9 Useful Tips To Avoid Making Mistakes When Buying Clothing Online
Was this embroidered boho dress a mistake?
I bought this dress and booties way back on Black Friday on super sale from an online retailer.
I’m not proud of myself.
To be honest, I don’t think it was worth it.
Yes the dress is all hippie dippy trippy, sheer with embroidery, a funky boho style that I’m drawn to but let’s be clear…it isn’t vintage.
After I bought this from an online store called SheIn (fast fashion! Boo!) I saw the exact same dress available at Zara. Did Zara copy their version or did they copy theirs? All I know is that I supported fast fashion which makes me ill (I had a mad moment of weakness!) and the probability of running into someone wearing the same dress (the horror!) is much higher than I would like.
The quality of the dress isn’t great. It came with snags on it already and quite a bit of the embroidery is pulled or threads are coming loose. It still looks pretty from a distance, but these things matter to me even when I buy on sale. Also I worry that should I try to wash it the whole thing will simply fall apart.
The velvet booties I don’t regret.
They are comfy and the chances of finding deep burgundy velvet booties like this via vintage or secondhand shopping in my size with a low heel and in good shape are zero, so I won’t flog myself over the booties.
This dress requires another dress/slip underneath. It also doesn’t define my waist and normally I don’t care for that silhouette on me but I think slowly I may be shifting towards a more forgiving sense of personal style.
Might be because I’m having a fat day year.
Since I bought the dress online there was no chance of sending it back.
Shipping, customs and duty in Canada are all far too expensive to consider returning items bought online from overseas.
We’ll see just how much I regret purchasing this dress depending on how often I wear it.
I worry about snagging it already. I was terrified that Zoë would jump up and snag it.
I’m not often lured into the vortex of retail consumption as I choose to focus my efforts on secondhand clothing that doesn’t carry as much guilt.
I’m not perfect though and sometimes I succumb to temptation.
Like my favourite author says, “I can resist everything but temptation.” – Oscar Wilde
Some Online Purchases I Don’t Regret
Last year temptation took over when I bought this Mod Cloth dress which I love and have worn often, recently to the blogger meet-up in Phoenix. It’s my vespa dress.
I bought this vintage dress online through Etsy and I am very happy with it.
Another Regrettable Online Purchase
I bought some gorgeous booties just after Christmas that I never got a chance to wear or feature on my blog from Anthropologie.
I should have looked a bit more carefully at the manufacturer and done some research on their European sizing.
They were meant to fit a child’s foot. I tried stretching them out but nothing worked. I was like Cinderella’s cranky step sister trying to squeeze my plump feet into some delicate tiny velvet booties. When my feet hurt everything hurts and I turn into a nastier version of Gordon Ramsay.
I had to take the beautiful booties back to the store and swallow the extra $60 I paid in shipping, taxes and duty. Not cool. Now someone with petite baby feet in Oakville is walking around wearing a pair of booties that I partially paid for. I choose to look at it as “Paying it forward” rather than failing at online shopping.
Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.
I’m not a huge online shopper but I’m going to share a few of the tricks I’ve learned through my limited experiences on how to shop successfully online.
Useful Tips To Avoid Making Mistakes When Buying Online
1. Measure yourself properly with a tape measure.
Sizing is much easier to choose correctly when you have your own measurements to compare with those indicated online.
2. Pay attention to the fabric contents.
The ModCloth dress was cotton with a bit of Spandex. The other dress is sheer polyester, basically night and day in terms of quality and fit.
3. Be a bit flexible on the colour.
Each computer monitor is calibrated a bit differently and we all choose our own level of brightness on our screens not to mention that photos don’t always reflect the exact colour of the garment.
4. Make sure the item is lined if you are buying a skirt or dress.
The Mod Cloth dress has a cotton skirt inside that adds to the flare of the dress and keeps me cool. The other dress required my own shift dress underneath.
5. Check the store’s return policies for your country.
If you live in the US often manufacturers have a much better return policy for you than for those of us located outside of the States. You could wind up losing shipping costs, duty and taxes like I did.
6. Read the product reviews.
I’ve stopped myself from buying quite a few retail items online that looked cute in the photos and then had horrible reviews.
7. Research online for reviews of the retailer.
Not all online retailers are created equally. Some have great customer service some have no customer service. Do a bit of research before you hand over your credit card number.
8. Only use an online site with a secure certificate.
This means they have paid for additional security to protect your credit card information.
9. Research the manufacturing company regarding sizing.
I should have done this for my booties. I would have realized that the manufacturer has notoriously small sizing.
Do you have any personal tips for shopping online that you’d care to share?
