Be Retail Ready and Shopper Savvy

Back in the dark ages, so like in the eighties, the idea that we’d be able to source, compare and shop online for everything from candles and cakes to cupboards and Christmas jumpers… and then have the item/s delivered directly to our door days later, would’ve blown our minds.

But here we are three short decades later doing exactly that. And it comes as naturally to us now as picking up a loaf of bread from the corner shop used to be. Well before we started ordering bread online, obvs.

We shop online for fashion too. We browse, click, check out, excitedly anticipating the arrival of something fabulous. There’s no question that online fashion shopping is the present and the future, but how do you make sure you get the best from your shopping experience?

We’ve got 10 tips to help you be a savvy online shopper.

1) Know what you want

There is so much choice out there. And with too much choice comes confusion. And this can derail the most dedicated of shoppers and cause panic buying and retail regret. Decide what you want before you hit the keys.

2) Shop when you’re fresh, focused and full of energy

Don’t order when it’s late at night, you’re tired, depressed or have had one too many… you know what I mean! Save your shopping sessions for when you’re bright-eyed, bushy-tailed and can make the best purchase decisions.

3) Consult the size chart and measure up

There is nothing worse than trying to squeeze into something too snug or looking as though a tent has swallowed you. Different sites have different size charts – measure against each one and be sure of your size before ordering.

4) Be conscious of colour

Ever ordered a blue garment and it arrives green? Me too! Fortunately, it’s an easy fix. Calibrate your screen according to your specific monitor’s settings. Google can help you to find out how to do it. Blue should never be green.

5) Picture perfect is an illusion

Online retailers use fashion models to promote their products to their best advantage. The majority of us are not models. We can still look amazing though. Just be aware that what you see online is not always true to reality.

6) You can always contact the seller

If you make a mistake, change your mind or there’s an issue with your order, you have rights as a consumer. Most online retailers are very happy to handle any of your queries and issues and want for you to be 100% satisfied.

7) Order in good time

So there’s a special occasion and you need that extra special item. You’ve found it online in the right size for the right price. It’s perfect. Don’t wait until the last minute to order it. Order ahead to avoid disappointment.

8) Share your shopping success

When you strike a hit with your purchase, why not share it with other customers with a review or via social media platforms with your friends and family? It’s helpful and can inspire others to do the same.

9) Sign up for newsletters to stay informed

Online retailer’s newsletters aren’t just for clogging up your inbox. You get great discounts and access to exclusive offers by being on the mailing list. Bookmark your fave sites and visit often so you’re first in line for flash sales.

10) Friends shop together

Online shopping shouldn’t replace retail therapy with your friends. Why not get together, share opinions on your favourite finds and enjoy a collective online shopping spree? It’s great to get ideas and advice and offer encouragement