Do Outlets Sell Defective Clothing?

Off-season, seconds or slightly-defective items are still a draw, but in many cases, brand new merchandise is also available. However, it's often of lower quality than similar items found in regular retail stores. Since everything isn't a bargain, finding a deal in the newer outlet malls requires a little work.

Are outlet stores lower quality?

Much of the merchandise sold at outlet stores is manufactured exclusively for them, and may be of lesser quality than the merchandise sold at non-outlet retail locations…. ... Outlet-specific merchandise is often of lower quality than goods sold at non-outlet retail locations.

Are outlet products real?

Not necessarily. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), most of the products found in outlet stores are made specifically for outlet stores. The same report from the FTC suggests that this could mean that products from outlet stores may be of lower quality.