Victoria Velasquez first created her clothing line, Petals and Peacocks, as a class project at art school. After teaming up with her fiancé a few years ago, she managed to turn it into a thriving business. You can find her snarky creations on style-makers and trendsetters or nab some for yourself from the flagship store she recently opened close to Santa Clara University.
You can find the woman herself, often accompanied by a pack of pet dogs, at the trendy little boutique located at 2261 The Alameda in Santa Clara (by the San Jose border). We caught up with her to find out where she loves to eat, shop and play in Silicon Valley:
What brought you to San Jose?
College, I attended SJSU and graduated from the Art Institute of California—Silicon Valley.
What do you like most about South Bay?
It’s not too busy, but it’s not too quiet.
Where would you have your last meal on earth?
What inspires you?
Everyday life, pop culture, music, my dogs.
Where is a cool place to take an out-of-towner?
I think San Pedro Market is a great place to take a visitor. Great food and a chill atmosphere.
Name your favorite hole-in-the-wall place to grub?
It’s not really a hole-in-the-wall, but to grub, I love Sneha.
Where’s the best place to get a cup of coffee in San Jose?
I’m not much of a coffee drinker, but Hannah Coffee is a nice spot.
Name your favorite upcoming San Jose event:
I’m looking forward to Jay-Z at the SAP Center.
What is your No. 1 fall fashion must-have:
Beanie.
Name your favorite trends for fall:
Layers upon layers upon layers, dark colors and boots.
Reveal>Where are your secret shopping hotspots?
The Internet.
Where do you get beautified?
When I get the chance, Bigsby House.
Name three things every local should do this fall in San Jose:
Attend a farmers market, eat a bacon-wrapped hot dog from a random stand and check out our flagship store.
Finish this sentence:
San Jose is … where I reside.
Little Cheese Shoppe Shuttered in San Pedro Square Market 