Have you bought anything online and regretted the purchase? If so, what was it and why didn’t it work for you?
Linking up with Turning Heads Tuesday
Apparently this dress has irresistible charm for all who love Boho, embroidery and that floaty feminine vibe.
Ann Krembs of Krembdelakremb featured this dress on her blog just last week. She had originally seen it at Zara for beaucoup bucks and patiently waited for the price to drop. She later found and purchased it from Zaful for a far more reasonable price. I was then moved to shop for it there and got it for that same better price. Now, here you are my dearest Suzanne! Perhaps the fact that you are among a “sisterhood of those seduced by a pretty dress” will give some solace?
I’ve been a sucker for embroidery all my life. In this case is “the devil in the details?”
DANG!!!!
Do you want to know the type of person I am? This is enough reason for me to never want to wear that dress again.
I have a *thing* about wearing something everyone else is wearing. Phobia might be the correct word. It turns me off in the greatest sense. This is probably why I adore vintage so much and wasn’t sure about the dress to begin with. I should never have bought it.
My phobia may stem from a Trade Show I did where I was wearing a dress from H&M (I know!) and then I had someone walk in my booth wearing the exact same dress. There I was, trying to dress the part of unique artist and someone else was wearing the same piece as me. I think that may have been when I decided to stop shopping at H&M and start shopping full time vintage. I should have stuck with that plan. Lesson learned.
You, Ann and myself could now be a singing group…we already have the matching outfits.
Hey! I’m a pretty good singer!
I understand your penchant for uniqueness. I also admire and appreciate your personal style as well as Ann’s so a part of me is delighted to be included in , “women I love who love the dress”.
Fashion is a very important aspect of our creativity and self expression. Few people want to be “carbon copies” except for 90% of 14 and 15 year olds. You are thrilled when your followers LOVE your look right? Are you extra thrilled when you know they can’t replicate that look? I don’t think that could be defined as elitist but these are interesting ideas to think about (?????)
Also, retailers are COUNTING ON the fact that many women will seek to emulate what they see their favorite bloggers wearing. I know that you are NOT a part of that kind of thinking. Again, ideas to ponder…
OK. What’s are moniker?
How about “the reluctantly trending trio?”
I’ve thought about this and it reminds me of when I used to teach scrapbooking. I would prepare the project and then all of my students would diligently follow along insisting on creating the EXACT SAME page as myself. I tried as hard as I could to get them to make it their own. I’d teach them the methods in hopes that they would then run with their new found abilities and create something entirely unique that reflects themselves, not a carbon copy of what I’d created. I try to do the same on my blog.
I was delighted when you took that embroidered patch DIY and made it your own on a leather jacket. The inspiration came from me but you made it your own. That thrills me.
I also feel that if I’m wearing the “it” dress of the moment then I have failed my blog readers. If I am having the same conversation and wearing the same thing as every other blogger why should people bother reading my blog? I strive to have a different perspective. Often times the easiest way to broaden people’s minds is to focus on vintage or secondhand pieces as it forces one to think outside of what is currently being flogged by the stores, marketing and so many other bloggers.
I feel too often that many blogs promote the same items and it feels like we are offering free advertising to huge companies that in turn are becoming rich while destroying the planet.
I freely admit that I am thrilled to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces or DIY a one-of-a-kind piece. Am I an elitist? I would argue probably not, as I wouldn’t in turn offer those same pieces for sale to the public in my Etsy store, rather I would hoard them all for myself. I like to share my love of unique pieces with the world. I want each of us to feel special with our clothing choices.
Thanks for your great comment on this Jude. I love it when I can have an authentic discussion that makes me reflect on myself and the choices I make.
My ears were burning so I thought I’d come over and weigh in! Hi Jude and hello Suzanne. This is my first time commenting on your blog. (I read the previous post to this one as well and may go comment over there as well as that article along with the comments sparked an interest for me.) Jude, who is just amazing, dropped me a line. That’s how my ears were burning.
I had such a different experience with this dress. I watched it at Zara, but I could never pay its full price. I hemmed and hawed because I thought it would be the perfect tunic to take on my travels through India over Christmas. But then, I was like, “No Ann, just buy a beautiful tunic in India!” I never did find a tunic to purchase on our travels–don’t worry, I did manage to purchase plenty!!
On my travels in India, I then saw the beauty Carmen Gimeno in this tunic , and that’s when I really started kicking myself. For me, she’s an icon, and I’ll get into my copy catting tendencies later. Anyway, I thought maybe I should have just splurged. Then! As luck would have it, when we were traveling home to Hong Kong, I stopped in a Zara in Kuala Lumpur. The tunic was on major sale–I scooped it up instantly. I didn’t even try it on. I was able to get it for a fraction of the original price. I love this, all of it. I loved that I wanted it and held off. I love that I wished I would have gotten it–especially when I saw it on Carmen. And then I especially loved it when it was waiting for me at KL’s Zara, just waiting for me to pick it up.
