“Welcome to the club,” says John Braeger, president of GARYS Newport Beach.

Stepping into GARYS at Fashion Island does indeed feel like entering an exclusive club outfitted with rich woods, a mix of antiques and modern pieces as well as a private bar. But it’s also a club of discerning patrons who know there’s no better place to shop for menswear.

In the age of one-click shopping and instant orders, the personal service and bespoke pieces at GARYS are more sought-after than ever.

“Our relationships are based on trust,” Braeger says. “We get to know our customers, their style preferences and their lifestyle needs. When new pieces arrive, we’ll mix and match across brands to put together complete looks. We have everything pulled and ready to try on when they arrive — it’s an easy, effortless experience.”

Located at Fashion Island since 1978, GARYS has built a loyal following over the ensuing decades with a stellar reputation for impeccable service.

“GARYS has built an enduring legacy as Newport Beach’s most iconic destination for menswear blending sophistication with relaxed elegance,” says Gerard Widder, Vice President and General Manager at Fashion Island.

“Fashion Island is really the heart of Newport Beach – and we’re in the center of it.”

President of GARYS Newport Beach John Braeger

The store carries popular menswear and sportswear brands like Isaia, Eleventy, Bontoni and Zegna, plus two small stores dedicated to Peter Millar and Brunello Cucinelli.

“Our first location at Fashion Island evolved organically over time,” Braeger says. “We kept expanding into nearby stores and adding on, but it felt like a bit of a maze. We worked with Irvine Company to move to our current spot, which allowed us to start from scratch, keeping the tradition of the ‘club’ experience and modernizing it for today’s clientele.”

The result is a timeless take on a bespoke menswear store mixed with laid-back, California cool. Patrons drop by for a drink at the bar on their way to dinner or to say hello to their favorite sales associate.

“Our location at Fashion Island is one of the most beautiful places in the world,” says Braeger. “It’s amazing to be outdoors with the ocean view. Fashion Island is really the heart of Newport Beach. It’s a gathering spot — and we’re in the center of it.”

Braeger, who took over the helm of GARYS from his father, grew up at the store and remembers spending his youth at Fashion Island. “There was an escalator we always tried to slide down, and if there was an unexpected rain shower, we knew all the secret passages to avoid getting wet.”

Braeger started helping out at the store in high school and returned full time after college. Like Braeger, many of the sales associates have been with GARYS for decades.

“When I started, business deals were done on a handshake,” Braeger says. “That’s changed a bit, but our values haven’t. Our associates have some of the longest tenures because this isn’t just a business, it’s a family. We’re part of the community here.”

You can visit GARYS at Fashion Island for Newport Beach’s finest custom clothing, sportswear, shoes and accessories for men.