I remember my first trip to some outlet stores many years ago. I went in with high expectations for some “killer” deals. I was disappointed. Over the years I would say my experience at outlet stores has been a mixed bag. I have found some amazing deals. Others just mediocre. Some don’t really appear to be a deal at all.
A number of years ago a large group of outlet stores opened south of Portland. There are so many stores to choose from than the typical outlets. Some would call these “high end” outlet stores. It is nearly an hour away so I don’t get there often.
I try to hit the Cabi Outlet when they have their season end sales. I’ve walked out of that store with things for under $20 a piece. This summer I didn’t need a thing from Cabi, but was quite pleased with the Ann Taylor clearance rack.
Instead of all of the examples coming from me, it’s over to you. I would love to know what you think of outlet stores. Share your experiences. I believe it’s a topic almost everyone has an opinion on. Deal or no deal?
since I am not a huge shopper, outlet stores do nothing for me. I also feel that the deals are not that great and the clothes not always what were in the stores in the firest place. The one store that I know is true outlet and the prices are discounted is CAbi. LOVE LOVE LOVE that store and the deals you can get. Because I see the clothes at a show and then know that they will end up discounted at the outlet gives me peace of mind that this is a fair and true bargin. So for me if you want my vote, outlets do not float my boat! Unlses you are shopping CAbi
A little late catching up on your blog lately, but wanted to give some feedback on this one. Outlets just seem like another mall to me, but Woodburn is my FAVORITE and I miss it. They do seem “higher end” as you mentioned. I don’t think the prices are really any big “deals” ever but I think Woodburn has a really great selection of stores. So easy to get there when I lived in Lake O. but now at least 7 hours away so I NEVER get there anymore.
The Naturalizer shoe store is the best and I would never walk out of there with any less than two pairs and could always reliably find just the shoe I was looking for. They run narrow which is great for me. So that’s my random 2 cents!
Thanks for the input Erin! I agree. If you can find a clearance rack at an outlet, I think it’s always a bonus.