Are outlet malls a value?

United States
March 30, 2010 7:57am CST
I know many people brag about their deals at outlet malls. I don't find them to be much of a deal at all most of the time. Once in a while I find something I like but truly there isn't a big savings to me that you couldn't find watching the sales locally or buying from stores like TJ Maxx ect. What do you think? Is it a value to go to an outlet mall? Is it worth the gas to get there even? When we go we just go for fun and not to burn a hole in our pocketbook.
6 responses
@dragon54u (31633)
• United States
2 Apr 10
They are not a good value for me, generally. Most stores in outlet malls are prominent brands that I don't buy because they are too expensive. Even in the outlet malls, they are pricey. I'm not one who is impressed by someone who wears or uses a certain brand so I don't usually shop the outlet malls. A name brand sweater at an outlet mall might cost $49 but I can get one just as warm at Walmart or Goodwill for $3-12. Why shop at the outlet?!
@ersmommy1 (12587)
• United States
30 Mar 10
Personally, I don't think so. From my experience, they are more expensive. I now stay away from them for the most part. It can be a BIG waste of time and money.
@Sir_bobby88 (8231)
• Singapore
30 Mar 10
Well i do think that thoese departmental store actually sell things can be cheap at times yea .
@cher913 (25781)
• Canada
30 Mar 10
we go to an outlet store about once every 4-5 months or so and i really dont find the prices (most of the time) all that cheap. there are a few stores where i can go to get a bargain though.
• United States
30 Mar 10
once in a while they are.i've gotten some good clothes at tjmaxx. you have to be really careful though if you're buying clothes in particular at those stores.i usually examine the seaming and very often it's been sewed very badly.a few washes,and you'd have to restitch it if you want to keep it.
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
• United States
30 Mar 10
I'm not big on designer clothing, and usually can't afford brand new. I also pretty much refuse to buy brand new for my kids, since they'll either stain, rip, or otherwise ruin the clothing, and even if they don't, they'll outgrow it within 6 months anyways, so it's pretty much a total waste. I prefer to do my shopping at 2nd hand stores, there are always some pretty decent finds there. I go frequently, and especially when I don't need anything.. that's when I find the best stuff. I also shop clearance racks at Walmart and other stores.