How to shop online!

Photos: Juwan Saunders | Instagram @soloflicks_

I shop online a lot and it’s honestly my preference sometimes. So, people are always asking how and where to shop online. Shopping online is great because of the convenience of being able to be in the comfort of your own home and pick out any piece of clothing you want without having to search for other sizes or colors because it’s been misplaced in another part of the store. However, it can also be difficult when trying to figure out sizing; especially, when you’re used to U.S. sizing and trying to buy from a UK based brand. I’ve been shopping from UK based sites such as Asos, Missguided, and Ego for years and I’ve definitely had my fair share of sizing mistakes, but some stores don’t have free return options for US customers which makes me a little apprehensive to buy something considering it may be super expensive (most likely worth more than the product) to ship it back. So, that’s why I’m writing this post. I hope my tips help you guys when you’re shopping online during the holidays! (These tips can be used for US and UK online shopping.)

1. Use the sizing chart. When it comes to sizing, look at their size chart first. It varies for each brand so never assume that just because you are a certain size for one brand, doesn’t mean that you are that same size for another. UK sites usually will have a conversion chart to help you figure out what size you are based on what US size you usually wear.
2. Take measurements. If you don’t already know your measurements, get some measuring tape and measure you bust, waist, and hips to figure out which size will work best for you. Sometimes the size guide may not match with the way you like your clothes to fit. You may like your tops a little tighter or a little bigger, so take into consideration whether you wear your clothes a little looser or tighter to determine if you should go up or down a size. Check out this quick video here to help you take measurements.
3. Check out the fabric. What kind of fabric a product has can make a huge difference in not only the quality of clothing, but the fit as well. For example, products with fabrics like elastase or viscose are generally stretchy, however in my opinion, viscose (while it is much better quality wise) isn’t as stretchy, therefore you may need to go up a size. The percentage of each fabric also plays a role. Learning which fabrics work for you is all about trial and error based on your preference and may result in a lot of error until you figure it out (like everything else in life).
4. Check the return policy. Like I mentioned earlier, some brands don’t offer free return shipping on US orders so it may be very expensive (or even cost more than the product) to ship it back, making it pointless. Also, some sites don’t allow returns on sale, swim, or jewelry items so be aware of that policy as well.
5. Look out for sales! You can do this by signing up for a brand’s promotional emails or just by following them on social media. A lot of brands will have exclusive offers just for people who subscribe to their emails or follow them.

I hope you guys can use my tips in some way when you shop again online! Let me know if you have any questions or tips you’d like to add in the comment section below. To end this post, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite websites I’ve had great experiences with shopping online so, check them out! I hyperlinked them so if you click on the brand it will take you straight to the site.


US based

• Nasty Gal
• Forever 21
• Fashion Nova
• Urban Outfitters

UK based (make sure the currency is in US dollars)

• Missguided
• Asos
• Pretty Little Thing
• Ego
• Public Desire

My outfit details:
Scarf - beauty supply store
Earrings - Nasty Gal | here in gold (silver is sold out)
Bodysuit - Pretty Little Thing | here
High waisted jeans - Asos | here
Booties - Ego | here