So for years, I have always been complimented on my style, and the first thing I tell people as soon as they mention a garment’s cuteness is how much I got it on sale for. It’s something I would love to shout from the rooftops if I could but, let’s be real, it’s not that big of a deal…or is it?
Outlets are a Frugal Girl’s Best Friend
This is the main reason for my blog post. I love the outlets! You can score so many amazing deals in one day, but there are some things you need to know before you go!
Give yourself ample time
Outlet shopping needs to not be rushed or forced into a strict timeframe. With the vast array of stores all spread out, and the time you need to piece through racks, you don’t want to rush past a great deal due to poor time management. So be sure to set aside enough time to pace yourself.
Google your local outlets and see what stores they have before going
This is so helpful to know before your trip to make sure it is worth it to you to visit that particular outlet. My rule of thumb is I will go if there are at least 5 stores I am interested in. This way you can make a list of stores, decide on an outlet, and plan out your trip.
Become a member or insider
Tanger outlets are some of my all-time favorites to shop, and they have a shopping program that gets you points and exclusive coupons, along with discounts at select stores in their centers. They also have a coupon book for purchase with amazing incentives! So be sure to research these additional savings options before your trip. It’s a shame to miss out on savings just because you didn’t know it was available to you!
Have a game plan
Plan out your trip a bit by viewing the map and locating which stores are on what side so you do not have to backtrack. There are usually great snacks like pretzels and Cinnabon in the middle sections which makes it the perfect time for a quick snack break and energy boost, pretty sure that’s strategic on their part. 😉 Map out the stores with heavier items for the end of your day so you aren’t lugging that stuff around ( like Bath and Body Works 3 wick candles) and park your car on that side of the lot so you don’t have to walk as far to the car.
Head towards the extra off sign
When I step into a store on my list I go straight to the clearance section to see if they have an additional off promotion running. This is the best time to pick up items at extremely low prices. Keep in mind, this is a way to pick up staples or statement pieces at a major value but not necessarily a way to shop particular items you are looking for in particular, it’s more of a treasure search.
If you don’t have outlets near you, there are always online off-price retailers!
Off-price retailers like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Saks Off 5th, and Nordstrom Rack offer goods at discounted prices, most of which are designer or high-end brands! Though most do have brick and mortar locations, they also have an online presence with just as amazing deals. Note: there usually is a shipping threshold of $100 to $150 to get free shipping so keep that in mind if you want to save on that! I have linked my faves below, so give them a peek!
Now aside from these outlets and off-price experiences, I practice these same techniques when shopping online and in-store at all of my favorite retailers. I look for additional off banners, and I shop when sites and stores offer entire site discounts when looking for something specific and “new”.
Shop Around
When you have a particular item in mind that you would like to purchase, shop around for the best deal on it before just jumping the gun and buying it. Online shopping has truly opened so many doors when it comes to cross-checking prices to find the best deal. You can do your due diligence in minutes versus getting in the car and shuffling around to multiple stores. This can save you quite a bit depending on what you are in the market for whether it be an appliance or handbag, you would be surprised what promotions stores are running, possibly by offering a 20% coupon for signing up for their email list, weekly discount, and know that many will price match.
I hope this was helpful and interesting for you all, and maybe will help you save a bit of money on your wardrobe this year. I personally find it super enjoyable to see the savings and love the pieces even more, so give it a try! I can almost promise it will be your new way to shop! Until next time, Hales <3
