6 Tips for Shopping Overseas

I love shopping online. My bank account and UPS/Fed Ex man can vouch for that. And recently I've been buying quite a few different pieces from overseas clothing distributors. Maybe you've heard about them? Within the past year or so overseas clothing websites, primarily Chinese, like SheInside/SheIn, AliExpress, OASAP and LightInTheBox have become popular amongst bloggers and fashionistas who are looking to get fashionable pieces of clothing for a relatively reasonable price. 
Now I know there is a negative connotation when it comes to sites like these but I've used all four of the above mentioned sites and have had nothing but a positive experience! So today I'm sharing with you a few tips on how you can have one too! 

LightInTheBox Dress // Full post 

Tip No. 1: Check the measurements//

Every site lists the measurements for each item and their sizes but they're in centimeters. Make sure you convert it from centimeters to inches so you don't end up with the wrong size. If you're unsure of your exact numerical size for your bust, shoulders, waist, etc., go to one of your favorite clothing websites, pull up an item you own and check the measurements from that and compare them to what you're looking at. This will give you a good idea of your size and if you need to go up or down. I've noticed that the sizes all run small so go up a size or two. I usually wear an extra small/small and whenever I order I usually go for a medium, just to be on the safe side. Be sure to double and triple check! 

Tip No. 2: Get insurance//

These sites usually offer item insurance for $.99 to insure your order if you don't receive it. This is extremely worth it, especially if you have a big order. I always have bought the insurance and thankfully have never had to actually use it. It's worth it to spend a dollar and get the peace of mind knowing that the money you spent won't be all for nothing if it gets lost. 

SheInside dress // Full post 

Tip No. 3: Read reviews//

The reviews on products are your best friend when shopping around. These are super helpful because you can read other customer's thoughts on the items and if they are too short, see through, fit right, etc. Also look at the pictures people have posted of the item to get a feel for how it looks on. Unfortunately, there is such a humongous inventory only very few items actually have photos, but if you come across one that does take a look at it. I've looked at items that look really cute but after reading the reviews decide against it because of what people said. 

Tip No. 4: Be sure to post//

Whenever I get items I try and go back on and write a review and upload a photo of me in the item so others can see how it looks and what my thoughts are. This is more out of politeness and consideration than anything. I appreciate the people who write reviews and upload photos so I just want to do the same!

Tip No. 5: Be patient//

Since the item(s) are coming from overseas they are going to take much longer to get to your location. Usually they estimate 2-3 weeks for shipping. I've had some come within a week and other's come a month later. It just depends. It can be frustrating waiting and waiting for your package to arrive. I've been there before. If you can't wait the standard shipping times you do have the option to have expedited shipping for an additional charge. 

SheInside skirt // Full post

I've bought a couple more things but they haven't made their debut on the blog, but I'm sure they will. Like I said, I've had nothing but a positive experience and hope that I continue to do so! I also hope that if you have one too! If you have any questions about any of the websites, my experience or ordering don't hesitate to reach out! :) 

Have you ever shopping at any of the websites listed above or through an overseas distributor? Have any tips? Leave a comment sharing!







"i love ordering things online because when they arrive it's like a present to me from me"