Department Stores Online
From LoveToKnow Online
Department stores online are simply web versions of the brick-and-mortar stores you visit at the mall or the local shopping center. Two of the biggest advantages are that online stores typically have a larger selection of merchandise and do not run out of stock as quickly as their physical counterparts. The web stores have the same sales and sometimes even have special offers, so it won't cost you any more to shop online with them. Check out some of the more popular department stores online below, then check out our tips on how to make the most of your shopping experience.
Kohl's Department Stores Online
The Kohl's website lets you do everything that you can in the store. Each department is represented online, as well as a great clearance section where you can save up to 80% compared to regular prices. You can also view the current ad, apply for the Kohl's credit card, and check your gift card balance. The website loads pretty quickly on broadband connections, even with the graphics-heavy design, but dial-up users will have more difficulty navigating the site.
Macy's
If you want an easier site to navigate, try Macy's. Macy's has been around for 150 years, so they know trends and how to run specials. The one downside to being a basic site is that most everything you see online is also available at the store. While they may have special sales, there have rarely been any special products only available online. This gives shoppers less incentive to visit the chain's online counterpart, unless there is no Macy's nearby.
Target
Over the past few years, Target has become more than a big-box discount retailer. By acquiring name designers like Issac Mizarahi and special artists to design seasonal merchandise, Target has become a big player in upscale department stores. There are a couple of cool features that make its website different. The first is you can see what is new at brick-and-mortar Target stores without going to the store, then if you wish to purchase the new item, you can do it from your couch. Since Target also includes the SuperTarget stores carrying a full line of groceries), you can print out money-saving coupons that can be redeemed at any Target store.
Sears
The Sears department store online is a rather busy site to operate. They do have a few more departments than some other stores, such as televisions, appliances, lawn mowers, and exercise equipment. Sears.com offers a section of top sellers so you can see what products are most popular and can even send you text alerts with great deals, coupons, and special offers. The Sears Outlet is also accessible online.
Nordstrom
For a very traditional department store online, visit Nordstrom. Nordstrom is focused on offering exclusive designer products and carrying the top brands in the clothing industry. They recently started a new feature some other retailers also offer, allowing you to buy online and pick up your purchase in-store. This is only convenient if there is a Nordstrom near you; otherwise you must search for special shipping offers or pay the full cost of shipping.
Carson Pirie Scott
The Carson Pirie Scott website design should be very familiar to you if shop other department stores online. It includes special offer advertisements, sidebars with little deals, and a listing of what departments are available online. While they don't have anything much different than Nordstrom or even Kohl's in terms of merchandise, you can create a gift registry online and read customer reviews of the products they sell.
Online Spending
It is predicted that online spending will rise in 2008 by 48% to around $12.6 billion. Online stores will be doing everything they can to get their piece of this money with special deals, free shipping, and exclusive online-only ads. It's advantageous for you to shop around for the best deals, especially if more than one online department store carries a particular product.
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This page has been accessed 1,735 times. This page was last modified 05:10, 21 July 2008.
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