Who says you can't get a good deal on designer clothes? Whoever subscribes to that nonsense hasn't had the pleasure of shopping at an outlet mall. Now there are outlet malls and then there are outlet malls. My favorite are those run by Chelsea Premium Outlets. They're located all across the country and have some of the best stores, hands-down - Balenciaga, Roberto Cavalli, Jimmy Choo and Tory Burch to name a few. Strategically plan any outlet mall shopping trip. The work up front will save you time and your feet many steps. Go online and figure out which stores you want to visit, print the map and literally write out your itinerary. Seems like a lot of work up front, but it will save you time and energy in the long run. Next, before you leave home, run the numbers and determine what you maximum spending allotment will be. And finally, make a list of items you need so that your shopping can be somewhat directed. For example, if you need dresses and absolutely not another pair of shoes no matter how great the deal, make a bee-line for the dress department and steer clear of shoes. Then put your walking shoes on, grab a bottle of water and head for the nearest outlet mall to take care of business!
A shopping tip for those of you not yet hip to the outlet store shuffle, a lot of the items are going to be a few seasons old so shop with purpose by looking for classic pieces that will stand the test of time. And remember, most outlet stores have frequent markdowns for slow moving merchandise.
And if family, work and other life commitments make it virtually impossible to take a day to go to the outlet mall, fret not. Now, you can get the same fix from some sites on-line like Net-A-Porter or stores closer to home like TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Century 21, Ross and Daffy's.
Viva la outlet!
For more fabulous information from Kalyn, check out her website: www.kalynjohnson.com and her blog http://kalynjohnson.wordpress.com.