And now, I found it on Zaful–maybe where you got it. I think Zaful and Shein and there’s another one Zalora, I think they make knock offs of what’s at Zara OR they get the rejects. Something’s going on though as they are all based out of China, so they have access to the patterns of a high street house like Zara. I feel honored that I inspired Jude to get it. That makes me feel so great! I’ve done what Carmen did for me. If I can inspire anyone, I will feel like a successful blogger.
Granted, I don’t like having the same thing on as someone else. No way! But I feel I have very unique style so even if it were to happen, I would wear and carry it different. And, I am such a copy catter. If I see something on somone, or see a trend on someone that I like, I hurry out and try to get it–before anyone else. I like to be the first if I can be. I like to be the trendsetter. I guess being a copy catter wouldn’t prove me as one, but there are a couple of people I follow that I notice what they’re doing and try to do it as well promptly after.
I do appreciate vintage and vintage bloggers. I find I rarely am able to fit into vintage clothing. My boobs are too big!! I do have luck at charity shops and love going to them. I especially love using those stores for all my DIY projects.
For what it’s worth, I think this tunic dress looks beautiful on you. I wonder if there’s something you could do to it to make it feel your own. It looks stunning with your hair!
Thanks for joining me into the convo Jude. You’re the best!
Love, Ann from Kremb de la Kremb
PS Here’s the post with my new tunic in KL and here’s the tunic as I wore it to work this week.
Hi Ann, Thanks for stopping by. I read your post yesterday thanks to Jude.
A while back I followed your blog and used to comment as well, I think you do some pretty cool DIYs.
I appreciate the differences between us and our choices.
I think an even more precise way of explaining my point would be to ask this question,
“When you see three bloggers wearing the same dress what will you remember? The blogger/person or the dress?”
I strive to create a memorable impression when I choose my clothes. This time around because I was tempted by fast fashion I failed.
This dates back to me working as an artist full time and trying to leave an indelible impression with the buyers I would meet at trade shows. I wanted them to remember me and associate me with my work.
This is my personal quirk. I don’t begrudge those that like to wear what others are wearing, it’s just not for me.
It is a shame you haven’t found much vintage clothing that fits you. I’m also rather top heavy but still find and also sell quite a few vintage pieces in my Etsy store that would fit a larger chest. They had all shapes of women back then too ; ) Don’t give up on vintage! It rarely disappoints when it comes to quality and timeless style.
This thread has really got me thinking : )
Another reason I wouldn’t be happy about inspiring someone to purchase this dress is because it is fast fashion and I am very much against supporting or marketing for fast fashion.
I’d hate to think that I inspired someone (especially with my poor review of the dress) to go out and buy it.
Best conversation ever, with much food for thought! THANK YOU Marilee (Jude?), Ann, and Suzanne!
Suzanne, what you said about your scrapbooking workshop and everyone copycatting? I see it happen so often in online creative courses and it drives me batty! It’s like the participants become zombies with no creative soul.
Also, if I see 3 bloggers in the same garment, I’ll remember the garment over the bloggers.
I *knew* you’d understand Anne!
What is it about taking a class that makes people loose their creativity?
Maybe they fear doing it “wrong” — from bad art teachers from their past? I still remember a comment from a HS instructor that my trees looked like cabbages AND SHE DREW ON MY PIECE TO “CORRECT” IT. I was SO angry. Well, I still am! I continue to draw cabbage trees. So there, Mrs. Burdis.
Oh that is a sad story! From an ART teacher no less. I’m glad you didn’t let it deter you. People have no idea how that can destroy a person’s confidence.
Oh, no. I was 14 and unstoppable.
I recognise this dress Suzanne!
Zara I think…. and it is pretty.
But, I hear you loud and clear.
Regret sucks!!
My only extra shopping tip would be to put the item in the virtual basket then go away and do something else.
{Wait a day, if possible!}
If it’s all you can think about, and are desperate to get back to computer to hit the “buy” button, then get it…. if not then “remove from basket” and move on.
As for mistakes, we all make them (I make loads!!) but you can re-home and gift and re-cycle.
This dress is a popular one and may be poorly made but it has made you appreciate your vintage gems all the more.
So MAYBE it was a good purchase after all??
XXX
Samantha
I agree…it truly does make me appreciate vintage all the more and hopefully it will “cure” any online temptation for a while.
