Lily Samii honored at DeYoung Museum

An evening celebrating fashion designer Lily Samii

Words by DIANE DORRANS SAEKS
Photography by DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

Family, clients, colleagues from Los Angeles and San Francisco ateliers, and even friends from school days in Milan gathered on Thursday, September 12, to celebrate the life and illustrious career and style of Lily Samii, who closed her fashion atelier after a 40-year career. Dramatically different styles of 25 gowns were arrayed around the Piazzoni Murals Room at the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park.

“Lily Samii is the epitome of San Francisco style,” said longtime fan Yurie Pascarella. “She was the go-to designer for opera and ballet galas, symphony opening nights, weddings, and all evenings requiring extra glamor and individuality. Each gown was custom made, each one a jewel.”

Samii, surrounded by fans, was overjoyed — and, she said, overwhelmed. “I loved dressing all my friends and clients for decades,” she said. “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.”

The standout gown was designed for Denise Hale in 2014 to wear to the Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Champagne 100th anniversary in Epernay, France. The black lace skirt and shawl were embellished in copper beads, layers of tulle and silk gazar, and cherry blossom blooms in charmeuse silk. “I loved wearing Lily’s design,” said Hale. “Her designs are timeless, exquisite.”

Reflecting on Samii’s collections, arts philanthropist Beverly Maytag noted that she had more than 30 custom gowns, evening jackets, dresses, and ensembles. “I’ve been wearing Lily Samii designs for special occasions since she opened her atelier,” she said. “I continue wearing them with great pleasure. They are each one-of-a-kind, like Lily herself.”

Among the glam crowd at the de Young, many wearing Lily Samii outfits, were Dede Wilsey, Denise Hale, Danielle St. Germain, Samii’s sister and longtime assistant, Laleh Zohadi, and costume department curator Laura Camerlengo. The event also honored the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation.