In 1960, Fred Segal opened the world's first jeans-only store. This 300-square-foot (28 m2) store grew over the years, and with it he expanded and invited key employees to purchase Fred Segal stores within their expertise. In 1985, Fred Segal Santa Monica was created. The stores also contain restaurants.[2]

In May 2012, the worldwide licensing rights to the brand were acquired by SANDOW, a leader that builds smart businesses driven by innovation across design, fashion and beauty owned by Adam Sandow.[3] Global licensing deals are managed by the company's design management agency, Culture + Commerce, which is run by Michele Caniato.