Website Wonders- Best online shopping websites

A client recently forwarded me a link to an article in The Times about the best online shopping websites around which has inspired me to write my own version, as there are many unknown or under the radar gems out there which do great clothing, with good quality and not overly expensive that are specifically targeting the 35+ lady.

I do a lot of my shopping on line due to time constraints and lack of local options and have found the following to be lifesavers so hope that you find this comprehensive list useful for your own on line browsing and shopping.

The Big Guys

First up, are the two very well know on line brands – Boden and Asos.  Boden has the added benefit of sending out catalogues (some may say too many catalogues) to assist with browsing.  Whilst some of their offerings are decidedly mumsy they always have some good pieces each season and their latest offering Boden Icons is definitely more fashion forward than we historically have had from Boden.  Asos is not just for the youth.  They sell their own brands and a selection of high street retailers items.  Without a doubt, a lot of the pieces are better for the 20-something but if you are looking for a certain item i.e. a navy jumpsuit and can’t quite seem to find what you want elsewhere this is a great starting place to give you places to look as whenever I run a search on a piece that I have in mind they always have something to show me as their range is so vast. Quality can be questionable but for seasonal pieces this is a winner.

Best of the Rest

My favourite on line shop is Atterley (formerly Atterley Road).  It’s average shopper age is 43 so it is perfectly placed to offer what the 35+ woman wants – which it certainly does.  Reasonable pricing, stylish simple cuts, regular offers, sales and discounts and a point system to accrue points every time you spend.  I recently bought a pair of green heeled sandals which had been £85 full price for £22 after the sale, further discount and my points had been taken into account.  The only downside is that they don’t sent out a regular catalogue but as their stock is constantly changing it’s presumably not viable. Unfortunately as I write this blog I have discovered that this brand has gone into administration so fingers crossed that it gets taken over and resurrected!

Other on line retailers I consider similar are Hush, Me + Em and Baukjen (formerly Isabella Oliver).  These 3 retailers do send out catalogues, sell stylish, well cut pieces appealing to the 35+ market.  Me+Em and Baukjen can be pricey but do always have regular discounts, offers and good sales.  Hush is less expensive and is excellent for jewellery and leisurewear.

Wrap, Poetry and Plumo are similar in their catalogue complimenting their website. I personally find these three brands slightly too bohemian (in general) for me but great items can always be found.

Overseas Brands

Some overseas brands that have relatively recently entered the UK on line market and that I would recommend are: Sezane ( a French brand), House of Dagmar (Swedish) and Uterque (Spanish – part of the Inditex group that includes Zara, and Massimo Dutti).  They all offer stylish, elegant and well cut pieces that again are appealing to the grown up market.

I’m a big fan of outlets and discounted shopping (as why pay full price if you don’t need to?) and really like  The Outnet – particularly their own brand Iris and Ink. Two other great discounters are Brand Alley and Brand Boudoir (excellent for shoes).

Niche Players

Finally, a couple of on line niche players I would recommend are Kettlewell Colours for their range of seasonal colours (useful once you have had a colour analysis) and Forever Unique for it’s evening wear.

As a last tip – if you come across an on line retailer that you like, subscribe to it so that you get regular catalogues (if they send them out) and email alerts of any offers, discounts or sales they have on.

Happy Browsing!

Follow up

For any questions about this blog or to contact me to find out how I could help you dress well call 07500 443974. If you like this blog please share with your friends and/or comment and to get regular updates on  what to buy and how to wear it please like my facebook business page and subscribe to my monthly newsletter on my homepage.