How to Shop Online Without Hassle

Shopping online is one of my greatest joys. Although I live in one of the greatest shopping capitals of the world, I’m able to easily go online at any time of day wearing WHATEVER I want to peruse multiple stores with little effort. But many of you still have apprehensions about shopping online, so this post will help alleviate some of that fear. Because GURL, you might be missing out.

I prefer to shop online than shopping in-store. For one, I don’t have to travel around the city for the “right” Zara that has all the cool size 41 shoes in stock nor do I have to wonder if I’m getting the best deal. I DO NOT like crowds and do not like walking behind someone who not only walks slow but walks in a zig-zag pattern making it difficult for me to pass them (omg I HATE that…lol). And don’t let me find what I want and then I have to wait on some never-ending line and be met with a nasty attitude when I’m spending my money. I’m also pretty particular—I have to LOVE something in order for me to feel compelled to buy it and keep it. Plus most times I need to buy from the Tall section (I’m 5’9″) and that’s usually only sold online. I also love to do the most with my time. In the time it takes me to drive to the mall (or pay to go on the train to shop in the city) and look around, I could have just gone online and in like ten minutes have what I want sent to me in the mail, and then if it doesn’t work out, I know I can return it at no cost.

So as you can see, I’m pretty much an advocate for shopping online…lol. Here are some tips on how to become one, too.

Pull the receipts

Almost as a rule, I shop at the same stores all the time (ASOS, Zara, Amazon, and Gap to name a few). I don’t have time to be learning 50 million return policies or to be trying some new site I have to do some excess sleuthing on before I place my order. I don’t have time. But in the rare (but likely) occurrence where my thirst is set up so high on an item, then I actually do have to go through the motions to make sure I don’t “get got.” First I’ll check to see if the brand has a social media presence and what people are saying in the comments. Then I google reviews and see what their return policy is. If I’m pretty much in the clear from there but still need a little more assurance, I’ll pay with either my American Express card or PayPal. Both provide buyer protection in the case something goes wrong (other cards/banks might also as well, make sure you check with your provider for info).

You’re likely safe when shopping with the major stores online sites, but still make sure you check their return policies and if it will cost you anything to return it.

Look for discounts

This is one of my favorite things about shopping online. I can easily google to see who else has the same product at a better price or use shopping sites like Shopstyle.com to quickly pull retailers up.

I also google like crazy for coupons which I almost always find. Even if I don’t find a coupon, sometimes I find that a site will give you a 15-20% discount or free shipping if you sign up for their emails. I usually like to shop sites with free shipping, but sometimes that’s not always a deal breaker for me depending on how high the shipping is. If I have to drive to the store or take the train, that shipping fee might be the same as gas or my fare.

I also love sites like eBates because it allows you to get cash back at many of your favorite online stores. I’ve gotten back close to $2000 CASH since I started my account a few years ago. You can also get extra money when you refer friends. You can sign up here.

Stick with what you know…

Knowing what works for your body type and really understanding your personal style are key for shopping in general but especially when you shop online. I have a whole series on dressing for your body type on my Youtube channel (check it out here) that will help guide you in picking out clothing that you’ll love. I also have one on how to pick out the best colors for your wardrobe as well as makeup—you can watch it here.

I’m able to use tunnel vision when I’m armed with information on what works for my body type. I usually tend to buy the silhouettes I know work for me.

…But take a chance

Yep, at the same time you still want to take a chance and try something that catches your eye that you normally wouldn’t go for. You never know how it will turn out—it might wind up being “THAT” piece you wear all the time and folks sweat you over. But, this also takes me into my next point…

Know the return policy

Before you go taking chances with your money, make sure you thoroughly read the site’s return policy. How much time do you have to return the item? Will they give you back your money or store credit? Is the item final sale? Will you have to pay to return? If you’re shopping on a site like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy where you could be buying items directly from a person or independent company, the policies can vary by seller so make sure you read everything. These are all things you need to know. It’s also why I tend to shop at the same stores all the time because I know what their policies are already.

Read the size chart

There aren’t universal size charts when it comes to clothing. One brand’s size 12 can be another brand’s size 8. Make sure you check out the size chart and break out the measuring tape so you have an idea of how something is going to fit you. Many sites have cool technology where you plug in the sizes you wear at other retailers and they’ll give you their best assessment of the size you’d wear on their site. Many sites also have reviews so you can see what other customers are saying regarding fit.

It’s also a great idea to buy two sizes and return what doesn’t fit if you’re not sure.

Do you prefer to shop online or in-store? Why one over the other? Tell me in the comments!