Not very long ago I heard about the Urban Outfitters Outlet in Lincoln Park aka  U.O Surplus. It sounded like an urban legend, something people fantasize about but doesn’t really exist in the material world. But no, it’s true!

True and huge. With an assortment for both men and women, it’s probably the only outlet I know that actually only sells merchandise first seen at the actual retail stores. And I lived in Orlando, I know my outlets.

See the tank tops hanging from the wall? $4.99 a pop. How about some BDG jeans for $9.99? Give it to me, baby!

I’d say about 70% of all clothing are priced under the ten dollar mark. Sweet. There’s only one small problem: there aren’t enough sizes available. Although if you’re a petite, you’ll be well served (0-2′s sizes by the bulk).

It could have been a mirage, but I swear some of those booties were at Michigan Avenue just two weeks prior (where they were already on sale).  Compound discount spotted!

Now, I don’t recall these shoe prices, but that usually means they weren’t impressive enough to stick ( the prices, the shoes were cute).

The verdict: Absolutely great outlet to find cool basics with Forever 21 prices. If you like to shop at the end of season you must stop by (I wish I had waited an extra week to get the same cardigan for half the money). A few statement pieces will make their way in here looking the same and weighing much less (on your pocket). Not ideal to spree at, but perfect for guilt-free impulse buys.  Pretend it just happened to be on your way to the drugstore.

Where? 2352 N Clark St (between Belden Ave and Fullerton Ave) Chicago, IL 60614

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