Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories Buying Guide

Buying clothing, shoes, and accessories can be a daunting and time-consuming task, especially with the wide selection of products available at local brick-and-mortar stores, as well as online at marketplaces like Macys. Need just the right outfit, shoes, and handbag for a new job, next week's party, or a special occasion with family or friends? Not only can shoppers save time if they go to a single source for clothes, shoes, and accessories, but they can also shop from the comfort of their own home when they buy online.

When searching for clothing, shoes, and accessories, buyers should be aware of available options before making a purchase. Find out about the different types of handbags, jeans, jackets or other outerwear, shoes, sunglasses, or vintage clothing; how to measure sizes for clothing and shoes; and the key terms used by clothing, shoes, and accessories sellers.

Types of Clothing and Accessories
From handbags and sunglasses to jeans and shoes, there are literally thousands of clothing and accessory brands to choose from. On eBay alone, there are more than 1.5 million items listed in the Clothing, Shoes and Accessories category, where shoppers can find everything from designer jeans, to wholesale lots, to one-of-a-kind vintage clothing items. The following table defines different clothing and accessory types. Knowing these descriptions will help shoppers experience a more informed and enjoyable search for their next pair of shoes or new article of clothing.

How to Measure Size for Clothing and Shoes
It is important to properly measure body size in different areas to get the proper fit in clothing. Measuring is easier if a friend helps. Before beginning the online search for new clothing and shoes, make sure to take measurements for a good fit. Many sellers include body size charts that correspond with the manufacturer's sizing increments. Knowing accurate measurements helps choose the correct size for each brand. The tables below help shoppers learn how to measure different parts of the body, how to determine size by height, and how to determine correct shoe size.

How to Measure for Women's Clothing
Women tend to be wider in the hip and bust than men but smaller in the waist and height. Getting the right measurement is important to getting the best-fitting clothing. The person measuring should use a cloth tape measure (rather than a stiff metal one) to get the proper measurements. The table below helps define measurements according to the different parts of the body, including head, bust, sleeve, waist, and hips. Shoppers will also need to know the difference between the terms rise, inseam, and height.

Women's Shoes
Getting the correct shoe size is important in order for a comfortable fit. The buyer should keep in mind the width of the foot, as a wider foot might require a wider shoe. If buyers are not sure what size they wear, they can go to a shoe retailer and have them measure the dimensions of their foot, including width, with a Brannock's Device.

How to Measure for Men's Clothing
Men tend to be broader in the chest and waist, smaller in the hips, and taller overall. Getting the right measurement is important to finding the best-fitting clothing. The person measuring should use a cloth tape measure, sometimes called a tailor's tape measure, to get the proper readings. The table below helps define measurements according to the different parts of the body, including head, bust, sleeve, waist, and hips. Shoppers will also need to know the difference between the terms inseam and height.