Unlocking hidden savings at brand outlets can feel like a treasure hunt, but with the right strategy, you can score premium products at half the retail cost. Research ahead of your trip—many brands publish updated lists of their clearance centers and special offers. Join loyalty email programs—they regularly unlock early access to sales events, sometimes even before the deals are posted online.

When you shop makes all the difference. The optimal shopping windows are typically early in the week, especially beginning of the week, when stores restock after the weekend rush. Also, capitalize on changeovers—summer clearance, post-holiday winter sales, and New Year’s clearance events are prime times to find unbelievable prices. Some outlets host end-of-month blowouts when they’re clearing inventory for new stock.

Inspect every piece thoroughly. Outlet products are produced exclusively for clearance channels, which may mean lower-grade fabrics than those sold in regular retail stores. Assess craftsmanship like seam quality, fabric weight, ugg homme and zippers. Speak up and inquire about the variations in product lines.

Know your exact measurements and preferences, but stay open to surprises. Sometimes you’ll find something unexpected that fits perfectly. Check rival websites to make sure you’re truly saving money. Just because it’s tagged as factory direct doesn’t always mean it’s a better price at the regular store.

Finally, consider shopping at outlet malls during off-peak hours. Your experience will be more peaceful, but you might also receive personalized attention from staff who have more time to help you. If you embrace a slow, thoughtful approach, outlet shopping can be a rewarding financial move. Enroll in brand rewards and discount extensions like Honey—they can stack discounts and give you bonus cashback.