Style Planning & Research
One of the changes as a result of the pandemic is the loss of well-known brands disappearing from the high street, to online only. In theory online shopping should be more convenient for the consumer, but in reality not being able to try on clothes first causes a whole host of difficulties. Which in turn adds to an items carbon footprint, as it travels from depot to consumer several times trying to find an owner.
So, is it possible to improve your online success rate, or is it just a case of trial and error?
Yes, with a little prep and research you can vastly improve your hit rate.
As a fashion industry expert with 2 decades of experience - About Lisa - I can help you successfully navigate the world of online clothes shopping.
Think before you shop
If planning on buying multiple items, start with mood board to collate all your ideas and inspiration. Pinterest is a great tool for this.
What do you need your clothes for, special occasion, work, dating, leisure? Do you have anything in your wardrobe that is similar to a potential purchase? What else will your new purchases go with – can you build 2 or 3 outfits?
Are you sober? Never drink excessively and order! 😊
Country of Origin
This isn’t where the garments are made, but rather the nationality of the brand. French brand Sezane is size inclusive, Maje and Sandro tend to be smaller sizes. Similarly other Southern European brands like Zara tend to be smaller sizes and have shorter trousers/sleeves lengths, in keeping with the Southern European physique. In comparison Northern European, British, and Scandinavian brands cater for generally taller, larger figures. Geographically we aren’t all built the same and many brands will base their sizing on their own native country.
Check the model’s height
Check the height of the model in the photo, that will help you gauge where a hem line will fall on you. A skirt that sits above the knee on someone who is 5ft10” could end up around your ankles if you’re 5ft 2”. Or you’re after a pair of ankles grazing jeans at 5ft 2”, a cropped pair on the model will be the perfect length for you.
Measure Yourself
Size 10 (UK sizes) in one brand can be the equivalent to an 8 or 12 in another. So, clicking on the one size throughout may lead to disappointment.
If a brand has a what’s my size function, make use of it. If there isn’t this function, all websites have a measurement chart. Measure yourself before clicking S, M or L to see where you fall in the size range. You will need your bust, waist, hips -at fullest point - to hand and inside leg measurements if buying trousers.
By measuring yourself it will become clearer what type of body shape you have. Which helps when choosing certain styles.
Watch the video
If there is a video of the item, then I suggest watching it. You’ll get a good idea of how the fabric and style will hang as the model walks. What you may think is a soft silky fabric, could in fact be as stiff as cardboard.
Washing Instructions
Check the washing instructions, as your bargain item could turn out to be clean only. Similarly check washing temperatures to avoid any shrinking accidents.
Add To Cart
Finally add to cart! It does sound like a lot of work just to buy some clothes but consider the levels of frustration - not to mention cost - when your parcels arrive and n nothing works.
Online Styling
For readers who are unsure what best suits them or would prefer I do the research for them, see my online styling service. Designed to save you time, money, eliminate stress and make you look and feel amazing.
Thank you for reading.
Lisa
