Fashion Blogs

Running from isle to isle and scrolling through a page for the perfect dress are two very different experiences. Even though they both essentially serve the same purpose. Regardless of all the ways online shopping has made life easier, some cons also tag along.

You see, you can never be sure about certain factors. Would the clothes be as good in real, would they fit as well as shown online? Sure, there are return policies in place but why waste extra bucks on return shipping charges? The quality can only be determined once the piece is in your hands. But you can cut the chances of being delivered something that doesn’t fit.

Different retailers and shops have different sizes. A large size of one company wouldn’t necessarily be the same as that of the next. However, you don’t have to get confused. There are ways you can ensure that the piece you order is one that fits you well.

Wondering how to ensure you’re getting the right size for your body when online shopping? We’re here to help. We’ve explored a step-by-step process when it comes to finding the perfect fit below. You’ll be foolproof with this guide.

Step 1: Figure out your updated measurements

What fits you a year back might not now. Even though you may not seem to have gained even half a pound. So before clicking the ‘order’ button make sure that the size you select is one that will fit. You can start this by getting a professional measure you.

You can either make a trip to a clothier where someone from the staff can take accurate measurements. Or you can simply head to your tailor. Your tailor will happily take your measurements for future reference. You might not be able to take your own measurements correctly. If you don’t have any options of heading to a pro, ask a friend.

Step 2: Check out the store’s size chart

Most people decide what size would fit them without viewing the size chart. They only peak at the alphabets denoting whether a size is extra small, small, medium, large, etc. However, it is pertinent to view the size chart of every store. Because the measurement guide of no two shops is the same.

When you don’t check the size chart, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Also, don’t ever shop from a store that doesn’t have a reliable refund or exchange policy in place. Firstly, because of its sketchy. Secondly, because if the wrong size arrives, you’ll have to live with it. It’s even better if a store offers a legit money back guarantee.

Step 3: Make use of apps

There are several apps out there that can help you find the right size. You can use FitBay, an app that collects data to help users select their sizes. It shows the percentage of people who have had to buy a size bigger or smaller to help others make the decision.

Similarly, there are other apps as well. Sizecharter is an app in which you can enter your measurements to figure out which sizes you should order from renowned brands. This makes shopping easy-peasy. Upload and Virtusize are two other helpful apps among many.

Step 4: Don’t buy every style online

There are some styles you better refrain from purchasing online. For instance, pear-shaped women should avoid buying pencil skirts online. In the same way, a petite girl might want to be extra careful when buying a piece that has huge arm holes.

If the bet doesn’t seem safe, it is not worth the risk. Head to the physical store to try once then buy. Lillian Fallon, the Style Editor at Verily Mag, explains this: “Because the form-fitting styles depend upon exact measurements; it’s too much of a gamble.”

Step 5: Do your research

Sizes can also differ based on the fabric of the dress and the seams, cuts, and the over style. Do your research on these features before going ahead. Also, some materials are pretty uncomfortable. It’s better to pass on those rather than being not-so-delighted on receiving your order.

Do your homework on the brand and each of its pieces that you are interested in by reading the reviews. While you cannot always trust what a retailer claims about itself, you know you can rely on customer feedback.

Step 6: Jot down your notes

Every time you receive a parcel of clothes you ordered online, take notes of the sizes received. How well does the size fit, is it worth buying again? This way, you will be able to remember which shops you should revisit online and which you shouldn’t.

You don’t have to take a pencil and paper in hand to get the job done. Simple note down the details in your smartphone. If you’re not someone who tries different stores and remembers what she likes, you can ditch this step altogether.

Step 7: Befriend your tailor

Last but not least, be friends with your tailor. When confused, you can buy a size bigger and then get your tailor to fit it to your measurements. If you’re good at sewing, you don’t even need anyone’s help to get that done.

Also, when in doubt about a store’s sizing of clothing, try first by buying from the sale section. If you cannot find the desired item in the sale section, you can also use coupon codes to get discounts on your purchase. Coupons can be used in-store too and if you’re ordering online you may be lucky enough to avail free shipping or free returns too.  This way, the saved bucks can be spent on the tailor bills.

Wrap up

Shopping at a physical store is not as convenient as sitting back in your pajamas and shopping online. But online shopping means you have to be twice as careful about the size you pick. This is why you must always have your current measurements written. Don’t forget to explore the size chart, read customer reviews, and buy only pieces that are sure to fit. You take your measures, and if the size still doesn’t fit, exchange the product or get it fitted by your tailor.