E-Shopping Tips: Things You Should Know Before Buying Online
If you stick to a few simple guidelines, your online shopping experience should be safe, profitable and fun.
Stylish looks for less
E-shopping is big news. More of us than ever are using online stores and there are lots of advantages for the clever shopper. You often find that there is more variety online than in comparable high street stores. Plus, you don’t have to brave the crowds or the changing room.
©Eva Katalin Kondoros
If you stick to a few simple guidelines, your online shopping experience should be safe, profitable and fun.
How do you know that it’s safe?
You’ve just spotted a fabulous jacket on a new website and want to know if it’s safe. When you go to fill in your credit card details, take a look at the URL bar. If it starts with the prefix https: the additional ‘s’ lets you know that it’s a secure site. Many e-shopping sites also use the 'locked padlock' symbol to show that their website is safe and secure - as you can see on the Lounge by Zalando website.
©Martin Dimitrov
You can also look for third-party seals of approval from companies who uphold the interests and rights of consumers such as Trusted Shops, Bizrate and VeriSign. Does the company have a Twitter account or Facebook page? Many are well represented on social media sites and often customers post comments about their shopping experience. It’s also a good way to keep up with the latest news and offers.
"Safe internet shopping sites should give you a number of payment options!"
Finally, safe internet shopping sites should give you a number of payment options that might include major credit cards and providers like PayPal. The safest way to pay online is by credit card or a reputable payment provider as you create an additional record of your purchase.
Make e-shopping work for you
Online stores are great news if you need a special outfit in a hurry or if you want to find clothes and accessories that are both individual and on-trend. It’s worth using website filters if you’re searching for a particular item to ensure that you don’t overspend. Take a look at your wardrobe to see what you really need and you’ll be less tempted to impulse buy.
©Izabela Habur
Does the site tell you what size and height the model is? If so, you’ll have a better idea of what the clothes might look like on you. Is there a sizing guide? A 10 from one brand may be a 12 in another so a guide makes it so much easier to order the correct size. Look at reviews to see what buyers say about fit, colour, quality, and overall appearance.
"You might consider shopping with friends to keep costs low."
Are shipping and delivery included? If not, you might consider shopping with friends to keep costs low – it’s also a great excuse to plan a fun night where you can all indulge your passion for fashion. What is the website’s returns policy? If you’re not 100% satisfied, most reliable companies have a clear returns policy that allows you to return items for a full refund. Reputable companies will also be easy to contact and will provide an address and phone, or email details on their web page. Happy e-shopping!
Discover new trends by checking out the daily sales campaigns at Lounge by Zalando, and you can save up to 80%*!