How Retail Design Trends Will Impact The Future Of In-Store Consumer Engagement

The function of physical retail businesses is being drastically rethought as we make our way through the fast-paced transformation of consumer markets. Today’s stores are evolving from being places of transaction to centers of innovation and experience. This change is mostly the result of consumers’ evolving needs, who want more from their shopping experiences than just the simple acquisition of merchandise. They yearn for encounters, relationships, and experiences that align with their principles and way of life.

This article explores how modern retail design trends are radically changing how retailers interact with customers, making sure that every visit is about more than simply what customers purchase—it’s also about how they feel both during and after the visit.

Experience-Driven Spaces

The days of stumbling through jumbled aisles and formulaic store designs are long gone. A new era of experience-driven retail locations is being ushered in by modern retail. These settings, which range from interactive exhibits that let consumers interact directly with items to themed zones that immerse visitors in various worlds, are made to capture and engage.

A bookstore might, for instance, designate a section that resembles a comfortable living room to entice customers to relax and peruse books. Retailers can establish a stronger connection with customers and increase in-store time and the chance of making purchases by providing these distinctive, immersive experiences.

Technology Integration

The integration of technology into physical retail places is a reality that is improving our shopping experiences; it is no longer a vision of the future. Advanced technologies such as augmented reality (AR) are being incorporated by stores to provide dynamic and captivating experiences. Consider utilizing an in-store tablet to see how a sofa may look in your living room or virtually trying on clothing in an augmented-reality fitting room. AI is gaining traction in areas other than augmented reality.

One such area is personal shopping assistants, which offer suggestions based on your past purchases and style preferences. These innovations in technology combine the practical advantages of in-store purchasing with the ease of online shopping to create a more enjoyable and efficient shopping experience.

Sustainable and Localized Design

In response to growing consumer demand for sustainability, stores are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly practices into their retail design. This trend goes beyond simple green initiatives—it involves using materials sourced from local artisans and adopting energy-efficient designs that reduce the store’s carbon footprint. For instance, a clothing retailer might use reclaimed wood for fixtures and install LED lighting throughout the store.

Additionally, incorporating elements that reflect the local culture and landscape helps connect with the community, fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty. By aligning with these values, retailers not only contribute positively to the environment but also appeal to the eco-conscious shopper who values sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

Flexible Layouts

The retail environment is becoming more dynamic, with stores adopting flexible layouts that can easily transform to host different events or showcase varying product lines. This adaptability is crucial in keeping the in-store experience fresh and exciting. Modular designs and moveable fixtures allow for quick changes in layout, accommodating everything from product launches to seasonal displays.

Such versatility also means that stores can react swiftly to market trends or consumer feedback, ensuring they remain relevant and engaging. For example, a fashion retailer might reconfigure their layout to create a runway for a fashion show one day and return to a standard shopping layout the next.

Personalization at Scale

Retail spaces are increasingly leveraging data to offer personalized shopping experiences to each visitor. By analyzing data from loyalty programs and online shopping behaviors, stores can predict what products a customer might be interested in before they even step foot inside. This level of personalization can extend to digital screens displaying custom offers as customers walk by or apps that alert shoppers to products in-store that match their online browsing history.

Such targeted engagement not only enhances the shopping experience but also drives sales by making consumers feel understood and valued on a personal level. This approach transforms the store into a curated space tailored to individual preferences, marrying the efficiency of online shopping with the sensory satisfaction of offline.

A new era of customer connection is being ushered in by the change in store design. This is about designing spaces that anticipate and satisfy the changing needs of today’s consumers, not merely following trends. Stores develop closer relationships with customers as they change into places that provide distinctive experiences, include technology, encourage sustainability, adjust to demands, and customize interactions. These advancements are essential for drawing in guests as well as converting them into devoted patrons who eagerly anticipate returning. Stores that approach design as an opportunity to meaningfully affect customers’ hearts and minds, rather than just treating it as a necessary evil, will be the ones that win in this constantly changing retail environment.

 

 

Unique Gifts for New Boyfriends on Valentine’s Day

For when you’re scrambling for a gift that says “I like you” without screaming “I love you.”

