Times are changing, and so are consumers’ shopping habits.
E-commerce consumer spending in the United States is expected to hit a record $1 trillion in 2022, due in large part to the massive shift towards online shopping during the pandemic. The pandemic not only expedited growth by nearly two years, but it also impacted how and what shoppers are willing to shop for online. Now more than ever, consumers are shopping for high-ticket, luxury goods and items they once would prefer to purchase in-store only.
Do You Shop for Bags Without Seeing Them?
We’ve discussed in depth the preference for buying online or in-store. However, when it comes to shopping for luxury items and handbags, in particular, there are many who, despite a preference for online shopping, need to feel and touch, or at least see, a bag before making a purchase.
Yet, with the rise in popularity of shopping the resale market, coupled with more and more brands being available for purchase online that once weren’t, many times, you may actually end up purchasing a bag before ever having seen it up close or even laying a finger on it.
But would you?
While if you had asked me this question 10 years ago, I would have said absolutely no way. The reality is, I’ve purchased many bags without ever having seen them in person, both pre and post-pandemic and both new and pre-loved. I guess part of it comes down to how I shop. I’m a fashion first and function later person, which makes a huge difference. When your priority is the look of a bag over how it works and wears, it makes buying a bag without actually seeing it in person a lot more realistic. But for the rest of shoppers, the line is a bit blurrier, leaving brands with a certain responsibility to make shopping online easier.
Do you buy bags online before ever having seen them in person? How do you think brands and online shopping websites can make ordering bags online more seamless for the consumer?
1. Fast shipping and fast/easy returns
2. Mod shots/comparison for different height and weight
3. More pictures
4. Comparisons of what fits in the bag.
In the description of the bag, they should mention whether an iPhone/iphone max will fit or not.
i have bought both new and preloved online and have had no problems. as long as the vendor has a reasonable return policy, i’m OK with it
I am also fortunate to live someplace where all the luxury brands have a boutique and/or store presence but they have made it difficult now to browse without buying right then! I like to look at bags in person and then think about it a little. But, I don’t like wasting a sales associate’s time either.
Shopping these days I don’t feel like you have the option to feel, touch, contemplate as the item can sell out in a matter of minutes or days. My mentality is buy first and return if it does not meet my needs. Bags and shoes primarily.
I live in Norway and there is not so many luxury shops availaible in my hometown…so I love the ability to shop luxury from Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Gucci online and I fine the bags even more beautiful when they arrive!
I want an SA to send me photos of the exact item from multiple angles so that I can okay it before shipment. Delvaux does this so I don’t worry.
Warehouse luxury online doesn’t work… and the proof is in the pudding. Every luxury brand seems to be having issues regarding quality control. I’ve received far too many items with damage (buttons half sewn in), scratched leather, creased shoes, etc…
Videos are even better…Chanel will happily do this
I’m fortunate to live in a major city with access to boutiques. I go in person to get the full experience.
What are the Dior saddle bags hanging on and how can I order? Love the whole display!!!!
I know who owns this closet but i dont think they gave credits for usibg the picture.
Those are Dior saddle bags. I love mine. So chic. Dont buy the mini though, it’s useless.
Nvm. I see the credits at the bottom.
It’s important to have a good SA. I have a go-to SA at Nordstrom who will take multiple pics and videos at all angles. It is really helpful!