Worth Avenue Guide
Palm Beach, Florida
Worth Avenue, Palm Beach.
Lat. 26.7004 | Long. -80.0388
Worth Avenue continues to epitomize Palm Beach's luxurious lifestyle. With its distinctive mix of historic charm, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and world-class shopping, it stands as one of the most prestigious streets in the country. The avenue blends the timeless glamour of old Palm Beach with the modern, sophisticated culture of the island.
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Worth Avenue, located in Palm Beach, Florida, is one of the most famous shopping streets in the United States, known for its luxury boutiques, galleries, and high-end retail stores. Its history dates back to the early 20th century and is closely tied to the development of Palm Beach as an exclusive winter resort destination for the wealthy elite. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Early Beginnings (1900s - 1920s)
Henry Flagler's Vision: Worth Avenue owes its origins to Henry Flagler, a key figure in the development of South Florida. In the late 19th century, Flagler, a wealthy oil tycoon and co-founder of Standard Oil, extended the Florida East Coast Railway to Palm Beach, transforming the area into a winter retreat for America's rich and famous. His construction of the Royal Poinciana Hotel (1894) and the Palm Beach Inn (later renamed The Breakers) made Palm Beach a fashionable destination.
Establishment of Worth Avenue: The actual establishment of Worth Avenue as a shopping district is attributed to the 1910s and 1920s. Addison Mizner, a flamboyant architect and socialite, played a significant role in shaping the street’s early character. He designed Mediterranean Revival-style buildings in Palm Beach, including some of the first shops on Worth Avenue.
Addison Mizner and the Mediterranean Revival Influence
Mizner’s Influence: Mizner’s architectural style, which drew from Mediterranean, Spanish, and Venetian influences, became synonymous with the elegance of Palm Beach. In 1923, Mizner built the Everglades Club, an exclusive social club, which further established Palm Beach’s reputation for luxury and attracted affluent patrons.
Via Mizner and Via Parigi: Mizner also built charming vias (courtyards and alleyways) off Worth Avenue, such as Via Mizner and Via Parigi, which added to the area’s European atmosphere and housed boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants. His architectural touches defined Worth Avenue’s aesthetic and charm.
Growth and Glamour (1930s - 1950s)
Post-Depression Boom: Despite the economic challenges of the Great Depression, Worth Avenue continued to flourish, with upscale stores and galleries catering to wealthy residents and visitors. By the mid-20th century, the avenue was solidified as one of the most prestigious shopping streets in the U.S.
Social Hub: Palm Beach became known for hosting celebrities, aristocrats, and industrial magnates, who frequented Worth Avenue. Figures like the Kennedy family, the Vanderbilts, and the Rockefellers were often spotted shopping or dining along the street. The avenue became synonymous with wealth, exclusivity, and high society.
Modern Era (1960s - Present)
Luxury Retail Growth: Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Worth Avenue attracted global luxury brands, including Chanel, Hermès, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier. It became a magnet for elite international shoppers and tourists.
Revitalization: In 2010, Worth Avenue underwent a major $15.8 million renovation to enhance the pedestrian experience. The project improved landscaping, widened sidewalks, and restored the iconic clock tower at the foot of the avenue near the Atlantic Ocean.
Cultural and Economic Significance
Art and Fashion: Worth Avenue has become known not just for fashion but also for art galleries, antique shops, and fine dining. It remains a cultural hub in Palm Beach.
Tourism: It continues to be a key tourist destination for visitors to Palm Beach, who are drawn by its history, luxury shopping, and Mediterranean charm.
Worth Avenue Today
Today, Worth Avenue remains a symbol of Palm Beach's affluent lifestyle. Its unique blend of historical charm, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and world-class luxury shopping makes it one of the most prestigious streets in the country. It represents both the glamour of old Palm Beach and the modern, sophisticated culture of the island.
WORTH AVE.
