The History of Fashion in San Francisco a Tribute to Wilkes Bashford
The History of Fashion and Design series begins with a tribute to Wilkes Bashford, the iconic name in San Francisco fashion. With his first store in Union Square in 1966, Wilkes Bashford became SF’s top trend-setter. He introduced young European designers like Brunello Cucinelli and Brioni, and was the very first in the city to carry popular names like Ralph Lauren and Alexander Julian. Wilkes described his style as “clothing for the bold conservative” as it was favored by famous politicians like former Mayor Willie Brown Jr. Wilkes brought grace, elegance and style to San Francisco, his influence remaining strong even after his death in 2016.
We sat down with three long-time friends and employees of his: Sharon Kish– a poet, humorist and oral historian, Denise Johnson Based in San Francisco she has spent her career working with Industry leading brands that have redefined the retail experience both in the United States and abroad . The breadth of her experience includes new store openings, merchandising and sales. This makes her an asset to growing brands that seek to re- envision retail environments in the 21st Century. Yuriko Takata– wife of the late Jody Wilson who owned the shoe and handbag concession in Bashford’s stores. Yuriko was able to assist her husband on international trips to help collect the best possible goods for Bashford’s stores. We were so pleased to hear stories about Wilkes from women who all knew and loved him. We hope you enjoy this interview in his honor.
For more information about Wilkes Bashford, please visit: https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Wilkes-Bashford-The-man-who-gave-San-Francisco-6765886.php
https://wilkesbashford.mitchellstores.com/
Please meet Sharon Kish, Denise Johnson, and Yuriko Takata!
