Style guru Gunn to host fashion show

“Project Runway” co-host Tim Gunn hopes to “make it work” in Newport Beach.

The reality TV star plans to host a live runway show and meet with fans at 1 p.m. April 16 at Fashion Island’s Neiman Marcus/Bloomingdales Court.

Gunn will “share his expertise as he hosts a Spring 2011 fashion show launching the latest collections from Juicy Couture, Kate Spade New York and Lucky Brand Jeans,” according to a news release. Gunn will speak to guests about the importance of style, proportion and fit while showing how the pieces on the runway are perfect additions to an existing wardrobe.

In addition to his duties on the Lifetime show, Gunn serves as chief creative officer of Liz Claiborne Inc. and authored a New York Times bestseller, “Gunn’s Golden Rules,” in 2010. He is the former associate dean of Fashion design at Parsons in New York.

The event is free and reservations are not required. Seating is first-come, first-served.

As part of the promotion, those who make qualifying purchases of $150 or greater can pose for a framed photograph with Gunn.

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Denim store at American Rag

In other Fashion Island news, American Rag plans to open a World Denim Bar, which features jeans from 85 companies and 1,000 styles, according to a news release.

The denim store will be located inside American Rag’s 13,500 main store near the Daily Grill. The Denim Bar plans to sell Levi’s, RRL, J Brand, Earnest Sewn, AG, Genetic, Nudie, Acne and Rag & Bone and other brands.

A grand opening event with cocktails, tapas, crepes, a D.J. and a silent auction benefitting Children’s Hospital of Orange County is planned for 6 to 9 p.m. April 21. Customers who donate an old pair of jeans will get 20% off purchases.

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Madewell at South Coast

Nearby South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa also recently announced a new store, Madewell, which sells “modern clothing” and jeans. The store is under J. Crew’s corporate umbrella and is located on the second floor of the Bloomingdale’s Wing.

— John Canalis