Jenni NZ, we have not had closed shops here during the pandemics almost at all, only some minor restrictions. But some people still avoid going into B&M stores. I have not done any B&M shopping during the pandemics at all and I still avoid shopping malls and department stores. So I buy online.
But I have been shopping mainly online for about 6 - 8 years. Before that, my favorite shopping destinations where smaller local shops and "boutiques", which had quite specific mixed merchandise, I knew the owners or SAs and always had a good time going in there. These were my "power breaks". All of these shops have been gone for several years. Very sad. Instead, there are these big malls or chains popping up. I also shopped often when I traveled, mainly in Germany and Denmark, because I found the supply broader and more interesting.
Later on, I found a couple of German online stores, which sell exactly the brands I wear and I know the sizing and the style, which makes it easier.
Shopping online is different than B&M, it is like you take the items to a fitting room, just like Suz says. I make fewer mistakes as to what I keep, because I have more time to think and try with clothes I already own. My purchases are better thought out. I practice Angie's PPP's better. Sometimes though, it is frustrating when you order a lot, knowing that not everything can work, but hoping that something will, and all has to go back. The "p" for patience is the hardest one.