Finaled out my Boutique issue, plus collateral damage

Awhile back I posted about s fun boutique for which I had “ won” a gift certificate . I bought some booties, but at home felt the fit was off so returned (as in within 24 hrs. The shop about said they don’t do any returns, but finally gave me store credit. Of course the amount was now higher than my original certificate because the item I bought was a bit higher. On YLF we had done discussions on boutique inventory, finances.
Well, I checked back from time to time but nothing struck my fancy. The shop is aimed at younger clientele for one thing- still I was hopeful because it would have things like Equipment shirts, Vince, interesting footwear. But I’ve learned that these items are fewer and farther between that I’d thought and often just a tad “ off” and everything is quite expensive. Plus I was terrified of getting something else that might fail the “ home mirror “ test as I’d not want to try another return. For me that ruled out jeans, footwear, lots of things.
Not saying the store credit was burning a hole in my wallet, but I was coming up on2- year anniversary of the original gift certificate. So I began trying to focus. . I found only about 3 things I could use and really liked. 2 were the Rail plaid shirt and the Vince cashmere sweater which is in Linen color ( the Find example will only show Blue). I decided to cut my losses and not pay out more $$ to them. I got the plaid shirt ( whether or not they’re “ in style”, ha) because the color combo looks good and are favorite colors and I can wear easily, and also layer.
BUT I also really liked the Vince sweater. It’s fluid but not oversized, not too thick a knit, sleeves are slim enough fit under a jacket and the linen color is a really good “ light neutral “ for me. It is warm but doesn’t look like heavy sweaters that are just for polar vortex days, so I think will be versatile . So I got it on significant sale from another store , good return policy so could I try it out with outfits. It’s a keeper and I expect to have fun with it when weather gets a bit cooler.
I AM annoyed that it went on further sale, but may just let that go.

So I think I may not set foot in that boutique again, or if I do will be for “ retail research “!

Nordstrom

RAILS Hunter Plaid Shirt

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Top Pick

Saks Fifth Avenue

Vince Boxy Cashmere Pullover

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Top Pick

6 years ago

Anonymous

I like both. You did well.

I have had a very similar experience at a local boutique. I avoid those types of boutiques because I am weak.

Runcarla

Veteran

I have a gift certificate burning a hole in my pocket, after returning a pair of shoes as well. In my case they were worn about 6 weeks, but 1 shoe developed an uncomfortable flaw (something rolled down in the padded heel) that rubbed at the back of my ankle. I did not replace with the same shoe. I walk by the store on my way to work, so can check out inventory regularly. However, I'll be retired in less than 6 months (who's counting ☺️) and won't be coming into the Big City as much, so,Imfeel a,little,heat in my back pocket.

I like the plaid shirt you chose.

Joyce B

I generally avoid boutiques for the reasons you stated. Any attempt at a return takes too much time and energy so I prefer to shop at stores with a good return policy, such as Nordstrom’s.
You did end up getting nice items, I hope you will enjoy them.

unfrumped

It’s funny because at first I assumed I’d find something unique and maybe unusual, then ratcheted down to maybe a work basic, a Sikh shirt or something. - I was darned if I’d buy a $100 gray T shirt, for example. Then finally I began to think I’d be grateful if such a T shirt showed up because at least I would wear it. Hence finally the plaid shirt, which is a brushed rayon. I’ve already worn it and am set for plaid for this year. Lesson learned!

JAileen

What a pain. I bought some earrings at a boutique in the last couple years. They had some nice clothes, but they didn't carry my size. I'd see something nice, and the largest size was teeny. Well, they're not getting any of my business. Unfortunately they have my email.

Greyscale

I'm glad you found something great! I also find boutiques challenging for the same reasons.

Joy

I love a story with a happy ending.. Return policy ( no returns) is a problem I have with most consignment and thrift stores as well as boutiques. I love Nordstrom and the Rack for their return policies.

bridgie

I am glad you got this resolved to your satisfaction. I don't mind spending for something that works, but I sure hate when I am stuck with a bad purchase and lost money on it.

Laura G

I hate store credits. It's so insecure--you can lose the scrap of paper, the store can lose its records, they can go out of business...I'm glad you got out from under yours. The plaid shirt is very pretty.

Style Fan

I am glad you found something you liked. The Rails shirt is very pretty and the Vince sweater has a lovely drape. I shop at a boutique that has a great return policy --- no question asked as long as it is within 2 weeks and the tags are on you will get your money back. I will not shop at places where there is only store credit or no returns!

LAvintagestyle

(website)

Active Member

I don't like shopping at boutiques for the same reason. Twice I've ended up with store credit I didn't feel I would ever use, so I either gave it to a friend or donated it to a fundraiser.

Gigi

Boutiques are tough. I completely understand why they have the policies they do, but it makes it tough for people who are hard to fit or who have very specific tastes in clothing. I try to shop local for other things (cosmetics, specialty foods, etc.) and then do most of my clothes shopping online.

I have also found that in a few cases, local braches of a chain will order my items for me (Free People), which means I avoid shipping charges and they also get the credit as a store sale. Not exactly the same as shopping at an independent boutique, but at least the money stays more in the community.

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