Throwdown: Outlets v. Stores.
A tough economy means even tougher shopping as many shoppers do not have the funds to go to their favorite designer and pick out something to wear for a party or job interview. I went undercover, around the United States, to see if outlet malls are a better bargain than the normal stores.
Castle Rock, CO: I decided I would venture into my favorite leather ware store, being Coach. The guys section was small, but had some of the latest styles for 30% off. Score: Outlet 1, Store 0.
Next on the list, was a trip to clothing stores like Polo and Banana Republic. If you’re looking for the classic Polo Pony, than you are better going to the store, because the colors to choose from are horrendous, and, being a smaller individual, the sizing seems to be in favor of L-XXL crowd. Score: Outlet 1, Store 1.
The Banana Republic outlet, was very barren and most of the clothes available looked to be of “Old Navy” quality.
Score: Outlet 1, Store 2
El Paso, TX: If you’re looking for designers, keep on looking. This outlet mall only has a few stores worth going into. Coach, Brooks Brothers, and Hurley. Score: Outlet 1, Store 3
Orlando, FL: As many of my readers know, I like to travel, and what better way to write this article than explore the East Coast outlet malls? Orlando Premium Outlets in Lake Buena Vista, Florida are almost like a shopper's dream. Located minutes from Disney World, this outlet mall blows any regular or outlet mall out of the water. 150 of the top designers in the world are located here. If you're looking for a designer bargain, than this is the place to be. Stores like 7 For All Mankind, A/X, Roberto Cavalli, Barney’s, Gucci, Burberry, and Hugo Boss are just a few of the massive selection. First stop on the tour was one of my favorites, Burberry. Many of the classic print polos were only $40.00! Ties and dress shirts were anywhere from 40%-75% off. Score: Outlet 2, Store 3
Down the way was Lacoste. Their popular alligator polo’s were between $40 and $60. The Perry Ellis store had buttons ups for $20! This outlet store is a must stop shop for anybody that’s going to be in the Orlando area. Score: Outlet 3, Store 3.
Now, we seem to have a tie! But here's the dealbreaker; while many outlets have the appeal for cheaper prices and high-end designers, most of the time colors and sizes won’t be in your favor, and discounts are usually between $10-$15 dollars off.
Final Score: Outlet 3, Store 4.
My recommendation is to stick with stores that make you comfortable and look for sales. Sometimes the sales are better than outlet prices! Hold off on the outlet shopping for emergencies. Happy Shopping!
-Joey
joey@themensfashionblog.com
Labels: Joey DePierro, Shops, Throwdown
posted by F @ 12:00 PM
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