Psst. Want a glimpse into the mind of an online shopping addict, with free access to her expert strategies and tried-and-true tactics? Of course you do! Meet Kaboodler triplyksis. She owns 182 shoes (and is wishing for nearly 700 more pairs) and we’ve got the inside scoop on her online shopping know how. Here’s what she said:
1. Shop for shoes on websites that offer free shipping and free returns.
Websites like Zappos and Endless allow you to purchase as many pairs as you like and turn your living room into your own personal shoe shop. You can try them on, take a walk around your pad , and decide which ones to keep and which to send back. The best part? You’ll never have to hunt down and nag a shoe salesman again!
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2. Seek expert sizing advice.
If you’re not sure whether a shoe runs true to size, google the shoe brand and style name to see if any customers have posted reviews about how the shoe fits. Often you may even find sizing guides on the shoe sites themselves. Or, if a local retailer carries the brand you’re looking for, try on a pair in store and purchase online where the deep discounts live. You can almost always find shoes cheaper online, if you search hard enough. If you’re buying awesome boots, consider the types of socks you’ll pair them with. Like thick ones? Buy up a half-size. Like thin? Go down.
3. If a shoe site doesn’t carry half-sizes, go up, never down.
When you find a pair you’ve just got to have, but doesn’t come in your size, don’t dismay! You can always add shoe inserts (try Foot Petals Heavenly Heelz ($18.95, at Nordstrom) to fill a bigger shoe, but you can’t always squeeze your foot into a too-small pair. If a site is sold out of your size and out of a half-size up, you can get most types of shoes successfully stretched at a local cobbler.
4. If you’re trying a trend, don’t blow the bank.
Love over-the-knee boots or a pair of party pumps in this season’s hottest color, but not sure you’ll be able to wear the style every day? Splurge only on a great deal (Try discount shoe sites like GoJane.), and don’t shell out at all on a style that might be hot today, but not tomorrow. Bottom line—you get what you pay for. Calculate your cost per use and decide if it’s worth investing in a pair of pricey shoes. If you do decide to take the plunge, consider joining member-only sale sites, which offer great shoe bargains, like Gilt Groupe, Rue La La, and Ideeli.
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5. Take advantage of tracking services.
Wondering where your shoes are? If the site offers tracking codes with shipping confirmation, all up the carrier and ask them to locate your shoes. Or follow them on twitter and get answers ASAP (Triplyksis did that and was shocked with the response she received!) We don’t want any lost shoes floating around out there. Keep your confirmation email as a receipt until your shoes have arrived and you’re sure you’ll be keeping your newest pair of foot candy.
That’s it! You’re on your own. Good luck and remember, shop ‘til you drop, and then try on some shoes!
Check out more from Kaboodle:
50 Fabulous Flats
N.Y.L.A. Suede Pumps—Thank You, Mr. Postman!
Target Boots—Thank You, Mr. Postman!
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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
