Have you been to The Cosmetic Company Store?

This store is mainly found in major outlet malls, and is owned by the Estee Lauder corporation. This is the place where some of Estee's brands (Aveda, Bobbi Brown, Clarins, Clinique, Estee Lauder, La Mer, MAC, Origins, Prescriptives) send their over-runs, discontinued, or slightly damaged products. The products are marked down 20% - 80%.

I just came back from a few days in Clinton, CT where they have a wonderful outlet mall, Clinton Crossing, and The Cosmetic Company Store. Ok - I need to let you know that I made more than a few visits to this store.

While the store is not for seeing what is new, it is a great place to stock up on your favorite products that may have been in a damaged box or something similar.

Over my several trips, I picked up the following (for just under $300!):
MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NC 35
MAC Lipglass in Oh Baby!, Pink Lemonade, and C-Thru 
MAC Eye Shadow in Sketch
MAC Tailormade Eyeshadow Palette
Bobbi Brown Best Selling Tube Tints
Bobbi Brown EyeShadow in Bone
Bobbi Brown LipGloss in Pink Beige
Estee Lauder Youth Dew & Pleasures Fragrance Sets - great for a gift giving
Estee Lauder Smoothing Feat
Clinique Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliator
Origins Ginger Pillar Candles
Origins Checks & Balances Foaming Cleanser
Prescriptives PhotoChrome in Warm Beige

If you are within a few hours from one of these stores, take the time to visit.  You will not only find some great beauties - you will save some serious dough!