I love your tip as it is something that I often do! I need to add it to my list. Thanks!
Oh none of us are perfect, we all succumb to buying something we shouldn’t now and again despite vintage, fair-trade, eco-friendly, individualistic, slow-fashion intentions!
My tip with online shopping is to give them hell and demand free return shipping and a full refund if the product is not as advertised. I have had dresses turn up that are 2 dress sizes bigger than the size chart specifies. Not my error, why should I pay for it? Some online retailers are very lazy with the information on their sites.
I’m glad you’re keeping the velvet boots! Xx
Yes, I believe the dress will find another home in the future but the booties are actually comfy so they are keepers : )
I’ve never had that kind of experience with online shopping but like you I’d raise Hell.
I feel your pain….just this morning I tried on my latest eBay dress and realised it was a horror. It’s nice quality and has labels attached but is YEARS old and looks really fuddy duddy on me. Thanks for the tips – I often get a rush of blood to the head when shopping on eBay or Etsy!
Gail
http://www.isthismutton.com
Don’t you just hate that? Did you send it back?
I agree that I also feel a bit of a buzz when shopping online. I think it must be like what gambling addicts feel. I’m glad I don’t partake very often.
Reading through your post and the comments that followed, I can’t add anything to your tips for online shopping. They really are comprehensive and I follow all of them religiously, especially: knowing my measurements, getting to know the reputation of the manufacturer’s quality and sizing trends, and reading product reviews. Excellent post all the way around.
As for your dress, it is lovely but I also understand your push-back on it simply because of how many other people have access to it. One of Jude’s comments made me think deeper about this desire to have something unique and, knowing you, I know it’s not about being elitist or wanting something all to yourself. It’s about being an artist, which is always separate from the norm, always seeking self-expression. It is also about being an inspiration to others, even if that’s not your stated goal. You don’t want your readers to go out and duplicate what you’ve created. You want others to see what you’ve created and learn the particular methods you used to create your look, pattern-mixing, for example. And then they can go out and create their own masterpieces with that inspiration. Would you say that’s accurate?
Give Miss Zoe a snuggle from me–but first put on something more Zoe appropriate so as not to get snags! 🙂
Hugs,
Sherry
Ahhh…this is why I like you so much Sherry. You “get” me. You really “get” me ; P
The dress looks beautiful in the photos, and I can see why you were drawn to it. But I also completely understand your regret. I ordered a jacket from SheIn last year (really more out of curiosity than anything else), and, while it is not terrible, it’s not the best quality. The color is quite different than what it looked like on my screen. And I know it’s not going to be one of those jackets that will be in my closet for 10+ years and be worn countless times. And that fact makes me even more sad…
I’ve been buying a lot less in the last year and only items I truly love. I have so many items in my closet (many of them 10+ years old), but they are still in good shape, and I can remix them into countless outfits. And that’s what I’m focusing on more and more.
Too bad the floral booties didn’t fit – they are a dream!
I truly was disappointed about those darn booties. And losing $60. They were so pretty.
It is interesting to hear that you were also disappointed with the quality of SheIn.
Another thing this dress made me consider is that Zara likes to advertise that it creates all of its own designs that are then offered for a limited time only in their stores. It seems that this has changed or is no longer true as this same dress is being offered in so many other fast fashion online stores.
I applaud you wearing items that are 10+ years old. It shows that you knew what you were doing when you bought them in the first place.
Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose. LOVE the velvet booties. My first experiences buying women’s clothes were online (due to fear of shopping in person), so I attest to your observations and concur with your advice.
I shop almost exclusively online and tend to stick to brands I know. I will never buy from overseas vendors like SheIn because I know I would be so disappointed with the quality. Bummer that this dress didn’t work out for you but it looks great in these pictures.
Alice
IG: @happinessatmidlife.com
I’m so sorry to hear that you regret your purchase! It is for your reasons here, that I rarely ever buy clothing online- as the few times I have, I was so unhappy with the purchases. Either it cost so much in shipping/import fees etc. that it wasn’t worth the price, or it ended up being poor quality (which I would have noticed if I’d seen it in person), or it just didn’t suit me like I thought it would. And then it’s impossible to return the item because of shipping etc. So- I mainly thrift shop now, or make my own clothes (with the odd new purchase here and there).
I love your blog because you do have such a unique style, and you don’t blindly follow the trends. That being said, there is nothing wrong with loving something that is currently very popular too. Even if you gave the same item to a whole bunch of bloggers, they would all wear it differently.
I hope that you do get some wear out of this dress, despite the fact that it was an impulse buy 🙂
-Nicole
The Artyologist
I love that dress and how it looks on you. Could have bought it myself.
