OUR STORY
A Legacy of Style. A Tradition of Excellence. A Future of Possibility.
Since 1966, GARYS has been built on a simple philosophy: exceptional clothing, personal relationships, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
What began as a small men's clothing store in a converted home in Brentwood, California, has grown into one of Southern California's most established luxury menswear destinations. Originally founded by Gary Wasserman, the business welcomed Dick Braeger as a partner in 1969. Dick brought more than a passion for fine menswear to GARYS. A visionary in the footwear industry, he was also one of the original co-founders of Cole-Haan. Dick acquired the company in 1984 and continued building the reputation that would define GARYS for generations.
Having grown up around the family business, Dick's son, John Braeger, joined GARYS full-time in 1990. In the 2000s, John took the reins of the family business, continuing his father's legacy while bringing his own vision to its future. Under John's leadership, GARYS has continued to evolve, thoughtfully expanding its luxury brand portfolio, enhancing the flagship experience, and strengthening its position as a destination for exceptional menswear.
Today, as a family-owned business, GARYS continues to evolve while remaining true to the values on which it was founded. In an ever-changing retail landscape, our commitment to personal service, thoughtful curation, and meaningful customer relationships has never wavered.
As we look ahead to celebrating 50 years at Fashion Island in 2028, we are proud of the legacy we've built and excited about everything still to come.
GARYS NEWPORT BEACH | FASHION ISLAND
Nearly Five Decades at the Heart of Newport Beach
Since opening its doors at Fashion Island in 1978, GARYS has become an enduring part of the Newport Beach retail landscape. What began as a modest 3,500-square-foot store has evolved through five expansions since 1987 into an impressive 17,000-square-foot luxury menswear destination.
Fashion Island has always been more than a retail location. Its distinctive coastal setting, beautiful surroundings, and vibrant atmosphere reflect the Southern California lifestyle that has long been part of the GARYS identity. For generations of customers, a visit to GARYS has become part of the Fashion Island experience.
Over the decades, the store has continued to evolve, thoughtfully bringing together some of the world's most respected designers under one roof. From sophisticated Italian tailoring and refined sportswear to elevated casual clothing, footwear, and accessories, every collection is selected with an emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.
Today, GARYS features an exceptional assortment of international luxury brands, including Brunello Cucinelli, Eleventy, Isaia, Canali, and ZEGNA, alongside a carefully curated selection of contemporary designers.
But what truly distinguishes GARYS has never been just the brands we carry. It is the people, relationships, and personalized attention behind every experience. Our knowledgeable team, many of whom have been part of the GARYS family for decades, takes pride in understanding each customer's individual style and providing a level of service that is increasingly rare in today's retail environment.
As retail continues to change, GARYS remains committed to what matters most: quality, trust, consistency, and the personal connections that turn customers into lifelong friends.
GARYS previous location from 1978-2012 at 1065 Newport Center Drive
A DISTINCTIVE PARTNERSHIP | BRUNELLO CUCINELLI
A Shared Appreciation for Craftsmanship and Timeless Luxury
In 2024, GARYS proudly welcomed a dedicated Brunello Cucinelli men's shop within its Fashion Island flagship, marking an exciting new chapter in the store's evolution.
The partnership brings together two family-driven businesses with a shared appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship, understated elegance, and the enduring value of quality.
Renowned for its Italian heritage, luxurious materials, and distinctive approach to contemporary menswear, Brunello Cucinelli represents a natural extension of the GARYS philosophy. The dedicated shop offers customers an immersive brand experience and a thoughtfully curated selection of the designer's collections, including fine tailoring, sport coats, knitwear, outerwear, denim, and elevated casual essentials.
More than an addition to our designer portfolio, the partnership reflects GARYS' continued commitment to bringing the world's most distinguished luxury brands and experiences to Southern California.
We are proud to share this next chapter with Brunello Cucinelli and look forward to growing together for years to come.
GARYS STUDIO | DEL MAR PLAZA
Coastal Sophistication. The GARYS Experience.
For more than three decades, GARYS Studio has brought the distinctive GARYS experience to the heart of San Diego's North County coastal community.
The idea for GARYS Studio grew organically from the loyalty of customers who regularly traveled from San Diego to Newport Beach to shop at the GARYS flagship. Recognizing an opportunity to bring that same exceptional selection and personalized service closer to home, GARYS opened its Del Mar location at the prestigious Del Mar Plaza.
Set along the Southern California coastline, Del Mar Plaza offers a shopping experience unlike any other. Located just across from the iconic L'Auberge Del Mar hotel, the Plaza's elevated setting offers beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and captures the relaxed sophistication of coastal living.
GARYS Studio reflects that same spirit. The store offers a carefully curated selection of luxury menswear, fine custom clothing, contemporary sportswear, footwear, and accessories from some of the industry's most respected designers.
With collections from brands including Eleventy, Canali, Marco Pescarolo, and other distinguished names in menswear, GARYS Studio delivers a distinctive blend of European craftsmanship and California ease.
While the setting may be different, the philosophy remains the same. Customers enjoy the knowledgeable service, personal relationships, and attention to detail that have defined GARYS since its earliest days.
THE GARYS DIFFERENCE
Rooted in Tradition. Always Looking Ahead.
For nearly 60 years, GARYS has navigated an ever-changing fashion and retail industry by staying true to the principles that matter most.
We believe luxury is found in the details: the quality of a garment, the craftsmanship behind a collection, the knowledge of an experienced salesperson, and the confidence that comes from being understood.
We believe in discovering exceptional designers, embracing new ideas, and continually evolving our assortment while preserving the personal touch that makes independent, family-owned retail special.
Most importantly, we believe the best relationships are built over time.
From our beginnings in Brentwood to our longstanding home at Fashion Island and our coastal presence at Del Mar Plaza, the GARYS story has always been about people, passion, and an enduring appreciation for great style.
Thank you for being part of our story. We look forward to being part of yours for many years to come.
