Shopping tip of the day: Know the policies of your favorite stores

Actual conversation:
Me: "We can return this, but I will be unable to give you a refund on your card. Our return policy is 90 days for a refund, and then merchandise credit after that."
Customer: "90 days! But I have the receipt! How am I even supposed to know what the policy is!?"
Me: "The Return Policy is printed on the back of your receipt, printed and posted at the cash wrap, and also available on line for customers who have questions."
Customer: "You expect me to read!?"

Why yes, yes I do. So here's the thing: most retailers are doing their best to just say "Yes!" to the customer; that doesn't mean every one should run out and return all the clothes they don't like anymore. Return policies and other policies are put into place because retail companies, like all business, are trying to make a profit. These types of policies aren't to anger the customer; 90 days (roughly three months) is the average life span of an article of clothing. By the 90th day, typically, the item is no longer even selling for full price. When you sign your credit card receipt or hand over the cash, you are essentially in a contract with that retailer that says you  know and understand the policies enforced by said company. Most policies work in the customer's favor, for example price adjustments. The average price adjustment period is 14 days, and literally means you can go in and get paid back the difference between what you paid and what the price is now (for new sale items.) Also, remember that the average part time retail associate is between the ages of 19-24 and aren't sure how much they can bend the rules of the company. If you are upset, get a manager involved and keep your cool. Managers want to meet you half way, and even if they can't give you exactly what you want, will compromise in order to keep you  happy and bring you back to shop another day. You, the customer, can make your life a little easier by familiarizing yourself with the policies of your favorite stores.

Happy shopping!

Style Tip: Wear the Right Size

Clothes are meant to make a person look and feel beautiful, and at the same time express a certain sense of style. Whether or not we like to admit it, we are judged by how we look; it is our first impression on the people we meet. When you wear clothes that are too big or too small, you are uncomfortable; when you are uncomfortable you tug or adjust your clothes often; when you adjust your clothes frequently you send the signal that you are uncomfortable and ultimately, that chips away at your confidence.
When you are shopping, retail associates are there to help by finding you the right size and bringing additional items if necessary. Many retailers are moving business toward a better level of customer service, and challenging associates to become experts on style. I know in my many years of retail experience, styling customers and helping them feel great, regardless of their size, was one of my favorite parts of the job. When you are shopping, take the time to try on in the fitting rooms. Once you find a style or fit that works for you stick with it and become a repeat shopper. This principle is especially true for pant styles.
Mostly, stay true to your size and have confidence in it. If you are unhappy with your size, do something proactive about it, but don't hide in clothes that are too big, or squeeze it into clothes that are too small.  If you are a size 8 wearing a size 4, you actually look like a size 12. If you are between sizes, or clothes tend to run to long on you, take the time to invest in fewer pieces and alter the items you have. Wearing clothes that fit well helps you look slimmer, more put together, and beautiful.

Happy shopping!

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