Offline vs Online Shopping

Now, your shoe shopping strategy should be in place. I prefer writing down a list on paper prior to entering the store, or pressing the power button on my computer.

By creating a list, you can continually remind yourself of those important shoe needs you have, and hopefully to help you if you get off track trying on shoes like this:

(Unless you have black furry boots on your list...find them here)

So, the question is....to shop online or offline (brick and mortar stores). 

There are pros and cons to both options...some are easier on the front end (damn you amazon one click) - while others are easier on the back end (running to the UPS store to try and meet their 5:30 close time can be challenging).

Personally, I have turned to the online world for the past couple of years. Part of this is due to my lack of time to enter into the stores - and the other part due to the huge availability when you shop the world's boutiques. 

But most recently (thanks to this shoe blog) I have entered back into the offline world...thanks to Neimans, Macys and Barneys Outlet, my shoe closet is a bit fuller. 

(find them here)

There is something about trying on the shoe in person that helps you envision where you might wear them, how they look on your leg, etc. 

But, you also have to deal with a parking lot full of cars, not so efficient sales people, and the oh so dreaded sales pitch for the (fill in the blank) new credit card. (really, don't make me say no to your high interest credit card 5 different ways. The answer will still be no.)

Everyone is different - and the pros and the cons may tip more to one side than another.

The next three blogs will take you through how to shop online, and offline. And for offline brick and mortar shopping - I am going to give you two blogs. One for traditional stores (think Macys, Nordstroms and Target) and another for outlet shopping (Nordstroms Rack, Marshalls and Barneys Outlet).

Stay tuned...in the World of Cha Cha Shoes.