“Try before you buy” is an excellent mantra, especially when it comes to clothes. We’ve all got that one beautiful item in our wardrobes that we’ve never worn because it doesn’t fit, does it? And this could be because we never tried it on.
So the next time you go shopping, use fitting rooms; they’re there to help us. However, fitting-room etiquette is important, and there’s a correct way to go about trying on new threads. Here is the right way to do so.
Inspired by Women.com, let’s raise a glass to social graces. Here are 10 things you should never ever do in a clothing store fitting room.
The story doesn’t end at closing time for clothing stores. The staff members have a lot of work to do, putting away the clothes that have been derailed and cleaning the store ahead of the next working day. So it is better if we are a little considerate and give these hardworking folks a head start and exit the store before the staff start giving you grumpy glances. Save your leisurely clothes haul for when you (and they) have ample time.
Surely most of you must have been trained from a young age to fold the clothes you tried on or respectfully place them back on their hangers to give the fitting room attendant one less job to do. The same goes for trash; if it’s yours, take it with you.
It may be lovely to get your partner’s perspective on that wildcard cocktail dress you’re trying on. However, bringing them into the fitting rooms with you could make the other customers uncomfortable.
Give everyone a little privacy; either make the decision on your own or summon your courage and make a brief exit to show them the outfit outside the fitting rooms.
You'll avoid one potentially very awkward conversation with the fitting room attendant if you stick to the limit! Everyone’s playing by the same rules, so play nicely.
You may pass your favorite clothing store on your route home from the gym, but respect your fellow shopper and refrain from trying on new clothes while you’re sweaty!
If you don’t buy the item, then it may need to be cleaned by the store’s staff. Worse yet, it may even become part of another person’s wardrobe without them being aware of the garment’s checkered past.
6. Try on a bathing suit without your undergarments
This is a rule that we’ve all had drummed into us by now, but always wear your own underwear while trying on new bathing suits and pants. Stay hygienic—it’s for everyone’s benefit.
It’s an easy mistake to make, but if you damage a garment, it’s wise to confess! Rule one: take care with the clothes in the first place. Rule two: if you do slip up, then be honest about it. The store will be able to clean the garment and it won’t become somebody else’s embarrassment instead.
You might think you’ve got nothing to hide, but a clothing store is not an appropriate location for a pants party. If you need another size, ask the fitting room attendant for help. Alternatively, take 20 seconds out of your schedule to put your pants and shirt back on; everybody will appreciate it!
If the clothes look great on you, then that’s awesome! We all deserve our moment in the mirror. But use that as a reason to buy the garment, not spend 10 minutes taking selfies; there are patient customers waiting for your space.
And on that note, there’s nothing worse than waiting in a fitting room queue while laid-back shoppers chat on their phones in the cubicles or touch-up their makeup. Make a personal rule to only use fitting rooms for trying on clothes.
Be honest, have you ever committed a cardinal fitting room sin? Try to make that time the last time, and maybe follow these tips from now on.
Louise Chambers
Author
Louise Chambers is a writer, born and raised in London, England. She covers inspiring news and human interest stories.
