Recently, a colleague mentioned that she was heading to the local Talbots Outlet to get some new items for a conference. I had never shopped there, so I asked her about the price point, the clothing quality, and the styles. Her favorable answers intrigued me, so I invited myself to tag along.
Once in the store, my eyes were immediately drawn to the bright yellow signs that read, “extra 80% off sale prices.” I also noticed that my fellow shoppers and the workers were all older women. Talbots apparently targets professional women ages 35-55.
Now, there were some questionable styles that would make your right eyebrow raise. But, there were also tons of hip and chic basic items. I grabbed a few tops and a couple skinny belts. I tried them on because all sales are final in the outlet store.
Here are the items I bought—two cardigans, two boatneck tees, and two skinny belts. I spent a total $44 plus tax for these items (retail value of $281).
Cardigans and belt from Talbots Outlet
Boatneck tees and belt from Talbots Outlet
Close-up of the leather skinny belts
Do you shop in Talbots? If so, what have your experiences been?
More than a little jealous that you have access to a Talbots outlet. Great picks!
I have four Talbot's skirts (2 full-price and 2 thrifted) and they are some of my favorites! I think the chain's stuff is priced way too high when it comes out, but is a good deal once it goes on sale or if found at the outlet center or thrift store. It lasts forever.
Oh my gosh, I love everything you got! I especially love that printed top! I check Talbot's website often, and as a twenty-something I find a lot of stuff that I think works for all ages. It seems that they are in the middle of transitioning from targeting older women (as they did the in the past) to a younger clientele by offering classic pieces with chic modern styling. Definitely would agree that somethings are still questionable though…wish we had an outlet around here!!
Awesome deals! I read you blog for a long time (love it and your style!) before I realized you live in my hometown. I am totally going to hit up the Talbots outlet when I am up there in July. I have seen it before but I've never gone in. I have recently discovered Talbots for great basics and I love their quality. (I am 39 so maybe I guess I am their demographic now!) Did they have any shoes at the Outlet?
@Sal: Ha. I cannot believe that I have been passing by the store all this time. It is right across the street from a Loft that I frequent.
@Kasmira: Nice! I agree about the prices at the main store. I have been browsing the site and it is clear that they are targeting professional women with high budgets 🙂
@Life as Leah: Thanks. You are so right, the items are hip and chic, and would certainly work for a stylish woman of any age. This would be a strange time to shift the target audience though. With an aging population, Talbots has positioned itself to be quite successful.
@Kristen: How wonderful, a fellow Lexingtonian! I moved here for work a few years ago. Yes, the outlet has shoes! Very chic shoes too. They are also 80% off right now! I wanted a couple pairs, but couldn't find my size 🙁
The outlet in my city (Lexington) has great deals, however I don't particularly like going there because of the rude treatment that I usually get from the sales people. I am African American and the sales people tend to greet everyone as they enter but they ALWAYS ignore me! It is always very obvious when they help everyone except me. Ridiculous in this day and time!
I like your purchases, but to be honest, I never go in there for the simple fact it's not for my demographic of shoppers. I feel weird shopping with only older ladies in store. Call me crazy.
@Anonymous: I am also in Lexington. I must say that I have had that experience at a number of stores here. Poor service (especially if I believe it is racially motivated) is a deal breaker for me. I don't shop where I am not comfortable.
I've also had a similar experience locally at a chain store I LOVE, so I wrote the company, and they very quickly resolved the situation (to my liking).
I've been to Talbots twice and was not helped on the floor. On both occasions, however, a very friendly, older black woman checked me out. She shared critical information about the store's rewards program. So, there is reason to engage all customers.
FYI: My favorite local spot for consistently excellent service is The Limited in Fayette Mall. The workers at the Limited greet every customer. They tell you about all their programs for special discounts. They ask about your lifestyle and offer product suggestions. You get the sense that the people working there really love working there.
@Sing: Ha! Actually, I can list a number of stores that I prejudge for varying factors. Many of these stores have surprised when I've stepped into them though.
I have never even seen a Talbot's outlet! Jealous. What a GREAT haul. I love that patterned boatneck top, especially. I think the only thing I own from Talbot's is a kelly green eyelet pencil skirt I picked up super-cheap last year at the store in Pentagon City Mall. It's amazing!
My mother used to shop @ Talbots when I was in high school and now I find myself shopping there as well. I have yet to visit an outlet, but they are always having promotions. Just recently, they had 75% off of the online outlet and I racked up big time–shoes for $13 tees for $3–it was amazing, and the quality is excellent. Get on their mailing list to receive all of their promos which are not always advertised in store.
@Taylor: So, you've never seen a Talbots Outlet and I've never seen a Talbots. Ha! That kelly green eyelet skirt sounds fabulous. I love that color.
@Marsha: So, your mom has had some fashion influence on you…Thanks for the tip about the mailing list. I will certainly sign up. I just noticed that there is an online outlet too. Those deals sound as fantastic as the ones in store!
Hey there from a fellow Lexington girl! I actually hopped over from Gigi's blog 🙂 I am always meaning to pop into the Talbot's outlet and forget about it so often. I love the flats you're wearing in these pictures. Random q, but were you featured on LOFT's facebook page recently in your awesome Keeneland attire? 🙂
Hey Jill! I am glad you found your way here, fellow Lexingtonian! You must check out that Talbots Outlet. What a hidden gem! I wish I had discovered it sooner.
And, yes that was me in that Loft feature 🙂