1. All of the big names in retail fashion now have online stores. Some even offer ranges through their websites that are not available in the shops.

2. But there's not need to limit yourself to the shops you know from the high street, don't forget the online-only retailers like ASOS and Net-A-Porter.

3. It's always worth shopping around to bag a bargain, but there's no need to spend hours fliting from one shop to the next when price comparison sites like stylefinder.com are online to do the legwork for you.

4. For many people the only real drawback with internet shopping is that you can't try the clothes on before you buy them. But most websites have foolproof size guides - you'll just need to get the tape measure out.

5. Or, you could order 2 different sizes and return the one that doesn't fit.

6. You have the same right to return clothes bought online as you do in a normal shop as long as you have a receipt. But it is worth checking if you'll be charged for postage.

7. If you're looking for vintage pieces, auction sites like ebay are you best bet. They're a great place for finding designer names that you'd have to spend weeks trawling the shops to unearth.

8. When you're buying anything online - just look out for the padlock sign when it comes to payment - it means the website is secure.

9. And if you're totally out of cash, how about swapping something old for something new (well, new to you at least) through an exchange site like What's Mine is yours?

10. And finally, always remember to order well in advance if you're going need your purchases in time for a big event - delivery lead times can't always be relied upon.