Buying shoes online can sometimes be a real pain.
This is especially the case when they arrive and you're hoping to have a “Cinderella” moment, but end up having a “nasty stepsister” moment instead, trying to squeeze your foot into a pair of heels or of ill-fitting sneakers.
While shopping for shoes online is great - you have access to countless brands that don't have physical retail space in Singapore - the downside, however, is that it can be difficult to find. find shoes that match the pictures and description, that are comfortable to wear. and the right size for your feet.
As such, here are eight tips to keep in mind when shopping for your next pair of shoes online so you don't waste money.
1. Buy from sites that let you zoom in on images
One of the biggest challenges in buying shoes online is that it can be difficult to get a clear idea of the quality and finish of the shoe.
Buy with retailers or sellers who have clear images of the product from multiple angles.
You want to be able to zoom in to get a better idea of the color and texture of the materials used, not to mention how fine the finish is.
2. Look for pictures of the shoe worn by the models.
Often times, it helps to see the shoe worn by a model. This is especially true when trying out a new style.
For example, on a mannequin's feet, you will be able to see how much of the toe cleavage is revealed by a pair of heels, or whether the placement of the ankle straps visually lengthens or shortens the legs.
If the images you want are not available and the shoes are from a major brand, try looking for photos of them elsewhere.
Different online retailers have different ways of presenting their product and you may be able to find a variety of images photographed with different lighting or styles.
3. Start by measuring your feet
Place your feet flat on white paper one by one and trace its outline with a pencil.
Measure the length from the tip of the big toe to the heel. Most people have different sized feet, so take measurements on both sides.
With this, you can know your shoe size for different brands by referring to the conversion tables.
4. Consult the size and conversion charts for individual brands
The sizing is often inconsistent from one brand to another, sometimes even within the same brand.
Shopping sites that have many different brands may offer a size and a conversation chart as a guide, but you should note that this is often just that - a guide that may well be inaccurate.
If the brand you want to buy has their own website, check out this size and conversion chart instead.
5. Buy brands you've tried before
When in doubt, stick to buying brands you've worn before.
This way you have a better understanding of what size to get and how the shoes would fit your feet.
6. Start with a relatively inexpensive pair
If this is your first time buying from a particular website or brand, start with a test order and make sure it's not crazy.
Once you've established that the brand's size and fit works for you, go shopping until you drop.
7. Make sure you are comfortable with the return and exchange policies
Read the return and exchange policy carefully before making any purchases.
The shoes are heavy and can be expensive to return, especially to an overseas retailer.
8. Check customer reviews of the pair before purchasing
When it comes to shoes, the reviews are invaluable if you want to know if the product is true to image and size.
