New age online stores
Ever notice the proliferation of blog shops popping up lately? I have noticed that things they sell range from anywhere from hand made goodies like jewelry to reselling clothes. I haven’t seen anything by Kettlebell but I guess its just a matter of time.
I guess having a blog shop is ideal for someone who does not want overheads – all the have to do is sign up for a free Blogger account and sell away. The only problem is that of credibility. Not all are credible which is a pity. Brings a bad name to a new age of online shopping.
Read the fine print when ordering online
Whilst online shopping is now the norm compared to say 10 years ago, it still pays to read the fine print. Sometimes, free shipping or a free trial may come with conditions and if you don’t comply, then you might be out of pocket. I read the consumer reviews and comments attached to Avesil and I must say it certainly drives home the point.
When I shop online here are a few things I look out for:-
- Conditions of returning
- whether they ship internationally
- How much is shipping
- Does shipping include packaging
Sometimes companies sneakily tick boxes for gift wrap which might cost a fee so make sure you check and un check the necessary boxes when you run through your order.
Shopping online is convenient but it pays to be vigilant too.
Etsy’s a lovely place to shop
Ever since discovering Etsy, I’ve been going there to look for some quirky handmade items. I’ve made a few purchases thus far and most of my experiences have been good.
I usually go for small handmade items like pouches or cloth card holders, not heavy things like area rugs or candles or soaps that can cost hefty shipping. You see, most of the sellers are from the USA so shipping can be quite hefty if you are outside the USA.
I know that for anyone who can sew or at the very least use a sewing machine, its all quite easy to make if you have the material. However, I can’t sew to save my life hence I resort to buying them 
That said, I’m hardly breaking my bank getting little pouches for about $3 = RM15. Some plastic ones cost more than that here and I like the personal touch that goes into each and every piece on Etsy.
As with Ebay, check feedback before buying. So far I’ve been lucky
Shopping with Shopbop.com
I recently shopped the Shopbop.com sales because there was a free shipping offer. You know how hard it is to get a free ship offer from that site? Its practically impossible!
However, from now until June 30 2009 Shopbop.com is offering free international shipping for purchases over $100. Not hard I assure you. Yeah you do miss out on the fun of stepping into mirrored and steel buildings to purchase the brands you want like Rebecca Minkoff and Marc by Marc Jacobs or Juicy Couture or a whole host of other fashion and accessories brands.
BUT who really cares when you can get your mitts on brands you don’t get here in Malaysia?! Best part, they ship by UPS so you get it within a week teehee… Down side – if you are buying a leather bag, be warned you are liable to be taxed at Malaysian customs – 10% of the estimated value converted into RM. Can be ouchies!
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