It’s Memorial Day Weekend in the US, the unofficial start of summer! MDW would normally imply a long weekend down the shore, BBQs, carnivals, basically anything and everything outdoors. So in the COVID era when many of those activities are off-the-table, one thing you can still do is shop, albeit online. And I’ve got the 5 perfect e-places, plus a few tips to ease your online shopping fears.
A Quick Note About Online Shopping:
I know many of you are still a bit nervous when it comes to shopping online for clothes, shoes, accessories, etc., the ‘I need to try it on in-store’ folks. BUT, brick and mortar is going to be massively sized-down post-COVID, so e-commerce is the way of the future (it’s kindof been the way, but now even more so).
My tips to help you online shop:
1. Regarding EU sizing, size up! European fashion brands tend to run smaller.
2. Always check the size chart as a reference; Aussie brands for example run completely differently than US & EU.
3. If you are unsure, use the chat function to ask virtual employees for assistance.
4. What size is the model wearing? If available in the description, use her measurements to guide your decision-making.
5. And hey, right now everyone has extended return periods so use that to your advantage. Try, try, and rebuy.
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MY TOP 5 ONLINE SHOPS TO VISIT THIS MDW
24 Sèvres
LVMH’s multi-brand e-commerce platform features your favorite fashion houses from Luxury Lanvin and Bottega Veneta to Contemporary Ulla Johnson and Sies Marjan. Also, the packaging is AMAZING. If you are missing the store shopping experience, 24 Sevres will deliver (literally) on an incredible at home ‘opening’ experience (I won’t spoil the surprise but, pop-up).
Current Sale: Up to 50% off sale items
My Favorite Purchase: Dolce & Gabbana dress I wore to our wedding welcome reception in Sicily (As seen on my IG)
MATCHESFASHION
London-based retailer Matchesfashion has pretty much every brand under the sun and in every category: shoes, dresses, sunglasses, coats, hats, the list goes on. I think you could type “alpaca” into the search function and Matches is going to churn out dozens of options, probably capes or coats, at various price points. Brands range from Zimmermann and Off-White to Chloe and Burberry.
Current Sale: Up to 50% off sale items
My Favorite Purchase: Linda Farrow Sunglasses with matching Linda Farrow chain
(As seen on my IG)
LUISAVIAROMA
Headquartered in Florence, LUISAVIAROMA is a favorite among IG influencers. I actually love it because they carry more stock of labels that are just harder to find in the US including Alberta Ferretti and Brognano. Here, you might even discover a name you’ve never heard of and fall in love. Isn’t fashion so romantic? Definitely a good spot to shop if you’re looking for the piece that will make you stand our from the crowd.
Current Sale: Up to an extra 50% off sale items
My Favorite Purchase: Alberta Ferretti runway gown in a sea print
YOOX
YOOX is where Net-A-Porter items go on MAJOR sale. This is another site that will ‘have it.’ Out of all the e-commerce boutiques I have mentioned thus far, YOOX is the most wallet-friendly, despite still being rather high-end. The biggest PRO of YOOX is the massive discounting; I am talking Valentino runway gowns at a 1/3 or less of the retail price. The CON, not as many sizes available since this is an ‘outlet’ if you will, thus if you see it, snatch it up.
Current Sale: On-going
My Favorite Purchase: Red Maison Margiela boots
Equipment
Beloved French brand Equipment is known for its quality basics made with luxe fabrics in basic and fun patterns. I personally own probably a dozen Equipment silk blouses. At about $150-250 USD (before amazing sales) they LAST and are wearable year-round. Whether you’re strolling down the street in a mask this weekend or hoarding your new pieces for a stroll down Rue Montaigne, you will not regret your Equipment purchase.
Fun fact: Equipment uses Afterpay, so if you are on a budget, this is a great way to space out your payments but still take advantage of MDW steals.
Current Sale: Extra 60% off sale styles
My Favorite Purchase: ALL the silk blouses (If it’s a silk blouse on my IG, it’s probably Equipment)
Honorable Mentions:
Outnet
Mytheresa
Frame
Farfetch
Rag & Bone
Coltorti
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Although Memorial Day Weekend has become synonymous with the start of summer and sales, the true purpose for this holiday is to remember fallen military personnel. To all of the military heroes around the world, thank you for your service and sacrifice.
The Cheeky Genova 