nude heels. And my editor in chief has me convinced I can pull off clog-inspired boots.

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Sarah: Frills boutique in Hillcrest has lowered its price point in the last year and has great finds and deals. I just scored the perfect black Flavio Castellani skirt for half off last week.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Sarah: That it's such an easy place to just be who you are. We get scoffed at for our arguably non-existent fashion scene, and I take real offense to that. Here, fashion is more about personal style and self-expression and being comfortable, and less about labels. Why is that so awful?

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Sarah: Hillcrest Farmer's Market.

A Fashionable San Diegan - Tanya Vallejo

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Tanya: All my life.

FSD: Where are you from in San Diego?

Tanya: Chula Vista.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego ?

Tanya: The weather! Plus I LOVE that you can wear jeans and a t-shirt to dinner or glam yourself up! Anything goes in America ’s Finest City.

FSD: Tell me about your business.

Tanya: I am the proud owner of Nyla Kensington Boutique. We have been located in the neighborhood of Kensington for 5 years now. I absolutely LOVE what I do. I feel truly blessed.

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Tanya: Girlie!

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Tanya: Wearing baggy sweatshirts over cut off sweats in High School with Ugg boots. What was I thinking ???

FSD: Sheesh, I don't know!

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Tanya: I have my eye on a black pair of Jimmy Choo High Heel Sandals…(sigh…)

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Tanya: Yes, you can Facebook friend us to find out what our daily “FB Friend” item of the day is! Plus it’ll keep you in the loop on all of our latest arrivals! We also send out “fashion tips of the day!” thru facebook.

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Tanya: I bought a vintage necklace at the Koby Swap Meet once that I still wear.

A Fashionable San Diegan - Kristi Brooks

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Krsiti: Off and on for 12 years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Krsiti: Tucson, AZ.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Kristi: I love the laid back attitude here. In LA people are dressed to the nines for breakfast. Who has the time for that? It takes a lot to rattle San Diegans.

FSD: Tell me about your job?

Kristi: I am a wardrobe stylist and personal shopper. I do everything from red carpet looks with celebrities to helping a teacher find something to wear to her holiday party. I thrive on creating a look that makes women feel fabulous!

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Kristi: I am big fan of the high/low look. Buy a fabulous shirt from Forever 21 and pair it with a killer pair of skinny jeans or jeggings and sky high Christina Louboutins. Head to toe designer is soooo boring!

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Kristi: Anything that touched my body in the 80’s.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Kristi: Anything in the Elizabeth & James Spring 2010 collection. I tried to fight it, but those dang Olson twins make some pretty chic pieces!!!

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Krsiti: There is absolutely nothing wrong with scoring a great deal! Hit up those bargain stores and dig in. Saks Off Fifth and Loheman’s have some incredible sales where you can get an item for up to 80% off retail. Who doesn’t love that?!

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Krsiti: I got a great belt buckle at a gas station in Santee- seriously!

A Fashionable San Diegan - Stacia Kuhen

FSD: How long have you lived in San Diego?

Stacia: About 15 years.

FSD: Where are you from originally?

Stacia: I was born in a small town in Indiana.

FSD: What is your favorite part about living in San Diego?

Stacia: Its so eclectic! I love being able to go downtown to see a show or hit a gallery, drive to a ten million dollar Horse property in Rancho Santa Fe the next morning, and go for a run at Torrey Pines State Beach later in the same day. San Diego is inevitably becoming more interesting by virtue of all the interesting people that live here. Its no longer seen as just a beach town.

FSD: Tell me about your business or job.

Stacia: I am affiliated with a real estate agency called Luxe Global in Rancho Santa Fe and I am also studying to become a Certified Sommelier!

FSD: How would you describe your personal style?

Stacia: Casual and edgy. Right now, in the dead of winter, I am wearing a lot of leggings with over the knee boots and tee shirts, flanked with fun jewelry.

FSD: What is your worst fashion memory?

Stacia: Wearing Hyper color shorts....for those of you that don't remember, they turned different colors with body heat....like a mood ring.

FSD: What article of clothing or accessory do you plan on buying next?

Stacia: A pair of HunterWellies to wear for all this rain we've had!

FSD: Any down low fashion advice or secret shopping scene you want to share with FSD readers?

Stacia: I'm really into grey. Its so chic for all seasons and is fresher and more interesting than black, plus its neutral. Investing in grey handbags, belts, sunglasses, and boots / shoes is a great idea!

FSD: Where is the most random place you bought something stylish in San Diego?

Stacia: "The Frustrated Cowboy" in Del Mar. I bought the most amazing hand made leather and turquoise arm cuff.. I actually wear it quite often. I also like "Saratoga Saddlery" for cool polos and fun belts in Del Mar.