20 Feb Kate Spade Outlet vs Retail: An In-Depth Comparison

Kate Spade is a famous designer brand for its fun, feminine accessories and clothing. The company operates full-price retail stores and outlet locations that offer discounts on Kate Spade merchandise. Shopping at an outlet and a retail store can make a big difference for shoppers looking to get the best deals on Kate Spade purses, wallets, clothing, and more. Let’s see Kate Spade Outlet Vs Retail battle at a glance.

Overview of Kate Spade Outlets

Kate Spade outlets are factory store locations where shoppers can find discounts on Kate Spade products. The merchandise at outlet stores consists of overstock items, discontinued styles, and pieces made specifically for the outlets. Some key things to know about Kate Spade outlets:

• Discounts: Products at the outlets are priced at least 30% lower than the total retail price. Discounts can reach up to 75% for clearance items.
• Selection: Outlets have a more limited selection compared to regular stores. You’ll find primarily handbags, wallets, and a smaller assortment of apparel and accessories. Selection varies by location.
• Styles: While the outlets carry discontinued retail styles, many products are made exclusively for the outlets and cannot be found at retail stores. These “made for outlet” items use more synthetic materials and cheaper construction.
• Locations: Over 120 Kate Spade outlet locations across the United States are mostly clustered around significant malls and shopping centers. They are located in outlet-specific destinations rather than traditional malls or shopping districts.

Overview of Kate Spade Retail Stores

Kate Spade’s retail stores are upscale, full-price locations across the country in high-end shopping centers, lifestyle malls, and outlet malls. Here are some critical characteristics of Kate Spade retail stores:

• Pricing: All items at retail stores are sold at the standard or “full” Kate Spade pricing, which is generally 30-40% higher than outlet prices. Pricing accurately reflects the collection’s actual market value.
• Selection: Retail stores offer the complete breadth of the Kate Spade collection across handbags, clothing, jewelry, shoes, home goods, and more. The assortment includes all the newest arrivals and seasonal offerings.
• Quality & Materials: The products at retail boutiques utilize higher quality leathers, fabrics, and construction. You won’t find any “made for outlet” items here.
• Presentation: Kate Spade’s retail stores deliver an upscale shopping environment and experience. The boutiques showcase the brand’s creative vision through sophisticated store design and visual merchandising.
• Locations: There are just over 200 Kate Spade retail locations in the U.S., primarily located within regional malls, upscale shopping centers, and lifestyle developments. Major metro areas typically have multiple stores.

Comparing Handbags at Kate Spade Outlets vs Retail

Handbags are Kate Spade’s most iconic product. When comparing outlet locations to retail stores, you’ll notice some key differences in the handbag offerings:

Selection & Variety

The handbag selection at Kate Spade outlets is much more limited than in full-line stores. The outlets carry mostly classic, core styles in nylon and saffiano leathers, along with seasonal offerings in more trend-driven silhouettes. The variety of shapes, materials, sizes, and colors is not nearly as expansive as what you’ll find at retail. Retail boutiques offer a vast array spanning all the latest collections, including unique statement bags and novelty designs you won’t see at the outlets.

Materials & Quality

While the leathers used at the outlet feel durable, retail bags utilize luxe, high-quality leathers like pebbled calfskin and soft nappa. These leathers develop a beautiful patina over time that outlet bags lack. Retail uses custom jacquard lining inside the bags in iconic Kate Spade prints versus the unprinted dot lining at the outlets. The hardware on retail bags has a heavier, more luxe feel compared to the lightweight hardware at the outlet. Stitching and interior details are also more carefully constructed on retail handbags.

Styles & Newness

If you’re looking for the newest Kate Spade bag styles, the selection at retail is far superior. Retail stores carry all the latest arrivals from Kate Spade’s seasonal collections. The outlets receive minimal newer silhouettes, mostly in primary colors. For on-trend, fashion-forward styles, you’ll have better luck browsing the retail boutiques. Outlets carry more classic; core Kate Spade shapes like the Cameron Street flats, Greene Street backpacks, and Grove Court hobos.

