RedCarpetSF's Top Women of Style 2009

Dede Wilsey in Michael Vollbracht, September 2009

Photos by Drew Altizer Photography

John Traina and Dede Wilsey (in Oscar de la Renta), August 2009

Dede Wilsey in Carolina Hererra, December 2009

Dede in CHANEL, February 2009

Dede (in Oscar de la Renta) with her family at the San Francisco Opera Ball, September 2009, (l to r): Alexis Traina, Trevor Traina, Dede Wilsey, John Traina (former husband), Katie Traina, Todd Traina

Dede in CHANEL, August 2009

At the top of RedCarpetSF's Women of Style 2009 list is Dede Wilsey. Dede is clearly dedicated to enriching San Francisco. Her contributions and actions on behalf of the Fine Arts Museums (she serves as board president), local hospitals, many children and family support agencies, the opera, symphony and ballet, enhance and improve lives and our local lifestyle. She has two sons and daughters-in-law, Trevor, married to Alexis, and Todd, married to Katie, all of whom she adores. In addition to her extensive travel and philanthropic activities, Dede is having a lot of fun with her three grandchildren.

Dede Wilsey's Style:

Do you have any wardrobe challenges: Yes, evening or daytime shoes that are chic without outrageously high heels.

Who are your current favorite designers? I have long been loyal to Oscar de la Renta, though I wanted to branch out in 2009, so my daughter-in-law, Alexis, introduced me to Monique Lhuillier. I worked with Monique on some gowns, one of which we changed into a cocktail dress for my sons' holiday party. Todd and Trevor typically invite a lot of young people who dress up for the occasion, and I didn't want to bore them!

Beauty must-haves: Lipstick! CHANEL had two colors I adored and wore for years, one pink, one coral, that were discontinued awhile ago. I bought all I could find at the time, and once they began to run out I tried so many lipsticks until I finally found a solution -- Revlon's Color Stay -- which I use as a base and apply the color over so my horde lasted a lot longer, and through dinner.

Beauty secret: Hair powder. Scented white bath or talcum powder adds volume and does not cost a small fortune. I don't like to spend a lot on cosmetics -- I use Oil of Olay moisturizer and Noxema -- and I do my own hair and makeup when I go out. I've had the same hair look forever. When I get older I may change to Catherine Deneuve's style.

Fashion tip: Dressing for your age is important. Make an effort to look your best no matter your age and enjoy yourself -- beauty comes from within. Time well spent will be reflected in your face, how you walk and your attitude. Never waste a moment. My mother is 92 and I still heed her advice: go out and make your own fun -- the world doesn't come to you!

Whose celebrity style do you admire? Meryl Streep is a great looking woman, I like her character and personality, but I don't like her taste. It doesn't matter what she wears, she has great talent, charm and confidence.

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RedCarpetSF's Top Women of Style 2009

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