A Glimpse into Fashion at City Hall

In January 1996, upon taking office, San Francisco’s then-newly elected Mayor Willie Brown immediately noticed an unconventional sight within the precincts of City Hall: one of his aides donned a linen suit despite the winter season. Taken aback, Brown quickly instructed the aide to change, underlining his strong sense of fashion etiquette.

This anecdote reflects not only Brown’s emphasis on appropriate attire but also his reputation as one of California’s most stylish public figures.

Setting a Standard for Political Fashion

Serving as mayor from 1996 to 2004, Willie Brown was renowned for his impeccable fashion sense, often seen in meticulously tailored suits complemented by perfectly coordinated accessories. His signature look included a subtle handkerchief peeking from his suit pocket and a flair for striking color combinations. Notably, he once made headlines by racing a Municipal Railway streetcar to showcase pedestrians’ speed, all while maintaining his classic look, which featured wingtips and a stylish Panama hat.

The Auction: A Treasure Trove of Fashion

Now at the age of 91, Brown is letting go of a portion of his iconic wardrobe. An array of items will soon be available for auction, including:

• Green Gucci high-top sneakers priced at $105.50
• Ivory Kiton cashmere crew-neck sweater listed at $36
• Over 50 additional clothing items, from shoes to jackets

This auction is being held in conjunction with Goodwill, the nonprofit organization known for its thrift retailing. Traditionally, Brown has contributed to Goodwill by donating pieces from his closet annually, but this event is special as it compiles the “Willie Brown Collection” for online bidders.