What things are referred to as the "painted ladies" of San Francisco?

This famous nickname refers to the city's stunning collection of Victorian and Edwardian homes, which are characterized by their elaborate architectural details like bay windows, intricate trim, and ornate gables. The term "Painted Lady" specifically describes the practice of using three or more vibrant, contrasting colors to accentuate these features, turning the homes into dazzling works of art. While this colorful style originated in the Victorian era, it saw a major revival in the 1960s that created the iconic look we know today.

The most photographed and famous examples, often called "Postcard Row," are a block of seven houses on Steiner Street, overlooking Alamo Square Park. Built between 1892 and 1896, these homes survived the great (Review) 1906 earthquake and fire. Originally, they were painted in more subdued, chalky colors. However, during the "colorist movement" of the 1960s, artist Butch Kardum and others began repainting them with a palette of bright, eclectic hues. This trend spread throughout the city, cementing the Painted Ladies' status as a beloved symbol of San Francisco's unique charm and history.