Biz Bites

Fashion Island receives three industry awards

MR, a retail magazine for the menswear industry, bestowed three awards to Fashion Island this month, honoring two stores and a longtime business owner.

At the ceremony, held July 23 at the Four Seasons Hotel in New York, American Rag Cie. and The Closet won the Uptown/Downtown Award, which spotlights innovative retailers. American Rag Cie., which opened less than a year ago at Fashion Island, offers clothing, home furnishings and décor. The Closet offers casual clothes for men and women.

A Lifetime Achievement Award went to Dick Braeger, who opened the clothing store Garys at Fashion Island in 1978. The three awards for Fashion Island, owned by the Irvine Co., are thought to be the highest amount ever given to the same shopping center.

"Orange County is already known as the hub of surf-inspired fashion, and can now be recognized at the forefront of innovative and trend-setting designer fashion," Keith Eyrich, president of the Irvine Co. Retail Properties, wrote in a news release.

— Michael Miller

Newport Chamber plans mixer for new members

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a reception for new and prospective members on Thursday.

The reception, at the chamber office at 1470 Jamboree Road, will provide pointers for businesses on joining the chamber and gaining a local following. Complimentary drinks and appetizers will be served at the free event, which will run from 5 to 7 p.m.

Call (949) 729-4410 or visit www.newportbeach.com for more information.

— Michael Miller