Here’s the deal: you got into a new relationship a month before Valentine’s Day and now you don’t know what to get your new boyfriend. Been there, done that – actually, currently doing that. Valentine’s Day shopping is hard enough without that odd pressure of getting someone you’re still getting to know a decent gift. But have no fear – I’ve got some things that might just save the (holi)day.

For the Adventurer

Scratch Map – $26-40

Outdoor Safe Smart Wristband – $25

Portable Campfire – $28

Travel Stub Diary – $15

For the Fitness Junkie

Fitness Dice – $19

Fitness Massage Cube – $29

Bamboo Garden Cork Yoga Wheel – $65

Wooden Hand and Palm Roller – $15

For the Drink Connoisseur

Whiskey Wedge and Glass – $25

Beer Chilling Coasters – $35-45

City Skyline Beer Glasses – $28

BottleLoft – $30

For the Foodie

BBQ Blends Rub and Sauce Kit – $45 ($25 on sale)

LED Grilling Tool Set – $40

Mesh Grill Bags – $22

Global Hot Sauce Gift Box – $45

For the Arts-Lover

Birth Month Guitar Pick – $25

At Home Movie Critic’s Chart – $20

At Home Pottery DIY Kit – $58

What to Watch Streaming Decider Dice – $18

For the Sport Fanatic

Land Shark Golf Ball Marker – $29

Baseball Park Map Glasses – $35

Home Plate Doormat – $34

Anatomy of Sports Coasters – $45

For the Romantic

Date Night Bucket List – $20

Back to That Night (Custom Sky Glassware) – $54

Homesick Candles – $34

Long Distance Message Mug & Coaster – $34-60

For the Wellness Enthusiast

Caffeinated Soap – $18

Natural Beard Care Set – $29

Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses – $30

Mindfulness Dice – $19

For the Kid at Heart

Game of Phones (game) – $12-25

Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle – $19

Wall Pong – $60

Puns of Anarchy (game) – $35

Wherever you are in the relationship, whether it’s just the beginning or a long time in, these gifts will hopefully work for your man for Valentine’s Day. Some of these products may also be on sale, depending on when you purchase them.

Take the pressure off of Valentine’s Day and whatever you think it should be. Celebrate in a way that is special between you and your significant other and remember: if the gift is coming from you, they’re bound to like it, no matter what it is.

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About The Author

Emmie Pombo is a latte and tattoo-loving Tennessean who specializes in mental health and beauty writing. She holds a degree in Journalism and a certification in Makeup Artistry and Airbrushing. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

12 Advanced Life Hacks That Everyone Needs to Know

Because who doesn’t want to do things a little bit easier?

I think we can all agree that life is made a little easier with some easy-to-use life hacks. These 12 tips have gotten me through holidays, financial topics, skincare problems, college crises, and so much more. So, if you’re looking for some behind-the-scenes hacks that can help with your daily life, read on.

1. You can save money on a coffee order by ordering a grande iced vanilla latte with caramel drizzle ($4.95) instead of a grande iced upsidedown caramel macchiato ($5.25) since it’s the same recipe.

2. Using aloe vera gel as a buffer between your skin and a topical drying acne cream can reduce the burn of chapped skin while your skin adjusts to a harsher medication (usually in prescription medications).

3. If you want to leave your house to work or study but don’t want to spend money at a coffee shop or cafe, your local library has quiet places to work – and most even have private rooms you can reserve.

4. For students, using a picture of your schedule as your lock screen for your electronics can save time and confusion while trying to get from class to class.

5. Using a pencil holder/cup to store remotes is usually cheaper than purchasing an actual remote control holder.

6. A candle jar lid can make a great last-minute coaster.

7. If you have a long document (essay, book, proposal, etc.) and need to remember something from it, highlight it in a bright color and/or increase the font size so it’s easier to find when you’re scrolling.

8. Use a paper clip as a bookmark to show exactly where you stopped reading.

9. Create a separate folder in your email for receipts/order confirmations from online orders you’ve placed so you have all of them in the same spot without littering your inbox. You can also do this for offers and coupons you get from stores that you want to save.

