Tagged for Working Women
About nine months ago, the Jay Jacobs store in the Sherman Oaks Galleria was revamped and turned into the only Jay Jacobs outlet, where markdowns of women’s clothing from other locations are sent.
Jay Jacobs, a Seattle-based chain, has about 300 locations in the United States, with 26 stores in Southern California. Its specialty is reasonably priced junior men’s and women’s apparel for the 15-35 age group. Merchandise has featured the trendy look, but more classic designs have been added recently that would be appropriate for young professionals in the workplace.
Following the trend of manufacturer-operated outlet stores, where the maker sells merchandise directly to the public in outlet malls, some retailers are opening outlet stores in place of or alongside their locations in regional malls. Such is the case with Jay Jacobs.
This bargain source contains women’s apparel only. It is first-quality, off-season merchandise at prices that will astound even the most jaded bargain shopper. These are items that have been marked down two or three times in the other California stores, then moved for final liquidation at a minimum of 50% off the original price. Many prices are slashed as much as 80%; the prices will fit even the tightest budget.
Labels include Workables by Francine Browner, Judy Knapp, B.U.M. Equipment (a current favorite with the younger crowd) and Jay Jacobs private labels.
Some of the better deals spotted were $14.99 jackets that originally retailed for $48. Skirts that usually carry a tag of $25 to $38 were a dazzling $4.99. At prices like these, you know that they don’t remain on the racks long.
The separates are coordinated, so with a little bit of luck, you can put together a terrific-looking suit for under $25 that originally would have set you back about $100.
Slacks range from $9.99 to $19.99; blouses run around $8.99. We particularly liked the denim shortalls (denim shorts with a bib) that were $9.99 to $14.99.
Perfect for the office were some Ann Klein II dresses for $24 to $30 that had originally sold for around $100.
This is a dream store for the working woman on a budget.
Jay Jacobs, second-level Sherman Oaks Galleria, May Company Court, 15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. MasterCard/Visa, American Express, Discover. (818) 895-0852.
Geri Cook’s Bargains column runs every Thursday in Valley View. Questions about shopping may be sent to her, in care of Valley View, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth 91311. Letters will not be answered individually, but topics of general interest will be discussed in future columns.
