Stores within stores at South Coast Plaza

COSTA MESA — Banana Republic at South Coast Plaza reopens this week with a new “boutique” concept designed to feature stores within stores.

“South Coast Plaza is one of the most important shopping destinations in the United States for a retailer so it’s only natural that Banana Republic debuted its newest [concept store] here,” said Debra Gunn Downing, executive director of marketing for South Coast Plaza.

Customers will be able to explore in-store “boutiques” designed with the specific wardrobe needs of Orange County residents in mind, whether it’s “dinner with clients at the Hotel Hanford, Sunday brunch at Charlie Palmer [or] an opening at the newest hot-spot,” according to a news release from the San Francisco-based chain owned by Gap Inc.

“Our collection is designed to fulfill the different parts of our customer’s lives from day to night, work to play, and we wanted to create a shopping environment that is inspired by each of these,” Banana Republic Creative Director Simon Kneen said, according to a statement.

The store will reopen Friday in its current space near Bloomingdales and Armani Exchange and the newly opened Seasons 52 Restaurant.

—Sarah Peters