Lilly’s journey began in the 1950s, when her quest for love and adventure led her to Palm Beach, Florida. She quickly embraced a carefree, bohemian lifestyle, filled with friends and endless parties. It seemed fabulous, but life wasn’t always as bright as it appeared. Seeking guidance, Lilly was given surprising advice: she needed a renewed sense of purpose. That’s when this bold founder took a serendipitous leap, turning lemons into lemonade by starting a juice stand to fill her days with purpose.
A Life in Lilly…
Bice Ristorante
Esplanade at 150 Worth offers the ultimate luxury retail experience. Just steps from the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and at the top of the iconic Worth Avenue, visitors can indulge in shopping among some of the world’s most coveted luxury brands. More than just a destination, it’s a celebration of lifestyle and elegance.
Café Boulud
AERIN is a global luxury lifestyle brand founded by Aerin Lauder, reflecting her signature style and philosophy that living beautifully should be effortless. The brand offers curated collections in beauty, fashion accessories, and home décor, drawing inspiration from Aerin’s passion for art, travel, fashion, and design. Classic yet modern, each piece is thoughtfully crafted to enhance life with a sense of ease, refinement, and timeless beauty.
Trianon Seaman Schepps
Their clothing is not just for women; it is about women. It reflects their contradictions, routines, and how they effortlessly mix styles—throwing a cape over a jacket, transforming a simple dress into a statement piece. It captures their desire for leather's allure, their love for uniforms, and their strength, sensuality, and duality—all expressed through fashion.
They design with women’s multifaceted lives in mind, creating garments for living. Their pieces evolve with mood, need, and activity, embracing transformation and hybridization. A coat becomes a gilet and jacket; a trench turns into a dress or skirt; a skirt transforms into pants.
Breakers Hotel
Tideline Palm Beach Ocean Resort and Spa is located on Palm Beach’s stunning coastline, just next to the Four Seasons Hotel. This oceanfront resort boasts 134 newly renovated luxury guest rooms and suites, all featuring Fili D'oro bedding. The entire property was thoughtfully redesigned and renovated at the close of 2023.
Versace
Casa Branca collections weave an ongoing narrative, blending historical influences, classical concepts, and the evolution of our brand’s story. As we explore centuries of patterns, techniques, and textures, we push boundaries and innovate, creating a fresh approach to decoration and living.
The Art of Living is truly an art form—crafting a universe, relishing in the decoration of a home, setting a table, and sharing beauty and joy in every moment. Since 1830, Christofle has been creating exceptional tableware, exquisite jewelry, and refined home accessories with timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship.
Embark on a journey through 185 years of extraordinary milestones. Meet Charles Lewis Tiffany, the visionary who founded it all, and uncover the stories behind iconic symbols of the House, from the stunning Tiffany Diamond to the debut of the first Blue Book and Blue Box.
Ala von Auersperg is a designer, philanthropist, mother, grandmother, and the founder of Ala von Auersperg, a brand that celebrates women of all ages and sizes with effortlessly elegant silhouettes. A passionate painter with a love for travel and nature, Ala launched her eponymous label in 2017, aiming to create styles that offer women both confidence and comfort.
Bonpoint, inspired by the traditions of renowned fashion Houses, has established a creative and production process where stylists, designers, pattern makers, and cutters collaborate closely. Bonpoint's styling transforms happiness into an everyday lifestyle.
Since 1975, Bonpoint has remained dedicated to its exceptional craftsmanship and core values: the pursuit of beauty, a passion for quality, and an unwavering attention to detail and finishes.
Symbolized by two little cherries, the brand’s iconic logo evokes the origins of the fashion house. Legend has it that the family secrets were whispered at La Cerisaie, the founders' home surrounded by cherry trees in Aix-en-Provence.
Tucked away in Via Mizner on Worth Avenue, Renato's is the epitome of elegance, making it the perfect setting for any special occasion.
Renato's is Palm Beach's premier destination for gourmet dining and exceptional service. With soft lighting and sophisticated décor, the restaurant creates an atmosphere that delights in every detail. The professional staff attends to every guest’s need, ensuring no corners are cut and only the finest ingredients are used.
