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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

Smart Online Shopping Tips to Dodge Regret

In this digital age, online shopping is a breeze. Just a few clicks, wait a bit (depending on the site’s delivery policy), and voilà - your latest find is on its way to your doorstep.

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But beware: online shopping has its pitfalls, especially when it comes to quality. There's no absolute assurance that what you see is what you’ll get, as images are often enhanced to look as appealing as possible. Knowing a bit about different clothing materials and construction can help, but for those of us who are true online shopping enthusiasts, here are a few tried-and-true tips to help sidestep regret when that package arrives!


Avoid Certain Items Altogether

Everyday basics like socks and underwear are usually safe bets - just pick your usual size, and the stretch factor means a bit of wiggle room.

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But for pricier investments like wool coats, full suits, or anything that gives you pause, it's better to try on in person. This is the Achilles’ heel of online shopping - no trying before buying. And let’s not get started on the hassle of returns.

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When it comes to suits, for instance, fit is paramount. A well-fitting budget suit will beat a high-end one that’s too loose or too tight. Once you’ve committed to a poorly fitting suit, even the best tailors may not be able to salvage it.

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There are only two good reasons to buy a suit online: you’re replacing an identical one, or you’ve already tried it on thoroughly in a store.


Know Your Size, and Double-Check It

Get measured, if possible, by a professional or someone who knows what they’re doing. Record key measurements - like height, chest, waist, sleeve length, and neck circumference - somewhere you can easily reference (your phone, laptop, notebook, etc.).

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Most brands, like Zara, have size guides that convert sizes across countries and provide specific measurements in centimeters.


Before buying, make it a habit to check the brand’s Size Guide and see how it aligns with your own measurements. For example, a chest measurement of 91-96cm would typically mean a size S shirt from Asos.


Measure Your Best-Fitting Clothes

Take a tape measure to the clothes in your closet that fit you best. This is one of the most reliable ways to find sizing accuracy. If you’re eyeing a shirt from J Crew but aren’t sure about their sizing, measure an existing shirt you love. Lay it flat and measure the collar, sleeve length, shoulder width, and length from collar to hem, and compare it to the brand’s size guide.

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Models Can Be Misleading

A denim jacket might look amazing in the lookbook on a 6-foot model with a tailored fit, but real life is a different story.

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Who’s to say that, during an H&M photoshoot, there isn’t one or two (or maybe even more) hidden clips behind this "style icon" to perfect the look?


Brands often use garment clips or other tricks to make clothes fit models snugly. These clips tighten any loose areas, creating a flattering, slim-fit look that may not match the garment’s actual fit.

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So, beware of flawless lookbook images - they’re designed to tempt you, but not necessarily to give you a true-to-life preview.


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