How to Shop Like a Pro in the New Retail Era
Shopping is not what it used to be. The retail industry is undergoing a massive transformation. With the rise of e-commerce and the increasing popularity of online shopping, brick-and-mortar stores are struggling to keep up. But that doesn’t mean that physical stores are going away anytime soon. In fact, many retailers are finding new and innovative ways to attract customers and stay relevant in the new retail era.
One of the biggest trends in retail right now is the use of technology to enhance the shopping experience. From virtual reality to augmented reality, retailers are using cutting-edge technology to create immersive shopping experiences that engage customers and keep them coming back for more. For example, some stores are using virtual reality headsets to allow customers to “try on” clothes without ever leaving their homes. Others are using augmented reality apps to help customers visualize how furniture or home decor items would look in their homes.
Embrace Immersive Shopping Experiences
Virtual and augmented reality allow customers to experience products in new and exciting ways. As a trendsetter shopper, you’ll want to seek out these immersive experiences. Try on the latest fashion virtually, visualize how a new couch would look in your living room, or even walk through a digital store without leaving home. These futuristic technologies make shopping interactive and fun.
Follow Your Favorite Influencers
Social media influencers have become powerful trendsetters. With huge followings across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and more, influencers give their audiences a glimpse into the latest and greatest products. As a trendy shopper, be sure to follow your favorite influencers in your niche. See what fashionistas are wearing, which products beauty gurus recommend, and how interior design influencers style their homes. Let them expose you to new brands and inspire your purchases.
Prioritize Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Finds
Sustainability should be top of mind for any trendsetting shopper today. Seek out retailers that use eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices. Discover boutiques that curate green products made from recycled materials. Look for organic, non-toxic beauty and skincare products. Not only is this better for the environment, but sustainable goods are on trend. You’ll be ahead of the curve by filling your closet and home with earth-friendly finds.
Sign Up for Personalized Recommendations
As a trendy shopper, you want a shopping experience tailored specifically to your tastes. Sign up for personalized recommendations from your favorite retailers. This allows stores to use data analytics and AI to provide suggestions based on your browsing and buying history. It’s like having your own digital shopping assistant! This makes discovering relevant new arrivals a breeze. And the best part? The algorithm gets smarter over time, leading to recommendations that get more spot on.
Master Mobile Shopping
In 2023, everything from browsing to buying can be done right from your smartphone. As a tech-savvy trendsetter, take advantage of innovations in mobile shopping. Follow retailers on social apps like Instagram and Snapchat to see their latest rollouts. Use your camera to scan and search for products. Pay with a click thanks to digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Set up alerts so you never miss a sale or restock. And of course, shop on the go whenever inspiration strikes!
Sample New Brands on Social Shopping Sites
Social shopping sites like LiketoKnow.It and ShopStyle allow you to discover and buy products spotted on social media. As a trendsetting shopper, explore these platforms to find styles shown by your favorite influencers. Browse shoppable feeds based on your interests. Check out what other trendsetters are buying. Social shopping sites make it easy to sample new brands and access #fashioninspo from across the internet.
Invest in Some Smart Tech
In 2023, smart tech is making shopping experiences more personalized, convenient, and futuristic. As a shopping trailblazer, you’ll want to get in on the action. Invest in smart home devices that can automatically reorder everyday essentials when you run low. Consider smart glasses that put a virtual display only you can see, and allow you to browse, compare prices, and read reviews as you shop in real life. Or try a personal shopping assistant device to get advice as you shop. Cutting-edge tech makes staying on trend a breeze!
Shop Giftable Experiences
Experiential gifts are expected to trend in 2023. As a forward-thinking shopper, consider booking concerts, sporting events, glamping trips, couples massages and more for the people on your gift list this year. Especially as inflation makes discretionary purchases challenging, memories often feel more meaningful. Plus, gifting tickets or passes makes shopping for men, teens, and “people who have everything” easier. Think outside the (gift) box with the gift of experience!
Attend In-Real-Life Events
Online shopping may be convenient, but in 2023, consumers also crave real-life, in-person shopping experiences. As a cutting-edge shopper, mark your calendar for any noteworthy retail events happening near you. Keep an eye out for pop-up shops, brand festivals, exclusive trunk shows, and seasonal markets. These limited-time happenings let you immerse yourself in a brand’s world, score limited edition finds, and mingle with fellow fashionistas and influencers.
Study Up on the Metaverse
The metaverse is poised to disrupt retail in coming years. Virtual worlds like Decentraland allow users to browse digital storefronts and buy one-of-a-kind virtual goods for their avatars. This trend is still emerging, but as an early adopter, you’ll want to study up. Browse virtual clothing collections, follow metaverse influencers, and explore digital retail concepts. The more you learn now, the better you can take advantage as the metaverse goes mainstream.
Flex Your Bargain Hunting Skills
In times of economic uncertainty, deal hunting becomes essential. As inflation persists in 2023, consumers will expect more bang for their buck. Sharp shoppers can stay on trend without overspending by maximizing promotions, cash-back apps, loyalty programs and more. Follow your favorite retailers for news of sitewide sales and coupon codes. Strategically shop end-of-season clearances. Use tools like Honey or Rakuten to automatically find and apply money-saving discounts. And don’t forget to check resale platforms for steep savings on gently used pieces.
Buy Secondhand First
Speaking of resale, buying pre-loved is poised to go mainstream in 2023. Platforms like TheRealReal and ThredUp make it easy to score secondhand designer goods. Download apps like Depop and Poshmark to find thrifted treasures with just a few taps. Upcycled fashion brands give used materials new life in stylish designs. You can even use platforms like craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to buy and sell locally. As a savvy shopper, embrace secondhand as the new first stop for major fashion finds.
In 2023 and beyond, consumers should prepare for an exciting new era of shopping experiences both online and in real life. By staying on the leading edge of retail trends from livestream shopping to virtual storefronts, tech-enabled shoppers can access inspiration and value while minimizing their impact on the environment. It’s an amazing time to approach shopping strategically while still indulging your inner fashionista. The future of retail promises innovations that make staying on trend both fun and accessible!
