It takes a skilled shopper to use the internet to purchase items.... and be totally satisfied.  Indeed, it takes more than knowledge of one's own body to purchase, say, a garment on ebay or esty...Which is why, in my opinion, shopping for inexpensive clothes, shoes and accessories online is a key starting point for the novice online shopper.
And I know you may be wondering...how the hell did you find those Gaga-esque platform wedge ankle booties for 23 buckeroos? It wasn't easy, let me tell you that. But leave the searching up to me...I've compiled a list of formidable online stores, ebay sellers, etc so that you can skip the faux 'sole' searching and get down to business. Trust me, I've been doing this for many hours at my desk while simultaneously juggling my full-time office manager's job in the big city.

This list is in no particular order, but read carefully, each description will help you understand the importance and relevance of each website.

1. Gilt Group- For those who don't know about it, Gilt is the exclusive go-to site for discounted designer goods ranging from Marc Jacobs to Hermes and from American Apparel to APC. You have to sign up for an email list with sites like these, but trust me, it's worth it. I got a great Marc Jacobs one-piece for just 30 bucks, originally priced at $90. It didn't fit, but lesson learned, I am not quite big-boobied enough to fit into a size two.
2. Jack Threads- Same idea as gilt, but catered specifically for men. If I meet a guy who buys from--or at least looks at--Jack Threads, I will marry him straight away. They've got amazing stuff! I am on the Jack Threads email list just to see what's in style for the other half.
3. 15dollarstore.com- The name says it all. Everything on this site, EVERYTHING is priced at 15$. I got a super fetch (pardon the reference, I can't help it sometimes) sterling silver, faux studded watch (see post about bling in 'what we wear') and a great pair of leather (real leather!) mid-calf motorcycle inspired boots. Shipping was fast and easy, you can't go wrong here...though some of the clothing is past its trendy prime, you can always find something cool from the site's multipaged collection of clothes, shoes and everything else!
4. Ebay- Specifically, certain ebay stores based out of Japan, China and Korea are incredible for purchases that you aren't sure you can pull off, but are dying to try out any way. I purchased a coat for ten dollars simply by searching 'white coat' and clicking the buy-it-now option. My favorite foreign ebay stores include onlinegiftstore, polai2009 and several others. Give it a shot, you won't be disappointed.
5. Esty- This is more of a look book for me, because I am too broke to purchase such things online. The great thing about esty is that it has EVERYTHING from attire-making supplies, to vintage clothes, to 'used' items that are too young to be considered vintage. If I had more patience (and/or a fatter paycheck), I would certainly shop here more often.

-A