Top 5 Mistakes When Buying Clothes Online

Today I'm talking about online shopping fails.

What to do when you want to shop for clothing online but are afraid of making returns? Well I have some ideas and suggestions that are sure to create a purchase worth keeping. Sometimes it's inevitable, but there are some key mistakes people make that almost always guarantee an annoying return that can be such a hassle. Here are the top online shopping mistakes people make, and what to do about them so you can hit the big blue button with confidence:)

1. Not paying attention to how the item lays on the model: Does this model have your body type?  Does she wear the same size as you? Likely not, although I'm sure for some of you it's possible.

Here is one example: What can you tell from this picture?

-You can't see the models curves: This is great if that's what you want, however, you need to keep in mind that she is taller than average and has a small bust. 

-This sweater covers her bum all the way down to her thigh. On a person of average height or petite this could really swallow you whole and go down to mid hamstring or farther.

-If you have a large bust, this will drape much differently on your body. 

 2. Not paying attention to the models coloring and features. Have you ever noticed how so many websites only put the brunettes in really hard angles and sharp prints? They also love to put brunettes in high contrast colors like black and whites, while they will put blondes in softer colors like blush or the universally flattering all white. The people in charge usually know what they are doing (they want to sell the hell out of their clothes) so look at their strategy for who they choose to model certain looks. If your blonde and the blonde in the photo looks washed out, chances are you will too. And since they are trying to show this item in the best possible light, my guess is that MOST people will look washed out. 

Takeaway: Look for the models that have similar coloring and your color choice will likely be a success!

3. Not knowing your measurements or size most often worn. Sounds silly, but a lot of people don't really know what size they most often wear in certain brands. 

4. Not doing an inventory of the clothing items you already have in your closet. This is huge. What items look best on you and why? Do you like long and flowy, or curve hugging dresses? What hemline do you wear the most often? Knowing what you gravitate toward in your own closet will help make a purchase that will get worn time and time again.

5. Not reading the item description in full. You may miss out on important keywords like sheer, or runs small,  that would be hard to notice in the online photo. Most sites have suitable keywords in their descriptions if you take the time to look.

Avoid these top online shopping mistakes and you will be able to create a closet full of amazing pieces that get worn  over and over again!