If you're a regular eBay buyer...

[PhoebeMcPeePee]

...do you try stuff in store and then look for it cheaper in eBay or just trawl through looking at pictures or brands you like? I can never seem to find anything I really like and the few things I have bought, looked crap when I tried them on .

Talk me through becoming an efficient S&B EBay buyer please oh wise ones

I buy most of my clothes and bags on Ebay, largely because I have limited opportunity to shop in towns that have shops selling the things I like, I get a lot more for my money and I love getting a bargain. You can also find some fantastic vintage stuff. I think the key is to find brands that you like, but which are priced beyond your comfort zone. A window shopping trip is a good starting point.

I tend to stick to premium brands that I'm familiar with. By "premium", I mean top end of high street and designer (have a bit of a high-end cashmere and Hermes scarf habit!). If I stray away from brands I know, I always stick to shapes I know suit me and I ask for lots of measurements, especially if the item is non-refundable if it doesn't suit / fit.

You need to know details such as - armpit to armpit measurement laid flat; waist laid flat; back length from waist or back of neck to hem.

If buying dresses or particularly fitted clothes, where it's important that items aren't too long/short in the body, I'll also ask for the hip measurement at x inches below waist, and the measurement from base of collar to top of waistband.

It's also worth checking that knitwear has not shrunk/pilled and that the items have no defects.

Hope that helps - happy shopping!

I'm a trawler, either with a specific search like 'women's coats' or searching via brand/label, then narrowing selection by using sizes, fabric, etc.

I've bought tons from e-bay in the last year or so. Fewer than 1 dud in every 10 items bought, which is fine given that the overall cost is very low.

I don't know if I've got a body shape/size that works with most brands, but I've never really had a problem with fit and I've never asked for additional measurements etc. A friend of mine with a different shape has never liked any of the things that she's bought on e-bay, so she puts them back on.

It's had a hugely positive impact on how I see myself and feel on a day to day basis, as I now have lots of clothes that I like. I don't have time to 'shop' (nor the patience, to be honest) and I find the price of new clothes shocking, especially for the ever-deteriorating quality there seems to be.

Good luck!

I just search the brand and the size , so for example, type in River Island 10 and see what comes up.
I'm Always on The actual River Island , Boohoo or Missguided websites so just look through those to see what Iike first then type in the descriptions on eBay to see if same item pops up!
I've had current season bargains by doing this , if you are familiar with what's currently on your favourite brand websites you will easily spot the great stuff.
If I am in the mood and have the time I just browse by item and Size,like playsuit 10 and see what takes my eye.
I also buy most of my bras ( new) from EBay like Freya/ M&S / Panache - just search by size and have got some as cheap as £3.99 including postage.
Absolutely love EBay

I tend to avoid buying jeans, trousers and footwear on eBay - the fit is critical, and I find that my success rate is too low. With tops and dresses there is more leeway.

Loadsa, I'd agree with your comment about buying underwear on Ebay. I love makes like Lise Charmel, Simone Perele and Aubade, and there are always plenty of sets on Ebay at a tiny fraction of the retail price (eg £20 for a bra as opposed to over £100). Again, you need to know your size in the brand and style.

Wow some great advice thanks I'm now inspired to find a few decent bits for my wardrobe. Also in need of new undies so will bear ebay in mind for bras once I've figured my size as I'd certainly never considered it before.

Yes I do, just yesterday I had 2 items in my bag on asos. One was an oasis leather grey clutch £15. and a navy dress with beading around the collar reduced to £52. I searched the exact same descriptions and found the pair on ebay and got them for £23 both brand new aswell

Same as above I just type in brand in my size and scrawl through.

Interesting tip about the bras!

Thanks again I've been inspired and already bought some bits that have just arrived and really pleased as all bar fit are perfect. I got a French Connection sequin dress (re-selling as too big but a bargain so might even make something on it ) a sparkly grey jumper (amazing & just 99p) some new jeans (replacement of existing so perfect fit & under £10 as opposed to £40 in store), mint velvet top I've been coveting but couldn't afford at £70 for £12 and an All saints necklace again way too pricey in store picked up for £14.

I'm almost out of money but for less than £50 I feel like my wardrobe has a new lease of life so thank you all

Please remember to leave feedback for your sellers if you're pleased, it's very important to build up reputation and trust but soooo many people just don't bother anymore, it gets a bit disheartening when you've gone out of your way to give good service.

Rant over.

Yes as long as you know the brand and how it fits you you're good to go. I buy loads of things and most of my hair products on eBay.

I also sell things there though I'm not a commercial seller or anything like that.
A friend buys something and then sells something. She claims it keeps her clutter down. She doesn't buy ALL her clothes on eBay, but she still tries to sell something to take its place.

I've just got a gorgeous Jaegar dress for £13!! Bargain. Fits really well but smells a bit musty - not sure how to sort that out. Might have to get it dry cleaned.