I understand your reasons for sticking to vintage and good for you that you usually can and do.
Both in Holland (apart from a few big cities, like Amsterdam) as in Singapore, vintage shopping and thrifting is not a real option. 1. There are not a lot of thrift stores, 2. the ones that are there have secondhand stuff, not a lot of vintage, 3. the prices are nowhere near as low as you seem to have in Canada and the USA, 4. if it is really vintage, then it probably is size S or XS (while I’m size L).
We don’t have estate sales either.
I love to shop online. Only with multi-brand companies that deliver (and pick-up returns) for free. That way there is no risk involved and no cost if I don’t want the item after all.
In Holland, when you buy an item in the store, often you cannot return it and get your money back. That’s why I’m a big fan of online shopping.
That is ridiculous that you cannot return items to retail stores! They can be a bit like that in France too. They seem to be missing some of the customer service that we take for granted in North America.
sorry about the sheer dress quality, it looks beautiful!, but that happens sometimes when you buy online, the fabric is not exactly what you expected, or the colors are strange!. However, I’ve also got caught in their shiny web pages and bought their cheap clothes! (shame on me!!).
I think that reading another customer’s reviews on sizing and quality is the best advice ever, sometimes those reviews are Gold!. And I don’t like to buy outside EU, as taxes are kinda absurd, so Modcloth is like a dream for me!
Your ‘vespa dress’ is fabulous indeed, and I love that eye brooch you’ve worn with it, that surrealist touch is brilliant!
besos
I have to say that I love the shape of that dress on you, it looks absolutely brilliant with the beret and the boots but, like you, I have an absolute horror of meeting someone in the same dress as me – hence the reason I’ll only wear vintage clothes.
A fellow trader has (I think) the Zara version of this dress in cream and from a distance it’s gorgeous. I’m not keen on the fabric close up, it feels a bit like a fishing net.
When I shop on-line it’s pretty much always from eBay and always vintage. I’ll have a budget of no more than a tenner, that way if it’s not good on me I can sell it on and still turn a profit.
I have bought a couple of pairs of boots from Topshop’s on-line sales this winter but, as I’ve bought from them before I know that the sizes run true and they’re going to fit. xxx
Dear Suzanne, I really liked the tips and one more, as you asked, I would add – although you mentioned it along the post. For the person to check the customs fees, that can be really huge. Over all, I liked the dress, but as you said, it’s “fast fashion”, from a dress from Zara and you regretted that you bought it. By the way, Zoe is such a gem, super sweet picture! I must say that I love the boots, because I have the same – maybe not the same brand, but same color and heel height. Waiting for a special occasion to wear it, so, I am biased to compliment it – obviously I adored them and the way you wore them now is very beautiful, you always look wow! and beautiful! I would like to apologize for not having explained my latest post, I feel so bad since yesterday. I pointed out that it was men and women and I never said we should smile to keep friends around, we should smile just when we feel like, of course! I just wanted to show that we shouldn’t judge people, and even more, that it doesn’t mean that by having a “serious” face that people should be seen as unfriendly. The problem is that I try to keep posts as short as possible and then I don’t explain important things. I even feel a bit bad now that I always smile for pictures – it’s “inherent”, I see a camera and I smile 🙂 But I do it, cause it’s the way I am. Also, when I finish my posts saying “hope you have a week of smiles” I mean “a good weekend”, but I liked that way, but now I feel people may not like it. I am really really sorry, feeling really bad. Hope I could explain myself in a better way! Hope you have a very lovely weekend! Bisous!
DenisesPlanet.com
Very sensible advice, Suzanne.
I bought a grey kimono jacket from Shein for the equivalent of £18.00 free PP. It was horrible on, cheap looking and badly finished. I also at the same time bought a thick caramel coloured cardigan and that was fine.
When I was looking for a dress to wear to a Christmas do, I found on online; it was actually very nice on but I found another nice one in a charity shop and sent the online one back – again free PP. At the same time as the dress online I spotted, what looked like a gorgeous African print maxi skirt which I paid £12.00.
OMG, it was hideous! The material was the same as umbrellas are made out of and the sizing was for dolls! I had taken very careful note of the sizing on the website and ordered accordingly. I told them I wanted to return it because it was too small and the material was horrible. I was refunded immediately and they have never asked me to return the item….
Being spoiled for choice with vintage shops in my home town, I rarely buy anything Online, so your tips will come in useful next time I take the plunge. It’s been a while since I was tempted by fast fashion, but believe me, I will be again one day. I guess it happens to all of us. When I do, I’m not proud of myself either, and I’m almost always disappointed with the quality. Such a shame about those booties, though … xxx
I’ve continued to think about this discussion thread and have reached an additional conclusion about following your blog and on another level Melanie’s (Bag&Beret) blog.
