Why Trying Things On In-Store is the Better Way to Shop (Yes, Even If You're Busy)

Let me tell you—this comes from both my retail experience and working with styling clients.

So many women I speak to are trying to make shopping easier. I get it. You’re busy. You want to find pieces that work, without wasting time or money. So you buy two sizes of everything online. Sometimes three. Then you end up back in-store returning most of it.

It seems efficient, but honestly? It often adds to the overwhelm.

Here’s what I tell my clients: take the time—just a little bit—to try things on in-store. It’s not about spending hours at the shops. It’s about making smarter choices, right from the start.

You get clarity, fast.

Trying things on in-store means no guessing games. No “maybe it’ll work when I lose 2 kilos.” You get to see how it fits you—your body, your shape, right now. And that’s empowering.

You’ll discover what actually flatters you.

We’re so influenced by what looks good online or on mannequins. But your body isn’t a mannequin. It’s real. And beautiful. And when you try things on, you can instantly tell what lights you up—and what doesn’t.

You avoid the return loop.

Returns take time. And let’s be real—half the time we forget to do them until it’s almost too late. That’s money and mental space gone. Trying on first means fewer regrets, and fewer “what was I thinking?” moments.

You’re not alone in the changeroom.

Stylists like me are here to make shopping easier, not harder. I can help you build a strategy, know what shapes and colours work best for you, and make shopping feel less like a chore and more like self-care.

So if you’re stuck in that buy-return-repeat cycle, maybe it’s time to switch it up.

Start by trying things on.

Trust your gut. Learn what works. And if you’re still not sure—reach out. That’s exactly what I’m here for. You don’t have to figure it out alone.