Feel Like Shopping? Curl Up With a Good Catalogue

Gone are the days when postal-delivered catalogues went from the mailbox to the trash can. Today, many people await the arrival of these “wish books,” eager to flip through the pages in search of hard-to-find or high-value items.

Not surprisingly, fashion catalogues have become the leader of the pack. Giants such as Victoria’s Secret and Spiegel, for instance, have dispelled all notions that mail-order shopping is of inferior quality to that found in retail venues. These mail-order companies, along with many other nationwide catalogues, offer top-notch designer clothing and accessories. These are attractive lures for armchair shoppers.

Still, some people may be hesitant to send money to an unknown entity for something they have only seen in a photograph. There is, of course, always the risk of corresponding with fly-by-night companies, particularly those that produce the more obscure catalogues. How can you know you’re ordering from a legitimate mail-order source? And even more important, is it a cost-effective buying option?

The following are a few suggestions that may make mail-order buying a worthwhile way to shop:

* When ordering, verify the return and refund policies. Some catalogues will refund the entire amount plus shipping and handling, while others will only refund the item price.

* Because all catalogues offer a shipping and handling chart, it is advisable to check how much these additional charges will be. You may find that the item price is reasonable, but with added charges tacked on it might not be such a bargain after all.

* For a first-time order from a catalogue, experiment by ordering a few low- or medium-priced items to determine the quality of the merchandise.

* For higher-priced items (especially involving companies with which your experience is limited), you may want to ask for purchaser references. Once you have prepared specific questions, contact them and learn from their experiences.

* Always verify delivery, particularly around a holiday. Most catalogues have shipping options that can ensure that your merchandise arrives promptly.

* When ordering the merchandise, check to see if the item is in stock. If it isn’t, you might have quite a long wait until the next stock order arrives.

* Once you’ve ordered from various catalogues and are satisfied with the merchandise and service, try to establish a rapport with a specific phone consultant and deal with him or her regularly.

* If you’re interested in receiving a free directory that lists the current fashion catalogues, write to: Shop-at-Home Fashion Catalogs, 1355 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite C-310, Denver, Colo. 80222