The menu is diverse and refined, offering an impressive selection of Continental cuisine with a touch of Italian flair.
The story of Ike Behar began in Havana, Cuba, where his father, Samuel, was a respected tailor who owned a shop called La Confianza (The Confidence). From a young age, Ike considered the shop his second home, spending countless hours watching his father work and absorbing all he could about the trade. Before long, Ike was sewing fabric alongside his father, and by the time he was seventeen, he was creating his own designs and handcrafting custom shirts to complement his father’s luxury suits.
In 1952, at the age of twenty, Ike immigrated to New York City in pursuit of the American Dream. With only fifty dollars to his name, Ike took a trial job at a small tailor shop. Within a week, the owner recognized Ike’s talent and offered him a full-time position. From that moment on, Ike dedicated himself to the art of shirt making.
Florie’s | Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
Florie’s, a restaurant and bar in collaboration with renowned chef Mauro Colagreco, marks his first venture in the United States. Colagreco, the visionary behind the three-Michelin-starred Mirazur in Menton, France, brings his passion for gardening and the flavors of the Mediterranean to Palm Beach. Situated on the iconic island, Florie’s celebrates nature with live-fire cooking and earth-conscious dishes, offering a vibrant blend of Mediterranean flavors inspired by the garden and the land.
An American Original Since 1977
Founded in 1977 by brothers Jay and Kevin, J. McLaughlin was created with the mission to offer a fresh take on American sportswear. The brand combines timeless, classic clothing with modern relevance, all within a retail environment that fosters a warm, neighborhood atmosphere.
Pink Paradise Cafe
Pink Paradise Café offers a refined European coffee experience, featuring classic espresso drinks and freshly baked pastries. Enjoy a leisurely meal at their cozy café seating on The Colony’s historic South County Road steps, where you can savor salads, sandwiches, and soups. For those on the go, their "grab and go" menu offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, along with a selection of gifts and snacks.
The Brazilian Court Palm Beach
Welcome to Palm Beach's Most Private and Secluded Hotel.
The Brazilian Court Hotel exudes timeless elegance with its Spanish Colonial architecture, lush tropical courtyards, and soothing fountains, all complemented by warm ocean breezes. A historic landmark that blends Roaring 1920s glamour with boutique intimacy, this private 80-room enclave offers the ultimate Palm Beach luxury experience. With chic accommodations and impeccable service, it promises a truly unforgettable stay.
For over a century, Salvatore Ferragamo has been synonymous with Italian fashion glamour, earning the title of “shoemaker to the stars.” The brand continues to thrive in a new era, with contemporary collections that emphasize its signature innovation and style, showcasing sculptural designs and exceptional tailoring.
Lunch Service. Take Out and Delivery.
G/FORE blends modern design, youthful energy, and golf’s rich traditions into a unique fusion.
Founded in Los Angeles with a global perspective, G/FORE was born from a passion for modern design and a love of golf. Drawing inspiration from art, architecture, and high fashion, the brand is known for its meticulous attention to detail, sophisticated style, and playful energy. G/FORE aims to make a bold, colorful impact on the game, striving to disrupt the industry while staying true to golf’s time-honored traditions.
Brioni
Carolina Herrera, a New York-based fashion house, is renowned for its beautifully crafted collections that embody fearless style and bold elegance. Founded in 1981 by Carolina Herrera, the brand combines the traditions of haute couture with the wearability and ease of American fashion. Since 2018, Creative Director Wes Gordon has continued to elevate the brand with his vibrant use of color and striking silhouettes, ushering in a modern era of Herrera.
The Carolina Herrera Palm Beach Boutique is a luxurious 2,200-square-foot destination showcasing the brand's women’s ready-to-wear collection, along with beauty products and accessories, including handbags, shoes, and jewelry.
Chanel
The epitome of Loro Piana’s effortless sophistication, the Maison’s Icons seamlessly blend impeccable craftsmanship with refined functionality and timeless style.
