Lily Samii

Iconic Bay Area fashion designer, Lily Samii  has a 50 year history of creative excellence. From apprenticing with Edith Head to working with James Galanos, Lily quickly distinguished herself within the field, earning prestigious awards and national press coverage. 

Lily’s exquisite combination of couture design and impeccably refined craftsmanship resulted in timelessly elegant pieces that have drawn a steady clientele for decades, including the Bay Area’s most notable families.

Following a successful 30 year career, as a female founder of L.Y.Z. LTD,  one of Northern California’s premier retail businesses, Lily decided to launch her own label. The Lily Samii Collection was established with its flagship showroom in San Francisco’s Union Square. Shortly after, an East Coast satellite location was opened on 7th Avenue, in New York City. The Lily Samii Collection quickly gained recognition and was soon carried by luxury national and international retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.

As an Iranian woman, Lily’s career in fashion was unprecedented. In her role, as the Artistic Advisor and Advisory Board Member for the Presidio Performing Arts Foundation, she paid homage to her roots by overseeing a new production, “Unbreakable: Honoring the Women of Iran.” The piece premiered to rave national and international reviews, earning her an induction as a member of UNESCO’s International Dance Council, for distinguished production and costume design. 

Lily’s generous support of San Francisco’s performing arts institutions, community organizations, and educational entities, extended throughout her career. Upon her retirement, Lily captured her illustrious career in a memoir entitled, “Lily Samii: A Journey Through Life & Fashion.” Lily’s  personal collection will be housed at the de Young Museum of San Francisco, preserving her tremendous legacy to be enjoyed by generations to come.

“The rich tapestry of Lily’s experiences is reflected in her exceptional talent, her attention to detail, her social grace, and deep compassion.” David Gockley, Former Director, San Francisco Opera.