Local designer hits the runway with Fashion on the Square

Photo courtesy of R. Shay Miles

The East Bay has it goin’ on lately with a thriving group of topnotch fashion designers. R. Shay Miles is the latest addition to the list, having started her clothing line in September 2009. Since then Shay has participated in two fashion shows and she is currently getting ready for the biggest runway show on the West Coast, Fashion on the Square happening Saturday, August 14 under the dome in San Francisco’s Westfield Centre.

Shay caught the design bug early in life and continued to hone her natural skills all through college and while working on a successful marketing career. In 1999 she decided to devote more time to fashion design and before long she had built up a small exclusive clientele. Still, Shay says she felt she wasn’t living to her full potential. “I wasn’t happy,” explains Shay. “I was missing my passion.” She knew it was time to start her own line.

Thus was born ahr.es.ihm offering women’s contemporary sportswear and shay’s alter ego, zena offering haute couture, bridal and evening wear. Old Hollywood movies are a source of inspiration for Shay and when blocked she will pop in a DVD. “Imitation of Life is my favorite movie,” says Shay. “Lana Turner was gorgeous in anything she wore.” Shay describes her design aesthetic as elegant, timeless and sophisticated. Asymmetry is her signature look and she strives to create wearable fashion.

Don’t miss Shay’s Goddess Collection featured with other Bay Area designers at the 7th Annual Fashion on the Square. Saturday, August 14, noon-5pm, Westfield Center Dome, 865 Market Street, San Francisco. Click here for tickets and more information.