Pricing & Value

Handbag prices at the outlet are generally 40-60% less than retail prices. For example, the classic Kate Spade Margaux medium pouch retails for $298 but can be found at the outlet for around $149. While outlet bags are priced lower, retail bags offer more excellent value in terms of higher-quality materials and construction. If paying the total price, retail bags are a better long-term investment.

Examples

Here are some examples that demonstrate the critical differences between retail and outlet bags:

• Lakin Street Laurie (retail only): This shoulder bag in soft pebbled leather features luxe custom hardware and printed jacquard lining—Retails for $378.
• Cameron Street Lucie (outlet only): A simple nylon crossbody with sparse goldtone hardware and dot print lining. Outlet price is around $129.
• Jackson Street Paloma (retail and outlet): The retail version uses thicker pebbled leather, custom hardware, and jacquard lining and retails for $298. The outlet version is made in saffiano leather with thin goldtone hardware and plain lining, priced around $149.

Clothing & Apparel Differences

For clothing and apparel, the outlet versus retail comparison also reveals some distinct contrasts:

Fabrics & Materials

The quality of fabrications is noticeably higher at retail stores. Items are made from luxe materials like Italian silk, delicate French lace, and cashmere. Kate Spade Outlet apparel relies on more synthetic blends and less expensive cotton. While outlet materials are decent, they lack the upscale quality of retail garments.

Construction & Workmanship

Regarding construction, retail garments showcase delicate details, refined tailoring, and precise stitchwork. Pieces have structure and shape that hold their form over time. Outlet items feature more casual construction without the ornate detail work. Some outlet pieces have lower stitch counts, allowing seams to loosen over wear.

Style Selection

From statement coats to cocktail dresses, the breadth of apparel styles at Kate Spade retail is vast and trend-focused. The outlets offer a limited range of casual staples like sweaters, tops, and dresses. The retail boutiques provide better options for a complete representation of Kate Spade’s seasonal collections and vision.

Fit Consistency

Across multiple sizes and styles, the fit of retail apparel pieces remains consistently well-tailored and structured. The outlet clothing has more significant variability in fit between pieces, with some styles seeming boxier, more relaxed, or running large. For the best fit, try pieces on in-store.

Pricing & Discount Factor

Like handbags, clothing at the outlets is priced 30-50% below retail prices. However, the quality difference between a $98 outlet dress and a $298 retail dress is significant. In most cases, the retail apparel offers more excellent value and cost-per-wear despite the higher prices.

Examples

• Lexi Dress (Retail): Made from fine Italian silk with ornate lace detailing and an elegant silhouette. Retails for $398.
• Jessa Dress (Outlet): Much more casual fit and fabrication. Simple cotton sundress with basic strap detailing for around $99.

Shoes, Accessories & More Compared

Beyond handbags and apparel, outlet and retail stores also showcase some clear contrasts in other product categories:

Shoes

The retail boutiques offer a well-rounded selection of heels, flats, sandals, and boots in luxe leather and fabrics. Construction is elegant, with thoughtful details like custom hardware and padded footbeds. The outlet shoe assortment leans casual and focuses on flats and low heels made with artificial materials. While outlet shoes are appealingly priced in the $70-$130 range, the styles lack the sophistication of retail options.

Jewelry & Accessories

The assortment of sparkling statement earrings, polished metal bracelets, and elegant hair accessories round out the retail accessories. The outlet jewelry selection is limited to mostly more straightforward, casual pieces in gold and silver tones. The retail store offers far more excellent options for a wow-worthy jewelry moment.

Home Decor

Only retail locations carry Kate Spade’s home collection showcasing glassware, furniture, bedding, and decor deeply inspired by the brand’s aesthetic. The outlets do not sell homeware pieces – you must visit a retail store for these specialty finds.

