Style and Influence Run in the Family

Darren Bechtel and Samantha DuVall

Jorge Maumer with Carolyn Chandler at Opera Ball

Samantha DuVall and Carolyn Chandler

When honored as one of San Francisco Business Times most Influential Women of 2014, Carolyn Chandler said her proudest accomplishment was not only creating an organization that has flourished for 35 years, but also one that is cool enough to attract her daughter as a partner. You may have seen Chandler and her daughter Samantha DuVall around town. Either at business meetings or at the Opera Ball, they can captivate a room. In business together at Chandler Properties, Chandler and DuVall focus exclusively on San Francisco. Their combination of market knowledge and hands-on leadership has enabled Chandler Properties to become the premier apartment building management and homeowner association management services company in the Bay Area.

We first noticed them on the red carpet at San Francisco Opera Ball in 2012; Chandler in a striking red gown by Azadeh and DuVall in a dreamy blue gown by Jenny Packham. Asked about her professional style, Chandler said she prefers dresses over suits and avoids pants. Her daily outfit consists of a dress, high heels and a coat. Chandler likes a range of designers, looks for the right silhouette and prioritizes staying current and chic — not trendy. DuVall dresses like she means business. “Business hours are not the time to make a fashion statement. My outfits should strike a balance between professional, fashionable and functional. I may have a board meeting at a fancy co-op on Nob Hill and a site visit to an apartment building remodel in the Tenderloin. What I wear should work for both,” explained DuVall. “In the evening I can have some fun — no rules!”

We will keep watching their Wow factor. Red Carpet Bay Area highlights two female executives who demonstrate excellence in business and elegance in their style.