As if the gorgeous house wasn’t enough, Michele also runs Metamorphosis by Michele Pietra, her successful resale clothing and accessory business out of her second floor studio, making this place a bona fide Disneyland for design-minded women. Walking though the studio office, visitors are confronted by stacks of fashion books and lots of little treasures in a room wallpapered in green and red faux book paper.

It’s gorgeous, chic, civilized and the perfect corridor into the gorgeous studio housing thousands of brand new or gently worn designer garments and accessories at drastically discounted prices – Chanel shoes, Marni coats, Gucci belts, Missoni bodysuits and much more.

I fell in love with an amazing black over-sized Prada clutch, that would be perfect for fall and winter. New, with tags and 50% off retail. A great deal if I’ve ever seen one!

Michele and her store have been featured in Daily Candy and numerous other publications. And good news – Michele has plans to open a public store called Couture in the Brentwood neighborhood in West LA in the not too distant future. Stay tuned. In the meantime, I asked Michele to list her five favorite items, available at her store right now.

1. Marni Large Dull Metallic Silver Leather Baloon Bag
2. Proenza Schouler Purple & Black Wool Evening Mini Sheath with Silver Metallic Embroidery
3. Dolce & Gabbana Grey and Gold Full Length Wrap Sheared Maskrat Coat
4. Balenciaga Vintage Bell Sleeve Soft Sheer Paisly “Hippie” dress
5. Zac Posen Silver Metallic Silk Sexy Fitted Dress with Gray Suede Belt