It's almost autumn, which inevitably means snuggly jumpers, go-with-everything denim and trying to hunt down the UGG Ultra Minis in your size.
However, a warm and cosy new style doesn't need to break the bank. Our favourite hack for getting stylish clothes and accessories less? Shopping at a designer outlet. You can shop mega brands at very generous prices and they often have plenty of restaurants and coffee shops, so you can really make a day out of it.
Because let's face it, nothing beats shopping IRL.
We spent the weekend at the London Designer Outlet(situated conveniently next to Wembley Park) so here are all the reasons why you need to schedule a visit and pronto.
1) Really great brands
No, but like really great. From age-old classics including Nike and Adidas to the classic M&S and Yankee Candle to the fashion-forward Kurt Geiger and Calvin Klein, there really is something for everyone.
We absolutely loved Nike for classic sportswear for both men and women and definitely went a little wild in The Body Shop (their Himalayan Charcoal Glow Mask is revolutionary!) We were also impressed by the selection of bang-on-trend trainers at New Balance and even managed to bag a pair of the 550s for next to nothing.
2) It's full of discounted beauty
LDO is home to Beauty Outlet which is full (we mean, FULL) of bargain beauty products. Think big-time brands such as Elizabeth Arden, Max Factor, Revlon, W7 and Rimmel London and we definitely treated ourselves to a jumbo Bed Head shampoo and conditioner set. A classic.
You can also shop at The Body Shop and Holland & Barrett for game-changing beauty products, skincare and make-up.
3) Stellar lunchtime spots
From Nandos to Zizzis there are plenty of restaurants for every budget so you can reward yourself after a long morning of shopping. They also have a Lindt outlet store so you can stock up on posh (yet, discounted!) choccies for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up and of course, all the usual coffee chains for an emergency coffee if you should need it.
4) Generous discounts
If you're looking for some big brands to elevate your wardrobe basics, then London Designer Outlet needs to be on your hit list. There were lots of products with over 70% off the RRP, with personal favourites including £30 Converse trainers, £15 Nike gym tops and a £50 Kurt Geiger crossbody handbag that will literally go with everything.
5) Nearby luxury hotels
The Hilton London Wembley hotel is conveniently minutes(!) away and has many rooms that overlook LDO, Wembley Arena and Wembley Stadium. It's truly in the heart of the action and the perfect base for your shopping day.
After a long day of shopping, nothing beats clicking a glass of bubbles on their gorgeous rooftop bar, Sky Bar 9, before collapsing into the deliciously cosy bed. Stunning.
6) BOXPARK Wembley
If you still have energy after your big shopping day, you can head on over to BOXPARK Wembley, which is just a stone's throw away from LDO. Did we mention how conveniently close it all is?
Not only does BOXPARK host an incredibly diverse selection of street food traders, but it has also introduced 'PLAY' - a dedicated space boasting a range of fun activities including axe throwing, a virtual reality experience and a ‘PlayBox’ area which is home to shuffleboard, table tennis, pool and table football.
For more information or to plan your visit, check out the London Designer Outlet website, here.
Aimee Jakes is Closer’s trending content editor. As well as writing about skincare launches, high-street fashion and gym bag essentials, she’s forever chatting to celebs about their fancy beauty routines. Follow her on Instagram here.