Who else has been bitten by the online shopping bug? We’ve now entered “Ber” months, and what should normally be a time of celebration has now become yet another day in our self-isolating new normal.
Statista reports that online shopping among Filipinos has increased across all age groups during the pandemic, and it’s easy to see why. Going out to malls used to be a weekly activity for many of us, and online shopping can recreate that experience to some extent while allowing us to stay safe.
It’s likely that online sales are going to ramp up for the holiday season, so it’s time to practice smart shopping. Here are some ways to make sure you’re spending your hard-earned money right, even online.
Check their return policy
One of the hardest things about shopping online is that you can’t try something on before you buy. Most brands are aware of this, and thus have clear guidelines when it comes to exchanging or returning an item. Keep in mind that the return policy might be a bit complicated for overseas stores. If a brand doesn’t clearly state their return policy, make it a point to ask first before you purchase anything.
Know your measurements
It’s normal to want to dress up at home, and knowing your measurements ensures you’re getting a flattering fit. Lingerie is the perfect case in point for this, as it’s meant to be the basis of your entire outfit. Pretty Me’s list of flattering lingerie styles lists bralettes as a comfortable and basic staple, but the wrong measurements can make for an awkward fit. The right clothes will hug your body and accentuate your shape, making you feel more comfortable in turn.
Keep track of all your transactions
Online transactions can happen with a click of a button, which means it’s almost too easy to lose track of where your money is going. After all, how many times have you received a package and forgotten what’s inside? Keeping a notebook or an Excel sheet to track your purchases ensures you’re aware of where your money is going. You can even input the expected delivery date for each item to make sure you’re at home to receive it.
Leave your cart for at least a day
In connection to the previous point, the ease of online shopping can also increase the likelihood of overspending. To help curb this, keep your items in your cart for at least two days and ideally up to a week. Don’t think about what’s in your cart and go about your day-to-day tasks as usual. When you get back to your cart, see if you still want the item. If the answer is yes, you can buy it. If you’re still on the fence, then it’s best to save your money for other things.
Support local as much as possible
Last but not least, don’t forget to support local brands! We at Trending.ph are big fans of local brands, and buying local can help support our economy in the midst of these trying times. Metro’s list of fashion brands from around the country highlights that supporting local isn’t just constricted to Metro Manila either, as you can buy from brands all the way up north in Luzon and down in Mindanao. Just imagine how good you’ll feel knowing you’ve bought something that also supports a fellow Filipino’s livelihood!
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that every online purchase you make is a great one. Investing in quality purchases will also up style game during quarantine and make you feel excited for each package to arrive!