10. Buy birthday and Christmas presents throughout the year so you’re not rushing the week before.

11. When traveling, cover the top of a liquid-filled bottle with saran wrap before screwing on the top. This will help stop any leaks that may happen when your bag is being tossed around.

12. Fill your carry-on bag with heavy products while traveling (books, shoes, electronics, etc.) so that your checked bag will weigh less. Not only could it save you from paying extra money, but you’ll be able to handle your heavy (and maybe more valuable) products yourself.

Whether traveling, shopping, cleaning, or anything else, these hacks will help you save money, travel easier, clean more efficiently, and overall save you some time and effort. Try some out and see how much easier your life may get!

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About the Author

Emmie Pombo is a latte and tattoo-loving Tennessean who specializes in mental health and beauty writing. She holds a degree in Journalism and a certification in Makeup Artistry and Airbrushing. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Benefits of Comparing Phone Deals Online

 

It is impossible to live without a mobile phone, it has become paramount to daily life. Whether using an app to sign in at work, browsing social media or even just sending emails, we spend hours a day on our phones, so it only makes sense to get the best deal. 

 

So, we have compiled this guide on why you should take time using online tools to get the best deal available to you. All of us need data on our phones and a few minutes comparing online can give you substantially more value, so here is why you should be using comparison websites: 

Saves Money 

If you go into a high street shop to get a phone contract or just call up one provider, you are missing out on potentially much greater deals from their competitors. There are many networks available all scrambling to offer the best deals and using online comparison sites bring all these deals into one convenient place. Consumers in South Africa have already seen the benefits using comparison sites for car insurance, but it doesn’t just stop there. Nowadays, there are comparison sites for everything, even online casinos who compare no deposit bonuses, some of which are worth up to R2500. A no deposit bonus is an exciting way to begin your online casino experience. All you have to do is register with one of the recommended casinos from the site and test out a no deposit bonus; who knows, you might strike it rich! Additionally, they compare various payment options such as Skrill or Bitcoin, as well as whether or not rapid payouts are available. Great way to save money while having fun!

Fast & Free

Online comparison websites are free to use and give you all the best possible information when you are looking for a new mobile phone. These comparison sites are very fast, comparing all the best deals in a matter of seconds. Moreover, getting used to using comparison sites is an excellent way to budget for your household and they are more convenient than ever. 

 

On most sites you do not even need to sign up for an account, only when you make a purchase, therefore there is no obligation. This is a trustworthy approach as you can compare great deals without having to be forced to hand over your email address or phone number. 

Customizable 

There are many features within the comparison websites that you can tweak to fit your needs. You can select your budget, how much data, calls and SMS you will be needing amongst a host of things. This means you can really narrow down what you are looking for and choose the best deal for you. 

 

Online comparison sites such as Uswitch have an easy to use toggle display which enhances the users experience in regards to being able to pick a range rather than being specific on one particular option. As many phone contracts last over 2 years you can check which deals suit you whether pay per month, rolling, 1 year contract or a 2 year one. 

Simple 

The online comparison websites are very simple to use. They have options on which phones you can search for or just pictures of the most popular devices. From there you just build the package you want and then compare all the deals for the best price. The process is very easy and when you have selected your phone, it will be delivered to you quickly. 

 

These sites really do take out all the legwork and hassle, you can even use your mobile device to look at comparison websites. With the touch of a screen, you can get the phone you’ve always wanted with a tariff that suits you. 

Conclusion 

We have listed a plethora of reasons why you should be using a comparison website for picking your mobile phone. Overall, they bring all the providers into one easy to use place and provide a user-friendly experience. Getting into the habit of using a comparison site not just for your phone, but any bills which are paid monthly will save you a lot of cash in the long run. This will also give you a higher quality of product/service.

 

There are many online comparison sites to be used so what are you waiting for? Start saving money today and get a better mobile phone.

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Lavish Gift Ideas To Show Your Other Half How Special They Are

 

If there is one way to really make someone feel special it is to go full-on lavish with your gift to them. This may require a little saving on your part but it will be more than worthwhile once you see the look on their face as they receive the gift which you have planned. Once you have saved up that money, why not consider some of these lavish gifts which are really going to show your loved one exactly what they mean to you? 

