How to Steer Clear of Malls: The Art of Ordering Through Fashion Catalogs

Yes, it’s true. Some women were not born with the shopping gene. Some women would just as soon get a root canal than spend a Saturday at a mall. Women like us don’t get the shopping buddy call. Friends who shop know we’d throw a damper on their party. “How many stores are you going to just for a black skirt? Pick one and let’s go!” But just because we don’t get into shopping doesn’t mean we don’t like clothes. We like looking nice. We just don’t shop--we order. Read on to learn how to steer clear of malls and the art of ordering through fashion catalogs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Fashion catalogs of your choice
• Measuring tape to get your exact measurements
• Phone or computer to place your order

1. Know your measurements including in seam, waist, bust. Know your height. Some catalogs measure sizes differently, as well as petites and talls. You may wear a size 8 with one company and a 10 or 6 with another.
2. Shop, shop and shop. There are page upon page of every possible item a woman could want. Do you need work clothes that are trendy yet functional? Do you need fun and feminine clothes for date night? Need a winter coat? Need some cool accessories? Catalogs are a shop-a-hate-it’s best friend.
3. Place your order either by phone or online. Each has its benefits. On the phone you can talk to a person and ask questions, and online you can save your order until you’re ready to place it, and you don't have hear the rep try to sell you something on page 64. Just tell her you want to order only. Know what the return policy is, and whether they deliver through UPS or USPS.
4. Arrange for a neighbor to get your package if you won’t be home, or leave a note stating you’d rather pick up the package at the post office or UPS yourself. The catalog companies always let you know when they have shipped your order.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for a return label, so you don’t pay shipping twice. They won’t tell you that, but if you ask, they are happy to oblige.
• If you receive a catalog in the mail and you see something you like, order it right then and there. If you snooze, you very well could lose. You can’t put ordering off for weeks and think the item may still be available.
• If you’re not sure of a size or fit of an item and you really want it, order two, and send the one you don’t want back. Your credit card will be adjusted.
• Choose a small number of catalog companies and stick with them. If you know a certain catalog company is great with tall sizes, stay with that one. It’s just like having a favorite store.