Insider’s (Unofficial) Guide to Shopping at Outlet Malls

The 4th of July is a time of year when outlet malls have their big summer sales.  Before you head to your nearest outlet mall, here are a few good things to know:

·       According to Forbes, 82% of merchandise at an outlet mall was manufactured specifically for the outlet store---contrary to what you may think, most of the items at the outlet mall have not been sold in regular retail stores first. This means that most merchandise in outlet malls isn’t as high of a quality as what you would get in the regular stores. 

·       Beware of “% off MSRP retail” signs---as the point above stated, most items wouldn’t be sold at retail anyway! Be sure it really is a good deal in terms of price and you don’t get caught up in the percentage off the ticketed price.

·       Typically, merchandise that has been discounted even more are on the sides of the store and in the back. I take a look around the front, but usually head to the back for better deals on clearance items.

·       Outlet malls are usually in the boonies—my closest outlet mall is an hour away.  It is hard to drive all that way and leave without buying anything, which makes it tempting to buy something even if it isn’t that great of a deal.  Don’t get caught up in that! Make sure it’s a good deal, and something you will actually use or wear before buying it.

·       Most regular retailers won’t return items from their outlet stores.

·       Although it is a pain to get all the emails, I sign up for outlet store discounts.  Just recently I got a coupon for an extra 30% off at Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Outlet—and I was able to use it on clearance items, too!

·      Out-of-season merchandise (i.e, buying a winter coat in spring or summer) is when items are at their cheapest.  If possible, don’t overlook those out-of-season items.  You can get some really good things if you buy now and save them for just a few months.