Gift Selection

For gifting and small leather goods like wallets, the retail stores provide greater variety across multiple price points. The outlets focus mainly on entry-level card holders, key pouches, and tech accessories in the $30-$60 range. Retail offers options from $58 up to luxe $300 wallets.

Outlet Shopping Tips & Tricks

How can savvy shoppers get the best deals and finds at Kate Spade outlet locations? Here are some proven tips for shopping the outlets like a pro:

• Get on the email list – Sign up online to notify you of upcoming promotions and sales events. Many outlets offer additional discounts for email subscribers.
• Ask about upcoming sales – Store sales associates can advise you on any upcoming sales so you can plan your shopping accordingly.
• Shop mid-week mornings – Weekday mornings are less crowded, so you can browse and try things on without pressure.
• Browse clearance first – Check the clearance section where discontinued items get further price cuts up to 75% off. You can find great deals on bags and accessories here.
• Scrutinize items – Look for defects like scuffs or stains and ensure that hardware and stitching are intact.
• Comparison shop – Prices can vary between outlet locations, so shop around and compare options between stores. Some locations are more deeply discounted than others.
• Use outlets to score timeless classics – Focus on outlet exclusives and classic core styles that will stay relevant long-term. Avoid trendy outlet styles that seem overpriced.
• Layer on coupon codes – Check RetailMeNot and other coupon sites for additional promo codes you can apply at checkout for extra savings.

Key Differences: Outlet vs Retail Summary

When weighing Kate Spade outlets against retail stores, keep these critical contrasts in mind:

• Prices: Outlets offer a 30-75% discount, but retail provides more excellent long-term value in quality and cost-per-wear.
• Selection: Outlets have a much more limited product range focused on core styles and seasonal basics. Retail offers the full breadth of the collection.
• Newness: Retail boutiques are the place to shop if you want the latest arrivals, statement styles, and on-trend pieces.
• Quality: Retail products use luxe, high-end materials, and thoughtful construction with delicate details. Outlet products use more synthetic blends and cheaper fabrication.
• Experience: The retail setting delivers Kate Spade’s full creative vision through sophisticated store design and visual presentation you don’t get at the outlets.

While the significant discounts available make Kate Spade outlets enticing, the retail boutiques are worth the splurge for shoppers who value access to the breadth of the collection, the newest arrivals, and the highest level of quality and craftsmanship. Savvy shoppers can maximize their savings at outlets by shopping strategically, focusing on classic styles, and taking advantage of clearance deals and promotions.

FAQs

Are the bags at the outlet authentic Kate Spade?

Yes, all bags sold at Kate Spade outlets are authentic Kate Spade products. However, some bags are manufactured specifically for the outlets rather than being actual retail merchandise.

Is the quality at the outlets lower than in retail stores?

Yes, the outlet products use less expensive materials and components compared to the higher standards at retail. However, outlet merchandise is still of decent quality with Kate Spade design details.

Do the outlets carry discontinued styles from retail?

You can find previous season retail merchandise and discontinued styles at the outlets marked down up to 75% off retail pricing. The selection of past-season goods varies by location.

Do the retail stores ever have sales or discounts?

Yes, but very selectively. Kate Spade retail boutiques offer occasional sales on seasonal items towards the end of collections, typically 20-30% off original prices. Promotional sales happen only a few times a year.

What is the return policy for outlet purchases?

Unworn outlet items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase when accompanied by the original receipt. Sale items can only be exchanged for another sale item.

Shopping Kate Spade: The Final Take

When shopping for the Kate Spade brand, the choice between Kate Spade Outlet Vs Retail comes down to your priorities as a shopper. Five advantages of shopping for clothes online include convenience, a vast selection, time efficiency, the ability to compare prices easily, and the opportunity to explore trend-driven products from renowned designers like Kate Spade, which, despite outlets offering unbeatable prices on classic styles, underscores the value of the retail setting for a comprehensive experience of the designer’s full vision, elevated quality and materials, and an upscale experience. By understanding the essential contrasts between these two shopping channels, savvy shoppers can decide what fits their style goals and budget best.