The battle between east (New York) and west (Los Angeles) rages on. But once again, winter proves L.A. the place to be, with temperatures in the 80s and the Barney's Warehouse Sale approaching. This biannual event brings the New York namesake straight to Santa Monica. So what is it the city that never sleeps has that Los Angeles doesn't - snow? Too easy. The only thing missing here is that killer instinct it takes to navigate the bargain basement of designer goods to find Prada and Paul Smith.

Luckily, these tips will turn you from a cool Californian into a lean mean buying machine. One, Fall/Winter sales are the frenemy. Do you really need a cashmere sweater in Weho? At 50-75% off, the answer is yes. But moreover, go for the non-seasonal goods like suits, jeans, button-up shirts or even a light jacket. Second, plan for the future: today's plaid may be tomorrow's fad, so do some research (http://www.men.style.com) on what will be relevant come Spring. Note: The sneaker/dress shoe hybrid will never be in vogue. Third, be aware of your fellow shopper. On the men's side, there are only two types: gay and/or European. Follow the foreigners to see what brands they pick (odds are they know more than you). As an added bonus, they are less aggressive and typically pick out one item at a time in between try-ons. What won't fit their Slimane silhouettes should be perfect for your Crunch-pumped frame. Finally, don't forget to wear your best bulge enhancing briefs. There are no fitting rooms, so you'll be trying clothes on in front of everyone. It's what's underneath that counts right? So even if the Sale is a bust, you might just find a bargain in the form of a boyfriend, depending on the cut of your jock.

When you're done don't forget you are in no-gay-man's land. Meaning you can eat, but where? Try The Counter (click here for site) or Babalu's (click here for site) One cheat meal should still allow you to button up those Levi Capital E jeans you just bought.

Barney's New York Warehouse Sale
Santa Monica
Barker Hangar
3021 Airport Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 390-9071

THURSDAY, FEB 5TH THRU MONDAY, FEB 16TH
THURSDAY, FEB 5TH & FRIDAY FEB 6TH 8AM - 9PM
SATURDAY, FEB 7TH 9AM - 7PM
WEEKDAYS 10AM - 8PM, WEEKDAYS 10AM - 7PM
MONDAY, FEB 16TH 10AM - 7PM