Classy Consignments Offered at Ab-Fab Prices

The ‘90s is certainly the decade of resale for Southern Californians. More and more upscale resale stores are springing up because more and more people are shopping in them. A new one, specializing in antiques, collectibles, reproductions and new pieces, has just opened.

Taking its name from “Absolutely Fabulous,” the outrageous British sitcom, is Absolutely Fabulous Finds, and a single visit proves there is truth in the name.

The good taste of owners Sandy Jacoby, Pamela Somers and Jill Hall is reflected in the inventory, much of which comes from their friends. The prices for the most part are excellent.

Here you can find some handsome armoires priced at $350 and $425 that elsewhere would be considerably more. And there are some higher-end bargains like a hand-carved oak armoire from France valued at $4,200 for $2,500. A gateleg table for $375 was certainly a deal, and a dainty walnut secretary was only $175. One would expect to pay at least $800 for a handsome Federal writing desk that was tagged at $625, and a Duncan Phyfe drop-leaf dining table was a steal at $235. One 7-foot custom-made pine table would be at least $1,800 elsewhere but sells here for $1,350.

Veteran shoppers will spot a pair of 23-inch-tall Chapman hurricane lamps for only $600 (retail around $1,000), which won’t last long at this price. I was particularly taken with the collection of unique and very small lamps, several of which were marked to sell at $38. I may have to return for a charming French-print footstool for $135, but then this is the sort of place I would be inclined to visit on a regular basis.

You’ll find a sensible mix of old and new here--old case goods and new upholstered pieces. A down-filled contemporary-style sofa, which sells elsewhere for $1,700 and up, is $1,400. A luxurious oversized chair, which can be done in one of 20 or so fabrics, is $1,000 (retail $1,500).

The consignment deal is better than most: 70% for the consignor (that’s you) and 30% for Absolutely Fabulous Finds.

Absolutely Fabulous Finds, 1850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westwood. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. MasterCard/Visa. (310) 478-1626.

WEEKEND SUPERSALE: When a top resale store like Past Perfect has a storewide sale, don’t procrastinate. Fall and winter women’s apparel from top designers is going for 60% below ticketed prices. Example: a Donna Karan cream wool blazer for $68; from Neiman-Marcus a cashmere knit dress at $70; and an Anne Klein couture dress in navy wool for $28. You get the picture. The sale starts today and continues through Saturday..

Past Perfect, 12616 Ventura Blvd., Studio City. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m Saturday. MasterCard/Visa. (818) 760-8872.