 

Flower Overload 

A bouquet of flowers is a lovely gift that would certainly show that you care, but if we are talking lavish gifts you need to go the extra mile. The best way to do this with flowers is to go overboard and fill the home with flowers for when your loved one gets home. Just imagine the entrance to your home and the living room decorated with hundreds of beautiful flowers purchased from Pearson’s Florist. Your loved one will have no idea how to react. 

 

Dream Vacation 

We all have destinations in our minds which we would love to see one day, so why not make your loved one’s dreams come true? Given what we have all gone through in the last 18 months, we should all recognize just how short life is and how important it is that we take advantage of what we have. Time is precious so why not spend it with your loved one in a gorgeous Caribbean destination or somewhere stunning like the Maldives or Seychelles? This will be a perfectly lavish gift for your loved one. 

 

Diamonds

They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend and you will see this first hand when your loved one opens up a piece of stunning jewelry. This could be a decadent bracelet, an opulent necklace, or perhaps even a ring that is filled with shimmering diamonds. To ensure that you get this gift just right, make sure that you have sized up her hand, neck, or finger so that she will be able to wear the gorgeous gift right away. 

 

Shopping Spree

Planning a shopping spree for your partner is another lavish gift that is sure to go down well. Pick an area to go shopping which houses some of the finest stores, be sure that you have booked in a delightful place to have lunch and a glass of champagne, and let them go crazy in making over their wardrobe. This is something that so many people dream of, so why not do this for your partner and show them just what they mean to you? This is going to be a gift that keeps on giving too as they will be incredibly excited to wear all of their new clothes in the coming weeks and months. 

Sometimes you just have to go all out for a gift, and really show the person you love exactly what they mean to you.

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Why Travelling With The New Boyfriend Can Reveal Your Compatibility.

If I can offer any piece of advice to a new couple, it would be to travel together early on in your relationship.

My reason behind this is simple, you learn who they truly are very fast on a trip. Maybe it is the small little traits and habits that they have. Or behaviors that help you determine who they morally as a person. I recently went on a vacation with my new boyfriend and I can honestly say it was the best thing for our relationship!

It’s really funny actually the little things you pick up on when you are alone together for a long period of time. Like what side he lays on to fall asleep, how they like their coffee, and learning that they absolutely love it when you rub their back in the morning and adore it when you help them pick out an outfit to wear.

If you were to ask me the important part of a relationship is the little things.

If a large portion of the little things don’t match up or go together how are you supposed to piece together the big things in a relationship?

My boyfriend and I went to Florida for a vacation! While we were there we did an array of different things. One of the first things we did was go shopping at the outlet centers in Orlando. Working in retail I saw this to be the perfect time to see what kind of “shopper” he was. Trust me if you work retail you know exactly what I’m talking about! and just as I was expecting he was the best kind of shopper you could hope for. He’s very conscious of sale associates. And he is (of course) one of the most well-mannered man (trust me they are hard to come across!)

Of course, when you are vacationing in Florida you are going to frequent the beach! There are two types of people when it comes to the beach. Those who are not the biggest fan of the beach and those who run to the water and throw themselves into it! I am the one who throws myself into the water! My boyfriend on the other hand… not too much. In his defense he cant because of a medical condition but he so badly wants too, so he gets a free pass on that one!

When on vacation if you are super lucky it wont rain at all, but nine times out of ten that doesn’t happen. We were not that 10 percent. We had a few rainy days where we were stuck in the house. Thankfully we had shopping and Netflix! One day we just stayed inside and found a show we both wanted to see and it became “our show” we cuddled and watched the show all day! It was amazing! We learned how the other liked to be cuddled. This is actually a very important and intimate part of a relationship.

This trip really brought us together.

We learned a lot about each other on this trip. And it could have either made us or broken us and we made it!

15 Small Outfit Problems That Make You Look Like A Hot Mess

Whenever we leave the house, we’re bound to run into someone we know. Whether it’s for a run to the grocery store, a trip to the mall or even if we’re headed to go to work – it’s important we always look our best. Even if we’re not in the mood to get dressed up and ready for a quick trip out – people judge us for every little thing we wear.