You’ve bother given me a degree of “fashion courage” that I didn’t have quite as much of previously. I’m thinking outside the box like I’ve always done but I’ve got more guts, more attitude, more in your face confidence about the looks I love.
I thank you both for that. Hoping Melanie will see this too.
Fashion On Garth!! =-)
Yes, I see this. Heh. I’m really happy that I’ve given you courage and helped boost your ‘tude. Hey, it’s just clothes, right? Thanks, Marilee.
“You betcha!” Remember, I’m from Minnesota =-)
By the way, I really love the phrase “boost your tude”!!!
Like Mel wrote…it’s just clothes but it can make us feel special.
Melanie is a great example of someone that would be virtually impossible to replicate. She farks over 50% of the clothes she wears just so she can be different and stand out from the crowd. We love that about her.
So happy you are feeling more at ease with expressing yourself in any way you see fit Jude. When I met you I felt you already have great confidence and brilliant style that suited you and your personality perfectly.
I actually think the comments were almost as interesting as the post. Because it really brings up more of a personal preference. While some women clamor to buy the same items because they are “in style”, there are the artists, (like yourself, Suzanne) would want to be unique!
So in my thinking—this dress is such a colorful, almost artsy dress (which is probably why you were drawn to it). And those of us who are definitely NOT artists, long for that look—which is why we love to copy things—down to every last detail.
I always said this is why I was a good cosmetic dentist—I have a small (very small) art talent (not really even talent, but a love) and can copy pretty well. So I could recreate a front tooth when it had been broken. But luckily I didn’t have to reinvent the wheel and figure out what shape looked best or what value of composite to use! I simply copied it’s neighbor tooth!!
So. let me help you out with that dress Suzanne!! Next time we meet (because I certainly hope we will), I will be happy to take this dress off your hands! See what a good friend I can be? ha ha!!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Jodie, you crack me up! (Please don’t take my “copycat” remark at the top thread personally).
Colorado meetup, anyone?
If I still have it hanging around it is yours Jodie : )
The first time I saw this dress somewhere I sighed – it was so beautiful. I think I even saw something similar in a Gucci shop quite a while ago, so who knows where the original started. I like it on you but if you don’t feel it, and clearly you don’t now, hahaha, get rid of it! Bah-bye!
I am pretty laissez faire when it comes to people wearing the same outfits. I never understood that whole “who wore it better” thing. I don’t buy fast fashion – I only shop in very high end stores (window shop, heh), and thrift shops, well, at least 95% of the time. And I don’t buy clothes online – I like the hunt and dislike the postage.
Clearly some people love being in the high of a trend and others don’t. I usually don’t but sometimes get caught in one unawares. But guaranteed, there’s no way a trifling garment could ever overshadow your unique style and personality; I know that this inspires others.
Your shopping tips are spot on!
I’m sorry that the dress didn’t work out even thought it seemed so good on paper (er, screen?).
I haven’t yet found the secret to avoiding buyers remorse no matter how much I initially wanted something before I bought it. Sometimes those on-a-whim thrifted items become your all time favorites, and sometimes you can’t stand the sight of them after a week. If there was just some way I could look into the future to know if I’d love something in the long run, that’d be great! 😉
Regardless, it’s a cute dress from far away and your styling is super rad!
Hannah | The Outfit Repeater
Suzanne, this boho inspired dress is such a temptress! I’ve seen it and similar ones on a few blogs recently and found one on ASOS for £130 which really made me stop and think. I can completely understand you falling for its charms and do sympathise. You may be lucky and find that it doesn’t deteriorate too badly. And you may well wear it enough to justify the purchase.
As for those fab booties… well of course they’re adorable, but what a bummer that they didn’t fit! I suppose we live and learn is all that you can say.
Thanks for all your tips. Some of these are so obvious, but there seems to be a rush of blood to the brain that makes us forget simple things such as checking measurements before we buy.
I’m currently on a shopping detox until April (when I next go to the mainland) and am resorting to that old favourite of “shopping my closet”. Wish me luck!
Anna x
http://www.annasislandstyle.com
I will admit I was a little bit disappointed that you didn’t jump into the conversations a bit more with a clear opinion about how you feel about wearing the same outfit as other bloggers.
Best of luck with the shopping ban. You have quite the closet to choose from though.
Heck, I’m gutted that you’ve used the word disappointed! As a striver, people pleaser, well this is a major disaster.
