I have been a loyal customer of the Village Discount Outlet for at least 15 years. VDO used to have additional locations in Canton and Youngstown (hidden gems)! Those locations are now closed.
I have recently noticed that the prices at VDO have been inflated... in some cases it is extreme. In order to find the best deals I shop several weeks in a row and utilize their "text program" to receive coupons and specials.
One of the things I LOVE about this store is the fact that I can purchase clothes that suit my body-type (which are not in vogue right now and are nearly impossible to find elsewhere)! Work colleagues often compliment my suits and ask where I get my clothes. They are truly surprised when I tell them that I shop at a thrift store!
I agree with another reviewer who stated that there is often "new merchandise" mixed in with the used merchandise. I think that this must be a marketing trick perpetrated on younger shoppers who skim through the used clothing and suddenly stumble upon the $21 shirt that they "can't live without". Rue 21 has less costly clothing than VDO's new merchandise! I actually wrote a note to the store a year or so ago suggesting that they separate the used and new merchandise. I dropped the note in the suggestion box on the way out the door. It seemed that they took my advice for a short time however I have recently noticed that new merchandise has crept back into the used merchandise area.
Sadly, times change and stores change. I have always enjoyed the fellow customers at the VDO and the selection of clothes is excellent. I have noticed that the selection of housewares is not as good as it once was, however the used book selection has expanded! I can do without the cheap new shoes that are being offered. Shopping for bargain used shoes is hit-or-miss.
Overall I love this store! I miss the old days however and wish that there were more VDO locations!