It’s T Time in Pasadena : Store is stocked with all-cotton shirts in a range of sizes and designs.
Since the standard wear for anyone in California--no matter what sex, age, economic or fashion status--is the T-shirt, everyone needs to know where to get them at the lowest price.
The T-Shirt Factory Outlet certainly has one of the largest selections around. They advertise five for $10, but these are too flimsy to qualify as quality. But for groups, or special occasions with a limited-wear projection, they would be fine. These shirts are 100% cotton, U.S.-made and come in standard white in small, medium, large and extra large.
The quality is better in the colored Ts, available in at least 20 shades. They are 100% cotton and sell at three for $10. Matching leggings are the same price. So for $20 you could have three matching leisure outfits.
Often a special purchase brings in some great deals. The day I visited, some L.A. Gear T-shirts, which usually retail for $8 each, were three for $10. Others sold by K mart for $4.99 apiece were four for $10 here. These special purchases are sporadic and move fast, so keep an eye out for them when you visit.
Sometimes shirts will come pre-marked “irregular.” These and those having flaws discovered by T-Shirt Factory Outlet personnel are tossed on a separate table to sell at four for $5. The flaws are tabbed with tape.
Pet fanciers and their friends can check out the selection of excellent dog and cat pictures that can be printed (while you wait) on a shirt for $7.99, including the shirt. About 20 breeds of dogs are featured, along with six different cat types and five different horses.
For sports fans, good quality 100% cotton, pre-printed team T-shirts for the NFL, the NHL and the baseball leagues sell for $9.99, compared to $12.99 to $15.99 elsewhere.
In addition to T-shirts, there were some good buys on 100% cotton denim shorts in several colors. Shorts for men, with the Rodin label, were $15.99, compared to a retail price of $30 or more. Women’s shorts with the Wave label, which a major discounter sells for $22.99, were $12.99 here.
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Lettering can be done on the premises while you wait. Figure 50 cents per letter for two-inch block letters and 35 cents for three-quarter-inch size.
The inventory, which is made up of close-outs, overstocks and liquidations, is constantly changing. Parking is a breeze, and the store is well-organized for effortless shopping. Sizes run from infant to extra-extra-extra-extra large on many items.
Geri Cook’s Bargains column runs every Friday in Valley Life! Questions about shopping may be sent to her, in care of Valley Life!, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth, CA 91311. Letters will not be answered individually, but topics of general interest will be discussed in future columns. Geri Cook can be heard from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturdays on KIEV 870-AM.
Where to Shop
What: T-Shirt Factory Outlet.
Location: 181 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, till 5 p.m. Sunday.
Cards: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa.
Call: (818) 585-8810.
