Direct From Designer

When leading bargain shoppers to good sources, I try to stay in the San Fernando Valley area. But once in a great while there is a good enough deal to send you--eek!--to downtown Los Angeles. Even if you have to pay top dollar for parking, this destination is well worth it.

You’re not only dealing directly with the manufacturer but also with the designer when you visit the cutting room of Irving Mitzman. For many years, Mitzman was responsible for the designs of Diane Fries, and still does design work for Calvin Klein and other major names. His product is sold in many specialty stores and boutiques. The remainders are sold to the public at true wholesale prices and the savings are tremendous.

There are styles here for the under-30 crowd as well as for those who have passed that milestone and may be looking for designs that will camouflage a spreading figure. I recently purchased a charming sleeveless pale print dress--fully lined, with a flared skirt--for my size-2 daughter. In the stores this sells for $159; the price here is $29.99.

For mom, who falls into the category of needing a bit of camouflage, I found a three-piece chiffon outfit of palazzo pants (lined), a matching (also lined) sleeveless blouse and a flowing see-through coat. Perfect for a special summer evening at the price of $89.99, instead of the $310 it sells for at a major specialty chain.

Most of the fabrics are washable and the pants have elastic tops. Many of Mitzman’s designs use the “concealer” approach, which is very flattering, and explains why so many of the women I send there end up with several outfits. One woman walked away with 20 dresses and pantsuits--some for herself and some for her friends. For any purchase over $100, they will pay the $3 parking fee.

Irving Mitzman, Suite 928, 719 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cash/checks only. (213) 688-8891.

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Weekend Super Sale: If you’re in the market for top-notch hardware, Nor-Mar Sales, which used to sell to the trade only but is now open to the public, is slashing prices on Baldwin solid brass products to 45% off retail. Baldwin is the only manufacturer of decorative keyed lever locks, which are used in the most expensive homes. Nor-Mar Sales, 20835 Nordhoff St., Chatsworth. Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Mastercard and Visa. (818) 800-8804.