How To Most Effectively Shop For Clothing Online

In this new normal lots of us are finding ourselves scrolling through online boutiques and wishing we could be in the store to try these items out. Have you been one of those gals that fills your online cart and just can’t pull the trigger because you are worried if you got the right size and are dreading the return process. Fear no more! I’m here for you to give some helpful Online Shopping Tips that will make online shopping EASY and FUN!

ONLINE SHOPPING TIPS

Know your measurements ladies!

• Bust, Waist, Hip and Inseam (most importantly waist)

  • The most important tip I can give you while measuring yourself is to be sure the measuring tape is parallel to the floor. If not you might have a mishap with selecting your size.

  • Check out my IG TV Series: Shopping with Theodora @therealchachaolivia on Instagram to watch a tutorial on getting the perfect measurements

• OK are you ready to be blown away- SIZE CHARTER TOOL

  • Use www.sizecharter.com to help you find your size in all brands!

  • This is a helpful tool that will guide your online shopping experience. It’s important to take all your measurements and just enter them into Size Charter and let it do it’s magic. Some of the most popular brands will be listed there.

  • A good reminder is Trendier/Less Expensive lines (Zara or H&M) run smaller and American brands tend to have vanity sizing and run larger (Ann Taylor or Loft)

• Take a look at the model in the description

  • Most often the brand will list the model’s measurements and the size the model is wearing in the picture. This is a great gauge for you to have visually so you can see how the item looks on by what the model is wearing.

• To size up or to size down, that is the real question??

  • Take a look at the amount of stretch 1-5% of elastane, lycra or spandex you may want to size down. (Especially in denim)

  • If it’s a cotton or woven item you may want to size up because you will not have any kind stretch or give.

• Order two sizes! Very Helpful

  • This will give you an opportunity to compare and contrast the fit that is most comfortable for you. Plus it will save you a little bit of time of waiting for the exchange process, making a new purchase, and waiting on shipping.

  • Plus you are assured you don’t lose the size!

GETTING THE BEST DEAL

Who doesn’t like a good deal?! Free Shipping is like music to my ears!

• Create an Account-Sign up for emails -Some brands usually offer a discount in exchange for email and you can always unsubscribe later down the road.

• Look for free shipping and free returns. (I pretty much only shop where they offer this especially now)

• Use Google shopping, Honey, Retail Me Not, or Rakuten for help finding stores with the lowest prices.

• Department Stores usually mark down items before Designer’s Websites. Check out Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom to see if they have already started dropping the price. (It’s doesn’t hurt to take a peak and do a little research to get the best deal)

YAY! Your package has arrived! Let’s have some fun

Now what to do once it arrives… Have some fun in your closet!

• Keep the tags on! This is the first tip on this list, because you don’t want to snip them away and then are stuck in a bind with the items because the return policy won’t let you send them back or get full credit.

• Be aware of return policy- Some stores are offering longer periods for return policies. (Read the fine print)

• Try it on in daylight and when you aren’t tired- The right energy will make the experience worth while.

• Wear the right undergarments to make sure you can get the right fit.

• Save the box/bag it was delivered in. This will be helpful if you are making a return/exchange later. Last thing you want to do is run around the house looking for a box to send back your items.

• Have a roll of packing tape available- This is a small investment but definitely worth it!

• Let’s take some steps to make sure you really like your purchase

  • Bring it into your closet and pick 3 other things to wear with it. Check out the shoes and accessories and make sure it looks good with other pieces in your closet.

  • Make sure you love the way it looks. I always suggest taking a picture of yourself to get a real perspective of the fit and style. Snap a picture of the front, side, and back to get a 360 view. It’s always easier to look at a picture to make the decision. Plus you can easily share the pic with a friend to get the thumbs up or thumbs down.

SOME FINAL THOUGHTS

This new normal can be challenging but we know we can overcome any challenge especially if style is involved. Get creative and have some virtual online shopping try on hauls with your close girlfriends! I hope these online shopping tips give you the confidence to enjoy the experience and start to fill your closet with some great items.

Fashionably Yours,

Remember if you have any questions or would like to learn more about working with me you can easily book a call with me. I offer free, no obligation 30 minute calls for those who want to learn more. This is a chance to chat with me about any questions, your fashion and styling needs.

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