European Matters

Maggie Bobileff’s first language is fashion, but she also speaks a Swiss-German dialect from the canton in Switzerland where she was born and raised.

  "When I was a young girl, I wanted to be a teacher. But I realized, teachers are very straight-headed," Bobileff said. And it’s true—those who know the fashionista can hardly imagine her electric strut in any other industry.

 And so it is with fashion, that rules are made to be broken by stylists like Bobileff, who projects an unadulterated vision from her distinctly international perspective.

Maggie B and Mister B clothing boutiques in Rancho Santa Fe are an exclusive wander through the inspired mind of a woman who has rubbed elbows with some of the industry’s most infamous names in couture fashion. She remembers sharing a table in Italy with her favorite designer, Giorgio Armani—recalls the palazzo with Gianni Versace—in her beautiful accent. It brings a smile to her face and unique perspective to her boutiques.

More familiar still are her first memories of designing clothes, reconstructing her mother’s old clothing with her sister—snipping and sewing new ideas into fabrics she would later study at college. For five years, at a Swiss trade school, Bobileff was immersed in design, construction, textiles and retail management—an education unique to her home country and something in which she takes great pride.

"Sales is about knowledge, understanding the products, every detail," she explained. "You should never ask a client, ‘How can I help you?’" This business philosophy worn on her sleeve is impressive, a little intimidating, and a testament to her belief that style is something very personal and shouldn’t be forced. "It’s not about this style, or that style. It’s about a personal upgrade—feeling good about yourself," she added.

In her early twenties, Bobileff was jet-setting around the world to Munich, Milan and other fashion capitals, buying trends that hadn’t yet hit New York Fashion Week. In her mid-twenties, Bobileff had already achieved great success in Switzerland, she was proud of her accomplishments and she was about to have a baby.

"When my son was born, the years started to go by really fast. I knew I needed to spend more time with him," she said.

After moving to San Diego 15 years ago, Bobileff opened Mister B, a Euro-inspired boutique on a mission to help the modern SoCal man appreciate fashion, the joy of luxurious tailoring and the pleasure of looking great. That was seven years ago. Five years later, Bobileff opened Maggie B, the feminine mate to her vision.

"The Swiss never save on fashion," she explained. "The Italians are the same way. In Italy, dinner begins when you start to get dressed."

Bobileff’s romantic view of fashion is the reason people throughout San Diego call on her to customize their wardrobe, pack for vacations and add a personal touch to any occasion. She inspires men and women alike to try something new, something bold and dare to be fabulous in San Diego.

Bobileff is the kind of gal that would give someone in need the beautiful Escada blazer off her back— or at least let them borrow it. She is generous and philanthropic, and in 5-inch heels, poised and incredibly polite. She leans her head slightly to the side when someone speaks, an endearing quality that lets people know she is truly listening—listening to help, listening to learn, listening to your style.    

For more information, call 760-452-2299 or visit maggiebclothing.com

Maggie B Clothing Store in Del Mar at the Flower Hill Plaza.