New River Oaks District Store Brings a Fashion Force to Houston — Frances Valentine’s Founder Tells All

Houston fans of the ever-so-wearable fashions of Frances Valentine turned out in force to celebrate the opening of the line’s first brick and mortar in Houston. Founder Elyce Arons hosted the party in the River Oaks District boutique where colorful fall fashions were on display.

This is the first Frances Valentine store in Texas, joining boutiques in Palm Beach, Sag Harbor and on Madison Avenue in New York. Lone Star fans previously exercised their buying prowess by shopping online for the colorful, sensible yet playful fashions.

“Fall dressing is so thrilling to me, I just love layering and styling pieces together,” Arons tells PaperCity. “Our fall collection has so much to offer with interesting patterns, vibrant colors, artisanal cable knit sweaters, fair isle vests and wonderful party wear like bright ball skirts and cozy maxi dresses in Angora. Perfect for a cocktail party, dinner out or entertaining at home.”

Fashion-savvy femmes recall that Arons and Kate Spade were partners in the Kate Spade label. They and Spade’s husband, Andy Spade, sold the label in 2006 and introduced Frances Valentine in 2016 with the beloved DNA of their original label with quality emphasized at the forefront.

“Our pieces are made to keep forever and pass them on to the next generation,” Arons says. “We create our apparel and accessories in small batches to ensure each and every piece is well-crafted and made with the best quality.”

And it’s not merely attire that is on display. Offerings of the lifestyle brand in the River Oaks District boutique  include shoes, handbags, jewelry and gifts. Shopping is a dream here. The boutique, located next to Bella Renova Spa, is spacious with a living room vibe and the music is always pulsating.

“I love everything about our Houston store,” Arons declares with enthusiasm. “I love the high ceilings and the space for art, the people who come by are just so fun and friendly and our neighbors in ROD are all so kind and helpful.”

For the opening fête the Frances Valentine team invited loyal customers, friends, influencers and editors.

PC Seen: Nancy Bihlmaier, Jody Isrealsky, Gail Rubin, Carrie Colbert, Christin Is, Jermany Coney, Justine Coney, Rebecca Gentry, Zoya Grifin, Patti Perrier, Becky Murphy and Thanh Nguyen.