Shop Offers Big Choice of Gowns at Little Prices
On a stage somewhere around the world, a mother and daughter are singing for their supper and sparkling under the spotlight in glamorous gowns they found at an unlikely source. And to think that The $9.99 & Up store almost didn’t get my attention.
“What kind of a decent dress,” I asked myself, “can be had for $9.99?” Then I remembered that contempt prior to investigation never uncovers a deal.
This small store in Fallbrook Mall is so packed with merchandise that it’s hard to see at first glance what the inventory offers. While working the racks, I met a couple of shoppers--a mother and daughter--who tell me they are performers and buy all their on-stage gowns here, with most items costing them $19.99.
The original prices of the dresses go as high as $450, the most expensive, generally, being beaded gowns that now sell for $99.99. Most of the cocktail gowns, however, are priced from $9.99 to $39.99 and originally were anywhere from $69.99 to $199.99.
The brands you’ll find on the racks are Laura Ashley, Alfred Angelo, Dessy, Illissa, Mr. Jay and After 5, to name a few.
After seeing that list, it should come as no surprise that the store’s owner is in the bridal business, which explains the terrific deals for various members of the bridal party. Informal wedding gowns from Laura Ashley were $325 to $450 and are now $29.99 and $49.99.
Many bridesmaid dresses that originally were $99.99 to $250 are $9.99. Most are high-quality close-outs, some are irregulars and seconds. Sizes run from 4 to 38. Headpieces that sold for $250 are $9.99, $19.99 and $29.99, some with slight damage; shoes are all $9.99.
New shipments come in regularly so make sure to get on the store’s mailing list. If you are looking for something in particular, manager Jilla Lee is very good at tracking requests. So ask to be added to her wish list.
The $9.99 & Up Store, Fallbrook Mall (Fallbrook Avenue and Victory Boulevard), West Hills. Park in the Target lot and walk through the mall. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. (818) 340-6514. All major credit cards.
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WEEKEND SUPER SALE: Through the end of August, Byrne Home Furnishings, one of the Valley’s most prestigious furniture stores, will continue celebrating its 50th year in business by offering deep price cuts on floor samples by Century. Not often can you get 50% off retail prices on this quality of merchandise. Also all month, should you want to special order a piece, Byrne will pick up the freight and delivery charges. 3516 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. (818) 845-0808.
