“You found that online didn’t you?…I can never find anything online!”

I cannot begin to tell you how many times I’ve heard the above statement. The world of online shopping can be a bit scary. Will it fit? Will it look like the picture? Is it well-made? Will it even show up? If you decide to order it and you don’t like it – will returning it be a nightmare?

I get it and I acknowledge it can be a little frightening.  The majority of my wardrobe is made up of online finds. There are a lot of options and unique items on the world wide web. I’ve been inspired by the people I know to share my tips for online shopping, so…here we go!

1. Be open-minded
2. Be patient
3. Read reviews
4. Utilize social media and friends
5. Take a chance
6. Have fun!

Be Open-Minded

I like to view online shopping as a combination of shopping in the mall and in stores like Marshall’s and TJ Maxx. When I go to the mall I have a specific item in mind, like a red blouse. When I go to Marshall’s and TJ Maxx I have a “let’s see what I find today” mindset.

Even though you can have a “let’s see what I find today” attitude in the mall – there are more selections and size options online than in most physical stores. Furthermore, there are numerous online stores that don’t have brick and mortar locations to visit that cater to fuller-figures. Additionally, there are some stores that you may not be able to get to like two I am falling in love with that are located in California; gsloveme.com and UniqueVintage.com.  Shopping online gives us the opportunity to purchase items that are thousands of miles away with just a click of a button from the comfort of home. How cool is that?

Be Patient

Being a beginner online shopper can be a little time consuming. I advise practicing some patience while locating your “go to” online sources. It will also take some time to learn how to phrase searches if you’re not accustomed to searching online. A great place to start is “women’s clothing” or “women’s plus size clothing.” These searches will provide a list of stores that you can browse through. You can even narrow your search by requesting “dresses” or “jeans”.

Read Reviews

One of the most useful tools for online shopping is customer reviews. In most cases, they provide honest feedback for the selected product. And some companies make the reviews beneficial for future buyers by asking for pros and cons like ELOQUII.com and Nodstrom.com.  Amazon.com will even send you a request to provide your thoughts on your purchases. Reviews typically provide information about fit, and quality and even return processes.

ELOQUII and Amazon happen to be my two FAVORITE online stores EVER! You should definitely give them a try.

Utilize Social Media and Friends

We live in a time where everything can be found on social media. There are apps like Fashom that highlight every day people and their every day styles. Users can post photos of their looks and where to find them. (You can find the Buxom Beauty there too!)

There is also Facebook and Instagram, which provide a plethora of sources for clothing. I actually learned of three designers on I.G.; Christian Omeshun, JIBRI, and KARI-LYN on Amazon.com. I have pieces from all three of these awesome designers – be on the lookout for my reviews!

Ask your friends about where they like to shop online and also consider following some fashionistas online.  And be sure to follow B.B. – I have no problem sharing my finds!

Take a Chance

Go ahead a take a chance on those pieces that you find. If you don’t like it you can return it, or give to someone who likes it, or donate  it for someone who needs it.

Have Fun!

Online shopping can be relaxing and enjoyable. I like to curl up on the couch or on my bed with one of my favorite snacks, good music, or Law & Order reruns. Make it a part of your “me time” and enjoy!

Crush those online shopping woes!

Until the next time be you, and most importantly – love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

-B.B.