Yashica Topalovic’s boutique, Frances Taylor, blends sustainable fashion with community engagement, showcasing creativity through reconstructed garments and personal styling services.
Frances Taylor, a clothing brand founded by Yashica Topalovic, has made significant strides in the fashion industry over the past five years. The brand is named in honor of Topalovic’s grandmother, Francis Taylor, and it specializes in reconstructing slightly worn garments while offering styling services. Topalovic’s boutique is located in the vibrant Art Hub of Barrio Logan, sometimes referred to as Urban Old Town. Together with her husband, she designed the boutique’s Victorian-inspired interior, which adds a distinctive charm to the space.
Topalovic’s journey in fashion began early on when she learned to sew from her aunt. She further honed her skills through classes in San Diego, fostering her enthusiasm for sustainable fashion. A hallmark of her offerings is the Infusion Collection, which includes reconstructed garments and pre-loved fashion pieces priced starting at just $10. Moreover, the boutique showcases garment rentals, featuring couture gowns for special occasions.
In addition to her own boutique, Topalovic has collaborated with Jewelry with Friends, a collective boutique located in the Grossmont Shopping Center Mall. This venue not only highlights Colombian designer jewelry but also supports local businesses and offers jewelry-making workshops. The boutique plays a role in community engagement by partnering with the Chamber of Commerce to facilitate Women’s Networking Meetings.
As a wardrobe stylist, Topalovic provides comprehensive fashion consultations, including services for wardrobe editing and personal shopping. She specializes in personal styling, assisting clients in organizing their wardrobes to align with new career opportunities.
In 2023, Topalovic dedicated her year to participating in events organized by Fashion Week San Diego. One of her most notable creations was an avant-garde piece that symbolized a caged woman, developed in collaboration with a European painter and a hairstylist who designed an intricate caged hairpiece. This design was displayed at prestigious venues including the Art Renewal Center, Sotheby’s in New York City, and the San Diego Film Festival. Her year culminated in a grand finale at the Fashion Week San Diego Fashion Show held in October.
Originally hailing from El Centro, Topalovic has faced her share of personal challenges; she spent time in and out of shelters starting at the age of 11. In response, she has committed herself to giving back to those in need, regularly donating clothing to the Sister League of San Diego. She also offers specialized workshops, such as Essentials for Fall/Winter, aiming to boost confidence and provide practical fashion solutions. To enhance the atmosphere of her events, she features jazz music and hosts raffles.
For a personalized shopping and styling experience, interested customers are encouraged to book appointments with Topalovic by reaching out to her via Instagram at @francestaylor.yt.
In addition to her own work, several upcoming events in the local fashion arena have been announced. On Thursday, March 20, a Life Time Fashion Show will be held from 6-8 p.m. at Life Time, located at 1055 Wall St., showcasing the latest trends in activewear and athleisure. Proceeds from the event will benefit Rady’s Children Hospital.
On Sunday, March 23, a themed event called Sip and Style is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bivouac Adventure Lodge in North Park, where attendees can enjoy refreshments alongside a selection of clothing. Finally, on Saturday, March 29, the Razkal Market will take place from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center, featuring 40 vendors and a fashion show.
Diana Cavagnaro, a couture milliner based in Southern California, is also part of this dynamic fashion scene, demonstrating the diverse talent present in the region. Further details can be found on her website at www.dianacavagnaro.com.
Source: Noah Wire Services
