On our recent visit to York we took the opportunity to mooch around some of the shops in the city centre. We were inspired to purchase a number of items which we would never have bought online. The friend who accompanied us also made a number of "surprise" purchases.
Over coffee and cake we discussed the psychology of buying online and in person shopping. We realised that with online shopping we are constantly being nudged to buy more of what we have bought before. This means that we rarely try out anything new. It is also quite difficult to experiment online. This is especially true about clothes, but it also applies to homewares, music, books and so much more. In person shopping is much more leisurely and feels more relaxed than logging onto Amazon or Next for a quick purchase. In person means that you try new designs and styles, even new genres with books and music. We chatted about shopping online being excellent if you know what you want, but less good if you are seeking inspiration, or have no idea that you want something at all!
On this occasion I bought a dress which definitely wasn't on my "to buy" list, but it just caught my eye. I bought Chris some grey trousers. He always shies away from grey, but was keen on the trousers in White Stuff. Our friend bought a few tunics and tops. She was surprised that she bought totally different items from the ones she planned to buy! I bought a jacket in Sahara. I went in to purchase a cream jacket and came out with a purpley blue colour!
Our conclusion was that online shopping is great, it's very practical and accessible and gives us access to a wide range of goods that we wouldn't have otherwise. However, in person shopping is so good, too. It provides inspiration and ensures that our shopping doesn't get stale, repetitive and boring. It also means that we won't be wearing the same styles and colours for the foreseeable future.