The world of outlet shopping may not seem particularly appealing, but it's much more than bad items that either didn't suit anyone or have major faults, and are left lonely in the corner of the store. Some stores (high street ones in particular) may bring out items for sale after sale, but designer ones want to move on to the next collection. For someone on a budget, and as we are all in the thrall of an economic recession *dramatic music* this is quite a lot of us, outlet stores are a wonderful opportunity to get good quality goods at even better prices and make your hard earned money go further- hello 70% off. This is the chance to buy beautiful designer items at 70% off, when I'd normally only be able to spend a few months earnings on one.

Last month I headed to Bicester, a perfect opportunity to delve into the world of outlets- not one outlet shop but a whole village! I'd heard so many good things about the place and finally got round to going! The main temptation for going was to coo over the past season Luella. I may be odd, but I actually don't see something being 'last season as a bad thing, in fact I see it as a positive. When something's new everyone will want to wear is straight away, which can really put me off a trend. I also see outlet shopping as more environmentally friendly than normal shopping as however much you buy, the items aren't going to be replenished with more of the same, so no new products are made. Yay, all good so far!

Something to keep in mind though: when considering what to purchase, think about whether you would buy the item at full price if you had the money. Are you really in love with it? Or is it just the price tag or designer label? A sale item still costs more than no item.

I'd definitely recommend heading to Bicester Village for, well many things. From the perfect evening dress -I spied a jaw droppingly beautiful Dior dress from £7000 to just over £1000, and then there are D&G LBDs for a hundred and something- to an investment handbag you'll love forever from the likes of Mulberry, for a small fraction of the original price. With the likes of Monsoon and French Collection, there are some great high street places too, as well as unknown brands for you to discover- there are over 120 shops!

So this is what I looked like at lunch break, no not the end of the day. I'd never have guessed I could have got so much for my budget!

The place had such a lovely atmosphere too. I know some shops which can be a little intimidating to go in, but all of them felt very friendly. And you still get the carrier bag. =]

Here are some of my favourite purchases from the day:

Left to right: Dolce & Gabbana scarf, Vivienne Westwood bag, Mulberry shoes.

I had been admiring those shoes in magazines for months, but never expected to get them.

The village is also a nice outing to go on with family and friends. There are children's play areas (which I actually wanted to go on myself but that's besides the point..) and stores, and my dad, who went with me, also had a lovely day too- one on which he didn't feel guilty about buying things for himself, bless. Oh and there's ice cream. =D Which is obviously really important. ;)

Wonderfuly items, lots of shopping bags and money left in your purse, that's why I am now an outlet shopping convert- and totally going back when Luella ss09 is in stock!

Intrinsically Florrie xx