Shopping at Banana Republic Factory Store in South Carolina

What Banana Republic Factory Store carries and where to find it

Banana Republic Factory Store sells clothing, shoes, and accessories at lower prices than the full-price Banana Republic locations. The store carries men's and women's apparel—dress pants, casual shirts, sweaters, dresses—along with belts, scarves, bags, and jewelry. Most items are from previous seasons or overstock from the main line, which is why the prices run 30 to 50 percent below regular retail.

South Carolina has Banana Republic Factory Store locations in two outlet malls: one at Tanger Outlets in North Charleston (near Charleston) and one at Tanger Outlets in Myrtle Beach. Both stores operate year-round, though hours vary by season and location. You can check current hours and inventory on the Banana Republic website or by calling the store directly.

Key Takeaways

• Banana Republic Factory Store stocks previous-season clothing and overstock items at 30 to 50 percent below full-price retail.
• The two South Carolina locations are in Tanger Outlets malls in North Charleston and Myrtle Beach.
• Factory store merchandise is final sale on most items, so check return policies before purchasing.
• Outlet locations often run clearance events and sales during holiday weekends and end-of-season periods.

How factory store pricing works

Factory stores operate differently from regular retail locations. Banana Republic Factory Store receives inventory that didn't sell at full-price stores, plus items made specifically for the outlet channel. Because the store buys at a lower cost and moves volume quickly, it can mark prices down significantly. A dress that costs $128 at a regular Banana Republic might be $60 to $80 at the factory store.

Prices are already reduced when you walk in—there is no haggling or negotiation. The store does run additional sales and promotions, especially during holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday) and at the end of each season. Sign up for the Banana Republic email list or check their website before you visit to see what promotions are active.

Return and exchange policies at the outlet

Factory store return policies are stricter than regular Banana Republic stores. Most items are marked final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged. Some merchandise may be returnable within 30 days with a receipt, but you should ask at the register or check your receipt before leaving the store to know which items fall into which category.

Because final-sale items cannot go back, try things on carefully in the fitting room and inspect seams, zippers, and fabric before you buy. If an item has a defect, let the cashier know immediately—the store may make an exception for manufacturing flaws, but you need to catch them before you leave.

What to expect when you visit

Both Tanger Outlets locations are outdoor or semi-outdoor malls, so you will walk between stores. The North Charleston location is about 30 minutes from downtown Charleston and sits alongside other outlet retailers. The Myrtle Beach location is in the heart of the tourist shopping district, so it draws crowds, especially during summer and spring break.

Parking is free at both locations. The stores themselves are smaller than full-price Banana Republic locations, so selection can be more limited. Sizes and styles change frequently because inventory turns over quickly. If you find something you like, buy it—it may not be there next week.

Comparing factory store to full-price retail

The main trade-off is selection versus price. A full-price Banana Republic store in Charleston or Greenville will have a wider range of current styles and sizes, but you will pay full retail. The factory store has fewer options but costs significantly less. Factory merchandise is also typically from past seasons, so if you are looking for the very latest styles, you may not find them at the outlet.

Quality is the same—both factory and full-price items are made by Banana Republic. The difference is age and availability, not construction. If you are building a work wardrobe or need basics like neutral pants and blazers, the factory store is a good value. If you need specific current-season pieces, the full-price store is your better bet.

Outlet mall amenities and nearby shopping

Both Tanger Outlets locations have multiple retailers, restaurants, and restrooms. The North Charleston outlet includes stores like Gap Factory, Old Navy Outlet, and J.Crew Factory, plus a food court. The Myrtle Beach outlet is larger and draws more tourists, with a wider range of outlets and dining options. You can spend a full afternoon shopping at either location.

If you are visiting the Charleston area, the North Charleston outlet is about 30 minutes from downtown and the historic district. If you are in Myrtle Beach for the beach or golf, the outlet mall is convenient for a shopping break. Both locations are easy to reach by car and have ample parking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items bought at the factory store to a regular Banana Republic?

No. Factory store purchases can only be returned to the factory store location where you bought them, and only if the item is not marked final sale. Bring your receipt and the item in unworn condition within the return window stated on your receipt.

Do factory stores have the same sizes as regular stores?

Factory stores carry the same size range as regular stores, but not every size is in stock for every item. Because inventory moves quickly and selection is smaller, your size may not be available in the style you want. Visiting early in the season or during less busy times increases your chances of finding your size.

Are there dressing rooms at both locations?

Yes, both the North Charleston and Myrtle Beach Banana Republic Factory Store locations have fitting rooms. Hours may vary, so if you are visiting during off-peak times, ask a staff member to confirm the fitting room is open.

What payment methods does the factory store accept?

Banana Republic Factory Store accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and Banana Republic gift cards. Some locations may accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Call ahead if you have questions about a specific payment method.

Do I need a membership to shop at the factory store?

No membership is required. Anyone can walk in and shop. However, signing up for the Banana Republic email list gives you access to outlet-specific promotions and sales that are not advertised in-store.