Stop! Don’t Buy Clothes Online Until You Check These 8 Rules

+ a bonus tip for buying from new brands

Master the art of online shopping with these expert tips to save money, time, and avoid common pitfalls.

Compare Prices across Multiple Sites

That “90% OFF” might just be marketing.

✔️ Search the same item across different websites. Use Google Lens to search if
the same item is available at lower prices elsewhere.

✔️ Sometimes, smaller online stores sell at better prices than big marketplaces.

Check the Size Chart, Not Just Your Size

Every brand has its own sizing. What’s a “M” in one label can be a “L” in another.

✔️ Always compare your body measurements with the brand’s size
chart.

Read the Fabric Details Carefully

Photos can be misleading—something that looks flowy online might turn out stiff in real life.

✔️ If you prefer comfort, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen should be your go-to.

✔️ If you’re a conscious shopper (not into fast fashion), always check for eco-friendly and sustainable certifications on fabrics — these tags prove that the material is responsibly sourced and less harmful to the planet.

Look for Real, Unedited Photos & Videos

Styled model shots can be misleading. What you really need are natural visuals that show the true fabric, color, and fit.

✔️ Zoom into close-up pictures to check fabric texture and finishing.

✔️ Avoid heavily filtered or over-lit product visuals. Brands that share raw try-ons under normal light are usually more trustworthy.

Check Reviews & Brand Testimonials

What real customers say is the best proof.

✔️ Reviews often highlight details that product descriptions hide—like stitching quality, color accuracy, or how it fits after washing.

✔️ Testimonials, especially with photos or videos, show authentic customer experiences.

✔️ If people are tagging the brand in their own posts or stories, it’s a strong sign the brand is trustworthy.

Pay Attention to Return & Exchange Policies

Even with all precautions, online shopping can go wrong.

✔️ Check if the site offers free returns or exchanges. Items on sale would usually have different policy than regular priced items.

✔️ Understand the return window and conditions (tags intact, unworn, etc.).

Check Delivery Timelines

✔️ Some online stores ship from overseas—delivery can take weeks.

✔️ Always confirm the estimated delivery before ordering, especially if you need it for an occasion.

Check Secure Payments & Brand Reliability

Your money is just as important as the clothes you’re buying.

✔️ Always shop on websites with secure payment tags like SSL/https, trusted gateways (Razorpay, Stripe, PayPal, etc.), or COD (Cash on Delivery) options.

✔️ Look for brand reliability—social media presence, verified handles, and active customer service.

✔️ Ensure the store has a clear refund or guarantee policy for non-delivered or wrong items. A trustworthy brand won’t make you chase your own money.

Bonus Tip

Test the Brand Before You Trust the Brand

Before buying from a new brand, always test their customer service first. Drop a message on their website chat support or DM them on social media — a genuine brand will respond quickly and helpfully.