With technology at our fingertips, the rules have changed for most things, like how we listen to music, how we watch our favorite shows and, of course, how we shop. Online shopping has taken away the commute, the crowds and those unbearably long lines. In addition to the convenience, when we shop online we get to explore a wide variety of stores, like that quirky boutique we probably never would have found on a routine trip to the mall. But with so many sites that claim to have just what you’re looking for in an outfit, the choices can be a bit overwhelming. More importantly, how do you even know the outfit will fit? Here, we take the fear out of online shopping and help you find beautiful pieces and ensembles that actually fit — all while perusing your smartphone from the sofa.
Grab the tape
The most helpful thing you can do for yourself is know your measurements. Pull out that tape to get those numbers up to date! Size Charter recommends measuring your bust, waist, hips and inseam. If you find that measuring yourself is a challenge, then get help from a friend or family member, or maybe even a professional if you feel so inclined. Write down those lengths — or better yet, memorize them — and shop away.
Know thy brand
One of the best aspects of online shopping is discovering everything your favorite brands have in stock! Whether it’s a major department store, or an obscure fashion label or boutique, there’s a good chance they have an online purchasing option, either under their own website or connected to an ecommerce site. Go through your closet and find the pieces and brands you like before you go online. You might already be familiar with the different sizes, fits and styles of a particular company or proprietor. Turning to the trusted brand online increases the probability that your purchases will work for your body.
Know your body type
Being knowledgeable about how a certain cut or design looks on you is key to finding clothes online that actually fit. Real Simple has a handy guide to finding the right cuts and styles for your shape. For example, they suggest that women who are a “circle,” which means you tend to be thick around the middle, may want to look for slim-cut jeans that bring attention to your legs. For women with a more hourglass shape, they recommend a V-neck top to flatter your curves without exaggerating them.
Custom-make it
So that parcel of clothing finally arrived in the mail and when you go to put it on, you are aggravated to find out that the pants you loved on the model on the screen bunch up in the back, or the dress you took a chance on is taller than you. This is a bummer, no doubt. But if you found a unique piece that you really love, invest in it by taking it to a professional tailor. Sure you didn’t plan to spend extra time and money on it, but the joys of custom-fit clothing can curb that buyer’s remorse by securing that sexy silhouette — you’ll be even more excited to show it off and put it into frequent rotation.
Learn from trial and error
Always check the return policy for the sites you shop, comparing and noting them before you dive into your search. Then keep a chart of where you purchase each item from. Many online boutiques provide measurement charts to give you an idea of how their clothes may fit you, but no matter how accurate you think you are, there’s always a chance that the cut of a new item just doesn’t work on you. If you need to return the garment, you will already know where it came from and the process for sending it back, so it feels like less of a slog. Make sure to record what didn’t work, from the shop and clothing details down to any relevant identification numbers. This way, you won’t make the same mistake while shopping for that season the next year. Plus, you’ll have you own personal online shopping guide to certain lines and labels, indispensable for efficiently finding the perfect fit.
