Designer brand name apparel and accessories, professional culinary cooking pieces, name brand shoes, latest hot cosmetics and fragrances–yes you can get these and more at outlet stores, but are you getting the best deals? MarkdownMom has written on this before recommending that you look for the clearance racks in the outlet stores for the best deals–yes, they do have them.
Buyer Beware: Not everything is on sale compared to retail stores. Initially, outlet stores were used to sell not-in-season merchandise, slightly flawed items, etc. Now many retailers produce special lines for outlet stores such as The Gap has Nike® and Adidas®. These may be of lesser quality in workmanship and materials.
However, not all retailers are following this trend. Le Creuset® cookware is same quality, but may have flaw or chip. Apparel shops like Dress Barn carry the same items as in their stores. Remember the percentage off is based by manufacturers suggested retail price which is seldom sold at that price.
MDM Says: Be sure check with clerks at the stores and do your homework to find out if merchandise is the same as the original.
MarkDownMom