Top 5 Tips For Buying Clothes Online

It happens to the best of us: you see that beautiful dress online that you just have to have. You order it, and then, seconds after the package hits your doorstep, you realise that it’s too short or the fabric is so sheer you can see your underwear through it. And then you spend the rest of your lunch break elbow-to-elbow in the post office queue alongside serial returners — a truly modern-day fashion nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and with the hottest summer sales now underway, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe without the hassle of visiting the mall. Here are the top tips I’ve learned from nine years of professionally trawling the internet for clothes, to help you score some bargains and reclaim your lunch breaks.

1. Know your measurements.

There’s nothing more frustrating than buying casual pants online and realising they don’t fit. Sizing is notoriously inconsistent across brands and even between styles within the same brand, so it’s important to understand your body type before you head to the virtual checkout. Take your measurements (bust, waist and hips are a good starting point) and check the site’s size chart to find out what you should be ordering.

2. Check the website’s return policy before you buy.

Some companies have a no-returns policy or charge you for returning the item, so read the fine print carefully before you hit the checkout. Also, be aware of the shipping costs — some stores have flat rate or free shipping on your first return, but after that it can cost up to $7.99 per additional label. Be sure to visit store here!

3. Look for details that indicate quality.

Whether it’s mother of pearl buttons or removable collar stays, these little features can make all the difference when it comes to the quality of an outfit. If you’re looking for high-quality clothing on a budget, consider shopping at the discount version of your favourite retailers (Nordstrom Rack is one of my go-tos), or try sites like Depop and eBay.

4. Avoid impulse buying.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a sale and start adding things to your cart at will, but this can lead to overspending and a closet full of items you never wear. Before you hit the checkout, take a moment to reflect on the pieces in your cart and ask yourself if they really need to be part of your wardrobe or would work with anything else in it.

If in doubt, watch the website’s catwalk videos. This will give you an idea of the fabric weight and how it will move, as well as helping you determine if the item is too tight or loose. Some websites, such as Asos, have a “What’s my size?” function that allows you to enter your height and weight and tells you what other customers with similar dimensions tended to buy and keep or return. It’s a handy tool to have in your back pocket. Learn more about clothing at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fashion.