Connect
To Top

Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Carly Frederick of Downtown San Diego

Carly Frederick shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Carly, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What battle are you avoiding?
Honestly? The battle with my email inbox. Every day it multiplies like a Marvel villain, and I’m out here pretending “mark as unread” is a productivity strategy. But in all seriousness, I think the real battle I avoid is the one against perfectionism. As a producer, stylist, and creative entrepreneur, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to make every detail flawless—but the real magic happens when I let go, trust the process, and just create.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Carly Frederick—a fashion show producer, creative connector, and runway ringleader with a background in construction and corporate project management (yes, really). I went from hard hats to haute couture, and now I produce elevated fashion experiences from NYFW to Beverly Hills. My brand is all about bold storytelling, inclusive casting, and giving emerging designers a luxury-level platform to shine. I also love blending fashion with unexpected spaces—think rooftop runways, hotel takeovers, and even shows in high-rise amenity lounges. I’m currently working on upcoming productions for both New York and Los Angeles Fashion Weeks, as well as launching more curated experiences through my Modern Day Fashion segment with Modern Day Wife. I’m passionate about creating opportunities that don’t just ‘look good’—they feel empowering too.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I actually learned to read with Vogue. While other kids were flipping through picture books, I was studying fashion editorials and decoding Anna Wintour’s letters from the editor. Those pages weren’t just glossy—they were alive with storytelling, style, and attitude. Back then, Vogue was bold, unapologetic, and totally magnetic. It shaped the way I see creativity, confidence, and the power of a curated experience. It taught me that fashion isn’t just what you wear—it’s a lens through which you can reimagine the world.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me how to sit with the uncomfortable, to listen to my own voice when everything else felt uncertain, and to rebuild when no one was clapping. Success is loud—it brings recognition, applause, and momentum. But suffering? That’s quiet. That’s where you meet yourself. It showed me how resilient I really am, how to create from nothing, and how to keep showing up even when the path isn’t clear. Success celebrates the wins, but suffering teaches you how to survive—and how to make your wins actually mean something.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes—and no. The public version of me is definitely me—just with better lighting and a little more lip gloss. What you see is real: I’m passionate, driven, creative, and I love bringing bold visions to life. But like anyone, there’s a softer side that doesn’t always make it onto the runway or into the recap. The behind-the-scenes me is quieter, more reflective, and doing the deep work that doesn’t always get a standing ovation. I’ve learned that both versions are valid—and both are powerful in their own way.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think some people will assume it was all about the fashion—the shows, the looks, the sparkle. And yes, I love the drama of a good runway moment. But the real legacy I’m building is about creating space: for underrepresented voices, for emerging talent, for stories that haven’t been told yet. It’s about access, empowerment, and pushing boundaries in an industry that can feel exclusive. The clothes are just the medium—the message is much deeper. My legacy isn’t just about what I created; it’s about who I lifted along the way.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Joe Garcia @joegar_ph

Suggest a Story: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories

  • Meet David Obuchowski of Self

    Today we’d like to introduce you to David Obuchowski. David Obuchowski Hi David, thanks for sharing your story with us. To...

    Local StoriesJune 25, 2024
  • Introverted Entrepreneur Success Stories: Episode 3

    We are thrilled to present Introverted Entrepreneur Success Stories, a show we’ve launched with sales and marketing expert Aleasha Bahr. Aleasha...

    Local StoriesAugust 25, 2021