Shop until you drop! Doing this is not impossible, and I know this because I’ve done it myself. Those brightly coloured ads with bold red letters reading “DESIGNER BLOWOUT SALE” have led to late night sprees, resulting in a shopping hangover. At the very least, my job in fashion writing has afforded me the ability to justify this habit as “research.” It’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it.

Here are just a few of my picks for best online retailers:

1. SHOPSTYLE is essentially the fashion equivalent to Google. Type in an item that you want (like “pants”), and voilà – you get a wide array of styles from a variety of online retailers. Try out these Tony Cohen Silk Print Pants ($334) from Shopbop.com, via SHOPSTYLE.

2. SSENSE is a Montreal-based online shop that features the coolest designers from runway and streetwear. One of the best things about this shop is free shipping in Canada. I’m wishing for a vintage Chanel diamond tassel bag ($3525) – a girl can dream right?

3. NET-A-PORTER was created as one of the first of it’s kind. This retailer doubles as an online magazine and features top runway looks from Vince to Valentino. One of their new arrivals includes killer footwear from Alaia ($1805).

4. LUISA VIA ROMA is one of Florence, Italy’s best. Not only do they ship worldwide, but they offer designer looks straight from the runway. The shop has also been known to collaborate with high fashion designers for exclusive pieces. One of the latest collaborations featured an androgynous t-shirt designed by Gareth Pugh ($231).

5. OAK NYC boasts its own private label in addition to a variety of uber-cool brands, like Alexander Wang, Surface To Air and Kai-aakmann. You can even shop from editorial spreads and videos created by the retailer. I am in love with this mesh poncho by the Oak Black Label ($178) – a great spring/summer look!

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver