Designer Outlet Shopping – 5 Golden Rules

Do you want to discover real bargains at designer outlets? Do you want to make your shopping spree truly enjoyable? Are you after value for money? Here are 5 golden rules that will help you achieve your objectives:

Research before you head to any designer outlet – some sell very specific merchandise and selected lines from the designer`s collection. For example, Michael Kors` outlet in Bicester Village sells handbags and accessories but not clothing.

Cheshire Oaks Michael Kors` outlet sells: clothes like this emerald-coloured,  figure-hugging dress; leather goods such as handbags, wallets, belts; and also sunglasses.

Ask for additional discount – politely and privately, not in front of other customers. I`ve done it on a numerous occasions and had been successful in securing an additional drop in the price. You may have bought several items from the same designer, or you are not getting much of a reduction in the outlet, compared to the original price. These are viable reasons, but don`t expect to be given any more leeway. It all depends on the manager`s discretion, so don`t be a spoiled brat….be reasonable, well-mannered and respectful of their decision. No-one is forcing you to buy anything. If the price is too much, walk away.

Know your style and don`t be tempted by brands you would never wear if their stock have not been dramatically reduced. Are you a Mulberry or Burberry handbag-lover?

I am for trying new things, but there is no point going way out of your comfort zone. Don`t be blinded by the fact the item had been heavily discounted. If you don`t have any A-line skirts in your wardrobe, it would be unlikely you would wear such a skirt. If it`s not your style, you would have thrown your money away, even if the item you bought was inexpensive.

If your favourite designer doesn`t have anything amazing on offer when you visit, ask the store manager if they have other designs still sitting in the stockroom. I`ve done it on a few occasions and every time ended up buying fabulous goods, which were brought out especially for me. Let`s not forget, any designer outlet is a business and they need to sell the stock they have before bringing in the new items. However, if you ask politely and indicate what you have in mind (I usually ask for dresses in size 0) there is a chance you would get your hands on something that suits your taste, and is wallet-friendly.

There is much more on offer than just shopping. I still remember sitting outside Starbuck`s in one of the designer outlet villages, soaking up a sun, and chatting with my companion, before we resumed shopping.  Don`t make the day, or a few hours pass without having a delicious lunch, or a drink. Make it into an occasion, and enjoy bargain-hunting and saving your hard-earned cash, in the process.