Chico's Clothing started as a small gift shop on Sanibel Island, Florida in 1983. It sold Mexican Folk Art & Sweaters, but the sweaters were the Best Selling Item. The founders Marvin & Helen Gralnick decided to focus on clothing and changed the name. It has changed its name a few times sinces then staying with Chico' s.

The first Franchise Store opened in Edina, Minnesota in 1987,  went public on Nasdaq in 1993, went to online sales in 1999.

Chico's also owns White House Black Market and Soma Brands