3 Tips for Shopping Online

Guest blogger, fashion designer Nia Grain has some online shopping tips to share!

I have a confession. I am a former shopaholic, an online fashion stylist and I work for an online styling app- but I refuse to shop online! First of all, I'm a big girl who needs to try things on to see how fabrics stretch, feel and smell IN PERSON! Second of all, I'm impatient AF- if I give you money, I want my goods or services placed right in front of me immediately (main reason I stopped my magazine subscriptions too haha) and last but not least- I have been BURNED before by receiving the wrong item, or something else off that made me say #neveragain. 

But then I "met" Columbus, Ohio fashion designer, creator and blogger Nia Grain (@niagrain) on Instagram and she agreed to write a guest post with valuable tips on how to help your online shopping experience run smoothly and now I'm feeling safe enough to try to score a piece or two online- maybe...

Check for Safety and Read Reviews
First thing first when you initially click on a site you should always check for the green lock next to the url or web address. This is an added security feature between the client and server that will secure all information transmitted like credit card and login information for a safer shopping experience.​ To ensure you’re getting the best deal and a great product, always do a quick search of the company’s background (BBB), a price comparison and/or review of products. This will give you an idea of what to expect with your products and experience.

​Know Your Measurements
​If shopping for clothes online is your main go-to. It’s a good idea to have and keep your basic measurements updated. For dress and or skirts Bust, Waist, and Hips will be the main specifications you’ll need. If you don’t know your measurements, you can get them collected by your local seamstress for a nominal fee.

Give Yourself Time
I always see a lot of last minute shopping online. If the items you’re purchasing will be needed in a short period of time, be sure to check how your goods will be released. Will the item be made to order? Is the item ready to ship, will it be coming from over seas, and who will be the delivery carrier. If the item you’re are shopping for will be needed by a certain date, this is critical information to check for. Always and add a couple days just in case of an delay of shipping.

I have to admit that those are some really great tips!  Test out Nia's shopping tips for yourself by shopping at her online boutique where she sells a full line of custom made street couture, dresses, tops and jackets. Also be sure to check out her blog as well, and let me know if you have any more tips or suggestions to add in the comments below!​