Things I can’t live without: Diet Coke, “Real Housewives” marathons, and online shopping. And honestly, I could probably quit caffeine and reality TV if I had to, but I refuse to give up my online shopping addiction. Part of the problem is that online shopping is so easy — I don’t have to fight for a parking spot, elbow crowds, or wait in extra long lines to check out when I’m online. In fact, it’s almost too easy. The last time I went on Amazon to buy “The Hunger Games,” I ended up with an electric toothbrush, two Swiffer Sweepers, and a Snuggie. (Goodbye paycheck.) And when it comes to clothes shopping, I’m even more of an online addict.
Click here to see the best discount fashion websites.
After my last shopping excursion left me with barely enough money for the week’s groceries, I realized I either need to curb my online shopping or get a little smarter at it. So I decided to get smarter. I reached out to some in-the-know stylists and fashion bloggers to get the scoop on the best websites for affordable fashion. This way I can save some cash without having to deny my online shopping appetite. They came up with some awesome discount fashion websites that are chock full of on-trend clothes that don’t come with a hefty price tag. But before you start filling up your shopping cart with chic bargains, here are a few tips for online shopping so you can get the best deal out there:
• Always check the sizing guide. You may know your measurements, but sizes can vary depending on the store, especially if the store is European. Check the site’s sizing guide first to make sure you’re buying the correct size. (And you won’t have to deal with any pesky return postage and fees.)
• Customer reviews are key. If a site has an online customer review section, always check it out. And after you make a purchase, write your own review of the item to help other future shoppers.
• Sign up for mailing lists. This is the fastest way to figure out when websites are having sales or offering discount codes.
• Start at the sale section. You might be tempted to browse the new arrivals first, but these are typically the most expensive items. Go straight for the sale section, and see if you can find what you are looking for there first.
OK, ready for some guilt-free shopping? Keep clicking.