Shopping online has a lot of great benefits. There’s no need to wait in line, leave the house, or even get dressed up. But there are a few downfalls, too, like those gorgeous jeans arriving two sizes too small. You definitely don’t want that to happen when shopping for an elegant evening dress! So, to save yourself aggravation and time, here are a few quick tips for finding the perfect dress online. Use them and you’re sure to be thrilled with your order.
Know Your Size
As you know, size can vary by brand and even based on the color of the fabric (black fabrics tend to run smaller). When shopping in store you can easily try on multiple sizes and compare, but if you’re trying to get one step closer to finding your perfect dress online, you have to make sure that you know your size. Unless the store you want to buy a dress from uses true-to-size fits, you are going to have to get the measuring tape out and take note of your inseam, hips, bust, and waist measurements. If you’re not too sure where to start, head to a tailor or seamstress for help so that you get the most accurate measurements you can.
Take a Look at Size Charts
Before you checkout of the online store, take a look at how your new measurements stand up to the online store’s size chart. This will help you figure out what you should be ordering. You may even want to check out the size chart on the designer’s website before you buy the dress. Online shopping sites tend to use general guidelines for all their stock. Also, take note of the size the model in the picture is wearing. Sometimes, her height can give you a good idea of how short or long the dress actually is.
Read Reviews
Customer reviews can be incredibly valuable as they offer a real perspective on a piece you want to buy. I always read the reviews – even if I am familiar with the brand/store I am purchasing from. Scan through the comments that speak about the quality of the material, the size, and the fit. While the piece may look perfect in the photo, you might end up with a too-tight bust or way too loose hips.
Research Different Materials
The feel of the dress’s materials is as important as the garment’s size. What could be worse than finally receiving the dress of your dreams, only to have the fabric be terribly itchy? As you can’t touch the fabric when you shop online, try to familiarize yourself with the different textures. Go through your wardrobe and find items that you adore, as well as those that feel uncomfortable and itchy. Take note of the material and then use it as your reference point when shopping for a designer dress online. If you know that you aren’t a fan of polyester, and that dress seems to be 99% polyester, it’s better to pass!
This article is published in partnership with Mediabuzzer.
more about me
