One of the biggest questions I get asked as a stylist is “Where should I shop?” For petites in particular, shopping is a huge challenge because most stores have cut back on their petite inventory. Read this blog post to discover how you can navigate shopping on line with great success.
Top 3 Tips for Shopping Successfully On line
Define your Style ID
Before you hit the stores, take time to get inspired and clarify how you want your style to look. Do not skip this step. It’s like getting in a car to drive from California to Colorado with no GPS or map. You’ll end up lost, wandering the mall in circles and worse –feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and end up with a closet full of clothes that don’t work for you. BOO.
FIRST, I recommend looking through Pinterest, fashion blogs, Instagram, fashion magazines, etc to clip or pin ideas that inspire you. You’ll notice trends when reviewing your inspirational boards. This will give you ideas on the types of outfits and pieces to try and add to your closet.
SECOND, I suggest choosing three words to define to personal style or look that you want to create after reviewing your pins/inspirational ideas. This will guide you in editing your closet as well as choosing pieces you need to create your Style ID.
Know your measurements
There is no such thing as standardize sizing. Brands all run differently. Knowing your numbers = better success in finding items that fit.
The key to online shopping is to know your measurements. Bust (with undergarments you wear with your clothes – not a sports bra), waist, hips.
You can use the size charts on retailers websites to gauge which “size” will fit you the best. For body particulars that are harder to fit – always purchase to fit the widest part of your body (shoulders, bust, waist, hips) and then tailor down the rest of the garment. It is easier to tailor down than it is to let out. See my resource on easy tailoring edits.
Be willing to order more than one size. It’s easier than having to return and reorder. Make sure to check the return policy – some stores charge a restocking fee.
Measure before each time you shop. We easily gain and lose weight without noticing – especially into menopause! This ensures there are less “surprises” when the items arrive.
Don’t get stuck over the numbers or sizes. They mean nothing. When you find items that fit well in the right style for your body shape, they WILL FLATTER and can make you look slimmer. (Clothes that are too small will make you appear larger and that you are not aware of your body, what fits, what’s appropriate.)
Shop by “style category”
Shopping can be overwhelming. Having a clear plan and direction for how you want look will help eliminate aimless shopping and browsing. Instead of trial and error, you will have a clear goal and target on the types of pieces you need.
Choosing the stores to shop by style category will help you shop more efficiently. Each clothing brand all has a certain style asthenic or genre. When you know which brand matches which aesthetic, you’ll save time!
For example, if you wanted to buy hot sauce, you would not browse the cereal aisle at the grocery store. Why, because you’ll end up buying cereal and potentially not come home with hot sauce – womp womp.
In the video above, I’ve outlined major style categories/types and the stores you can shop that carry petite (and regular) sizes. This is a great resource if you are looking to create a new style or fill in the gaps in your closet. Click on each category for my inspirational Pinterest Boards to help clarify your own personal style.
Want to take this a step further and work with me to take your style to the next level? Apply for a Style Clarity & Confidence Strategy Session HERE to learn about how I work with my private clients to create a personal style and closet they love.
Due to a high volume of calls requested I can only take a limited number per week. If I am not able to meet with you, I do my best to send you a free resource via email.
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