BARGAINS : BARINI'S LEATHER IS FINE.

Byline: Trisha King & Deborah Newmark

When we're in the hunt for new discount stores, one of the phrases that always perks our interest is ``factory on the premises.'' With no middleman, a factory store can offer deep discounts, which is certainly the case of Barini Leather Connection, a store that offers fine-quality leather goods.

We fell head over heels for a woman's shirt-style jacket made of the finest and softest lambskin for $375. The closest comparison we found ran $900 retail, but was a far cry from Barini's quality and workmanship.

The inventory at Barini Leather Connection features handbags, shoes, clothing, belts and a selection of accessories made in a variety of leathers and exotic skins. About half of the items are made by owner Gary Barin (and his assistant) in a workshop in back of the store, and the other half consists of well-known brand names.

For example, a handbag with a label found only in high-end department stores that normally retails for $250 runs $184 here, but for the money and quality, your dollars would be better spent on items made by Barin. His attention to detail and fine workmanship are a rarity in today's world of mass-produced merchandise.

Handbags start at about $125 and if you prefer one in another color, Barin will make it for you at no extra charge. The same goes for other items - belts, shoes, jackets and more - with a Barini label.

Any woman who is tired of clunky, chunky shoes will definitely appreciate the selection at Barini's. Most of the shoes - sandals, pumps, boots, booties and flats - are elegant and sophisticated-looking and are priced $10 off the full retail tags. If you can afford it, custom-made shoes such as pumps in three heel heights run about $350 instead of double or more elsewhere.

The deepest bargains are found on a close-out table featuring items such as a drawstring handbag for $108 instead of $360, and some very sexy lizard pumps for $60 instead of the original $240.

Barini Leather Connection is located at 12236 Ventura Blvd., Studio City; [phone]. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Most major credit cards are accepted.

Inside info

You can have your car look like new with Coast Motor Detailing's special offer. Until Nov. 15, for $99 (normally $150), they will do a complete cleaning, which includes a five-step exterior paint treatment and hand wax - plus windows, door jambs, wheels, exterior tire and rubber dressing, hand wash, carpets, floor mats, upholstery, and vinyl and leather cleaning and conditioning. The cleaning takes about six hours. Coast Motor Detailing is located at 18500 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana; [phone]. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

For those getting married on a budget, purchase your flowers for the bridal party from the Flower Girl. For $99.95, you'll receive a bouquet for the bride and maid of honor, plus five corsages or boutonnieres for the bridal party. The Flower Girl is located at 12506 Riverside Drive, North Hollywood; [phone]. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.