Something I have found out in the last few weeks is that many people feel insecure about how to buy a bag online. I myself have bought quite a few handbags online (although not nearly as many as shoes - but check out these funky handbags) so I think I am now in a position to give some basic, simple advice:
What are the advantages of shopping online? These days shopping is used for recreation – and not for nothing people speak of shopping therapy! But when after a hard week at work you have to squeeze yourself into a shopping centre with millions who have had the same glorious idea, dragging your poor other half behind you, is it really still fun? My prediction is that although it can be seen as a kind of exercise (all the walking) it makes you feel even more stressed rather than relaxed.
So here I am singing the ode to online shopping! So here we go with the step by step guide:
1. Firstly you need to decide which kind of bag it is that you want to buy: a satchel, small evening bag, a hold-all, a handbag with a shoulder strap or a bowling bag maybe?
What is the size you are after? What is the purpose?
2. Choose a website that classifies the bags by categories, colors and style so it is easy for you to find the right product. Go browsing in Google – just type your description in!
3. You should read the description and find out the dimensions and the material of the bag. Is the bag made from of leather, suede, fabric, nylon, or some other material?
4. If you have a chance, go to a shop and have a look at the bag in real life. It is the ideal way to avoid disappointment.
5. Do not trust the images 100%! Once you have found the bag you like, try and find more information on that bag online . You might find more information and some more photographs.
6. Make sure that the purchase on this site is protected. Identity theft and credit card fraud are serious problems not to be underestimated!
7. Is the delivery free or how much more will it put on top of the price?
8. Does the online shop refund the difference if you find the same bag for less afterwards?
9. Does the website have a return policy? And what is it? Even if the bag looks perfect on the photograph, reality can be very different. There is nothing more annoying than to be disappointed right after unpacking the parcel that you have waited for with anticipation, believe me!
