The Search for Slacks : Loubella pants, with their elastic waists and variety of colors, are made to last. And at S & Y Apparel, the prices are reasonable.
There comes a time for most of us when the waistline begins to disappear, and it gets harder and harder to find slacks that fit. That’s when the name Loubella pops to mind. Over the years, I have had several pairs of Loubella slacks because they come with an elastic waistband, are made in a variety of colors, do not wrinkle and seem to be made of iron.
One pair of black Loubella slacks has lasted me nine years.
Loubella is a local manufacturer whose only outlet store, S & Y Apparel in North Hollywood, features prices that are 30% to 50% below retail.
The name is derived from Lou and Bella Levy, the founders who pioneered all-American, classic designs in women’s sportswear at middle-of-the-road prices.
Their son Jeb now runs the company and four times a year he changes the colors: spring, summer, fall and winter holidays.
The slacks come in three styles: full elastic band with straight trousers; an elastic band in the back with a pleated front; and a side-pocket jeans style for those who have maintained small waists and hips.
The fabrics are a linen and polyester blend, a rayon and polyester blend and, my favorite, a 100% polyester gabardine--one of the nicest I’ve seen.
Slacks are $27.95 (retail $42 to $48), blouses are $34 (retail $52 to $58) and jackets are $35 to $45 (retail $64 to $120).
In the store are this year’s color choices for the spring and summer lines, including coral, citrus, sapphire, mauve, berry, turquoise, yellow, cream, peach, pale blue and the standard black, white and navy.
In most cases, you’ll find long-sleeve blouses to match, so it’s easy to put together a classic outfit.
Toss your favorite jacket over your shoulders, and you’re set for almost any Southern California event.
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There’s a shortage of jackets for summer, but when the fall merchandise arrives, you’ll find tailored jackets in the season’s colors.
Hana Brige& Y’s jewel of a manager, will determine your sizes within minutes, and from then on it’s a breeze.
She’ll remember your choice of styles and textures and your sizes, so later when you decide you must have an additional outfit or two in other colors, she’ll put it together in minutes--or special order it from the factory.
The size range is 4 to 18, and the slacks come in petite and regular lengths.
Once you make a style and fabric choice, shopping at S & Y Apparel is a simple, pleasant and money-saving experience.
Owner Sam Ohana recently made a decision to return S & Y Apparel to its former location, so don’t be confused by the address--yes, they moved, but they are back.
Geri Cook’s Bargains column runs every Friday in Valley Life!
Where to Shop
What: S & Y Apparel.
Location: 6252 Vantage Ave., North Hollywood.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Sunday.
Cards: MasterCard, Visa.
Call: (818) 763-8027.
