I think people have a fear of outlet shopping. People seem to think the items you find in outlets are not first quality, are outdated or just unwanted. There are some outlet stores that carry less than desirable items, but when you find good ones, it's a great way to shop. I've found a few good ones and will share them with you.
I love, love, love Crate and Barrel Outlet in Naperville. The store is not full of junk no one wants. It is set up like any Crate and Barrel store and there is a large quantity of items so you aren't getting the bottom of the barrel, no pun intended. You can buy almost anything you need for your home at Crate and Barrel quality. It's also a great place for gifts. And now they have opened The Land of Nod Outlet in the same building so you can really find some bargains.
Denise Nape / For GO
The Crate and Barrel Outlet Store is at 1860 W. Jefferson in Naperville.
The store is already showing holiday items so it's not too early to stock up. The ornaments are reasonably priced and great for gift toppers or stocking stuffers.
They have a number of first-quality rugs. This "Misaki" 6'x9' rug was $1,199 but you can get it for $599. That's half the original price.
"The Flock" 5'x8' rug was $299 but you can get it for $139. The Bradshaw lamp table and coffee table are priced at $59.95 and $79. The Chestnut 3 shelf bookcase is only $59.95. The furniture mentioned all have high reviews from Crate and Barrel shoppers.
They have great prices on Caphalon cookware. The 2 1/2 quart saucepan was $150 but it's now $89.95. The fry pans are also marked down. The 10-inch was $125 and the 12-inch was $150. You can get them for $79.95 and $99.95 respectively. Placemats, tablecloths, napkins and dishtowels are all reasonably priced and in great designs. They also have a large selection of glass and tableware, too many to count.
Home accents like baskets are at great prices. The large baskets on the bottom shelf were $69.95 and you can get them for $34.95. The serving tray can be purchased for $16.95 instead of $34.95.
There is a large section of dented or floor sample furniture. You could get some great deals if you don't care about a mark or two on your item. These are final sales so make sure you check it out thoroughly.
The Land of Nod Outlet just opened. This corduroy single sleeper chair is marked down to $399 from $999.
They have large supplies of bedding so if you need to replace one piece, check here first. The twin canvas comforter covers are marked down to $29 from $79. That is a huge savings. You will also find high chairs, beds, rugs, pictures and dressers. It's a must see.
Shopper's tip: Keep going back to your favorite outlets. They get new merchandise in all the time.
Next week: Land's End outlet.