All Over Albany

Top Steve & Barry's deal makers/breakers

With all the hype from local Yelp lovers, we had to see what this $8.98 shopping "secret" was really offering. So it was off to Colonie Center we went, and into the cave at the end of the second-floor.

The Good

+ Everything in this store is either $8.98, or some version of a sale (Bras 2/$15; undies 3/$15; jewelry 3/$15)

+The men's denim wall takes up a whole mess of space, guaranteeing some plentiful sizing.

+ Shoes for both lads and lasses are well stocked in sizing. Unless you're a woman with a size 13 foot, you're pretty good to go.

+ They've got quirky jewelry, they've got hats, there's comfy undies and pjs and tee shirts that go on for miles, and kids clothes and...

The Bad

+ The store's forte is their tee shirt supply, but most are stiff and short cotton pieces that will expand out and shrink up with time. Feel everything first.

+ The merchandise mix is plentiful in general, but why such shallow product depth?

+ Guys, unless you're there to buy a tee-shirt, jersey or jeans, don't expect much.

+ Due to Sarah Jessica Parker becoming the star "designer" of the chain, Sex and the City movie junk covers the entire front section.

The Platonic

+ Don't expect to find annoying sales people. Anywhere. In fact, if you need help, approach the cashier.

+ The designers: Sarah Jessica Parker, Venus Williams, Amanda Bynes, NBA star Stephon Marbury and golfer Bubba Watson.

+ Women's pants are pretty much flat-front only, but hey, under $10.

+ Best to shop here when you aren't looking for something specific. If you're just wandering in, and then you realize, "Oh! I could use another tank top or...four..." it's perfect.