Before we know it, Christmas will be here, and we'll be scrambling for last minute gifts. But, if you're clever, you'll bookmark Who What Wear Australia, and check in every day while we deliver stories on how to get organised, gifting ideas, and just general Christmas cheer to get you in the mood.
First up, we're looking to Etsy. The perfect place to go to find an original, one-of-a-kind, or unique gift. While Etsy has been around for just over ten years, it's certainly evolved from its beginnings, to become a worldwide marketplace where emerging designers are making a name for themselves. With over 35 million items for sale, and sellers from almost every country in the world, we figured it would be a pretty good place for you to start your gifting this year. The only problem? Working out how to navigate through all those products, when all you know is that you're on the hunt for something in the fashion/and or accessory space. Where to start?
I recently shopped on Etsy for embroidered iron on patches, which was easy, because I knew exactly what I wanted (for those curious, I purchased these to sew over a rip in a shirt I'm not ready to part with yet). But what do you do when you don't know exactly what you want? Or if you know exactly what you want? Esther Kelleher, communications manager at Etsy, has all the answers.
If you prefer to shop offline, the Etsy Made Local markets are almost here! Mark November 19 in your calendar, and visit your nearest Etsy Made Local to shop the crafters, collectors, and artisans in your local community.
Keep scrolling!
KNOW YOUR MEASUREMENTS
First, grab the measuring tape and get to know your own key measurements before you start shopping online (check out this handy guide to just how to do that). This will come in handy when shopping for clothes. You should be able to find the key measurement details on the Etsy item you have your eye on in the ‘item details’ section of the listing, so make sure you compare with your own numbers to ensure the best fit. Or, the beauty of Etsy, is you can communicate directly with the seller, so just reach out and ask for help.
HOW TO GET EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT
Love something you see on Etsy but want it in a different size, colour or pattern? Want to add some length to the sleeves or turn the skirt into a mini? You’re in luck because requesting a custom product couldn’t be easier on Etsy, and most sellers love the opportunity to collaborate with customers to create a ‘perfect for them’ piece.
HOW TO SEARCH ON ETSY
The beauty of Etsy is the more you explore the site and ‘favourite’ items or shops, the more the site can recommend other similar makers or items you might like—it’s a great way to discover new designers or vintage stores!
If you’re just getting started on Etsy, the Editors’ Picks section provides curated collections for a range of tastes, trends and seasons. Alternatively, type keywords that best describe the item or style you’re looking for in the search bar and refine results by location (if you prefer to shop local), price, handmade, vintage, or more. Another favourite way to find new brands, is to follow the @EtsyAu Instagram account.
SHOP 3 OF OUR FAVOURITE ETSY FINDS
Opening image: Getty Images
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