Quick answer: Yes, you can buy authentic designer fashion in London for up to 70% less if you shop at the right outlet stores, sample sales and outlet villages.
Ever walked into a luxury boutique, fallen for a handbag, checked the price tag and briefly questioned your life choices? You’re not alone.
The good news is that outlet shopping lets you buy the same designer items, often untouched, for a fraction of the original retail price. London and the surrounding areas are packed with outlet destinations that make luxury far more accessible.
What Is an Outlet Store?
Direct answer: An outlet store sells authentic brand items at discounted prices, usually from past seasons or excess stock.
Outlet stores exist to:
- Clear old-season inventory
- Sell overstock or cancelled orders
- Offer factory seconds at reduced prices
Some outlets are run directly by brands, while others are multi-brand retailers buying discounted stock wholesale. Outlet villages group dozens of these stores together, turning bargain-hunting into a full-day experience.
Why Shop at Outlet Stores?
Short answer: You get real designer brands without paying full retail prices.
Outlet shopping is frequently recommended across UK deal forums and Reddit fashion communities because:
- Discounts can reach 30–70%
- All products are authentic
- You can shop fashion, sportswear, homeware and gifts in one trip
Best Outlet Shopping Destinations in London
London Designer Outlet (Wembley)
London Designer Outlet is ideal for high-street, sportswear and lifestyle bargains rather than ultra-luxury labels.
Brands include: GAP, Clarks, Adidas, Levi’s, M&S, Nike, The North Face, Sony and Superdry.
Why people love it:
- Excellent public transport links
- Restaurants, cinema and family-friendly layout
- Home delivery service for large purchases
London Designer Outlet, Wembley Park Boulevard, Wembley Park, HA9 0FD
Open daily 10am–9pm (7pm Sundays)
londondesigneroutlet.com
The Box (Hackney Walk)
The Box hosts luxury fashion sample sales with discounts of up to 80%.
Past brands include Anya Hindmarch, Isabel Marant, Christopher Kane and Liberty London.
Good to know:
- Only opens during sale events
- Mailing list signup is essential
- Popular with stylists and editors
thebox-london.com
Icon Outlet at The O2
Icon Outlet sits inside London’s O2 Arena and combines shopping with entertainment.
Brands include: Adidas, Hugo Boss, Gant, Hackett, Kurt Geiger, Levi’s, Nike and Ted Baker.
Why it stands out:
- 30–70% discounts
- Restaurants, bars and experiences
- Easy access by Tube, Uber Boat or car
Open Mon–Thu 10am–7pm, Fri–Sat 10am–8pm, Sun 11am–6pm
iconattheo2.co.uk
Bicester Village
Bicester Village is located in Oxfordshire, around one hour from London, and is one of Europe’s most popular luxury outlet destinations.
Brands include: Lululemon, Burberry, Kate Spade, Jimmy Choo, Chloé, Tumi, Versace and Church’s.
Open daily 9am–8pm (10am Sundays)
tbvsc.com/bicester-village
Are Outlet Stores Lower Quality or Fake?
Direct answer: No. Outlet stores sell authentic products, not counterfeits.
Most outlet items are previous-season stock or overproduction. Some are factory seconds with minor imperfections such as stitching inconsistencies or colour variations. These products are discounted instead of destroyed.
Shopping Tips for Getting the Best Outlet Deals
- Plan your visit: Decide which stores to prioritise.
- Shop mid-week: Avoid crowds and queues.
- Buy out of season: Winter coats in spring, swimwear in autumn.
- Join mailing lists: Extra discounts often apply during events.
- Check returns: Outlet return policies can be stricter.
Alternatives to Outlet Shopping in London
If outlets aren’t your thing, TK Maxx offers discounted designer brands across London. Many brands also run online outlet stores or seasonal sales in flagship locations.
Outlet Malls Near London
- Bicester Village: Europe’s most popular luxury outlet village
- Gunwharf Quays: Portsmouth, around 1.5 hours from London
- McArthurGlen Designer Outlets: Multiple UK locations, with Ashford closest to London
When Should You Avoid Outlet Shopping?
Short answer: Weekends, school holidays and special event days.
For the best experience, shop weekday mornings or evenings and avoid peak seasonal rushes.
