SAN FRANCISCO (August 2024) – An Evening Celebrating Lily Samii: A Tribute to a Fashion Icon, honoring the illustrious career of haute couture designer Lily Samii, will be presented at an exclusive reception with the artist Thursday, September 12, Piazzoni Murals Room at the renowned de Young, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park.
The event will be co-chaired by Sherene Melania and Mary Poland, two prominent figures in the San Francisco fashion and arts community. Their dedication and passion for celebrating artistic excellence make them the perfect hosts for this glamorous evening.
” … Each gown reflects Samii’s unique artistic vision, blending classic haute couture techniques with contemporary flair …”
The distinguished Honorary Event Co-chairs are former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Gretchen B. Kimball, and David H. Spencer. Honorary Committee members include The Honorable Wille L. Brown, Jr.; David Gockley and Linda Kemper; Denise Hale; The Honorable Barbro Osher; Matthew and Kate Shilvock; and Roselyne Chroman Swig.
The soiree will begin at 6 p.m. with an elegant cocktail reception, where guests will have the exclusive opportunity to view original gowns from Lily Samii’s private collection spanning her remarkable career. Each gown reflects Samii’s unique artistic vision, blending classic haute couture techniques with contemporary flair.
These creations showcase her exceptional talent and dedication to the art of fashion design. In addition to her personal collection, the pieces displayed will include an array of gowns worn at prestigious national and international events, ranging from The White House and global red carpets, to Nobel Prize Ceremonies and the acclaimed 100th Anniversary celebration of Perrier-Jouët, in Éparnay, France.
The event will mark a significant moment in fashion history as Samii will donate her resplendent creations to the impressive costume collection of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. This generous donation will ensure that her legacy of masterfully executed designs, her choice of colors and textiles, will continue to inspire future generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
Lily Samii commented “As a young designer, I always dreamt of having my work displayed at the de Young. This event is truly a dream come true and I am so delighted that my creations will be shared for generations to come at the museum. Thank you to everyone who has shared in my artistic vision and provided me with such inspiration. I am forever grateful.”
Exhibit highlights will also include pieces from Lily Samii’s iconic first collection, which was unveiled at the San Francisco Symphony’s Black and White Ball, in 2001. This inaugural collection received rave reviews, solidifying Samii’s position as the Bay Area’s preeminent haute couture designer.
Born into a family of nobility in Isfahan, Iran, Lily Samii’s early training began with legendary Hollywood designer Edith Head on several films, and later with renowned designer James Galanos. She has been a cornerstone of the San Francisco Bay Area fashion scene for over four decades. Highly praised for her exquisite designs and impeccable craftsmanship, Samii has dressed countless women in the Bay Area and nationwide, earning a reputation for chic elegance and sophistication. Lily Samii has also lent her impeccable design support to the internationally recognized and often awarded Presidio Dance Theatre as Artistic Advisor, earning her an induction as a member of UNESCO’s International Dance Council.
“Lily is the jewel in the crown to our fair city and community. We are honored to host this important evening, celebrating Lily’s tremendous legacy and the numerous ways in which she has enriched our lives with her vibrant spirit and magnificent creations,” said event co-chairs Sherene Melania and Mary Poland.
Sherene Melania, internationally acclaimed, Executive & Artistic Director of the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation and former Vice-President of the San Francisco Arts Commission, has been a longtime global advocate for arts and culture. Her commitment to preserving and promoting artistic heritage aligns perfectly with the spirit of the event.
Mary Poland, a well-known philanthropist and former President of the San Francisco Opera Guild, brings her deep appreciation for the arts to the evening’s celebration. Her involvement with Lily Samii spans decades, underscoring the synergy between fashion and multiple artistic disciplines.
Guests attending An Evening Celebrating Lily Samii can look forward to an enchanting night filled with elegance, style, and cultural enrichment. With curated culinary delights by McCall’s Catering & Events, this special occasion will provide a sophisticated backdrop for guests to mingle with fellow fashion aficionados, industry professionals, and notable personalities.
The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco are renowned for their commitment to presenting the work of extraordinary and diverse artists and designers. Lily Samii’s creations will join an extensive collection that includes works by some of the most influential designers in history, solidifying her place among the greats.
Hosted by the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation, tickets for An Evening Celebrating Lily Samii begin at $250 and may be purchased online at www.presidiodance.org.
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