How to Shop Designer Sales Online

Online shopping is the new black. The Internet has afforded us the luxury of being able to log on and shop on all in one sitting. Websites like Shopstyle.com feature a variety of designer's merchandise you can view without ever having to leave their site--until you're ready to purchase. For those of us who don't have time to spend searching the Internet for a single item, or driving all over town from mall-to-mall, online offers convenience and selection. The key to finding designer sales and discounts is to be in the know.

Join the club. Ideeli.com, has daily sales from some of the hottest designers, members can save up to 80% of retail. Members who refer new members get $25 credits when their referral makes their first purchase. Member only sites like RueLaLa.com, TheTopSecret.com and Gilt.com all offer substantial discounts on designer merchandise as well.

HauteLook.com allows you to join as soon as you log on to the site. No membership invitation is needed. HauteLook and RueLaLa have great sales on things for the home too. RueLaLa even has an iPhone application so you can shop directly from your phone! The good thing about these online sites is that they all fresh merchandise weekly and pretty good return policies.

Online Shopping Tips:
1. Have an idea of what you're shopping for. If you need to make a list.
2. Have your credit/debit card ready. Pay Pal is typically the only other option for payment other than using a credit or debit card.
3. Pay attention to the return policy. Most have flexible terms but be aware of the procedures before you pay just in case something doesn't fit, arrives damaged, or you simply change your mind.
4. Check shipping costs. Shipping costs can be quite pricey if you're buying multiple items, however some sites like Overstock.com ship for a flat rate. You can also use Google to find coupons for shipping as well as merchandise discounts.
5. Refer friends. Membership sites like Ideeli love referrals and they will pay you for them. Earn merchandise credits by submitting email addresses of friends and family, they can save and you can get credit for it!

While most sites don't publicize the brands they sell other than to members, there is a laundry list of great designers. As fall nears, the online retailers will be flooding their sites with merchandise for fall and hoping to get rid of their summer merchandise. If you're looking for great clothes without breaking the bank, online shopping is for you.

Chocolate Fashion Blog's Top List for Designer Sales Online Sites:
Ideeli.com (Join on us: www.ideeli.com/invite/chocfashblog)
RueLaLa.com (Email us for an invite.)
TheTopSecret.com (Email us for an invite.)
Gilt.com (Join on us: http://www.giltgroupe.com/invite/myinvitelink70892194)
HauteLook.com
SmartBargains.com
Bluefly.com
Overstock.com
LuxeClubOne.com