Ellen PhillipsNow that school’s started and you took advantage of last month’s Tax-Free Weekend (you did, didn’t you?), perhaps you’re looking at more “restful” shopping than the local malls. Outlet malls can be a bargain-hunter’s paradise for savvy consumers.
It used to be that factory outlets were packed to the brim with wonderful bargains. Overstocks, samples and factory seconds with very minor defects were there for the asking, looking and taking. Buses full of shoppers dropped off passengers several times daily, depending upon the location, and parking lots remained full. Unfortunately, many manufacturers nowadays prefer to unload merchandise at discount chains, such as Marshalls, T.J. Maxx and the like, rather than gambling they’ll sell well in factory outlets.
It’s still possible, however, to get great bargains at outlet malls by carefully shopping. Try to:
• Focus on nonclothing items. While many folks tend to think “Clothes!” when thoughts turn to outlet shopping, the true focus these days should be items like furniture, housewares, and luggage. Stores with this type of merchandise are less likely to be filled with lower-quality merchandise or overstocks and, for the most part, damage is minor, such as an insignificant scratch that can be easily repaired or hidden. Examples of cookware and luggage with the best deals are Samsonite and Le Creuset. Furniture outlet stores are particularly good places for discount as outlets don’t want these bulky items taking up floor space for very long. Examples of the best deals include Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Ralph Lauren Home.
Shoes and purses are often a super deal in outlet stores. Shoes are less likely to be lower- quality but are often there because of small scuffs or other barely noticeable concerns. Check Adidas and Puma outlets for tennis shoes and Kenneth Cole and Cole Haan outlets for shoes and boots. However, be aware that the more elite brands, such as Chanel, Gucci, and Dolce and Gabanna, can yield the best savings. Designers never want to “sully” their brands/images with lower-quality or outlet-only merchandise so these particular outlet stores tend to be stocked with actual, top-quality, discounted overstock. One exception, however, is handbag maker Coach, which, according to research, can and does feature straight-to-outlet purses and, in fact, has its own stores.