Deal
Last month, I walked out of Woodbury Common Premium Outlets with a $1,200 Kate Spade handbag for $180. Three weeks later, I snagged a $400 Theory blazer for $89. If you think outlet shopping is just about picking through last season's leftovers, you're missing out on some of the best fashion deals available.
After five years of strategic outlet hunting across 15 different outlet centers, I've cracked the code on finding authentic designer pieces at jaw-dropping prices. Let me share the insider secrets that have saved me over $8,000 on my wardrobe.
The Real Truth About Outlet Merchandise
First, let's bust a myth: not everything at outlets is "made for outlet" quality. While some brands do create outlet-specific lines (usually identified by slightly different style numbers or tags), many outlets carry genuine overstock, end-of-season pieces, and returns from full-price stores.
Here's how to spot the difference:
- Check the style number: If it ends in .00, it's likely from the main line. Numbers ending in .99 or with extra digits often indicate outlet-made pieces.
- Feel the fabric: Genuine main-line pieces will have the same quality construction and materials you'd find in department stores.
- Look for subtle differences: Outlet versions might have simpler hardware, fewer pockets, or slightly different stitching patterns.
At Coach outlets, for example, about 30% of merchandise is actual overstock from their main stores, while 70% is made specifically for outlets. The key is knowing which pieces fall into that coveted 30%.
Timing Is Everything: When to Shop for Maximum Savings
The biggest mistake I made during my first year of outlet shopping was going at random times. Now I plan my trips around these peak discount periods:
Best Times to Shop:
- Thursday mornings: New shipments typically arrive Wednesday nights
- End of fashion seasons: February-March for winter clearance, August-September for summer
- After major holidays: Post-Christmas, post-Valentine's Day, after Mother's Day
- Back-to-school season: July-August brings additional markdowns on professional wear
I once found a $800 Burberry trench coat marked down to $240 during a post-Christmas clearance event. The same coat was still full price at Nordstrom.
Pro tip: Follow your favorite outlet stores on social media. They often announce flash sales and extra discount days to their followers first. I saved an additional 30% on an already discounted Tory Burch dress because I saw their Instagram story about a surprise sale day.
Navigation Strategy: Shop Like a Pro
Outlet centers can be overwhelming, but having a game plan maximizes your time and finds. Here's my proven approach:
Before You Go:
- Download the outlet center's app for exclusive mobile coupons
- Sign up for VIP programs (usually free and offer additional discounts)
- Check store websites for current promotions
- Make a priority list of 5-7 stores based on your needs
At the Outlet:
- Start with your lowest-priority stores when you're fresh and have energy
- Save your must-visit stores for when you've warmed up your bargain-hunting skills
- Ask sales associates about upcoming sales or markdowns
- Check clearance sections first – they're often tucked in back corners
During one trip to Desert Hills Premium Outlets, a sales associate at Gucci told me they were marking down handbags the following Tuesday. I made a special trip and scored a $1,800 bag for $650.
The Art of Outlet Negotiation
Yes, you can sometimes negotiate at outlets! While you can't haggle on prices like at a flea market, there are legitimate ways to secure additional discounts:
Negotiation Opportunities:
- Damaged merchandise: Small scuffs, missing buttons, or loose threads can net you 10-20% off
- Floor models: Display items that have been handled often qualify for markdowns
- Incomplete sets: If you're buying separates and one piece is missing, ask for a discount
- Multiple items: Some stores offer bundle discounts for purchasing several pieces
I once bought a Jimmy Choo shoe with a tiny scuff on the heel for 25% off the outlet price. A $5 shoe repair completely fixed it, and I saved an extra $150.
Hidden Discount Opportunities
Beyond the sticker prices, outlets offer several layers of additional savings that many shoppers miss:
Email Lists and Apps:
Signing up for store newsletters at outlets often yields better deals than subscribing to the main brand emails. Outlet-specific promotions can include:
- Extra 20-40% off sale items
- Early access to clearance events
- Birthday discounts
- Mobile-only flash sales
Credit Card Perks:
Many outlet centers partner with specific credit cards for additional savings. American Express often offers statement credits at premium outlets, while store-branded cards provide extra discounts.
Tourist Discounts:
If you're traveling, stop by the customer service center. Many outlets offer visitor coupon books with additional savings of 10-25% at participating stores.
Quality Control: Avoiding Outlet Pitfalls
Not every outlet deal is a good deal. I've learned to spot red flags that indicate poor value:
Warning Signs to Avoid:
- Prices that are only 20-30% off retail (you can often do better during department store sales)
- Items with significant quality differences from main-line pieces
- Styles that look dated or were clearly made solely for outlets
- Brands you've never heard of claiming to be "designer"
I once almost bought a "designer" handbag at an outlet for $200, thinking I was getting a deal. Later research showed the brand only existed for outlet sales and had no main retail presence. Trust your instincts on quality and brand authenticity.
Seasonal Strategy Guide
Different times of year yield different types of deals. Here's my seasonal outlet calendar:
Spring (March-May):
- Winter coats and boots at 60-80% off
- Holiday party dresses heavily discounted
- Transitional pieces like blazers and light sweaters
Summer (June-August):
- Professional workwear clearance
- Spring merchandise markdowns
- Back-to-school promotions on basics
Fall (September-November):
- Summer clearance on swimwear and sundresses
- New winter arrivals (buy early before selection dwindles)
- Holiday party pieces start appearing
Winter (December-February):
- Post-holiday clearance on everything
- Deep discounts on fall merchandise
- Valentine's Day promotions on accessories and lingerie
Building Relationships with Sales Associates
This might sound old-fashioned, but building relationships with sales staff at your favorite outlet stores pays dividends. Associates often know:
- When new shipments arrive
- Which items are about to be marked down
- Whether main-line overstock is coming
- How to apply multiple discounts and promotions
I have three sales associates across different outlets who text me when items in my size and style preferences arrive. Last year, one held a Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress for me that was being marked down from $180 to $89.
Your Outlet Shopping Action Plan
Start by researching outlet centers within driving distance and identifying which brands you want to target. Sign up for VIP programs and email lists before your first trip. Plan visits around major markdown periods, and don't be afraid to ask sales associates about upcoming promotions. Remember: the best outlet finds require patience and strategy, but the savings are worth the effort. With these techniques, you'll join the ranks of savvy shoppers who build designer wardrobes without the designer price tags.