There are a lot of ways that out outfits and appearance can f*ck us over in terms of other people’s opinions of us, without us even noticing. Sure, we may have showered this morning, put on a brand new outfit and tried to look our absolute best, but there are small little details that fall through the cracks and in turn, make us look like we’re riding the Hot Mess Express.

15. Wearing clothing that has small rips, frays or tears in it.

Sometimes we leave the house in ripped jeans or jeans that are frayed at the bottom. While it’s a style statement and trend, sometimes, it makes us look disheveled and unorganized. Sometimes when we wear things too often and for too long, the threads start to wear and buttons begin to become loose – while you don’t think it’s a big deal, people notice.

14. Wearing too many accessories.

While accessorizing can spice up a plain outfit, going overboard can make any outfit look tacky and cheap. If you are going to a work setting or a really nice affair, you don’t want to overdo it by blinging out a fancy dress or pants suit. Keep it simple.

13. Not ironing your shirt/dress/skirt.

Sometimes when we leave the house in a rush, we don’t have time to iron everything. People will run out the door in a button-down shirt that looks like we’ve slept in it, a dress with way too many wrinkles or a skirt that needs to be fixed ASAP. Not ironing your clothing can make you look sloppy in appearance. And, what’s even better is they now sell hand steamers that you can buy and speed up the “ironing process” altogether.

12. Wearing hair ties as bracelets or accessories on your wrist.

It may seem convenient to keep your hair tie or a rubber band on your wrist in case you want to throw your hair up, but it also looks sloppy and makes you appear much younger than you are. It’s better off to put them in your bag, car, or desk at work incase you want it, rather than keeping it on your wrist all day long.

11. Wearing clothes that are too tight on you.

There comes a time in everyone’s life where we start gaining weight a bit faster than when we were younger – it’s called growing up. Our metabolism starts to slow down and all that pizza comes back in our faces whenever we look in the mirror. If you’re still wearing shirts and dresses from when you were 18-years-old and they definitely don’t fit anymore, people notice.

10. Carrying around a bag that’s too big in certain situations.

When you go to a job interview or a party, it’s better to carry a smaller bag than a large one. Also, you want to be sure the bag is in good condition and isn’t ripping or tearing anywhere, or that there are no dirty stains on it anywhere. Bigger bags can make you appear as though you’re trying too hard.

9. Visible bra straps.

While many women think showing your bra is a “feminist movement,” it does look sloppy and tacky in most social settings. In fact, if you’re wearing a shirt in which your bra is showing, it can even come off slutty and inappropriate – especially in a work setting.

8. Wearing oversized clothing.

Sometimes, with the right outfit, oversized clothes can be chic and cute. But, often times this isn’t the case and instead, appears sloppy and lazy. Finding clothes that are tailored to your body is the key to appearing professional and kept.

7. Day-old makeup.

Even though you think no one can tell your eyeliner and mascara is from last night, it’s pretty obvious when it’s smudged all over your face. It’s better off to wash your face and start fresh rather than be lazy and keep the same, cruddy makeup on. People will think you are irresponsible and trashy if you appear this way.

6. Animal hair on your clothes.

If you have a pet, it’s likely that they tend to shed all over your house and clothing. But, that’s why God invented lint brushes and rollers. Just because you have a dog doesn’t mean you want to show up to a meeting covered in dog hair – it just looks awful.

5. Sweaters with pills all over them.

Every girl knows there comes a time when we need to retire our favorite sweaters (RIP). Although we love them and had some good times in them, when they begin to get “pilly” it’s time to chuck them and get new ones. Wearing pilly sweaters make you look cheap and dirty.

4. Wearing the wrong shoes with the wrong outfit.

Even if you’re trying to be comfortable rather than classy, you can always throw sneakers in your bag for your commute home (which is what we all do). When you’re at the office or at a party/event, don’t show up in your sandals or sneakers just because you have to take the train home. It looks tacky and unfortunately gives off the vibe that you don’t care.

