Fashion fact; there are some really hot brands emerging around the world right now, and not all of them are available in the UK. Ordering online is, of course, the easiest way to get your hands on that splendid new top that you saw on your favourite American blogger’s Insta - but there are charges, clauses and taxes galore that you need to be aware of. These are the labels worth paying your import duties for…
Reformation
Looking for an outfit that no one else at the wedding / party / other major occasion will have? Bookmark Reformation for the next time you need a wow dress. The LA-based label has amassed over half a million followers since launching in 2009, thanks to their exclusive designs made from eco-friendly fabrics and they’ve even dabbled with bridal collections in the last year.
*How to shop: *
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Shipping is free to the UK.
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Import taxes are, however, not included or calculated for you – expect to pay at least an extra 20% on top of your order total when the goods are delivered.
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It’s also up to you to organise and pay for return postage to the US.
Storets
You may have noticed this US e-tail name popping up on every British Instagrammer’s style feed recently, as everyone is suddenly cottoning on to their could-be-designer blouses and cool, directional knitwear (see top image). These clothes look expensive – they’re street style catnip, but at a snip of the designer price. Our only gripe is that they never seem to have any sizes other than small in stock…
*How to shop: *
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Shipping is free to the UK on orders over $75.
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Prices are charged in US Dollars, so exchange rates and card charges are dependent on your bank’s policy.
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Import taxes are not included or calculated for you– expect to pay at least an extra 20% on top of your order total when the goods are delivered.
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It’s up to you to organise and pay for return postage to the brand’s Korean office, and there’s a $5.99 returns fee for every package sent back.
Nasty Gal
Founded by the ultimate #GirlBoss, Sophia Amoruso, Nasty Gal’s attitude-packed collections feel totally different to anything we can get our hands on from the great British high street. The idea? You wear these clothes, they don’t wear you.
*How to shop: *
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Standard shipping to the UK costs £9.95, or is free on orders over £150.
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UK import taxes at 20% are calculated for you and you’re able to pay them at the checkout on the website.
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It’s up to you to organise and pay for return postage to the US.
Realisation Par
Alexa Chung and Bella Hadid are fans of this ladylike label, founded in Los Angeles by Alexandra Spencer and Teale Talbot. They're all about trying to capture that *je ne sais quoi *of French styling, via seasonless collections of beautiful ruffled dresses and loose blouses. Delicious.
*How to shop: *
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Standard shipping costs $15 to the UK.
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Prices are charged in US Dollars, so exchange rates and card charges will be dependent on your bank’s policy.
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Import taxes are not included – expect to pay at least an extra 20% on top of your order total when the goods are delivered.
-
It’s up to you to organise and pay for return postage to the US, and your original shipping cost is not refunded.