Outlet shopping has become a refreshingly new experience over the years and the stores have evolved into centers of profit more so than ever before. Having to sift through irregulars and outdated apparel in the hope of finding some great bargains is basically a thing of the past. Shoppers encounter merchandise that was transferred from other stores or overstocks from last year's lines to lines released just a few months prior, and also will find a set amount of merchandise created specifically for the outlets, which gives shoppers their favorite brands that are more affordable than the higher-end lines or products. Whatever the case, the merchandise is still up-to-date and of high quality. You'll save on clothing, accessories, houseware, jewelry, and much more. Knowing your prices and doing your homework beforehand is always smart, as you will find some stores' return policies are not as liberal as non-outlet stores.

Today, most brands have outlet stores and some of the finest can be found at the Chelsea Premium Outlets (the one I frequent is in Carlsbad). One of my favorite stores is LearningExpress Toys, which carries hundreds of name brand toys and games at a lower retail price than many toy stores. You will find high quality merchandise and superior customer service. Another place I love is Factory Brand Shoes. Get on both stores' mailing lists and you will be sent coupons and be notified of sales. Some stores offer membership cards that give you a free gift or additional savings if you purchase a certain amount of products or spend a certain amount of money. A popular store among many in my circles, GAP OUTLET, offers a store credit card, which offers you extra savings and incentives to sign up on-line.

What I appreciate most about outlet centers is that they offer savings of 25% to 65%. If you are going to wear the hottest looks and brands, why not save while doing so? Moms know that investing too much on any single item for growing kids just doesn't make sense. By shopping the outlets you can dress your children in wonderful quality brands that look great, but save you lots of money in the process. Children's lines featured within their outlet stores include Polo Ralph Lauren, BabyGap Outlet, Carter's, Etnies:exs, Gymboree Outlet, OshKosh B'Gosh, Skechers, and Stride Rite Keds Sperry.

Across the United States The Chelsea Premium Outlet Centers host a variety of on-site sales and are very popular destinations for savvy shoppers, offering seasonal sale weekends, national promotions, and events throughout the year. Whether you plan to shop at a Chelsea Premium Outlet Center near your home or while on vacation, you can always something special happening on-site. My favorite event at Carlsbad Premium Outlets is the annual Shop Under the Stars Charity Event at The Bellefleur. They do an amazing job, offering excellent entertainment, cuisine, drinks, silent auction...all for a great cause that the SDBM community enjoys supporting!

Plan ahead by selecting your center of choice to find details about in-store promotions, on-site entertainment and more. Join the VIP Lounge to be the first to know details about their exciting events and sales and check back often for updates. Don't forget: becoming a VIP Member is free!

Make sure to print out a voucher for a coupon book, which you can redeem in the Information Center. If you go without printing one out you can pay $5 or get a free coupon book if you the following forms of ID:

AAA, Access, ANA Mileage Club, Callaway Golf Employee ID, Go San Diego Card, Good Sam, JAF Card, JAL Family Club, JCB Card, Military ID, Outlet Bound Perks Card, Shop California Super Savings Card, So Cal Golf Assoc., SYC&S, or University ID. Follow them on Twitter at @PremiumOutlets for up-to-date offers! On "Twitter Tuesdays" they encourage followers to print out their tweet or show their tweet on a cell phone at one of their Information Centers to receive free VIP Coupon Book.

San Diego has two locations: If you looking for current deals at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets click here, or for the Las America Premium Outlets in San Diego click here.

Posted Jan 31, 2010 12:20 AM.

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