On the enchanting evening of September 12, the de Young Museum in San Francisco transformed into a haven of elegance and nostalgia, as the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation hosted An Evening Celebrating Lily Samii: A Tribute to a Fashion Icon.
This much-anticipated event was not just a celebration of a designer’s remarkable career, but a heartfelt acknowledgment of the artistry and passion that Lily Samii has infused into the world of fashion.
As a longtime admirer of her work since my days at Harper’s BAZAAR in the ’90s, I recognized that her designs were synonymous with the highest standards of artistry in fashion.
So, on this particular balmy San Francisco evening, the night shimmered with excitement as guests filled the iconic museum, eager to pay homage to a woman whose exquisite designs have graced the wardrobes of the Bay Area’s elite for decades.
The event sold out almost instantly, with a growing waitlist that reflected profound admiration for Samii, a designer who has become synonymous with style and grace. Mary Poland, co-chair and dear friend of the designer, recounted her experience of wearing a Lily Samii gown to a friend’s daughter’s birthday party. “They all thought I looked just like Cinderella,” she reminisced, capturing the magic that Samii’s creations evoke.
This sentiment echoed throughout the evening, as guests shared their own enchanting tales of wearing Samii’s designs—each gown a story in itself—from grand soirées at the Palace of Versailles to prestigious galas celebrating milestones in fashion history.
As guests walked through the Wilsey Court, the atmosphere was electric with love and admiration. “I never forget the moment I walked through the Wilsey Court of de Young and saw my name on the big screen; it was magical,” Samii reflected. “I felt like I had woken up from a beautiful dream.”
Surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues, the designer was swept away in a tidal wave of nostalgia and gratitude, celebrating the memories and friendships cultivated throughout her remarkable journey.
Lily Samii’s illustrious career spans over five decades, a timeline detailed in her recently published memoir, Journey Through Life and Fashion. From her humble beginnings in Esfahan, Iran to establishing herself as a beacon of fashion in San Francisco, her story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to her craft.
The evening also marked the unveiling of an exhibit showcasing her private collection—a fitting tribute to a career that has left an indelible mark on the world of couture.
Samii’s designs are characterized by their impeccable craftsmanship and timeless elegance, attracting a devoted clientele that includes some of the Bay Area’s most notable families.
After a successful, 30-year tenure as a female founder of LYZ Ltd., Northern California’s premier retail business, she launched her own label, the Lily Samii Collection. Her flagship showroom in Union Square quickly gained recognition, and her creations soon found homes in luxury retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
In addition to her remarkable achievements in fashion, Samii has been a trailblazer for women in the industry, serving as an artistic advisor for the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation. Her dedication to honoring her roots culminated in the production of Unbreakable: Honoring the Women of Iran, a project that garnered rave reviews and earned her induction into UNESCO’s International Dance Council for her distinguished production and costume design.
The night was not just a celebration of Samii’s accomplishments, but it was also a testament to her generous spirit. Throughout her career, she has supported numerous San Francisco arts institutions and educational organizations, leaving a lasting legacy that extends beyond her designs.
As guests gathered in the Piazzoni Murals Room, they were treated to a stunning display of 25 gowns, each a testament to Samii’s mastery and creativity. “Lily Samii is the epitome of San Francisco style,” remarked longtime admirer Yurie Pascarella. “She was the go-to designer for opera and ballet galas, symphony opening nights, weddings, and all evenings requiring extra glamour and individuality. Each gown was custom-made, each one a jewel.”
As the evening drew to a close, Samii expressed her overwhelming joy. “I loved dressing all my friends and clients for decades. It’s pure joy to see my gowns in this museum. My life’s work is now part of the costume collection of the Fine Arts Museums, and it’s a great honor.”
An Evening Celebrating Lily Samii was not merely an event; it was a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose passion for fashion has inspired countless individuals. As her gowns take their rightful place in the annals of fashion history, Lily Samii’s legacy will continue to shine brightly, illuminating the path for future generations of designers. The de Young Museum now houses a treasure trove of memories, artistry, and the timeless elegance that is Lily Samii. Kar khobi kardi, you’ve done good, Lily.