How to Buy Clothes On-line
Purchasing clothing online can be less expensive and more convenient than shopping in stores, but it has its disadvantages. You must know your size needs, which can vary by clothing manufacturer, because you have no opportunity to try the clothing on before you buy. Colors can also look different on your computer screen than they do in person, so expect some variation in appearance when you receive your clothing order. The purchase process usually requires an electronic payment method and physical mailing address.
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Instructions
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Measure yourself and anyone else you want to buy clothing for online, using a cloth tape measure. Write these measurements down on a notepad so you will not need to remember them later. For women, these measurements include bust, waist and hip circumference, plus leg length from waist to ankle and torso length from neck to waist. For men, measure shoulder, chest and waist circumference, plus inside and outside leg length. For both genders, measure the arm length from the mid-throat to the wrist.
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Connect to the Internet and launch your favorite Web browser and search engine.
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Enter the name of the clothing brand you wish to buy in the search field, if you have a specific brand preference. Enter a store name here if you prefer to shop by store. Most major retail stores also sell clothing online.
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Locate the website's return policy for clothing purchases. The easiest way to do this is through a site search box if the website has one, or look for the "Site map" link, usually at the bottom of the page. Read the return policy carefully so you understand your return rights if the clothing does not fit or meet your expectations. If the company does not accept returns, choose a different brand or store unless you are certain you won't want to take your purchase back.
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Browse the brand or store's website to find the items you want. Select an item and then click "Size chart" or any similar wording on the site to see the actual measurements for that size in that item. Compare it to your written measurements and choose a size accordingly. Not all retailers have size charts, which is why shopping through brand sites and major retailers is a good idea, as they are more likely to have this information.
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Select any other options for the item you want, such as color, and then choose "Add to cart."
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Repeat the selection and size check for each item you want and then add it to your cart.
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Click "View cart" or the similar option available on your site to see a total of your purchases. Review the size and color selection carefully.
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Click "Checkout" or a similar option when you are ready to make your purchase. Follow all of the onscreen instructions to complete your purchase information, including shipping and billing addresses. Check your credit card information carefully as you enter it, since incorrect information can hold up your order.
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Follow any additional onscreen instructions to complete the order process, and then print a copy of the order confirmation for your records.
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Tips & Warnings
Some sites may allow you to use debit cards if you have no credit cards, as long as the debit card has a MasterCard or Visa logo. Others will let you use a PayPal account that draws money from your checking account. Check the store's payment policies if you need to use a specific payment method.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
