For 1999, These Shops Were a Perfect 10

More than 50 bargain shops have been featured in this column in 1999, many of which opened their doors this year. Readers have their favorites and so do I. Here is my list for the 10 best new bargain sources for quality merchandise.

1. The Ultimate Outlet. A perfect name for this store with top women’s apparel at prices 50% to 80% off retail. 1509 Mission St., South Pasadena. (626) 403-1848.

2. Hello & Good Buy$. Opening just in time for holiday shopping, it is one of the best sources for gifts at prices 60% to 70% below retail. 17612 Ventura Blvd., Encino. (818) 981-4955.

3. Danny’s Warehouse. For dancers or those who just want to dress like they are, Danny’s is a real warehouse and a treasure trove. Nothing is more than $10, including dance shoes. 9443-B Venice Blvd. Culver City. (310) 837-7511.

4. The Territory Ahead Catalog Outlet Store. With casual apparel for men and women, this store is worth the drive to Santa Barbara any day. In the back room, the reductions go up to 90% off the catalog price. 400 S. State St., Santa Barbara. (805) 962-5558.

5. The French Hen. For devotees of antiques with a gallic touch, this store must seem like a dream, and some of the prices are, too. 21910 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills. (818) 704-6489.

6. The Designer Showcase. When original art is combined with home furnishings and women’s apparel, the results can be as refreshing as the price tags here. 18562 Sherman Way, Reseda. (818) 342-9490.

7. The Irish Crystal Company. The brilliance of Tyrone crystal from Ireland is a blessing to all who love fine Irish crystal but not the prices that usually go with it. 1861 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. (805) 494-1101.

8. The Decker Factory Outlet. Shoes for the whole family in last season’s styles and samples from the manufacturer at 40% to 60% off retail. 4880 Colt St., Ventura. (805) 676- 3571.

9. Simply Sofas. For semi-custom upholstered pieces, this local manufacturer delivers style at an affordable cost. 2316 Lincoln Ave., Santa Monica. (310) 581-5576.

10. The Scholarship store for the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Apparel, mostly for women but some for men, makes up the bulk of inventory, but the big surprise is the fabrics at way below wholesale. 919 S. Grand, Los Angeles. (213) 624-1201.