4 Need To Know Tips When Ordering From An Online Boutique
Do you have questions or concerns about ordering from online boutiques? I totally get it! With everyone starting their own boutique these days, there are so many options to choose from and it’s hard to know who to trust. I owned an online boutique for a few years before transitioning back into to real estate and, now, blogging, so I’ve seen it all. I want to share with you a few tips to keep in mind when ordering online.
What Kind of Fit?
Most online boutiques carry clothing in Juniors, Missy, Plus Size, or some combination of the three. Junior sized styles tend to run smaller, while Missy sizes are more generous. For example, a Junior Large may only fit an 8-10, while a Missy Large typically fits a 12-14. Plus size or curvy fits are the most generous and are designed to accommodate extra curves. Most boutiques will provide a Size Chart to give you an idea of fit, but since some boutiques order from multiple vendors, they may include size suggestions in the description of each piece (i.e, Small fits 2-4, Medium fits 6-8, etc.)
Fabric Content
Take a look in your closet. You probably already have an idea of what fabric works best for you, even if you’ve never really given it much thought. Maybe you wear mostly Jersey or prefer 100% Cotton. Keep those preferences in mind when shopping online. Since there’s no way to try before you buy, going with a fabric content similar to that of the pieces you already know and love is a good way to ensure you’ll love your new choice just as much. Looking for something light and breathable? Go with 100% Cotton or a Cotton blend. Need a little stretch? You’ll want some percentage of Spandex or Elastane (popular in jeans). Who What Wear has a great breakdown of different fabrics and which ones are best to rock in warmer temps.
Have I given you the shopping bug with all of this boutique talk? Check out over fifty of my favorite Black-owned online boutiques!
Measurements
Some online boutiques will include a Size Chart with measurements for each corresponding size (i.e. size Small bust measurements range from 28″-32″) I’ve honestly never been that great at taking my own measurements, so I developed a little hack to figure out which sizes work for me. Still in your closet? Good! Grab your favorite dress and top and lay it flat across your bed or floor. Make note of Bust, Waist, and Hip measurements (with dresses, you may also want to measure the Length as well). As you’re searching online, go with pieces that match as closely to those measurements as possible. This helps eliminate some of the size confusion, especially if one style runs a tad smaller or roomier than another. Stumped on how best to take measurements? Here’s a comprehensive guide with everything you need to know.
Silhouettes To Look For
Check out that dress you just pulled from your closet. Is it more of an A-Line? Body-con? Shift? Take a look at some of your other favorite dresses and make note of which silhouettes you prefer. I’m a curvy 12/14 so I prefer v-neck, fit & flair styles. I can do shifts, but I usually need to try those on first since they don’t always accomodate these hips (unless they’re a roomier cut). If you’re trying to decide what to order from your favorite online boutique, go with a silhouette that’s similar to the ones you already wear. Not sure which silhouettes you’re working with? Here’s more info on different silhouettes to help you figure it out.
Customer Friendly Return Policy
Consider the return policy before making your final decision. If it’s particularly generous (a longer return window, free returns or exchanges, etc.) then you’re protected in case you’ve checked all of the above boxes and a piece still doesn’t work out.
And that’s it, babes! Those are my need-to-know tips for ensuring a smooth, positive experience when shopping an online boutique. What tips would you add? Do you have a favorite boutique you want to share? Drop me a note below!
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