I stopped by Fashion Island last night and saw that the new Kate Spade store has just opened! This marks Kate Spade’s first Southern California free standing retail store. It’s always interesting to me when a big company decides to open a flagship store here in the OC as opposed to Los Angeles. I guess the affluence of this “west coast Riviera” is appealing, and perhaps the proximity to the beach doesn’t hurt either. Anyways, I’m sure the Kate Spade store will do quite well in Newport Beach, as it was pretty busy when I took a look-see. What I love about her stores is the tchotchke things she puts in to further promote the lifestyle. Happy colors, eclectic and witty books and objects, and a perfect blend of preppy chic and contemporary lifestyle. Also on display was the Kate Spade dinnerware. I always love seeing her trademark kelly green china, although was hoping to see the kids line I saw in Elle Decor, but sadly it wasn’t there yet. Speaking of kelly green china, I noticed that Crate&Barrel has a nice set in a similar colorway. Which one do you like better? By the way, the Kate Spade store is at Fashion Island, Newport Beach 949.219.0785