Let’s be frank: Meet fashion blogger Frank Vinyl

Famed designer John Galliano (Christian Dior, Givenchy) once said, “The joy of dressing is an art,” and when it comes to the fashion and lifestyle blog frankvinyl.com, it’s clear that author Francesca Smith has a lot of joy. Smith has steadily been building a following sharing personal style diaries and tips via her website, Instagram and even vlogging on YouTube.

PACIFIC recently checked in with the chic Latina to talk signature outfits, fall fashion and the trendiest neighborhood in San Diego.

Name: Francesca Smith
Hometown: San Diego
Current neighborhood: North Park

What do you do for a living?
I am a fashion/lifestyle blogger and my second job is wedding photography.

Website/social media handles:
FrankVinyl.com
Instagram: @ FrankVinyl

In her words

I’m a Mexican fashion blogger, content creator and photographer based in San Diego. I am the creative director behind my blog, Frank Vinyl (which has over 125,000 followers on social media). My style leans towards edgy street style with a touch of bohemian inspiration. I’ve worked on campaigns and projects in collaboration with clients such as 7 For All Mankind, Coffeemate, Urban Outfitters, Macy’s, Levi’s and more while documenting my travels and lifestyle through photographic storytelling.

What’s your go-to or signature item of clothing?

Definitely a hat. Any kind of hat. I love hats and I don’t think I will ever have too many. Currently loving my black lieutenant hats and cute neutral-colored berets for fall.

What’s on your fall fashion wish list?

I’m a sucker for all things that have a touch of a vintage feel. Shearling jackets; high-waisted, wide-legged pants; retro-styled sunglasses in bold colors. I also have my eye on easy-to-throw-on blouses in sheer fabrics with prints - like polka dots or stars - to have on rotation.

What’s one thing everyone should invest in for fall?

A good faux statement leather moto jacket. It’s the perfect transitional weather piece and immediately gives that “cool girl” vibe. A good moto (jacket) goes with almost everything.

Favorite trends right now?

Currently in love with little structured basket bags - I wear mine almost every day - deconstructed hems on jeans and girlie, flirty dresses paired with athletic sneakers.

What are some of your favorite San Diego stores or boutiques?

I love Avenu in Coronado. Love their Australian labels and cute boho beachy dresses. They also have an adorable small, but perfectly tailored shoe collection. Pigment in North Park is a dream for cute gifts and home decor. I basically want my whole house to look like Pigment.

When on a budget, what’s one article of clothing to buy for fall?

Some cute ankle boots that you can wear with everything. Black or neutral is always best. Steve Madden always has a good ankle boot for an affordable price. DSW is also amazing for affordable boots.

When splurging, what’s one article of clothing to invest in for fall?

I would invest in a warm, chunky textured cardigan in a neutral color that you can wear over and over again all throughout fall and into winter. I have been wanting to splurge on an I Love Mr. Mittens cardi for the longest time! The material is high quality and the texture is so cozy!

Any local designers you’re loving right now?

I’m a fan of Parpala Jewelry. Beautiful, dainty, minimal-styled necklaces and rings that you can layer in so many different ways.

Describe an ideal weekend in San Diego.

Any weekend in S.D. is ideal. There is so much to do! A good weekend for me would be having the time to stop by the farmers market, either in Little Italy or Hillcrest, spending half a day at the beach, stopping by for some craft cocktails at one of my favorite bars and grabbing dinner at a romantic spot with John, my husband.

Favorite San Diego restaurant?

I really love Cafe Gratitude (Little Italy) because it’s so healthy and picture perfect, but another favorite of mine is Jaynes Gastropub (North Park). They have the best steak frites and it makes me feel like I’m in Europe.

Favorite San Diego happy hour?

Polite Provisions (North Park).

What do you think is San Diego’s most stylish neighborhood and why?

North Park is winning right now. They have some amazing bars, restaurants, coffee shops and cute little clothing boutiques sprinkled throughout. It’s a fun and creative hub. It’s grown so much in the past four years since I have lived there; it’s been fun to watch it grow.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYWQbg8AlqZ/?taken-by=frankvinyl