Even people who don’t normally consider themselves shopping enthusiasts are often tempted to pull off the interstate when they see a sign for an outlet mall. With savings of 25 to 75 percent, how could you lose?
Outlet shopping in the United States is big business, and the malls have become some of the top tourist destinations in the country. But navigating the wealth of discount-shopping opportunities takes savvy and finesse; some stores sell only “seconds” (imperfect merchandise rejected for retail sale). Other outlets sell only discontinued items, last season’s merchandise, or lower-quality products manufactured specifically for outlet stores. However, some hidden gems are out there, in this country and around the world. These stars of the outlet universe have amazing merchandise and a selection of stores that keep shopaholics happy—and spending.
Most Upscale Stores: Woodbury Commons, Central Valley, New York
Located about an hour north of New York City, Woodbury Commons is such a well-known destination for bargain seekers that the mall is served by commuter rail and several bus and coach lines, and offers discounts on car rentals. For the ultra-luxe shopper, there’s even a private helicopter service available at a nearby airport. The mall offers far more than the usual assortment of mid-range apparel stores, and shoppers come in droves to look for deals on Balenciaga, Betsey Johnson, Bottega Veneta, Dior, Oscar de la Renta, Chloe, Catherine Malandrino, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and other top designers. If you’re in search of housewares, you can browse 1000-thread-count Italian linens from Frette and Pratesi or cookware from Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel. After a day of shopping, the only problem is fitting all that loot into your tiny Manhattan apartment.
Best Stand-Alone Designer Outlet: Prada Outlet, Montevarchi, Italy
In Tuscany on the outskirts of Florence, the Prada outlet serves as a shining beacon to shoppers who want great deals—usually about 50 percent off—on Prada shoes, men’s and women’s apparel, and accessories. The store is large, but it’s so popular with locals and tourists alike that there’s often a wait to enter the building, which is housed in an industrial complex with other designer outlets. Many visitors have trouble finding the store; its official name is I Pellettieri d’Italia, the original name of Miuccia Prada’s clothing label. Since the merchandise is originally quite expensive, don’t expect to pay mere pennies. However, the discounts are significant compared to retail price in the United States, and there’s a better selection compared to what’s in the handful of Prada outlets in North America.
Most Unique Selection: Bicester Village, Oxfordshire, England
Bicester Village, an hour outside of London, has only 130 stores, but some of those stores are unusual and special outlets that you won’t find many other places in the world, if at all. Bicester is home to the factory stores for labels like Anya Hindmarch, Ted Baker, Luella, Agent Provocateur, Temperley, Diane von Furstenburg, Pringle of Scotland, Smythson of Bond Street, and Thomas Pink. Fashionable city dwellers take the express train from London direct to the mall, and often take advantage of the complimentary style-consultant services offered on weekdays.
