Talbots is a somewhat upscale women’s clothing store that has been around for a long time, and has an excellent reputation, with good reason. They have brick and mortar stores, but also do a great deal of business from their website and paper catalog. Their clothes tend to be conservative and classic. The styles appeal to a working woman who needs functional, basic items that can transition from work to weekend. Their prices run somewhat high, but their items are well made and the styles withstand trends.
I ordered from the Talbot’s catalog via their website a couple months ago. I looked at their size chart, but was still unsure of what size would be right for me, so I ordered the size I thought would fit, and I also ordered a size larger. This way, I would have the luxury of trying on the items in my own home and could see the exact fit and make a truly informed decision. Before doing this, however, I first checked their return policy, to make sure I would not have any problems. I found that they have an unconditional guarantee right on their website, stating that if the customer is not satisfied with their item, they may return it at any time for an exchange or refund. No time limits. I was quite impressed with this. I felt confident ordering from them.
Just a few days later, I received my two items, nicely boxed. I got out the return form slip, and tried them both on. The one that didn’t fit, I simply had to repackage, mark the appropriate code on the return form for “too large”, peel off the return address sticker and send it back to Talbots. Talbots does not pay for return shipping, but to avoid this, you can return the item to a brick and mortar store. For me, the $5 I paid in return shipping was not a problem considering I did not have to get dressed and drive out to a store to try on this item. I’m all about convenience, and I’m not a big shopper, so this system worked perfectly.
Within days, I received an email confirmation that my item had been received, and then a couple days later, a credit for the full amount was placed back onto my credit card. Seamless! No questions and no problems. Not only did I have this success, but the item that I was left with was perfect. The fit was excellent. The lines were clean and classic. It is clear that the item was well made and would stand the test of time. What’s more, I learned that once you determine your appropriate size from Talbots, that is it. You are all set. Assuming that you stay the same size, you can order without question from the catalog. Talbots makes their own products, and there are no other labels being sold within the Talbots catalog, so you have uniformity. If you wear a size 4 in one item, you will wear a 4 in the next, with the same fit. This is such a relief to me, and really keeps things simple, which I really like. That point alone is enough to keep me coming back.
Talbots has got it all going on! Their catalogs are lovely. The sizing is accurate. Their items are high quality and well made. Their website is very user friendly. The prices are a little high, but considering the pieces are not trendy and can last for years as far as style, and they are very durable, the price is well worth it. I would rather have one piece of Talbots high quality clothing that two pieces of trendy, cheaply made clothing that would not last. Their shipping comes 2nd day air, so it is fast. Returns are seamless and easy. Customer service is excellent. I would and will shop there again and again, and would recommend them to anyone. They have also received rave reviews all over the web. For a sample of these positive reviews, go here. To shop from their website, go to www.talbots.com.
