The Best Shopping Day in Orange County: Malls and Outlets
by Emma Wong
Orange County is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from luxury malls to charming boutiques and discounted outlets. The malls and outlets in Orange County are full of high-end fashion, trendy finds, or great deals. The OC has it all! Here’s how to plan an ideal shopping day, hitting the best destinations across the county.
Morning: Luxury and Designer Finds at South Coast Plaza
Start your day at South Coast Plaza, one of the most luxurious Orange County shopping centers. This world-renowned mall is home to luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, alongside department stores such as Nordstrom, Zara, Artizia and Bloomingdale’s. Splurg on breakfast from Tiffany’s Blue Box cafe before shopping or stop by Din Tai Fung for a delicious meal.
Midday: Open-Air Shopping and Dining at Fashion Island
After a luxury morning, head down to Fashion Island in Newport Beach for a more relaxed yet upscale experience. This open-air shopping center offers a mix of high-end brands like Neiman Marcus and Vince, along with more casual favorites like Anthropologie, Brandy Melville, and Lululemon. Enjoy a scenic lunch at True Food Kitchen or JOEY or a quick bite at Lemonade while soaking in the coastal breeze and ocean views. Afterwards, be sure to stop by Bacio di Latte, a delicious gelato shop!
Afternoon: Outlet Bargains at The Outlets at Orange
No shopping day is complete without scoring some great deals, and The Outlets at Orange is the perfect place for that. Featuring stores like Nike, Saks Off 5th, and Calvin Klein, this outlet mall lets you shop big brands for less. If you need a quick boost, stop by Krispy Kreme and get a fresh donut!
Evening: Trendy Stores and Styles at Irvine Spectrum
Make your way to the Irvine Spectrum Center, one of OC’s most vibrant shopping destinations. Known for its liveliness, the Spectrum has stores like Princess Polly, Edikted, and Urban Outfitters, making it the perfect place to try on clothes you may buy online. Take a break from shopping with a ride on the iconic Giant Wheel, or grab a macaron from Honey & Butter. Afterwards, grab dinner at various restaurants the Irvine Spectrum has to offer!
Conclusion
A shopping day in Orange County means experiencing the best of both worlds with luxury fashion, trendy stores, and unbeatable deals. Whether you're on the hunt for designer handbags, boutique gems, or discounted steals, these top destinations ensure you have an unforgettable retail therapy experience. Happy shopping!
