Shopping at Ann Taylor Factory Store in South Carolina

What Ann Taylor Factory Store offers and where to find it

Ann Taylor Factory Store carries women's clothing, shoes, and accessories at lower prices than the full-price Ann Taylor locations. The store stocks the same brand's styles—workwear, casual pieces, dresses, and basics—but typically at 30 to 50 percent off regular retail prices. Items are often from previous seasons or overstock from full-price stores.

South Carolina has Ann Taylor Factory Store locations in outlet malls rather than traditional shopping centers. The largest concentration is at Tanger Outlets in Myrtle Beach, where the store occupies a standard outlet space. You can also find locations at outlet centers in other parts of the state. Hours vary by location but typically run 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, though you should confirm before visiting.

The store layout mirrors a full-price Ann Taylor but with a smaller footprint. Dressing rooms are available, and staff can help with sizing and styling questions. Most locations accept returns within 30 days with a receipt, though factory store return policies can differ slightly from full-price locations, so ask at the register.

Key Takeaways

• Ann Taylor Factory Store locations in South Carolina are found in outlet malls, primarily at Tanger Outlets in Myrtle Beach.
• Prices are typically 30 to 50 percent lower than full-price Ann Taylor stores because items are previous-season styles or overstock.
• The store carries the same categories as regular Ann Taylor—workwear, dresses, basics, shoes, and accessories—in a smaller space.
• Return policies at factory stores can differ from full-price locations, so confirm the specific terms at the register when you purchase.

What to expect in terms of inventory and selection

Factory store inventory changes frequently because stock comes from overstock and clearance items rather than new seasonal releases. You may find current styles mixed with pieces from one or two seasons back. Popular sizes and colors sell faster, so selection can be limited in some categories on any given visit.

The shoe and accessory sections tend to have steadier stock than clothing, since these items have longer shelf lives in the system. Workwear—blazers, trousers, and structured pieces—is usually well-represented because these styles don't go out of fashion as quickly. Seasonal items like winter coats or summer dresses may be heavily discounted near the end of their season.

Factory stores do not typically allow special orders or hold items for extended periods. If you find something you like, purchasing it the same day is safer than waiting, since that specific size and color may not be there on your next visit.

Pricing and how factory store discounts work

Ann Taylor Factory Store prices are set lower than full-price locations from the moment items arrive. You are not waiting for a sale—the marked price is already the discounted price. Additional markdowns happen periodically, especially at the end of seasons or when new overstock arrives.

The store runs promotions throughout the year, often advertised in-store or through the Ann Taylor website and email list. These promotions might offer an additional percentage off or a dollar amount off a minimum purchase. Clearance racks near the back or sides of the store hold the deepest discounts, sometimes 60 to 70 percent off original full-price retail.

Prices are final at factory stores—there is no price matching or negotiation. However, if an item goes on additional clearance within 30 days of your purchase, you can return it and repurchase at the lower price if you have your receipt.

Payment, returns, and store policies

Ann Taylor Factory Store accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Many locations also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Gift cards purchased at full-price Ann Taylor locations can be used at factory stores, though the reverse is not always true—check with the store if you have a factory store gift card and want to use it elsewhere.

Returns require a receipt and must happen within 30 days of purchase. Items must have tags attached and show no signs of wear. Refunds go back to the original payment method. Without a receipt, returns are typically not accepted, though store credit may be offered in some cases—ask a manager if you are unsure.

Dressing room policies vary slightly by location, but most allow you to bring a reasonable number of items in at once. Staff will count items and provide a fitting room number. The store does not typically hold items in dressing rooms overnight, so plan to complete your shopping in one visit.

Visiting during peak times and planning your trip

Outlet malls in Myrtle Beach draw heavy foot traffic, especially during summer vacation season (June through August) and holiday shopping periods (November through December). Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekend afternoons. If you prefer a less crowded experience, visiting on a weekday before 2 p.m. usually means shorter dressing room lines and easier browsing.

Parking at outlet malls is typically free, though lots can fill up during peak season. Most centers have multiple entrances, so if one lot is full, you can try another. The Ann Taylor Factory Store is usually easy to locate within the mall directory posted at entrances.

Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to shop multiple stores in the outlet center. Many people combine a visit to Ann Taylor with browsing other outlets nearby, so plan for at least 30 to 45 minutes if you want to browse thoroughly.

Comparing factory store shopping to other options

Factory stores offer lower prices than full-price Ann Taylor locations, but prices are higher than discount retailers like TJ Maxx or Marshalls, which also carry Ann Taylor merchandise. The trade-off is that factory stores have more consistent sizing, newer inventory from the brand itself, and a cleaner shopping environment. Discount retailers may have deeper bargains but less predictable stock.

Online shopping through Ann Taylor's website sometimes includes factory-exclusive deals, and you can order online and pick up in-store at some locations. This option works well if you know your size and style preferences. However, in-store browsing at the factory location lets you see colors and fabrics in person and try items on immediately.

If you are looking for current-season styles at full price, a full-price Ann Taylor location in a traditional mall or shopping center is your option. If you want the lowest prices and do not mind previous-season styles, the factory store is the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items bought at a full-price Ann Taylor to the factory store?

No. Factory stores and full-price locations have separate return systems. Items purchased at a full-price store must be returned there, and factory store purchases must be returned to a factory location. Check your receipt to see which type of store you purchased from.

Do factory stores carry the same sizes as full-price locations?

Ann Taylor Factory Store typically carries sizes XS through XXL, similar to full-price locations, but not every size is stocked in every style. Popular sizes may sell out faster. If you wear a less common size, visiting early in the week when stock is freshest increases your chances of finding your size.

Are factory store items the same quality as full-price Ann Taylor?

Yes. Factory stores carry the same brand and quality standards. The difference is that items are from previous seasons or overstock, not that they are lower quality. Fabric, construction, and durability are the same as full-price merchandise.

Can I order online from Ann Taylor Factory Store?

Ann Taylor does not operate a separate factory store website. Factory-exclusive items and deals are sometimes listed on the main Ann Taylor website. You can visit the website to see current promotions, then visit a physical factory location to shop, or order online for in-store pickup if that option is available at your nearest location.

What should I bring when I visit?

Bring a valid ID and your payment method. If you have a receipt from a previous purchase you want to return, bring that as well. A reusable shopping bag is helpful but not necessary—the store provides bags. Comfortable shoes are a good idea if you plan to spend time browsing the outlet mall.