Ann Taylor Outlet?

[ncat]

I visited one for the first time, after seeing a sweater in the store window that I liked. The few things I got to look at (I was on the way out of the mall after a trying shoe shopping experience with a cranky DS) were all washable! I avoid Ann Taylor because I hate dry cleaning!
Does anyone know how the quality of the outlet store merchandise compares to the normal Ann Taylor store or to Ann Taylor loft?

[ltmommy]

IMO, it seems like the Ann Taylor outlet is like the regular LOFT stores, but without the great sales. I haven't bought anything at the outlet, but the quality seemed comparable to LOFT (definitely not near as nice as regular AT). With LOFT, I usually have a coupon and have been able to find some really good deals on the sale rack (a couple of weeks ago I found a suit jacket and a pencil skirt for $60 total), but the AT Outlet didn't have much on sale when I was there, or maybe just 20% off or so.

LOFT also has a ton of machine-washables, even nice pants and dresses.

[mommylamb]

I have some nice things from the AT factory store, but I don't think the deals there are especially great. To be honest, AT itself often has some great sales. I never buy anything there unless it's on sale, and it's the source of at least 60% of my wardrobe.