If you are shopping in the USA or hunting for deals online, this article is a must-read for you. You have likely heard these two names before, right? Both share the “Saks” name and have very similar logos, but when you look at the price tags, there is a massive difference.
In one store, you might see a bag for $1,000, while in the other, a nearly identical-looking bag is priced at just $300!
So, what’s the catch? Does Saks Off 5th sell fake items? Or is Saks Fifth Avenue just overcharging you? Today, we are going to solve this mystery in simple terms so that the next time you shop, you know exactly where your money is going.
Contents
Is the Quality Different at Saks Off 5th?
Let’s address the most important question: Does a lower price mean bad quality? The answer is a bit like a movie plot—yes and no.
Here is how it works:
- Past Season Stock (The Good Stuff): Much of what you find at Saks Off 5th is leftover inventory from “Saks Fifth Avenue” flagship stores. For example, if a pair of Gucci sunglasses didn’t sell last month in the main store, they are sent to “Off 5th” at a discounted price. This is 100% original, top-class quality.
- Made-for-Outlet (The Secret): Many people don’t know this, but some big brands create a separate clothing line specifically for outlet stores. These items look the same, but the fabric might be slightly more affordable to keep the price down.
- Authenticity: There is one guarantee the items are never fake. Whether you shop at the main store or the outlet, you are getting a “real brand.” The only difference is whether the item is from the “Latest Runway” or a “Past Season” style.
If you want the brand name and want to save money, Saks Off 5th is best. But if you want the exact clothes celebrities are wearing right now, you’ll need to head to Saks Fifth Avenue.
What is Saks Fifth Avenue? (The Flagship Experience)
Saks Fifth Avenue is the biggest name in US luxury shopping. It is a “full-line luxury store,” meaning you won’t find old stock here, only the latest and freshest collections from top designers. Its main target is “high-end” shoppers who want the best fashion before anyone else.
The crown jewel is their iconic flagship store in New York City (NYC), which looks like a palace. Shopping here isn’t just about buying clothes; it’s a VIP experience. You get personal shoppers and access to the newest arrivals from Gucci, Prada, and more. If you want “fresh-off-the-runway” style and premium service, this is the place to be.
What is Saks Off 5th? (The Discount Destination)
Think of Saks Off 5th as the “Discount Avatar” of the brand. It was created so that fashion lovers on a budget could enjoy designer labels without the heavy price tag. This is an “outlet store” where the prices won’t give you a heart attack.
The inventory comes from three places:
- Clearance items from the main Saks stores.
- Overstock (extra items that didn’t sell).
- Made-for-outlet pieces (exclusive items made specifically for the discount market).
If you want to shop smart and save a significant amount on designer labels, this is your perfect match.
Saks vs. Saks Off 5th: Side-by-Side Showdown
Confused about which store fits your pocket and style? Check out this simple comparison:
| Feature | Saks Fifth Avenue | Saks Off 5th |
| Price Point | You pay MSRP (full price) because it is the latest fashion. | You get deep discounts (up to 70% off). |
| What’s Inside? | Current season clothes straight from the runway. | Past season stock or outlet-only pieces. |
| The Vibe | White-Glove Service. Fancy atmosphere with helpful staff. | Self-Service. Like a standard department store where you browse racks. |
| Location | Prime Cities. Located on expensive streets like 5th Ave, NYC. | Suburban Malls. Usually in outlet malls or available online. |
Think of Saks Fifth Avenue as a 5-star restaurant where everything is perfect and fresh. Saks Off 5th is like a food festival; you get food from the same great chefs, but for a much cheaper price because the menu is limited.
Is Saks Off 5th “Real” Luxury?
When people see 70% off, they wonder, “Is this real?”
The direct answer is yes, it is 100% authentic. They do not sell fakes. However, the definition of “luxury” changes slightly here due to the “Outlet Secret.” The Secret: Some brands make a shirt for $500 using the finest silk for the main store. Then, they make a similar-looking shirt for $150 for the outlet using a slightly cheaper fabric. These are called “made-for-outlet” pieces. They aren’t fake; their quality is just slightly below “top-tier” luxury.
3 Tips to Spot High Quality:
- Check Labels: Outlet-specific lines sometimes have different labels (like two small dots under the brand name).
- Feel the Material: If the fabric feels very thin or the buttons feel like light plastic, it’s likely a “Made-for-Outlet” piece.
- The Original Tag: If you find a piece with the original white “Saks Fifth Avenue” tag with the price crossed out in red, celebrate! That is a genuine high-end piece that moved from the main store to the outlet.
Free Shipping, Returns, and Rewards
Before you shop, keep these three things in mind:
- Policies: Return rules can vary. Saks Fifth Avenue returns are usually easy, but Saks Off 5th may have “Final Sale” items that cannot be returned. Always check before you buy!
- SaksFirst Rewards: Good news! The rewards card works at both locations. Your points will grow no matter where you spend.
- Shipping: Both websites offer various deals, but usually, orders over $99 get free shipping.
Which One Should You Choose?
It all depends on your preference and your wallet. In my opinion:
- Choose Saks Fifth Avenue if: You want to stay ahead of the fashion world, love being a trendsetter, and enjoy a VIP shopping experience.
- Choose Saks Off 5th if: You are a “smart shopper.” If you don’t care if a shirt is from last month as long as it has a designer label (like Nike or Dolce & Gabbana) at a fraction of the price, this is for you.
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Conclusion
That is the whole truth about the world of Saks! Both stores are excellent in their own way; the only difference is your priority.
My Final Tip: Check Saks Off 5th first for your basics (like jeans and t-shirts) to save the most money. But, if you need a statement piece for a wedding or a big event, head straight to Saks Fifth Avenue. Smart shopping is all about balancing style and savings!
FAQ
Is Saks Off 5th owned by Saks Fifth Avenue?
Yes, both are owned by the same parent company, HBC (Hudson’s Bay Company). Saks Off 5th was launched as the off-price outlet division to offer luxury fashion at a more accessible price point.
Are the items at Saks Off 5th authentic?
Absolutely. Everything sold at Saks Off 5th is 100% authentic. They do not sell “knock-offs” or fakes. The lower prices are due to clearance stock from the main stores, overstock, or specific outlet-only collections.
Can I return Saks Off 5th items to a Saks Fifth Avenue store?
No. Even though they are sister companies, they operate as separate entities. Items purchased at Saks Off 5th must be returned to an Off 5th location or through their specific online portal. Always check your receipt for “Final Sale” markings!
Why is Saks Off 5th so much cheaper?
The prices are lower because the inventory often includes past-season styles that didn’t sell at the flagship stores. Additionally, some items are manufactured specifically for the outlet using slightly different materials to pass the savings on to the customer.
Does Saks Off 5th have a rewards program?
Yes! You can use the SaksFirst Rewards card at both Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks Off 5th. This allows you to earn points on every dollar spent at either location, making it a great deal for loyal shoppers.
