RETAIL/TOURISM

At Ease Is at Ease: Having the largest menswear store in Southern California a few miles up the road has not given them much trouble, the owners of At Ease in Newport Beach’s Fashion Island say in regard to the Bullock’s store.

Owners Linda and Ron Beale said their store has thrived by selling sportswear and casual apparel. Bullock’s, they say, has a stronger orientation toward business wear and men’s suits.

Now the Beales are building a new section in their store to showcase the largest collection of Timberland shoes and accessories in the area. To display the designer label, the back of the store will be transformed into backpacker country, replete with rocks and greenery. They also plan to sink one of the Timberland boots in a fish tank to dramatize its impermeability.