3. Wearing any clothing with stains.

Sure, you may have gotten oil on your favorite t-shirt, but that doesn’t mean you should continue wearing it just because it’s your favorite. If you can’t get a stain out, that means you have to replace whatever item you’ve stained. Going out with stained clothing is horrible for your appearance and will always make you look sloppy and disorderly.

2. Wearing white shirts/dresses/pants/skirts that are no longer bright white.

Eventually after owning white clothing for years, the white begins to fade and it becomes more of an off-white/gray. This is when you need to purchase new whites. Whites should be bright and clean, not dull and dirty. Wearing these “white” items will make you look cheap and as though you don’t wash your clothing often enough – or separate your laundry.

1. Dirty or chipped nails.

If you don’t take care of your nails, it’s an issue. Even if you’re not into getting them done or painting them, you should always clean them and cut them. If you do get manicures and your nail polish is overly chipped, that also is a sign of sloppiness and bad hygiene. The minute you see dirty under your nails, clean them. If they’re too long, cut them. If they’re chipping, take the nail polish off. Clean nails make you look cleanly and responsible.

10 Things You Only Say While Shopping With your BFF

There’s nothing like a good retail therapy sesh with your bestie: 

1. That is so you. You scour the racks hoping to find something, anything that will make your day – and you find it. The perfect thing. You hold it up for your BFF and hope they’ll say those four magical words. It’s the ultimate approval. It says, That is going to look so bomb on you and I know it without you even trying it on first. It literally describes your personality.

2. OMG come look at this. This can either be said right before you’re about to see something impressive, or something impressively terrible. Either way, it’s cause for excitement. OMG Stacey get over here. Look at this hat that is also a giant mushroom. Amazing.

3. I’m coming in there. A friend less close to you may politely wait outside the dressing room – not your BFF. She’s coming in there with you no matter what policy states, because she needs to see every single option if she’s going to give a worthwhile opinion. Also modesty went out the window with you two a long time ago. I love that bra. Where did you get it?

4. Take that off. Now. Some people may let you seriously consider something ugly if you like it. Those people aren’t your BFF. No like, you really need to take that thing off. It’s like a tablecloth. No one can pull that thing off. You’re gorgeous – yet it makes you look like you just wandered into a kitchen supply store and took the first piece of fabric someone gave you. Next.

5. Let’s do a dressing room selfie. I don’t know why this always ends up happening, but it does. Maybe because most of the things you bring in the dressing room end up comically failing and you have to take pictures to document the hilarity of it all. Maybe you’re both on a winning streak of trying on outfits that make you look like you’re about to do a fashion show. It must be remembered. These are the special times.

6. What the hell is this? Sometimes you see something on a hanger that is just confusing, and has the potential to be really embarrassing. You don’t know whether it’s a jumper, overalls, a bra, or a pair of underwear. You’re stumped. Good thing you have your BFF there to try to sort it out. And put it on your head while taking more selfies. You may or may not have tried to put it on the mannequin, too.

7. You should get this for your mom/sister/boyfriend. Both of you know each other’s peeps so well that when the holidays come around, you can give educated opinions on what to get them. Well, you got him a lava lamp last year, and he’s clearly not over his retro phase so…plasma ball?

8. You can use my coupon. Ah, the holy grail of shopping with friends. One of you always has a coupon, and somehow convinces the lady to let both of you use it…even if it is expired. Really? It’s expired? but I JUST printed it…wow. Do you think we could still use it, just this once? We shop here all the time. All the time.

9. That doesn’t fit? Sizing must be off. To other people, the thing didn’t fit because maybe it’s not your size. To your BFF, the thing didn’t fit because that company obviously made a mistake. I can’t believe that isn’t fitting. I can’t believe these people. I swear they make the sizes smaller and smaller. No, you are amazing. That brand is ridiculous.  

10. We can both get it. In different colors. As much as the thought of showing up to a public place with your BFF in the same exact thing gives you anxiety, sometimes you both fall in love with one particular thing. It’s cool. You get the blue, I’ll get the green, and we’ll just text each other to coordinate the days we wear it.

…But some days, when you’re alone, you both put on the thing and pretend you’re twins while posing back to back.

