Wilkes Bashford opens new California flagship store
On a cool November evening, I stepped into the new flagship store of Wilkes Bashford and was greeted by the warm smile of Andrew Mitchell. Unaware of my role for the night—covering the grand opening for this publication—Mitchell introduced himself with genuine enthusiasm, eager to show me around.
As my friend Susie and I engaged with our gracious host, our exploration began, delving into the captivating legacy of the Mitchell family and their commitment to delivering luxury service to a discerning clientele.
Nestled in the Stanford Shopping Center, Wilkes Bashford unveiled its stunning, 25,000-square-foot space, a replacement for the beloved location that catered to fashion enthusiasts for over two decades. This momentous occasion not only signifies a new chapter but also marks a significant evolution in a brand that embodies luxury and bespoke shopping.
Wilkes Bashford, part of the esteemed Mitchell Stores portfolio, has long been a pioneer in elevating the retail experience. The store’s new design, crafted by the renowned San Francisco architectural firm Gensler, embraces the Italian coastal aesthetic with its airy, light-filled interiors and natural materials. This thoughtful design pays homage to California’s iconic coastlines while seamlessly blending modern luxury with classic elegance.
Andrew Mitchell, a member of the fourth-generation Mitchell family, emphasizes the importance of crafting a shopping experience that resonates with the community. “Shopping should be experiential,” he remarks. “We believe that luxury shoppers are looking for more than just merchandise; they want a connection to the legacy of the brands they choose.” This sentiment is deeply rooted in the Mitchell family’s philosophy which centers on relationship building and personalized service—a hallmark of the Wilkes Bashford experience.
Founded by fashion icon Wilkes Bashford in 1966, the brand has always been about more than just clothing; it’s about nurturing relationships that span generations. As Mitchell recalls, “My grandfather shopped here, my father shopped here, and now I’m shopping here. It’s the legacy of being a business that is multi-brand.” The new flagship store celebrates this rich history and boasts over 41 designer collections from celebrated names like Valentino, Bottega Veneta®, and Thom Browne, among others.
The bespoke shopping opportunities at Wilkes Bashford are unparalleled, with personalized styling sessions led by expert style advisors who are dedicated to curating the perfect wardrobe for each client. The spacious upstairs private VIP suite, complete with a living room feel and a full kitchen, allows customers to enjoy a day of luxury shopping in comfort. Meanwhile, a dedicated espresso bar ensures clients can savor made-to-order specialty drinks while they explore the latest collections.
In addition to luxurious clothing, the new Wilkes Bashford location features an exquisite jewelry section, showcasing renowned designers such as Pomellato and Aaron Henry. With 21 beautifully designed cases beneath a skylight, clients can experience the joy of selecting pieces in a private setting, further enhancing the bespoke nature of their shopping experience.
Despite the challenges facing the retail market, the Mitchell family’s commitment to brick-and-mortar locations shines through in this new venture. “We knew the market was here,” Mitchell shares. “We wanted to wait until we found the right space, and this new store truly reflects the community’s spirit.”
As the largest non-department luxury retail group in the U.S., Mitchell Stores is not only surviving but thriving, investing in the future of luxury retail with locations that celebrate local identities and cater to the unique preferences of their clientele.
With the opening of Wilkes Bashford’s flagship store in Palo Alto, the legacy of its founder continues to flourish, offering a transformative shopping experience that is as much about connection and community as it is about couture. For those seeking bespoke fashion that honors a rich heritage while embracing modernity, Wilkes Bashford is a destination like no other.
For more information, visit wilkesbashford.com.