Billeater: The Best and Worst of Kohls Stores

Last week, Kohl's announced paying its first stock dividends ever--so even in this tight economy, the retailer is doing something right. But Kohl's is one of those stores you pretty much love or hate. Why not? There's a lot to love and a lot to hate.

Here are the best and the worst of Kohl's to help you make up your own mind.

The Best Housewares

Well, maybe not THE best, but very good at any rate. It's a tossup between Home Goods and Kohl's when it comes to style and price. In general, if you don't find what you want at T.J. Maxx or Home Goods, you'll find a good deal on something you'll love at Kohl's. The floor rugs they carry usually have rubber backing, so they don't skid. The bedding is always fashionable and stands up to repeated washings. Whenever I need sheets or a bed set, I scan T.J.'s clearance, but I usually end up buying at Kohl's.

The Worst Credit Card

Kohl's credit card holders must be careful and vigilant, lest they end up paying more while trying to squeeze extra savings out of the card. The company lures customers with a 10% discount for opening an account and then offers special sales for cardholders. However, the APR on the card ranges between 20% and 25%, heaven forbid you should fail to pay the balance in full every month.

Best Career Clothing

Kohl's does a good job with branding. The Daisy Fuentes and Vera Wang lines have stylish choices, much like what you will find at Target. I have never walked into Kohl's without finding at least one great deal on clothes for the office.

Best Clearance

The clearance sales at Kohl's are almost as good as a day at the Salvation Army. Many items are marked as much as 90% off. It makes you wonder how much they over charge you for the new styles coming in, but it's hard to resist a $4 bra or $2 shirt. You really can't beat Kohl's clearance...not with a stick.

Worst Shoes and Bags

Honestly, these departments never caught my eye enough to even get me down the aisle. I've talked to a few other shoppers, all of whom see Kohl's bags and shoes as junk. T.J.'s has it all over Kohl's here. I saved my pennies and bought one classy Italian leather purse from T.J.'s four years ago. I'll never buy another bag. My leather shoes came from Zappos. Not cheap, but the reviews give me the confidence to know they will last me a very long time. I haven't been let down yet.

So, what do you think about Kohl's? What do you love and hate about their wares?

Jessica Bosari writes for the money-saving site, Billeater.com. The site is devoted to helping people reduce expenses, save money and find great deals. Pay Billeater a visit for more money-saving tips!