To be honest I really felt there is nothing original that I could have added to the argument Suzanne. I totally understand that horrible moment of seeing someone in the same outfit as you. I remember going to an island wedding here many years ago and two of the local ladies turned up wearing the same dress (online shopping) but, give them their due, they laughed it off and stood together for the entire day.
Like you, I hate fast fashion, but I know it would be totally dishonest of me to say I don’t buy from the high street. My meagre defence is that I have such a limited time to shop over the course of a year (maybe 10 days in total) that I’m driven to buy what I love, where I see it. I tend to avoid online shopping if I can, but that puts me under pressure to find everything I need for an entire year on the few odd times I’m away. My preference is vintage, followed by thrifting and if things don’t go well with those then I will resort to good ol’ H&M, Tesco or wherever. I realise you’re more of a purist than me, and that’s why you’re busy beating yourself with a very large stick. And hey, I’ve done the same too, many times.
As for the role of blogger as influencing your readership and your desire to be original, well you truly are. But you’re also human too, and we love you for that. In your book you made a mistake and have been generous enough to share your thoughts and feelings about that as well as giving a host of tips for us other poor saps in case we get sucked in too.
Buying second hand as opposed to vintage means that clothes will probably come from the mainstream (high street fashion) and therefore lack originality. My way of tackling that comes down to styling with quirky pieces to add my own personality. That’s what I think my readers like to see – the ideas, the new vantage point that they might never have considered themselves and this is what you excel at too (as does Melanie and Sheila). So even though you succumbed to that scrappy version of a beautiful gauzy, floral delight of a tunic, you did it with your own flair – by simply adding those velvet ankle boots.
So scrape me up from the floor honey, and tell me I’ve redeemed myself. I like to think some of your shine can rub off on me Suzanne, but only if I’m brought back in from the cold x
Anna
I’m so happy you came back and offered up your opinion Anna! I really value it and you most certainly did have something to add to the conversation, just as I thought you would.
I associate your style to be truly artistic so I wanted to know what you felt about this topic as I believe you strive (and succeed) to look unique, creative and stand out from the crowd.
I love it when as bloggers we can go beyond the statements, “cute boots” to something that is a bit more heartfelt that deals with issues larger than our closets.
Real conversations about the choices we are making in life give me the fuel to continue blogging.
You inspire me and that is why your opinion was so important to me in this conversation.
Thanks lady!
This was a good call Suzanne. Sometimes I end up crusing, free-wheeling through a post without committing to the thread.
BTW I hate those one-liners too, as I always try to give value for money with my comments.
You’re an inspiration to me and all of your readers, no matter what you wear. Try a bin-liner one day – we’ll hang on your every word as to how you applied those paper flowers and dazzling sequins!
Hugs to you x
Anna
http://www.annasislandstyle.com
I have enjoyed reading the comment thread — lots of food for thought. The tunic is pretty, but it is one of those items that has such a strong look in itself that it is difficult to style so that it looks different on someone else. It’s very pretty, but honestly, I like the way your vespa dress looks on you better.
I don’t buy clothing online – the only time I did, I had to return it because the measurements were not what was advertised. I want to see the material and feel it before I wear something.
80% of my stuff is purchased secondhand, and I’ve never seen anyone wearing the same thing that I’ve found at a thrift store. The only time I’ve had that happen was at a fashion show, and I was wearing a black dress I had purchased at the only store where I buy retail, and another woman my age was wearing the same dress (which she purchased at the same store). However, we had each styled it differently, with our own unique accessories, and we were quite tickled to see each other’s outfits. I would never want to be in a room with someone else who was wearing the exact same outfit as I was, but chances are that will never happen.
I never thought it would happen to me either but when I shopped at H&M (a long time ago) it did, and right when I didn’t want it to happen, at a trade show.
When more than once person wears the same outfit I think it becomes more of, “who wore it best?”
At least I know I’m not alone in not wanting to be promoting or wearing the same thing as everyone else.
Wow – what an interesting post, and the comments are just as interesting. Suzanne, one of the things that draws me to your blog is your creativity and artistic style. Every one of your outfits is like a piece of art. It doesn’t bother me to see you in a dress that others might be wearing, because you always add your personal flair to every outfit. I have to agree with Jodie – I am much better at copying than I am at coming up with creative ideas on my own. Sadly, I have never been much of an artist myself.
I admit to doing quite a bit of my shopping online. While I love thrift shop/vintage shopping, it’s hard to find the time right now.
I continue working on trying to refine my personal style. It’s definitely a bit cookie cutter and boring, but it’s what fits with my life right now. As always, I love your blog – both your photos and the writing that accompanies them.
