In case you think this only happens at Sam's Club in particular, and warehouse clubs in particular, think again. Many designers and high-end department stores produce more than one line — one that retails at full price, and another line that is aimed at the "aspirational shopper." Items targeted for the latter are distributed at outlet stores, which could be considered the fashion equivalent of Sam's Club. Many of the items sold there may have similar styles, but they won't be identical to the "real thing." For instance, you'll find tweaks from a different fabric, to different buttons or stitching (via Racked). As The Penny Hoarder puts it, luxury brands are copying themselves, and then selling you the knockoffs at their authorized stores. And unfortunately, the quality is cheaper.

Bottom line: If you see something you think might be a branded item of clothing at Sam's Club and you think its too good to be true, we regret to inform you, it probably is.