Dallas Image Coach, Julie Thurburn with Colour IQ, loves to be a smart outlet shopper. Do you? Knowing the difference between a retail store located in an outlet mall and an actual outlet store helps. Knowing what to buy at the outlet mall vs the retail mall will save you from buyers remorse.
Here are some tips:
- If you’re not sure if the store carries clothing made for it, specifically, ask. If it carries designer overstock pieces, then it’s the real outlet.
- Know thy Designer! Being familiar with the brand and what is currently in retail stores will make it easier for you to spot a true bargain. I once bought a designer evening jacket for $75 that was originally $850!
- Shop on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning to get the newest pieces in the store – and before the crowds hit.
- Don’t be fooled. Shopping retail at the end of the season with sale prices and coupons can save you more than buying it at the outlet. Sometimes the ‘retail’ price listed on the outlet ticket isn’t the real retail price.
- In general, the more expensive the piece was originally, the greater the outlet discount. This is especially true for seasonal items, special event pieces, or items made from unusual materials.
- Pay attention. If there is a tremendous amount of one type of garment (i.e. chartreuse t-shirts), it’s usually because the marketplace rejected it. It’s like I tell my clients, “If you’ll stop buying ugly, they’ll stop making it.”
- In general, outlets are great for basic pieces, but it’s not always the same quality of fabrics or materials as what is carried in the retail store.
- Sometimes it’s worth buying a piece missing a belt or needing a shorter hem, but it’s a waste to buy a garment in need of major alterations.
- It’s not the cost that counts. It’s the wearability.
As your D/FW Personal Shopper, it is my mission to help my clients always look fabulous without being a slave to the whimsical ways of fashion trends. I am passionately committed to making sure my clients always look their very best in order to help them achieve their personal and business goals.
- If you have any questions or are interested in a personal consultation, please give me a call at 214-223-2200.