Lesson learned by me: If the model is a cute little Korean woman pay SUPER extra close to the sizing. An asian 2X is an American size 12. Also that could mean it’s coming straight from Asia which means you might not be getting your item for up to two months. I
What a story! I totally understand that you only want to wear unique pieces! And you all find these incredible beautiful items! Yesterday I saw this amazing thrift Diane con Fürstenberg wrap blouse! That is something that you never will find here in the Netherlands.
I just saw your FB post about your regret for buying this dress, so I had to come over and find out why. Of course in the pix it looks lovely. But it’s a shame it has so many condition issues. I think it’s only fair the company should reimburse for shipping charges both ways so you can send it back. It’s really on them if they didn’t make sure it was damage free before sending.
As far as the fast fashion regret, I totally get you there. I’ve made a point of never giving my hard earned money to FF chains anymore. For numerous reasons, including the poor quality. That doesn’t mean I haven’t made that mistake in the past. So don’t beat yourself up. Everyone has buyer’s remorse at one time or another. Just consider it a learning experience.
Regarding someone being at the same event in the same outfit, I can honestly say, I’ve never had that happen. But I can certainly imagine your horror. The upside is, the experience helped to cultivate that fabulous unique style sense you now have.
I think that has much to do with why you,enjoy the vintage business. The options for more creative ways to dress (rather than what’s selling at the nearest mall) and the chance to share that passion with others was too irresistible! I know it was for me. You not only talk the talk, but walk the walk, when it comes to your style beliefs. So don’t let a little mishap like this FastFash dress purchase bum you out.
Can you maybe do something to it to make it look a bit different,so you’ll feel better about it? Cut it shorter and wear as a blouse or tunic over leggings? Cut it up the front and wear as a duster? I’m sure Melanie could come up with some exciting ways to “fark” with it!
Your online shopping tips are great, btw. Tape measure is a must have and I have been trying to educate my customers about this for years. So many returns could be avoided if women would just get themselves this one little item and learn how to use it. 85% of our returns are because customers did not measure themselves before hand, so they guessed at the size. What many online shoppers don’t realize is there is no size standardization in womens’ fashion. Every manufacturer or designer has their own set of pattern grading rules, and they can differ between styles. Measuring yourself and comparing to the company’s size chart is the best way to have any chance of avoiding the hassles of returning. Of course, all bets are off if the company is using some kind of generic size chart, like you see on Amazon. So it’s a good idea, if it’s a label you haven’t purchased before and don’t know how it will fit, to contact the seller for more information on how they get their size chart information. In our store, we actually measure every style that comes in, to ensure the size chart is correct.
Theresa
I absolutely love this dress Suzanne, but I feel you. I hate to support fast fashion. But we are not perfect and this dress is exceptional, even if it may snag easily. It is really gorgeous, and you might try a belt or a layer that pulls the waist in a bit to give it more shape. Too bad about the boots, they were gorgeous, too, but the velvet ones are brilliant!
When I shop on line, i always have backup plan win something does not fit, and there is no refund. I always have someone to give it too, I like your tips. One of my best strategies is buying 2 pairs of shoes that are inexpensive and comfy, swing I may never find them again, in my small size 5 feet , or children’s 3. When I shop online, the prices are very good, so it if doesn’t work for me, they it may fit my sister or friend.
I like Zulily.com, the prices are good, and they support smaller, lesser known brands.
Loved this post. and I adore that dress, so don’t lose any sleep over it!
xx, Elle
http://www.theellediaries.com/blog/
Loving the tips, about measuring yourself, and i try and follow the others. The dress , when it was on Zara, caught my eye, and I missed buying it when it was on sale.. then I too noticed it on zaful but decided not to take the chance on quality. You live and learn, but yeah, it stinks when you get it and looked forward to it! I loved those booties you returned, but you do have some fab ones that look great on here as well. I understand about vintage, that you have a unique creation, a story, and not so, with such new items you see on plenty of people…Enjoyed your tips!
thanks for linking up with turning heads tuesday
sorry so late to reply, its been one of those weeks!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
I read all the comments from Jude and Ann and Anne… different people, different views. Very entertaining, very instructive.
I don’t buy fast fashion. But that is also because I can afford to buy more expensive clothes. But I happily shop retail. Have to as our vintage stores are crap here. And my figure needs other shapes than what is available in vintage.
But I do like tour uniqueness. Not only in the way you dress but also in your writing. You are very funny. I have read many posts of you which I rearead because they were bloody good. My favourite one is the Yellow Skirt one. Gosh did that make me laugh.
As for the dress.. I do think it is lovely but I would add a belt if I had your figure.
Greetje