Looking for garments on the web, regardless of whether you get them from a major box store or a custom clothier, can get you awesome styles at incredible costs. At the same time, it can also come with a lot of stress. Since you can’t physically see the item, there’s a chance that it won’t fit, causing you to squander your hard-earned cash. Here’s how you can find the right fit every time.
Proper Sizing
First off, you’ll need to know exactly what size you wear before spending a dime. To do this, you’ll need to get proper measurements taken. This will give you an idea of your size outside of just “large” or “size 10,” allowing you to shop with confidence.
One company’s size 10 might be a size 12 in another, while a large might translate to a 2XL depending on the brand. You’d think everyone would just use the same measurements, but for some reason, no one can seem to agree on a set standard. There are sites like WearSaga.com that are kind enough to recommend a size based on some simple information. However, you can’t count on every retailer to do so.
When taking your measurements, you have to be incredibly accurate. Don’t try to adjust your posture or suck in your gut, you’ll end up with a botched result. You’ll also need someone who can measure the hard to reach areas, like your shoulders or inseam. Afterwards, it’s time to head to the size chart.
Size Chart
Now that you have your measurements handy, it’s time to head over to the size chart and see where you really stand. Check out the size you would have purchased initially. Is their large really large enough to fit?
Find out where you line up on the company’s chart and go from there. Remember, you’re shopping online. Chances are the site carries products from multiple retailers, designers and manufacturers. So, check each item before deciding to make a purchase.
The Online Conundrum
If you find yourself on a site that sells custom clothing, then you have your work cut out for you. All you’ll have to do is look at the sizing chart once to know how their entire line of clothes is going to fit. Mega-retailers, on the other hand, make things a little more complicated.
Sites like Amazon or Old Navy, J. Crew, and Lane Bryant all carry a wide variety of labels. Which, again, means that each item you look at has its own sizing chart. Checking each one is a tedious and time-consuming task, but it sure beats having to send something back after waiting for it arrive in the first place. Plus, who wants to pay postage?
Online retailers who have a brick and mortar location make it easier to return your items. All you’ll have to do is walk into the store and make the exchange. With other sites, Amazon especially, you might find yourself with one pair of pants that fit just right and another that could only be worn by a Harlem Globetrotter. Always, always, always check the sizing chart.
Comparing Retailers
The next step is simple, and easy way to keep track of who’s small means extra small or who’s size 10 is really a size 12. Either grab a pen and paper, create a word document or download an app that allows you to take notes.
From there, start jotting down company names and the sizes of theirs that fit. You might want to include what you bought, and if it has any specific features like a certain cut of jeans or specific style name. That’s all there is to it. Now you never have to worry about returning online clothing purchases again!
