Returns: Reducing the Chance You Will Need To

# Reducing Returns of Clothes Purchased Online: A Guide for Women Online Clothes Shoppers

In the digital age, the convenience of online shopping has transformed the way we buy clothes. With just a few clicks, we can browse through countless styles, colors, and sizes without ever leaving our homes. However, this ease of shopping often comes with one significant drawback: returns. In fact, the fashion industry faces a staggering return rate, with estimates suggesting that around 30% of online clothing purchases are returned. For women shoppers, this can be frustrating and costly. But fear not! This guide will provide you with practical tips to help reduce online returns and make your shopping experience more enjoyable.

## Know Your Measurements Before Placing Online Clothes Orders

One of the most common reasons for returning clothes purchased online is size discrepancies. Unlike shopping in-store, where you can try on items before buying, online shopping requires you to rely on size charts and your own measurements. Knowing your measurements is crucial for making informed decisions when shopping online.

### How to Measure Yourself

To accurately measure yourself, you will need a flexible measuring tape. Here’s a quick guide to the essential measurements you should take:

1. **Bust**: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level and snug but not tight.
2. **Waist**: Find your natural waistline, which is usually located just above your belly button. Measure around this area.
3. **Hips**: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, ensuring the tape is straight and not digging in.
4. **Inseam**: To measure your inseam, take a pair of well-fitting pants and measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg.

Once you have your measurements, write them down and keep them handy while shopping. Many online retailers provide size charts that correlate with their clothing, allowing you to find the perfect fit based on your measurements.

### Measure Often

Body sizes can fluctuate due to various factors, including weight changes, hormonal shifts, and even clothing brands that may have different sizing standards. Therefore, it’s essential to measure yourself regularly, especially before making a significant online purchase. 

Consider doing this every few months or before a major shopping spree. This small effort can save you the hassle of returns and ensure you’re purchasing clothes that will fit you well. Additionally, if you’re shopping for a specific occasion, such as a wedding or vacation, measure yourself closer to the date to account for any changes.

## Read the Item Description Well

Once you know your measurements, the next step in reducing online returns is to carefully read the item descriptions. While it might be tempting to skim through the details, taking the time to understand the fabric, fit, and care instructions can make a significant difference.

### Understanding Fit and Style Descriptions

Online retailers often provide detailed descriptions that include information about the fit (e.g., “slim fit,” “relaxed fit,” “oversized”) and style (e.g., “A-line,” “high-waisted,” “cropped”). Familiarize yourself with these terms, as they can help you determine whether the item will suit your body shape and personal style.

For example, if you know that you prefer a looser fit, look for items labeled as “relaxed” or “oversized.” Conversely, if you enjoy a more tailored look, seek out “slim” or “fitted” styles. Moreover, pay attention to any notes about the fabric. Understanding whether an item is made from stretchy materials or rigid fabrics can help you gauge how it will fit your body.

### Care Instructions Matter

Don’t overlook the care instructions! Some fabrics require special handling, which may influence your decision to purchase. If you’re not willing to commit to hand-washing or dry-cleaning certain items, it’s better to skip those pieces altogether. 

## View All of the Provided Item Pictures

A picture is worth a thousand words, and this adage holds true in online shopping. High-quality images can provide a wealth of information about how an item looks and fits, but it’s essential to view all the provided item pictures before making a purchase.

### Look for Multiple Angles

Reputable online retailers typically provide multiple images of an item from various angles. Take the time to examine each photo, as they can reveal important details such as the garment's cut, length, and overall style. Look for images that show the clothing being worn by models, as this will give you a better idea of how it drapes and fits on a real person.

### Pay Attention to Size and Scale

When viewing photos, it’s also helpful to look for images that include models of different sizes. This can give you a better sense of how the clothing might look on your body type. If the retailer provides a size guide with model measurements, take advantage of this information to help visualize the fit.

## Conclusion

Reducing returns when shopping for clothes online is entirely achievable with a little preparation and attention to detail. By knowing your measurements, measuring often, reading item descriptions thoroughly, and examining all available pictures, you can make more informed purchasing decisions that lead to fewer returns and a more satisfying shopping experience.

Remember, online shopping should be a fun and enjoyable activity. With these tips, you’ll not only save time and money but also build a wardrobe filled with pieces that you love and feel confident wearing. Happy shopping!