This may seem like a no-brainer proposition but after many trials and tribulations, shopping for clothes online is not as straightforward as it seems. Wrought with sizing issues, returns hassles, credit card mishaps and shipping delays, it can make a girl bonkers. But as with everything in life, a little patience goes a long way. Personally, practicing this virtue is not my strong suit--which explains how I've received an item in the mail in a fabric/color/size I wasn't expecting. Go figure.
So I'm passing on my online shopping wisdom to you. Here are some tips for a painless online shopping experience:
Read the item description carefully. I mean it. Every word. Pay attention to the fabric, color, and size. Look for a sizing chart posted on the site because they differ from site to site. Some sites categorize an XS and sizes 0-2 and a Small as 2-4, or a Small could be a 0 and a Medium could be 2-4. So pay attention! For pants and denim, always find out the inseam, rise, and hem opening. If it's not listed, call the customer service number or look for a Live Chat button.
Make sure you are okay with the fabric. I once bought a peasant "blouse" that was actually a sweater. It also had a not-so-cute bow in the back that was not visible online. You have to think about the unknowns.
For shoes, always find out the heel height. Not all websites list them, so you may have to do a little homework. If you want the shoes, it's worth it. It's also worth it to end up with a pair of shoes you like instead of 5 inch platforms that cause you to break an ankle.
Check the return and shipping policies. Be careful when purchasing sale items, as many websites deem these purchases final. Make sure the return process is straightforward (unless you're absolutely sure you want the item). Do they issue a full refund, do they have any restocking fees or issue credit you can only use on the site?
Find out how they ship the item, whether or not they provide tracking information, about how long it will take before they ship the item and how long it will take to reach you--and what happens if it doesn't. I once ordered from a site that made me wait 10 business days after the expected arrival date to place a new order. That meant that nearly three weeks had passed since I originally placed an order and then I had to wait for in-house processing and then another 7-10 business days to get my shipment (in fact, I'm still waiting!).
When you have to make a return, do so right away. Keep an eye on your bank statement and follow up if you don't see the credit made to your account.
When comes to shipping, some online retailers go the extra mile to carry through the shopping experience to how they deliver the goods to you. Larger retailers like Bloomingdale's and Macy's, and some lower-end fashion companies like Delia's, ship in a paper or plastic envelope containing unceremoniously packaged items in clear plastic bags, while others like BasicBoutique.com and CoutureCandy.com, take extra care to deliver your items safely wrapped in tissue paper inside a gift box inside another, sturdier box. I take note of the companies that pay attention to the details and give them my repeat business.
Check back frequently. To get the most out of online shopping, you have to stay diligent when it comes to sale items. The popular sizes go quickly (which inevitably is your size no matter what), and if you're not quick on the draw, you could miss out on huge savings--like up to 70%--on sites like NeimanMarcus.com and other high-end online retailers.
Enlist help. If you're having trouble coming up with ideas, see if the site you're visiting has a Lookbook. This is a great place to check out hot new looks. Or, if you aren't sure which sites to visit and need some inspiration all around, go to shopping referral sites like
ShopStyle.com. They round up the latest trends and provide links to the items you want. It's like having a personal shopper in your computer!
Photo: Amy Covington
