Dear Q the Stylist, What stores do you recommend for a 30-something online-shopper on a budget? The older I get, the more I loathe shopping in stores (sad, I know). I have depended for years on Nordstrom.com (free shipping & returns make it so easy!) and Anthropologie.com, but lately both are disappointing me (Nordstrom’s quality […]

Dear Q the Stylist,

What stores do you recommend for a 30-something online-shopper on a budget? The older I get, the more I loathe shopping in stores (sad, I know). I have depended for years on Nordstrom.com (free shipping & returns make it so easy!) and Anthropologie.com, but lately both are disappointing me (Nordstrom’s quality seems to be going down, and Anthro is a bit too hippy for me lately and outrageously expensive for what you get)– any new suggestions?? I want to be trendy, but not break the bank, and ease of return is huge. How do I stay on fashion pointe without looking too young (20ish clothes) or too old (40ish)? Dressing as a stylish but not rich 30-something is increasingly hard!!! Would love to hear your suggestions!

From, Lost Online

Dear Lost Online,

Agreed!  Keeping up with trends on a budget is difficult, but I’m here to help.  Nordstrom and Anthropologie are great resources, however, there are many more options to find stylish, inexpensive pieces for your wardrobe.

Amazon

It’s not the first place you might think of, but Amazon is an up and comer for online shopping.  It’s best if you know what you are looking for, as it is not conducive to browsing.  For example a search for “Paige Hidden Hills Straight Jeans” yields more than result at a few different prices.  Prime members receive free shipping and free returns.  Another tip about Amazon is they offer great Contemporary jewelry pieces at lower prices than competing online retailers.

Asos

Asos.com leans more towards a younger age group, but good pieces can still be found for you.  Check out jackets, skirts, and jeans on this site.  Free shipping and free returns is offered.

Bloomingdale’s

Bloomingdale’s just added free shipping on online orders over $150 and free returns.  The inventory is always filled with an assortment of brand names and sizes, and with over 100+ designers Bloomingdale’s will never disappoint you.

Madewell

Madewell is the sister site to J.Crew that is a little less expensive.  Polka dots prints, stripes, colored jeans, blazers, and denim are popular items.  The shoes are casual and made well (ha!).  Free shipping is offered.

Piperlime (Gap Brands)

I rely on Piperlime for basic wardrobe updates for myself and clients.  The site offers the latest merchandise from top lifestyle designers and highlights picks from Rachel Zoe, Aimee Song, and Olivia Palermo – all women with their finger on the pulse of fashion.   The option to shop for the whole family with the latest men and kids apparel is available on Piperlime, and I will usually check out Gap and Banana Republic’s latest offerings while I’m at it.  Their simple one “cart” checkout, along with free shipping and free returns on all orders makes transactions a breeze.

Zappos

I do recommend Zappos for a great selection of shoes.  However like Amazon, it’s best to have an idea of what you are looking because a lot of time can be wasted navigating their options.  Apparel and accessories have recently made there way onto the site, but it’s currently hit or miss.  As always, free shipping and returns apply here.

Zara

Yes, this major European retailer has finally added online shopping!   Zara offers more inexpensive modern and basic pieces that can be taken from day to evening wear.  The prices are extremely reasonable for fashionable pieces that can be interchanged throughout your everyday wardrobe.  Free shipping and free returns on all online orders.

I hope this guide helps you become more efficient online shopper.  There are other sites I could talk to you about that have minimal shipping costs, but the sites listed above are my go-to’s that have the easiest shipping and returning with a comfortable range of price points.

Many Happy Returns!