Memorial Day weekend is upon us, which means just about every store out there is having a sale. Outlet malls are no exception. Outlet shopping can be a lot of fun and a way to save a lot of money on items you want or need. There are some things to keep in mind in order to maximize your experiences outlet shopping.
Know What to Expect
Just because things are discounted doesn’t mean it will be cheap. Most outlet stores tend to be higher priced brands to begin with so marked down prices might still be a little tough on your wallet. Think about what you are wanting to buy. If you’ve always wanted a designer handbag and have decided to take the plunge, an outlet mall is probably the way to go. If you are wanting to update your wardrobe for the season, you might have luck at an outlet, or you might be better off to check out your regular mall. I’ve typically found clothing I like when I go outlet shopping, but just depending on your personal style and the time of year I think clothing can be hit or miss.
Check the Quality
I’ve heard that some brands make lower quality items to sell at outlets. Make sure you’re happy with the item and feel like it’s something that will last for you. I would suggest trying everything on, especially if the outlet mall is a bit of a journey for you. Lower quality items aren’t going to be as tailored or fit as nicely as a higher quality item. There’s no point in buying something cheap if you’ll only wear it once and hate it the entire time you have it on.
Hit the Clearance Racks!
Yes they have them in outlet stores too! This is where you will typically find the cheapest items and prices you probably expect for an outlet. I’ve picked up quite a few items from clearance racks and I’ve been happy with them.
Check the Mall’s Website
Make sure you check the sale schedules! This is when you will get the best deals and the prices you probably expect for an outlet. Many outlet malls post upcoming sales for their stores on their websites, so make sure you look at this before you go.
Holidays are Your Friend
Though it may make the outlet more crowded, typically around holiday weekends (like right now!) are when outlets have the best sales. As I mentioned, many outlet malls’ websites list sales for individual stores so do your research to save the most!
Pay Attention to the Stores
Not all stores in outlet malls are actually outlets. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t shop there; just don’t expect prices to be any different than your regular mall prices. If you want to hit up the real outlet stores, go to the shops that have outlet or factory in their name.
Don’t Forget About Online
If you’re not near an outlet mall, or not a fan of crowds, online shopping is your friend. Most outlet stores have an online counterpart and have frequent sales (I may be a little obsessed with the J Crew Factory website). Don’t forget about Ebates too. Many outlet websites also have Ebates deals where you can earn cash back and save even more! Also, if you use my referral link to sign up for Ebates you’ll earn an extra $10 cash back on your first purchase of $25 or more!
Those are my tips! By using these you should get some great stuff and hopefully even better deals. Happy shopping!
The clearance racks are always my first stop!!
They’re the best!