Budget Shopping in L.A.

by Jennifer Smith - Citysearch Contributor - 9 Reviews - 2 Lists

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Updated: November 17, 2009

Yes, the bargains at TJ Maxx, Loehmann’s and Nordstrom Rack can be a real steal, but aren't you tired of fighting your way though department store racks to find a good deal? (And it's only gonna get worse with the holidays.) If you’re looking to do some bargain shopping in a more upscale and less hectic setting, check out our list of the best places to score discount deals in Los Angeles.

Discount Shopping

  1. 1 Celebrity Closet Raiders Shop
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    9157 Sunset Blvd Ste 300, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

    Walk a mile in your favorite leading lady’s pair of Choos. Literally. Fashionistas looking to find high-end style on a low-end budget are thanking their lucky starlets that Celebrity Closet Raider founder, Regina Russell, has taken her online designer consignment business to the streets. If you can’t squeeze into Paris Hilton’s size 2 mini, the Sunset Boulevard storefront also has a wide selection of never-worn designer overruns from upscale boutiques like A. Mason and Jill Kohl.

  2. 2 FIDM Scholarship Store
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    919 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (map)

    Does it get any better than 50%-98% off retail? We don’t think so. FIDM's Scholarship store has a ton of apparel from major department stores, boutiques and wholesalers, all donated to teach students how to run and operate their own retail store. Those who are handy with a needle and thread won’t want to miss the “repairable corner” where you’ll find designer duds for as low as $1.50!

  3. 3 Trina Turk Outlet
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    3025 W Mission Rd, Alhambra, CA 91803 (map)

    Located in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, this Alhambra outlet of the famed designer's easy-breezy looks is proof you don’t have to drive 200 miles out of the way to do great outlet shopping. Hidden behind a barred iron gate, this hidden find is adjacent to the designer’s sample cutting factory. Once inside, the small shop feels more like an upscale boutique than a discount mecca. Merchandise is 50% off wholesale prices, but if you’re looking for an even bigger steal be sure to join the mailing list to find out about the outlet’s annual sample sales where everything (yes, everything!) is between $10-$50.

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended BCBG Max Azria Final Cut
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    8026 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

    No, you’re not dreaming. There really is a BCBG/Max Azria outlet in Los Angeles. And with all that "hair" on the building, it's hard to miss. This chic corner shop is where you can get designer duds from past seasons at a fraction of the cost as well as loads of cocktail dresses, silk blouses, sequined halters and evening handbags at 50%-90% off retail prices. Just try leaving this shop without swiping your credit card. We dare you.

  5. 5 American Apparel Retail Outlet
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    747 Warehouse St, Los Angeles, CA 90021 (map)

    American Apparel’s giant downtown warehouse is also home to the brand’s own factory store, where you’ll find all your favorite AA basics at a lower price point. The megastore houses loads of the brand’s overruns like fleece hoodies, cotton v-necks and spandex galore! One caveat: Be sure to inspect your clothes before you buy as some items are damaged and all sales are final.