Trying on clothes at a retail store is a crucial part of the shopping experience.
Whether you’re shopping for a new wardrobe update, a special occasion, or just browsing, how you behave when trying on clothes can make the experience smoother, more efficient, and pleasant for both you and the store staff.
While the excitement of finding that perfect outfit can be exhilarating, it’s essential to remember a few key guidelines to ensure that you respect the store, maintain your comfort, and keep the shopping environment positive.
1. Be mindful of time
While trying on clothes is all about finding the right fit and style, it’s important to be mindful of time. Many retail stores have limited fitting room spaces, and others might be busy with customers waiting their turn. You should limit the amount of time spent in the fitting room, especially during peak shopping hours. Try on clothes efficiently, making sure to assess each item for fit, comfort, and style quickly. If you need more time for decision-making, consider bringing a friend or family member who can help speed up the process by providing feedback.
2. Use the fitting room properly
Retail stores generally provide fitting rooms for a reason—to allow you to try on clothes privately and with ease. Be sure to use the fitting room according to the store’s guidelines. Most stores expect customers to try on clothes in designated spaces, not in aisles or public areas. Not only does this ensure your privacy, but it also prevents any accidental mishaps such as clothes being dropped or items getting lost. Always ensure the fitting room is clean and neat after use. If you’ve used hangers or tags, return them as you found them. It’s a small but thoughtful gesture that helps store staff and other customers.
3. Respect store property
When trying on clothes, remember that the store has provided the garments for you to assess. You may be tempted to stretch a shirt or pants to see if they’ll fit better, but it’s important not to damage the clothing. Always handle items with care. Avoid pulling too hard on fabrics or leaving items on the floor, as this could damage them. If you do happen to accidentally stain or tear something, inform the store staff immediately. Stores appreciate honesty, and it’s always better to own up to mistakes rather than hide them.
4. Consider your personal hygiene
Trying on clothes often involves close physical contact with garments that are shared by many customers, so it’s essential to be mindful of personal hygiene. While it’s not a requirement, wearing appropriate undergarments (such as seamless underwear or a strapless bra) can help prevent items from getting dirty or stretched out. If you’re someone who tends to sweat a lot, consider bringing deodorant, or using a fitting room towel to prevent clothing from absorbing excess moisture. Additionally, consider wearing a face mask if you’re visiting during a busy period, especially in regions where health guidelines are still encouraged.
5. Keep your valuables safe
Before entering the fitting room, make sure to store any valuables, such as your phone, wallet, and keys, in a safe place. Many fitting rooms lack secure storage options, and you don’t want to risk misplacing or losing your belongings. Use a bag with secure compartments or leave your valuables in a locked locker if available. If you’re concerned about your belongings while in the fitting room, ask a staff member if they can hold onto your items for safekeeping.
6. Be courteous to store staff and other shoppers
Retail stores often have limited staff, so being courteous and patient with the staff members is important. If you need assistance, whether it’s for sizes, styles, or finding more of the same item, kindly ask. If you’ve already selected items to try on, be mindful of how long the fitting room is occupied, especially if the store is crowded. Additionally, always try to hang up clothes and return items to their proper places after trying them on. It’s considerate to leave the space tidy, so others can try on clothes easily too.
7. Don’t overstuff the fitting room
It’s easy to get carried away when you find multiple items you like, but remember, fitting rooms often have limited space. Keep the number of items you bring into the fitting room manageable. This will make it easier for you to assess each piece and prevent overcrowding the room, which can make it difficult for others to use the fitting room. If you’ve picked out a lot of clothes, consider putting back what you won’t try on before entering the fitting room.
8. Be honest with yourself (and others)
When trying on clothes, be honest with yourself about how the items fit. Sometimes, we get attached to a piece of clothing just because it looks good on the hanger, but that doesn’t always translate to the fitting room. Be honest with yourself about how the clothes fit your body and whether they feel comfortable. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask a friend, a store assistant, or even other shoppers for their honest opinion. Many stores also offer a “fit specialist” service, where trained staff can offer personalized advice.
9. Respect the return policy
If you’ve decided that an item isn’t for you, don’t forget to respect the store’s return policy. It’s best to return items promptly to avoid losing the opportunity for a refund or exchange. If you’re on the fence about an item, check whether the store allows you to put it aside to think about it and return later. And if you’ve tried on something that doesn’t fit, it’s better to return it to the store clean and in its original condition, including all tags and packaging.
10. Stay calm if something doesn’t fit
Finally, if the clothes you try on don’t fit or look as expected, stay calm. Remember that size charts vary between brands, and what may not work for you today may look great on another occasion. Retail stores often offer tailoring services for a small fee, so if an item you love doesn’t fit perfectly, you might be able to have it altered to your liking.