10 Things We Say to Our Boyfriends While We’re at Target

Eyes On Target

We’ve all been there. It was a long day at work and you’re thinking about making something for dinner. One little stop won’t hurt, right? You decide to pull off the interstate and stop at Target, just to get a few things. You walk past the carts, but then do a double-take. Your back does hurt after working so hard, so you decide it’s better to grab the cart. Next thing you know, you’re waist deep in throw pillows and have no idea how this new rolling kitchen island is going to fit in your Honda Civic.

1. I’m running some errands after work.

What kind of errands, Sharon? Do they involve milk and bread? Do you know where you can get milk and bread? You’re up to no good because you’re scanning the possible destinations. You left this part of the equation out of your little text. Was it intentional? Probably.

 2. Becky needed something, so I offered to go with her.

You’re just being a loyal friend and not letting your friend shop alone. Your significant other should be proud of how big hearted you are and lucky that you are theirs.

Consigning Clothes and Buying from Consignment

A lot of people are not completely clear on what exactly consignment is. We usually have the idea of a second-hand shop where the shop actually buys or collects used clothes and then sells it. Well, with consignment things function a bit differently. With consignment, the owner keeps ownership of their item until it sells, if it sells. Of course, the owner of the item needs to pay a small fee to the shop as compensation for them selling the item in question.

So, buying from consignment means that you are buying directly from the first owner. And this is especially important when buying clothes as you are going to put them on your skin, and it is always better if you know where exactly they came from. Now, if you are thinking about consigning clothes or buying from consignment here are some additional things you should know.

Understanding the concept of consignment shops

Most consignment shops are small local businesses that offer their own terms and conditions if you want to sell your clothing items there. The good news is that you can probably bargain and get the price of their commission down a bit, but the bad news is that they typically have a limited number of customers so your clothing might not get the desired exposure and it might stay at the shop for a very long time. This is where the internet comes in handy, choosing you can use a consignment online shop and get a lot more exposure for your items.

In most cases it requires you registering, paying a small fee and putting up images of the clothing items you want to sell along with their description. In today’s world, where everything is just a click away, the online option might be the fastest way for you to hand down the clothing items you are finally willing to part with. Just remember to count in the shipping price for each item.

Consider payment options

One of the reasons people choose consignment is either to either save money by buying well-preserved items for a much lower price, or to earn some extra money by selling items they do not longer want to wear. But in order to achieve the best price in both cases it is important to decide which payment methods are acceptable. It is similar to choosing the perfect credit card, you need to read carefully and see what benefits each package offers.

You can choose to pay for clothing via credit card or PayPal if it is an online purchase, on the other hand, you might want you have the option of making a simple cash exchange with the owner of the consignment shop after your item has been sold. It all depends what you are most comfortable with, and if there are certain benefits and savings possibilities for each of the options.

Maybe start a business

You can always consider starting a consignment business if you have a lot of items you want to sell or know people who want to supply your shop. Of course, the online option is the fastest and the cheapest way to get things off the ground as you won’t have to rent a space and pay for utilities, you can run it from the comfort of your own home. And as for the current market you will be happy to know that millennials are driving the re-sale clothing boom by choosing to pay less but still loving the brands.

You will see them frequenting vintage shops, a lot of which are actually consignment shops or bragging how they got that perfect Vera Wang dress for one-third of the price from the first owner. So, if you are considering this type of business now is the right time to go for it. The starting investment won’t be that big and all you need is to have a stable supply of clothing items from people willing to sell their clothes via your website. The profit won’t be too far behind.

So, if you want to consign clothes or buy clothes from consignment, or even start your own consignment shop, you live in the perfect day and age for that. The fact that more and more people are deciding to do this means that there is a lot more choice out there. You could run into great deals on high-quality couture items or be happy that you have found the most perfect-fitting skirt for just 5$ the options are limitless.

Consignment as movement has taken momentum as shows no sign of shopping, it allows people with a limited budget to wear expensive clothing items and at the same time earn some additional funds by selling off options clothes they don’t intend to wear any longer.

Article written by Sophia Smith
Sophia is a Beauty & Style blogger, Graphic designer and Style editor at highstylife.com
     

IMAGES ARE FROM UNSPLASH
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