The lure of the outlet mall is powerful. It promises brand-name goods at deeply discounted prices, creating a vision of a shopper’s paradise where last season’s luxury items are available for a fraction of their original cost. Many of us have made the trip to these sprawling retail centers, hoping to snag a designer handbag or a high-quality coat for a steal. But after the initial excitement wears off, a common question arises: are these deals for real?
The answer is complex. While genuine bargains can certainly be found, the reality of outlet shopping is not always what it seems. Many of the products you see at outlet stores were never intended for the regular retail floor. Understanding the difference between true clearance items and made-for-outlet products is the key to becoming a savvy outlet shopper.
The Two Types of Outlet Merchandise
Not all outlet inventory is created equal. The products on the shelves typically fall into one of two categories, and knowing which is which can make all the difference.
- Made-for-Outlet Products: A significant portion of the merchandise you find at outlet stores—some estimates suggest up to 85%—is manufactured specifically for that channel. These items often look similar to their retail counterparts but are typically made with lower-quality materials and simpler designs to cut costs. You might notice thinner fabrics, cheaper hardware, or fewer intricate details. These products were never sold in a full-price retail store, so the “original” price listed on the tag is often an inflated, imaginary figure used to make the discount seem more dramatic.
- Surplus and Past-Season Retail Stock: This is what most people imagine when they think of outlet shopping. These are genuine, high-quality items that were originally sold in regular retail stores. They may be from a previous season, represent overstock, or have minor, often unnoticeable, defects. These are the true gems of the outlet world, as you are getting the exact same product that was once sold at a much higher price.
So, Are the Deals Real?
The “deal” depends entirely on what you are buying. If you purchase a made-for-outlet item, you are essentially buying a lower-tier product from your favorite brand. The price is lower, but so is the quality. It’s not necessarily a bad deal—you might be perfectly happy with a simpler version of a product for a lower price—but it’s important to recognize that you are not getting a top-quality item at a steep discount.
The real bargains are the authentic, past-season retail items. Finding a coat that was selling for $400 last winter for only $150 is a genuine score. The challenge is that these items are often mixed in with the made-for-outlet merchandise, making it difficult to spot the true treasures.
How to Be a Savvy Outlet Shopper
You can still find incredible value at outlet stores if you know what to look for. Arm yourself with these tips to ensure you’re getting a real deal.
- Examine the Label: This is one of the easiest ways to identify made-for-outlet items. Many brands use a different label or marking for their outlet-specific lines. You might see a different logo, extra symbols (like squares or diamonds), or the word “Factory” printed on the tag. A quick online search for a brand’s outlet labeling practices can tell you what to look for.
- Check the Quality Thoroughly: Inspect the item closely. Feel the fabric, test the zippers, and look at the stitching. Does it feel as substantial as the products in the brand’s regular stores? If it feels flimsy or cheaply made, it’s likely a made-for-outlet piece.
- Do Your Research Before You Go: If you have a specific item in mind, check its price at the full-price retail store or online first. This will give you a baseline and help you recognize a legitimate discount. Don’t trust the “compare at” price on the tag, as it can be misleading.
- Ask an Employee: Don’t be afraid to ask a sales associate for help. You can be direct and ask, “Can you point me toward the items that came from the retail stores?” They are often knowledgeable about the inventory and can guide you to the genuine surplus stock.
Outlet stores can be a great place to save money, but it pays to be an informed consumer. By understanding the difference between made-for-outlet goods and true retail surplus, you can navigate the aisles with confidence, bypass the repackaged items, and walk away with the high-quality deals you were looking for.