One of life's greatest pleasures is online shopping. With endless options just a click away, it's like having the whole world at your fingertips. Plus, the thrill of waiting for your delivery to arrive is unbeatable!
But a downside to online clothes shopping is the guessing game of finding the right fit. That gorgeous dress may have looked amazing on the model, but the proportions may be off for your body type, or maybe you contemplated the fit for too long and your size sold out.
Fortunately, there are some handy tips to remember when you're hunting for the perfect fit online. Everything from measurements to fabric choice matters when it comes to getting the perfect fit delivered to your door. Following these tips can seriously help cut down on your number of returns in the future or save you from jury-rigging your purchase.
Measure yourself the right way.
To find clothes that fit perfectly, start by measuring your bust, waist, hips, and inseam with a soft tape measure, like the ones used by tailors. It's the perfect way to guarantee a great fit! For just a few bucks, it will really enhance your online shopping.
It's also good to be mindful of what you're wearing while taking these measurements. Depending on what item you're considering purchasing, measure with your undergarments on to get a better idea of how a piece of clothing will fit over them. This method will give you a better fit than measuring while wearing clothes. However, for outerwear, it's often best to measure with your clothes on to ensure the right fit. Otherwise, that medium-size coat might fit a little too snug when worn over a chunky sweater or a few layers.
Consider the model's fit.
Most of us aren't models, and that's perfectly fine. However, many stores showcase their clothes on models with body types that might be very different from yours. One of the most common mistakes is thinking that how something appears on a model is how it's going to appear on you.
Instead, take into account specific details that may determine if a garment will look great on your body type. If it looks cropped on the model and you're on the shorter side, chances are it'll fit you perfectly! Some sites share the stats of a model, including the size of the garment he/she is wearing and his/her height as well as showing multiple models wearing different sizes. All these can help you figure out the fit.
Use a retailer's size guide.
Even if you're confident in your measurements or know your usual size, make sure to check out the size charts provided by major retailers. They can really help you find the perfect fit! Some of which are incredibly helpful. Answering a few of the site's questions regarding your shape will help determine a more accurate fit.
For instance, some sites have a feature that allows you to input your height and weight to suggest a fit, along with the percentage of people with similar stats who bought and didn't return that size. Similarly, other websites offer a handy fit assistant that can compare your size with other brands, making it easier to find the perfect fit.
Please read the reviews.
Everyone loves a product with thousands of reviews, but it's crucial to do more than just glance at the number. Take a moment to read through them—or at least a few—to get the real scoop. Listen closely to what others say about sizing—whether the item runs large, small, or true to size. These candid reviews are priceless and help you gauge the fit better. And when websites allow customers to share photos, it's even more beneficial! Check out pictures from people with similar body shapes to yours—they're like a preview of how the clothes might look on you, almost like having someone else try them on for you.
Take note of the positive and negative reviews first.
Sorting through reviews can be overwhelming, but focusing on the best (5-star) and worst (1-star) ratings can make it easier. These reviews often come from people who are extremely passionate, and offer detailed insights. Scan for common pros and cons, size accuracy, material quality, and fit issues. Pay attention to whether reviewers mention if items run big, small, or true to size. Honest feedback like this is invaluable for understanding fit. Photos uploaded by customers, especially those with similar body shapes to yours, provide a visual preview of how the garment might look on you—it's like having someone try it on for you!
Consider the fabric or material used.
Remember, not all materials are equally forgiving. When choosing clothes, consider both the measurements and the fabric type—it can make a big difference in how you fit into them.
For instance, denim without elastane will feel stiff at first and will need some breaking in. On the flip side, jeans with elastane (spandex or Lycra) offer more stretch, giving you more leeway in choosing the right size. Other materials to look out for are polyester, which is resistant to shrinking, and cotton, which can shrink and stretch out over time.
When in doubt, size up.
When you're unsure about sizing or find yourself between sizes, playing it safe by choosing a size up is smart. It's easier to adjust to a slightly larger garment than deal with one that's too small, especially if you're hoping to avoid returns. Plus, you can make any necessary alterations if you're handy with a needle or just take the piece to a tailor. Having a bit of extra space makes altering clothes much easier and more cost-effective than trying to add fabric to a small garment later on.
As much as possible, stay loyal to a brand.
Unfortunately, size 10 shorts from one brand are not the exact same size 10 at other brands. To ensure a perfect fit when shopping online, stick to brands you trust and know your size well. Keep a record of sizes that fit you perfectly, like those jeans that fit just right. This handy cheat sheet in your phone or email drafts will make selecting the right size a breeze every time you shop with that retailer.
If you already know what size works best for you in a particular brand, you can use an online tool, which will give you comparable sizing at other brands. Just enter your go-to size and the results will crank out for other brands.
Know a store's return policy.
Even if you've followed all these tips for what seems like a perfect fit, sometimes the size or look isn't quite right when your order arrives. Check the store's return policy—it can make a huge difference between a smooth return and being stuck with something you probably won't use. Free returns are a lifesaver because who wants to pay for shipping back and forth, right? But a policy that gives you some time to deliberate on your purchase before returning is key, especially if you need time to send it back.
Make Online Shopping a Breeze!
By keeping these tips in mind, you can make your online shopping experience much more enjoyable and reduce the hassle of returns. Remember, finding the perfect fit is a mix of knowing your measurements, understanding the materials, and being aware of the brand's sizing nuances.