A bridal fling
The Running of the Brides, the legendary sale at Filene’s Basement in Boston, promises that the wedding dress of your dreams can be had for as little as $200. Of course, you have to sleep on the sidewalk and lug in your own mirror. Luckily, Angelenos have it a tiny bit easier. Today, Monique Lhuillier, master of the modern romantic wedding dress, is blowing out 500 of her past-season wedding confections and other ready-to-wear pieces at 40% to 90% off.
How steep the cut depends on the age and condition of a dress. A full, beaded $12,000 style could run $3,000. Simpler pieces start at $500.
The selection of gowns and ready-to-wear merchandise is sold “as is” and comes from Lhuillier’s own shops and department stores where her dresses are sold. Most are floor samples, but some are unclaimed orders that have never been worn, which carry a higher price tag. The fitting rooms are shared, and don’t expect any one-on-one service. No alterations. No appointments. And a line to get a piece of the first-come, first-serve savings.
But there are mirrors.
1201 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 655-1088. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today. www.moniquelhuillier.com.
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SALES
Hermes Thursday through Saturday: The Orange County outpost of the luxurious French leather house heading to a different mall side locale and making major markdowns before the move -- past season men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and scarves is up to 60% off. Credit cards only. South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa. (714) 437-1725. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. www.hermes.com.
Foley & Corinna Saturday and Sunday: Dana Foley and Anna Corinna are hosting a sample sale at their inviting Melrose Avenue space, and their timeless bags, dresses and tops are up to 75% off. Spring, summer and holiday goods include slouchy black leather Chrissie bags ($193, originally $552). But look what we found: A $173 silk bandage-bottom dress at the sale is only $141 at www.shopbop.com. 8117 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 944-0169. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. www.foleyandcorinna.com.
Gilt Groupe Kids Tuesday: Online designer discount doyenne launches clearances for tots with Lucy Sykes, whose crisp creations are conservative but quirky, and 70% off. Sign up for your free membership before the sale, which begins at 9 a.m. www.gilt.com/cl.
OPENINGS
Salvatore Ferragamo Men’s Store The Italian brand has opened its first menswear shop in the U.S. Find the full collection of elegant gear including blazers, structured shirts and luxurious wool slacks. Beverly Center, 8500 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 652-0279. www.ferragamo.com.
Canyon Beachwear Beverly Hills’ newest bathing suit shop offers mix-and-match separates and onesies searchable by body type. Belly full of jelly getting you down? A black one-piece by Hydra ($82) diverts eyes up to pleated bust detailing. 9414 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills. (310) 275-3864. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. www.canyonbeachwear.com.
EVENTS
Pinkapalooza Thursday: Victoria’s Secret fetes its latest collegiate collection of loungewear with a party and free performance by Fall Out Boy. Visit stores or website to get a free party pass. Santa Monica Pier, 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica. (310) 458-8901. Doors open at 5 p.m. www.vspink.com.
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