Luxe handbags are coveted arm candy, but the price tag is often too steep for most of us to buy one. Still, fancy handbag addicts can get their fix for a fraction of the cost at Dooney & Bourke outlet stores. Dooney's signature purses can be snagged for less at these shops, with much of the latest collections being marked down. We've got the scoop on where to score these luxury purses, plus tips for turning into the savviest Dooney & Bourke shopper.
How to Find Dooney & Bourke Outlet Stores Near You
Outlet shopping isn't as robust as it once was (we have online shopping to blame for that). But for those of us who love checking out goods in person, there are quite a few Dooney & Bourke factory stores, though most of them are on the East Coast. Plug in your zip code at Dooney & Bourke's website for a list of all the outlet stores (and retail stores) hopefully near you.
Want the latest goods from a New York Dooney shop when you're 500 miles away? If the outlet store doesn't have the merch you want, many will arrange to have it shipped to you.
How to Score the Best Discounted Dooney & Bourke Bags
With their most expensive bags nearing $1,000, it's no wonder we're clamoring for a sale on these iconic leather accessories. Thankfully, there are several ways you can save money on the purse of your dreams at one of this popular brand's outlet locations.
Pay Attention to General Savings
Dooney & Bourke outlet stores have merch that's typically marked 25% off the original price, with some items being discounted even more. They sell everything from the occasional selection of vintage bags to more recent selections of Dooney & Bourke purses. Plus, extra accessories to complete your outfit!
Keep an Eye Out for Sales Events
A discount on a discount is exactly the kind of deal we love. Dooney & Bourke factory stores aren't immune to sales, thank goodness! They offer semi-annual and annual sales with discounts on already marked-down merchandise. The exact sale times depend on the outlet you visit, so make sure you call ahead.
Don't Forget the Holiday Specials
If you happen to have an outlet near you, prepare for the Olympics of shopping — Black Friday! But it's not only the winter holiday season when sales are supreme. On President's Day, Memorial Day weekend, Mother's Day, and so many more special events, you can expect to see big doorbuster sales. Make sure you arrive early so you can get your hands on the best stock.
Related: How to Store Handbags Properly: 7 Tips to Protect Their Beauty
Always Check for Coupons
The only thing better than affordable designer handbags is when they come with additional coupons. Many Dooney & Bourke outlets offer coupons to make your purchase even more reasonable. It's all about being a savvy shopper, and we'll tell you how.
- Most Dooney & Bourke factory stores are located in malls. Stop by the mall's main office and see if they have any coupon books for that day.
- When you arrive at a store, ask a salesperson for any active coupons, then check to see exactly what the coupons offer. Not all coupons cover all styles and lines.
- Keep in mind that coupons aren't always valid at all outlet locations, so be sure to carefully read the fine print to avoid triggering the sound of the world's smallest violin at the checkout.
Insiders often get the first pick of new products — and are clued into specialty sales before anyone else. Sign up for Dooney & Bourke's email list and you'll be the first to know about the latest sales (and maybe get a few bonus coupons along the way).
What to Expect at the Outlet Stores
Folks love the leather goods at Dooney & Bourke and since their designs frequently change, it can get quite competitive in there. Because of this, there are counterfeits. But rest assured that the outlet shops have the real goods and some of the most desired styles (usually in small quantities). But shopping at an outlet isn't the same as shopping in a flagship store, so there are a few considerations to make beforehand.
- Dooney & Bourke sell their retail store merchandise at the outlet stores, including closeouts, discontinued designs, and discounted styles. They don't have a separate factory store line (even though they call them factory stores), so you are getting the best quality for your dollar.
- Discounts at factory stores vary widely, often between 20% and 60%. Frequent markdowns, seasonal changes, and even special sales can result in even greater discounts.
- Dooney & Bourke is very careful of its image and reserves the right to limit the number of factory store purchases you can make to guard against their products being resold at flea markets or online. If you plan to purchase bags for gifts, check out the purchase limits so you won't be turned away.
- These outlet locations will let you return your unused merchandise for exchange or store credit within 30 days so long as you keep your receipt and they're in new and unused condition. However, clearance items are considered final sales and can't be returned.
Are Outlet Bags the Real Deal?
Yep — even the substantially discounted bags are the real deal. Rest assured that you'll be spending your hard-earned money on Dooney & Bourke's finest ... unless the product is marked as irregular. If an item has a small defect, it'll be marked and the price will reflect that.
Scoring Dooney Deals Online
If you don't live close to an outlet or you prefer to shop online, don't fret. You can still take advantage of some great deals.
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Dooney & Bourke: Your first stop is the Dooney & Bourke site, which features two sections devoted to lower-priced items. Check out the sale tab for a great selection of products that won't break the bank. Available merchandise includes shoes, jewelry, cosmetic cases, watches, charms, key fobs, umbrellas, wallets, and, of course, handbags.
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ILoveDooney: ILoveDooney sells only Dooney & Bourke products in original packaging (not used or returned). ILoveDooney partners with Dooney & Bourke, so you know their merchandise is authentic, and sales discounts on this website can reach up to 60%.
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6pm: 6Pm is an online discount shop that offers Dooney & Bourke deals. The discounts can be substantial, but always shop around and check the deals against other sites to make sure you're getting the best value.
Save Extra at Retail Department Stores
Many department stores — like Macy's, Dillard's, Nordstrom, and Belk — carry high-end brands including Dooney & Bourke. What's great about shopping for designer bags at department stores are the sales they have.
In some cases, you can also add to the store's discount by signing up for a store credit card (which usually knocks 10%-15% off your purchase) or using an active store coupon. Asking for a manager is (sometimes) a good thing. In this case, they may have the scoop on when the sales are and how to score the best deals.
Select retailers like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx might have a Dooney & Bourke bag from time to time. It's definitely worth checking their bag aisle to see if it's your lucky day.
You've Got This in the Bag
If there's one accessory that feels impossible to go without, it's a handbag. Sometimes we love a canvas tote, other times it's the luxurious leather of a Dooney & Bourke that we crave. To help with the hefty price tag, shopping outlet stores and working the seasonal discounts is where it's at. A top-quality handbag from this line doesn't have to break the bank, but it will become a beloved staple.
