Chic-on-a-Budget Crowd Can Head for Azita J.

A new tenant on the Sepulveda Row discount cluster in West Los Angeles is bound to set aflutter the hearts of the Beverly Hills chic-on-a-budget crowd that is so fond of the Donna Karan line.

Azita J. is the answer to the often-repeated question, “Where can I get Donna Karan at bargain prices?” Not only is Donna Karan and her DKNY (Donna Karan New York) label on the racks, but you will also find Anne Klein II, Nolan Miller, Albert Nipon, Bis and Nancy Heller at deeply discounted prices. Don’t expect to see the entire line of any of these popular labels.

The first dazzler that caught my eye was a pair of wildly colorful washable silk Donna Karan pants that have been selling for more than $300. At first glance, I thought that I had misread the tag that said $68. Some great DKNY jeans that probably retail for about $75 were marked $25 and moving off the racks quickly. Charming embroidered denim jackets to match were $69.95.

A rack of dressy Anne Klein II dresses offered some excellent product and prices. Designs that retailed for $400 are $199.99 at Azita J. The selection of Anne Klein was a little scant the day I visited, but new shipments come in regularly, so keep checking if the stock is low when you stop in.

Albert Nipon suits, which regularly sell for about $600, were terrific in silk or wool for $289. Some great Nolan Miller cocktail suits were $300 instead of $599.

The owners of Azita J. buy directly from the manufacturers and are able to keep prices so low because they purchase “by the warehouse,” rather than selecting each item. In other words, they take what the manufacturers offer them. Don’t expect to place an order--what’s on the racks is it.

The merchandise is mostly in-season and all first-quality. Sizes range from 4 to 16, but not every size is available in every design line. A knowledgeable sales staff is helpful and there is free parking in the rear.

While checking out this store, save time for some of the other women’s apparel discounters along this block of Sepulveda Boulevard. A great maternity shop, 2-B-2, is in the same complex, and Designer Labels For Less, M. Frederic and French Rags are neighbors.

Azita J., 2238 S. Sepulveda Blvd., West Los Angeles. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. MasterCard/Visa, American Express. (310) 478-1593.