Baba’s Originals Aren’t Cheap, But Still a Steal

At certain shops, prices may not fall into the “cheap” category, but they are bargains nevertheless.

That’s the case at Baba in West Hollywood, where the product is wearable art for the perfect and not-so-perfect figure.

I learned recently that when Baba Bleecher, a veteran of New York’s couture world, met Luanie Kologi, whose expertise is art-to-wear, it didn’t take them long to mesh their interests into a business.

Exquisite fabrics from all over the world, including the estate of Balenciaga, and trims of ostrich, embroidery, lace and beadwork contribute to the final vision.

Bleecher knows how to camouflage figure imperfections while adding the detail and flash missing in ready-to-wear.

“It’s all in the cut,” said Baba, who loves capes and color--raspberry, yellow, tangerine-- and hand-painted silks.

The selection is eclectic, sometimes funky, sometimes regal. Some items are even on sale: A stunning floor-length black wool crepe dress with black and white feather trim that originally sold for $850 is marked down to $395.

Custom dresses start at $350, and one elegant French boucle suit was $650. When you realize the going rate on such garments, you’ll see the value. One drop-dead gorgeous dress, with matching coat of a multicolored velvet I haven’t seen outside a museum, was $795.

Not inexpensive, but so much less than it would be almost anywhere else. Realize, too, that these are originals. Stop in this little salon and enjoy the warmth (no Rodeo Drive attitude here) and original designs.

Baba, 517 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood. (310) 360-9494.

WEEKEND SUPERSALES: It’s worth the drive this weekend to check out the Parking Lot Sale at Estate Liquidation Sales in Monrovia. Fireplace sets (retail $149.99) will go for $14.99, portable evaporative coolers (regularly $200) will be $65, ceiling fans $38, storm screen doors $75, children’s swing sets $93, and car-top carriers $25. They’re all new, and the deals are endless. Sale runs through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Estate Liquidation Sales, 320 W. Chestnut Ave., Monrovia. (626) 357-8449.

For more bargains, see www.LAbestbargains.com.