Does anyone remember a time when the Internet didn’t exist? Easily the best invention ever, it has opened up a world of possibilities not only in terms of communication but also in developing our bargain-shopping skills.

Online bargain sites are growing at an exponential rate both here and overseas but in Australia we are particularly fortunate in our bargaining power. Here we are a fashion season behind the US and Europe so can take advantage of their end-of-season sales. Once their winter season concludes, for example, we can stock up on all their last-season designer trench coats and knits, just in time for our own declining temperatures.

As always, it’s important to be careful when shopping online. Unlike entering a store, trying an item and walking away with the goods already paid for, there’s a lot that can go wrong with online purchases. Follow these rules to ensure you get your product intact and at a great price:

- Read the fine print and factor in shipping costs to your total purchase price
- Calculate the cost in Australian dollars
- Make sure you’re ordering the correct size; many websites will have size conversion charts but, when in doubt, email the company to check
- Know the return policy; check the terms and conditions just in case you order the incorrect size
- Look out for discount codes in magazines, online and through word of mouth that offer reductions for shopping sites
- Know your body shape and be aware of what suits you. If you’re unfamiliar with a particular designer, try on the item in a shop before buying it online to get an idea of sizing
- Pool purchases with friends so you can save on postage
- Keep your order under AU$200 if ordering from an international site or have them separate the items into separate bills to avoid customs fees.

Hot Sites
www.ozdesigner.com
www.glamourpussprincess.com.au/shop
www.topshop.com
www.shopbop.com
www.bluefly.com
www.net-a-porter.com
www.rodeodriveresale.com
www.ebay.com
www.frockshop.com.au
www.mycatwalk.com.au

It’s not just shopping websites such as ebay that will help you on your shopping mission. There is a myriad of sites out there that will point you in the right direction; towards sales and specials all around town.

www.missyconfidential.com.au
www.whatsonsale.com.au
www.salesguide.com.au
http://forums.vogue.com.au
www.lassoo.com.au


To keep abreast of the latest shopping trend - swap-meets - check out these sites:
www.whatsmineisyours.com
www.swapmystyle.com.au
www.clothingexchange.com.au
www.swapstyle.com
http://forums.vogue.com.au