Shopping at Etsy isn't easy -- there's a lot to consider when it comes to finding fair deals, haggling over prices, sourcing our sizes, and maintaining our budgets. In this three-part Etsy series, About Plus-Size takes a look at shopping tips for the enthusiastic plus-size buyer and browser.
1. To Haggle, or Not to Haggle?
I've never been much of a bargainer. Okay, fine -- I'm actually a horrible bargainer, and Etsy is no exception. Thankfully, I usually frequent charity shops, where bargaining is gauche because the money is going to help those in need. Since this is not the case with Etsy, I say -- haggle away! If someone indicates that best offers are accepted, go for it. The worst you can hear is "no," and you can then either pay full price or move on to another possible bargain.
2. Paying Smart
Some sellers only accept money orders or checks, which I admit can be rather frustrating. I try to look at the seller's rating before committing to send a money order in the mail, and sometimes I will even ask for a discount for the inconvenience (and cost) of a money order and a stamp. PayPal has great buyer protection and should be used as the preferred method whenever possible -- unless you don't have it, of course.
3. Beware Vintage "Traps"
We're conditioned to think older + better condition is a top buy, but would you do anything with a mint-condition 1920s dress if it's a size 2 and extremely fragile? Sometimes a good deal isn't good at all, if you won't do anything with your purchase after you claim it as yours. Perhaps a piece that needs a little bit of work is actually better for your wardrobe in the long run.
4. Benefits of Synthetics
A lot of us knock synthetics, but when it comes to vintage buys on Etsy, polyester holds up marvelously. Silk shreds and cotton can strain or get holes, but a synthetic dress can often look brand-new even after multiple wears. If you want a piece that looks modern and fresh, revisit synthetics lke nylon, rayon, and poly.
5. Hidden Deals
There's a lot of mismarked vintage stuff out there, so keep your eyes open! You can find 1940s dresses marked as '50s dresses, high-waisted trousers completely unmarked with an era, and plenty of 1960s shifts marked as 1970s instead. If you're really into shopping in a specific era, then I highly recommend revisiting fashion history books and getting to know your stuff.
6. Shipping Deals
Don't forget about free shipping to make your purchase worth your while! You can get discounted shipping if you choose an economy rate, but make sure you ask before buying. Just communicate with the seller and see if you can't work something out -- a lot of the Etsy sellers have estimated shipping costs and will refund the difference.
7. Buying More from One Seller
If a certain seller has a lot of goodies in their shop, they might give you an even more impressive discount than you originally expected. Bulk buys can equate to a significant discount on your total order, or a flat-rate shipping total that saves you bunches. Look for coupon codes used by sellers to sweeten the deal further.
8. Avoiding the Shopping Competition
Don't buy something just because it looks like it has a lot of Etsy "admirers." If it looks like a piece will sell, revisit your wardrobe and see if you have something similar. Ask yourself if you were thinking about buying it only because it looked like it was a popular piece, and you didn't want to lose out.
