You’ve probably seen the construction. If you’ve driven down Wilshire Boulevard lately, it’s impossible to miss the massive shift happening at Saks Beverly Hills CA. This isn't just a simple store renovation or a fresh coat of paint. It’s a complete seismic shift in how luxury retail functions in 90210.
Most people think of Saks as that massive, slightly intimidating block on Wilshire. For decades, it was the anchor of the Golden Triangle. But honestly? The old way of doing things—racks and racks of clothes in a sprawling, confusing department store—is dying. Saks knows it.
The big news is the move into the former Barneys New York building. It’s a 130,000-square-foot pivot that changes the entire vibe of shopping in the area. By consolidating their women’s designer collections into this iconic space at 9570 Wilshire Blvd, they are betting everything on "experience" over "inventory."
The Real Story Behind the 9570 Wilshire Relocation
Retail is weird right now. You can buy a $5,000 Bottega Veneta bag from your couch while wearing sweatpants. So, why bother going to Saks Beverly Hills CA at all?
The answer is the "Club."
Saks has essentially turned a department store into a private lounge. The new location features an entire floor dedicated to "The Fifth Avenue Club." This isn't just for the ultra-wealthy, though they are certainly the target. It’s a suite of private styling rooms where you don't have to wander through aisles. You book an appointment, you show up, and the clothes are already there waiting for you.
It feels more like a hotel lobby than a shop.
The architecture is part of the draw. The building itself is a masterpiece of late-century retail design, and Saks kept the famous spiral staircase—it’s basically the most photographed spot in Beverly Hills retail history. They knew better than to tear that down. They’ve modernized the interior with light-filled atriums and soft, curved geometries that make you forget you’re in a commercial space.
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What Most People Get Wrong About the Old Saks Building
There is a huge misconception that the old Saks buildings—the 1930s-era structures—are just going to sit there and rot. That's not the plan.
The HBC (Hudson’s Bay Company), which owns Saks, is playing a long-game real estate move. We are talking about a $2 billion redevelopment project called "Wilshire Residences and Shops." They aren't just selling shoes anymore; they are becoming landlords for the elite.
- They plan to turn the former Men’s Store and the main building into a mix of office spaces and luxury apartments.
- There will be rooftop dining that overlooks the city.
- The goal is a "live-work-play" ecosystem for people who find a $10,000 monthly rent affordable.
It’s a gutsy move. It acknowledges that Beverly Hills doesn't need more floor space for clothes; it needs more spaces for people to be.
The Experience: Is it Actually Better?
Honestly, the old store was a bit of a maze. You’d get lost looking for the elevators, and the lighting in certain corners felt like 1995.
The new Saks Beverly Hills CA experience is streamlined. The ground floor is a high-octane jewelry and accessories den. It’s bright. It’s loud in its luxury. You’ve got Chopard, Graff, and Chanel all vying for your attention the second you walk through the doors.
But the real magic is the services. They have an on-site tailor that isn't tucked away in a basement. They have "The Terrace," a spot where you can actually get a decent espresso or a glass of champagne without leaving the building.
It’s personal.
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Wait times for stylists have actually decreased because the footprint is tighter. You aren't walking a mile to find a different size. The staff uses tech that actually works—handheld devices that check stock in real-time so they don't have to "go check the back" for twenty minutes while you sit there awkwardly.
Why You Should Care About the Men’s Store Changes
Men’s fashion used to be an afterthought in these big pivots. Not here.
The Men’s department at Saks Beverly Hills CA has been shifted to its own dedicated space that feels less like a department store and more like a high-end streetwear boutique mixed with a traditional haberdashery. They’ve leaned heavily into "quiet luxury" brands like Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli, recognizing that the Beverly Hills guy is moving away from giant logos toward fabric quality.
Navigating the Logistics of 90210 Shopping
Parking in Beverly Hills is a nightmare. Everyone knows it.
If you are heading to the new Saks, don't try to find a spot on the street. It’s a waste of time. The valet at the new Wilshire location is efficient, but it gets backed up around 2:00 PM on Saturdays.
- Pro Tip: Use the valet entrance on Camden Drive. It’s usually faster than the Wilshire approach.
- The Best Time: Go on a Tuesday morning. The store is empty, the stylists are bored (and therefore more helpful), and you can actually see the craftsmanship of the clothes without someone bumping into you.
How Saks is Fighting the Online Surge
Let's be real: Saks.com is a juggernaut. But the physical Saks Beverly Hills CA location exists for things a screen can't do.
They are hosting "designer appearances" that aren't just for the press. They are doing small, intimate trunk shows where you can actually talk to the people making the clothes. Recently, they’ve leaned into wellness, too. You’ll find pop-ups for high-end skincare brands where you can get a facial right there in the store.
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It’s about making the store a destination. If you just want a pair of Gucci loafers, buy them online. If you want a morning where you feel pampered and see things that aren't even on the website yet, you go to Wilshire.
Limitations and the "Price of Luxury"
We have to acknowledge the elephant in the room. This isn't a store for everyone. The barrier to entry is high, and the atmosphere can feel exclusionary if you aren't dressed the part.
While Saks has tried to be more "approachable" with contemporary sections, the Beverly Hills flagship is unapologetically elite. If you’re looking for a bargain, you’re in the wrong zip code. Even the "sales" here can be pricier than the full-price items at your local mall.
Also, the transition hasn't been perfect. Some long-time customers miss the sprawling nature of the old multi-building campus. There’s a certain nostalgia for the way things used to be, and the new "boutique" feel can sometimes feel a bit crowded during peak holiday seasons.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
If you’re planning to head to Saks Beverly Hills CA, don't just wing it. To get the most out of the "new" Saks, follow this path:
- Book a Stylist in Advance: Even if you don't plan on buying $10k worth of clothes, use the Fifth Avenue Club. It’s a free service, and it changes the entire stress level of the trip.
- Check the Events Calendar: Saks often hosts gallery-style previews of upcoming collections. Call the concierge or check their local social tags to see if a designer is in town.
- Start at the Top: Take the elevator to the top floor and work your way down. The flow of the building is designed to be experienced from the curated salons downward toward the high-energy accessories floor.
- Validate Your Parking: It sounds basic, but in Beverly Hills, that valet bill adds up. Make sure you get your ticket swiped at the jewelry counter or the main registers.
- Explore the Perimeter: Don't just stay inside. The move to the Barneys building means you’re steps away from some of the best coffee and people-watching in the world on Brighton Way.
The shift at Saks is a signal that the future of shopping isn't about more stuff—it's about better access. Whether you're there for a $20,000 watch or just to gawk at the architecture, the new layout is a masterclass in modern retail survival.