Tuesday 21 May 2013

Tips for First Time Online Shoppers

Online shopping is definitely not something new. But for first-timers especially, here are some handy tips to being a smart and informed shopper online here and elsewhere, so that you fashionistas get the best out of your shopping experience and not just a slave and to avoid post-purchase dissonance:

Start with something small while buying for the first time.
When you’re buying from a certain merchant for the first time, it is always wise to start with a certain budget in mind and maybe 2-3pcs the max, so that you would get a gist of how the service is like, and the quality of the goods being sold. Because there is no use crying over spilled milk and you certainly do not want to regret on impulsive buying and the goods do not turn out to be as expected. Most of the time items are not refundable plus the process would be lengthy and hectic to say the least, so it is best to avoid these circumstances. Isn’t it better to enjoy your purchase and savor all the compliments you get? So like any other relationships, build a good relationship with your online shopping merchant and frequent those that you find most able to satisfy your shopping needs! There will always be new awesome stuff coming up in the following season so do not splurge your entire budget at one go.

  Do your ‘due diligence’ while shopping online
While shopping online could be easy and done in just a few clicks that do not mean that you do not have to do your homework. It is important to get your sizes right, and also do not forget to check on the materials of the fashion piece so that it is after all what you are expecting. Responsible merchants would supply you with all the necessary information about the product so make sure you’re making the right choice else do not think twice to ask! Also, it is always handy to have a measuring tape by your side while doing online shopping. Do not simply click ‘purchase’ on guttural instincts. Again exchanges are frustrating and what you want is to be able to flaunt your newly bought pieces to your friends!

 Buy a few items to save on postage
Because postages are charged based on the weight of the items, it would be advisable to buy a few items at the same time, as you could do the arithmetic, postages here and there could add up to be quite hefty. So to make the most out of your online shopping experience, decide on the items that you want to buy, put them on your little ‘wishlist’ and devise your buying plan according to your budget! 

   Buy from your domestic merchant
Unless the item that you are eyeing on is extremely limited edition and impossible for you to get it elsewhere, it is most advisable to buy from your domestic merchants because in a way, you would save greatly on your postages. International shipment fees together with conversion rates could cost a bomb, so unless it is something that is totally worth it, it is better to find a substitute from other sites.

    Not advisable to buy luxuries online
Which brings us to the next point, if you are planning to splurge on luxury items, it is best for you to head to their local flagship stores instead because then only you will be able to meticulously inspect your item before purchasing it. You do not want to spend large amount of money only to find out the item is but a bogus replica. Online shopping is still best for your everyday wardrobe staples. Isn’t it better to have many versatile fashionable pieces to play with given the budget you have instead of spending them all on one hefty-priced item?



Be an informed shopper online and happy shopping already!

Click here for the article on why you should love shopping online!

XOXO

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