Some outlets are clearinghouses for haute couture (Neiman Marcus Last Call, Gucci), while others create outlet-quality goods (Gap, Banana Republic). Be a savvy consumer, consider labels, then decide if a deal is a deal!
The Outlet Collection, Jersey Gardens, Elizabeth
With a $30 million renovation last fall, the largest outlet mall in New Jersey now boasts an upscale look to match its designer brands. Along with the largest Tommy Hilfiger store in the country, the indoor mall offers more than 200 stores, including Neiman Marcus Last Call, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Banana Republic, Tahari, Lego, Coach Men, the Lord & Taylor Outlet, Nike Factory Store and Century 21. Plan on spending the day. With free WiFi, a new dining emporium and the 20-theater AMC Jersey Gardens, even the most shopping phobic won’t mind tagging along. 908-354-5900—Molly Gregor Tully
The Outlets at Bergen Town Center, Paramus
Standouts include the Bloomingdale’s Outlet Store, Nordstrom Rack, Century 21, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Banana Republic Factory Store, J. Crew, the Gap and Disney. For a healthy lunch, wander into the Whole Foods Market, which is attached to the mall. And don’t forget that since it’s Bergen County, the mall is closed on Sundays. 201-845-4051—MT
Harmon Cove Outlet Center, Secaucus
The outlets are in warehouses throughout a number of blocks. Be prepared to hop in and out of the car because. The big draw is the Gucci outlet, with huge discounts on bags, shoes, sunglasses and accessories. Call ahead (201-392-2670) to find out when they’re expecting a shipment. (January is when Gucci shops across the country start sending past-season, marked-down merchandise to the outlet.) Deals like $1,000 bags for $300 are possible. Other highlights include the Kenneth Cole Outlet Store, Lenox, Calvin Klein, Eileen Fisher, Escada, Nautica, Juicy Couture, Jones NY and the Burlington Coat Factory. 201-348-4780—MT
Liberty Village Premium Outlets, Flemington
Reserve this 40-outlet outdoor mall for a warm-weather day so you can stroll the historic-looking village. Required stops include Michael Kors, Brooks Brothers, American Eagle, Polo Ralph Lauren, J. Crew, Timberland and Gymboree.908-782-8550—MT
Jackson Premium Outlets, Jackson
It’s easy to navigate the 70 stores of this outdoor outlet strip mall, where you can walk from one end to the other. Main draws here include J. Crew, Lucky Brand Jeans, Brooks Brothers, American Eagle, Ann Taylor, Chico’s, Levi’s, Polo Ralph Lauren and Coach.732-833-0503—MT
Tanger Outlets—The Walk, Atlantic City
Plopped in the middle of the casino strip is an outlet shopping district—more than 40 stores situated on a concrete island adjacent to the convention center, train station and restaurants a’plenty. Top shops include Brooks Brothers, Coach, Guess and Tommy Hilfiger. 609- 344-0095—Tara Nurin