Back in like, July, Coach had some sort of a weird "secret sale" where people who told the SAs about the "secret sale" got 25% off. I overheard some people talking about it and asked about the "secret sale" so I could have gotten any bag for 25% off... I almost bought the large Hamptons summer tote bag on the spot, but they had already discontinued the line so I would have had to order it from another store. I later bought it on eBay for like $100 off retail. But I never use the bag because it has summer colors.
Anyway I agree, the outlet is the way to go! I was at the Las Vegas outlet last week. i am sad I didn't get a wallet for like $60 after an additional 20% off, or one of the small handbags, the simple ones were like $70 (down from 120-150) and the hobos were $139, from $218.