If online clothes shopping was already popular, it's safe to say that it became essential during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shopping for clothes online can be a quick, efficient, and even fun way to put together outfits and discover new trends.
However, even the most fashion-savvy shopper has found themselves, at least once, with a bag full of clothes that, for one reason or another, weren't right for them.
Have you ever wondered what you did wrong when you were browsing and adding items to your cart? And how can you avoid making even the smallest clothes shopping mistake, and ensure you only buy what you genuinely need (and suits you)?
Here we show you not one, but eight common mistakes that people make when shopping for clothes online. Once you know what not to do, online clothes shopping will be a cinch.
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1. Size Does Matter
Generally speaking, you should know what your clothes size is, right? Well, the annoying news is that what you think is your size, might not always be what fits you best.
Different brands measure sizes in slightly different ways, which means that you might end up with an item that's a bit too big or a bit too small for you. Unless you are only buying from a retailer that you have bought from for years, you should check the size guide.
Most online clothes retailers offer handy size guide charts for all the items in their catalog. Make sure that you check the guidelines for exactly the item you are looking for. So, if you want to buy a skirt and a blouse, you are going to need to take measurements for both items separately.
You don't know how to take measurements? Luckily, the majority of online retailers also provide you with instructions on how to do so. All you need is a soft measuring tape, and you're all set.
2. Not All That Glitters Is Gold
This is a very common mistake if you're ordering from a website that you know little or nothing about. You find an item that you love, think it'll look great on you, pick the right size and then order it.
After a few days, you receive the parcel and excitedly open it... only to find out that the dress you ordered looks nothing like what you had seen on the website. Sound familiar? Instead of having to deal with the annoyance of returning the item, (as well as the huge disappointment) you should take a step back and ask yourself a few questions before placing your order.
Was the price a bit too cheap? Did the item have any reviews? If so, were any of them negative, and what did they say? If you don't know much about this brand, can you find something out to make sure they're reliable and their clothes are of good quality?
The bottom line here is: plan ahead, read the reviews, and only buy from trusted websites.
3. All About Deliveries...
Another important reason why you should always spend some time checking customer reviews is to find out more about the retailer's delivery methods.
Were any reviews complaining about huge delays, or missed deliveries? Did anyone receive a damaged parcel or one with missing or damaged items?
You will also want to avoid one of the most heart-shattering mistakes when it comes to deliveries: finding out that your dream dress can't be delivered to your State. Awful, right?
4. ... And Returns
Returns policies are just as important (if not more, in fact) than delivery methods. Before clicking "buy" at the bottom of your cart, ask yourself if you're really aware of what returns look like for this retailer.
Are returns free? What's the time limit? Do you have to provide a specific reason for returning an item? All of this might seem dull and unimportant right now, but it will save you a headache in case you need to get rid of some of the clothes you ordered.
5. Don't Just Browse
Browsing endlessly for clothes online can be time-consuming and ineffective, especially if you started off with a specific thing in mind but then got side-tracked. Do you need a dress for casual, everyday wear? Or are you on the lookout for something unique, like a pair of Old West boots?
Great: make sure you have a plan. Write it down, if it makes it easier for you. Draw up a list, starting with what you need ASAP and moving on to what you would like to have but is not as urgent.
Once you're ready, go online and start browsing. But ensure you are narrowing it all down to your plan or list by using filters and sorting items. This will save you a lot of time as well as money and potential disappointment.
6. The Money Factor
Just because you're not handing out your credit card at the checkout it doesn't mean that you're not using real money. With online shopping, in fact, you often run the risk of overspending, especially if you don't have a plan.
When writing up your plan that we mentioned earlier, be sure to include one VERY important factor: budget. We're not suggesting always keeping this to a minimum, but to be realistic and smart.
Shopping for a gorgeous, good-quality bridesmaid or prom dress will have a very different budget compared to shopping for a pair of leggings and some loungewear.
7. Tempted to Buy More?
Right, it's happened to the best of us. You've nearly concluded a satisfactory online shopping trip and are ready to finalize your purchase when the website "suggests" you add another item to your cart.
Whether the website promises free (or cheaper) delivery, or future discounts, or simply recommends a lovely scarf that will go so well with the coat you are about to order, the temptation is strong.
Try not to fall prey to it, though, at least not on a regular basis. You can treat yourself to something extra, every now and then, but don't make it a habit, or your bank account will suffer.
8. Have You Checked Different Websites?
Another infuriating mistake when it comes to online shopping is not doing any price comparison checks, and buying something which you'll realize is A LOT cheaper on a different website.
Yes: we're talking about the same item of clothing, of the same size and the same style. If you head to one single online clothes retailer without spending a bit of time doing some research, you'll often fail to bag yourself the best deal.
Ready To Avoid Even The Smallest Clothes Shopping Mistake?
Follow our tips and you'll be in the best possible place to avoid making even the tiniest clothes shopping mistake.
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