50 Fashionable Years in Newport Beach

With illustrious Newport Beach as the sunlit backdrop, Fashion Island is one of the country’s most distinctive outdoor shopping centers, steeped in resort lifestyle and casual sophistication. And this year, the destination commemorates its 50th anniversary. Having already kicked off the party in July, the celebration continues through the end of the year.

Fashion Island created the archetype for a high-style, open-air lifestyle destination when it opened in 1967. Initially named Newport Town Center, original tenants included department store anchors Buffums, The Broadway, Robinson’s and JC Penney, along with 52 specialty retailers and restaurants, including the memorable Bob Burns and The Velvet Turtle.

Today, the alfresco design and Pacific Ocean views remain a starring allure, as does Fashion Island’s exclusive portfolio, which has been the hallmark since its inception—and methodically honed ever since.

Its diverse collection includes 160 top-tier boutiques and restaurants, many exclusive to Orange County and the West Coast. Irvine Company has cultivated the most sought-after brands from Orange County’s only Neiman Marcus with coveted designers like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, The Row and Tom Ford; major flagships Urban Decay, Lincoln Experience Center and Rodd & Gunn; and lifestyle favorites Vince, Joie, AG, Alice + Olivia and Trina Turk. Meanwhile, the sprawling Anthropologie & Co. is the largest in Southern California and a destination unto itself.

To commemorate the golden anniversary, Fashion Island will kick off “50 Days of Fashion Island” beginning July 29 with select retailers extending exclusive in-store events and promotions. On Sept. 9, the official day of Fashion Island’s 50th anniversary, it will host a special event in honor of its loyal customers who have contributed to its success. With nearly 16 million visitors annually and $765 million in annual sales, there is much to laud.

From entertainment to sweet treats, in-store parties, and exclusive promotions, don’t miss the fun on Saturday, Sept. 9. During the customer-appreciation birthday celebration, exactly 50 years to the day that Fashion Island opened its doors.