Shops often have stock they need to shift regardless of the weather, so if you can plan far enough ahead, you might end up finding your perfectly priced bikini in December, or amazing boots in August. When are you likely to get the best price on a winter coat? When no one else is shopping for one. Well, when you think about it, the less busy the stores are, the less competition there is for those bargains… Shop off season The day you visit can have an impact too: ‘If you’re looking to beat the crowds and seek out the perfect best buys, head down to any of the centres mid-week,’ advises Christophe Deshayes, Managing Director UK at McArthurGlen, which has 24 outlet locations around nine countries around the world. If you still think of shop opening times as 9-5, think again – a lot of outlets run late night opening hours when the shops are much quieter and the pace is more relaxed.
Also, check the sale section of the brand’s own websites and see if there’s a click and collect option, as you might even be able to snap up a steal to pick up when you visit in person. Getty Images How can you get the best deals at outlet stores? Plan aheadĪccording to Janine, you should always have a game plan before you go – there are often so many brands and stores in an outlet it can feel a little overwhelming, so have a look at the website and prioritise the ones you definitely want to visit. They have such a wide range that it’s impossible to not make a purchase and I find that their jeans are the perfect fit,’ says Janine Constantin-Russell, Managing Director of ICON Outlet at The O2.Īnd while fashion is at the forefront of your mind, you can also usually find big savings on electricals, cookware, home furnishings and high-end luggage, so don’t forget to pay a visit to the lifestyle section too. Think jewellery, leather handbags or purses, brand-name coats and jackets, luxe lingerie or statement shoes, rather than fast fashion buys you’ll tire of quickly.ĭenim is another good staple that never goes out of style: ‘Levi’s never disappoints. Typically, it’s best to hone in on designer goods you’ll use forever, but that you might not have been able to stretch to without the price drop. What should you shop for at outlet stores?
Here’s how to get the most from your visit, and where to go for what. The best outlet stores and villages are a great way to score a brilliant designer bargain, whether you’re shopping for fashion, beauty, or homeware.