I find Stein Mart to be laid out more like a traditional department store, though you do still pay at the front like a TJM. Marshalls and TJ Maxx just to sort by item in clothing. For instance, pants are in one section by size, but in Stein Mart they tend to be sorted in smaller racks by designer. I also love the designer boutique section which is way more upscale than anything found in a TJM or Marshalls.