MY JOURNEY
ORIGINS: FASHION'S
REALITY CHECK
It's a story every woman knows too well. You browse clothing websites looking for that perfect piece - maybe a wardrobe refresh, something for a special occasion, or just a break from staring at your laptop all day. You study the product photos, imagine how it'll look on you, read through reviews, check the return policy, and finally hit "PLACE ORDER." When that delivery notification pops up, you're suddenly excited to get home. You unbox your purchase and sometimes - well, it just doesn't look quite like what you expected online. Womp womp. So where exactly does it go wrong?
False Advertising
That time I ordered what was advertised as a peach silk dress and received something that looked more like orange polyester. The color was completely off and the fabric felt cheap. Classic case of online shopping disappointment.
Model Vs. Me
That moment when you discover you're not built like a 6-foot model (shocking, I know). Though plot twist - sometimes pieces that look boring online end up being your new favorites in real life.
The Final
Sale Death Trap
I love designer pieces at a discount, but my track record with online shopping makes final sale purchases feel pretty risky. No returns means there's no safety net when things don't work out, and given how many times I've been disappointed by what actually shows up, it feels like a gamble I'm not sure I want to take.
Inconsistent Size Charts
As a 135lb, 5'6" woman with a generally hourglass figure, I've worn everything from a size 2 to a size 8—apparently my body shape changes dramatically from one brand to the next.
The Returns Hassle
While it sounds easy enough, how many of us have missed return windows or ended up in awkward negotiations with customer service? And if you work normal hours, actually getting to the post office feels basically impossible - they're only open when you're definitely not free.
Sustainability
(or Lack of)
I'm not exactly an environmental activist, but when I think about how often I return things - and multiply that by every woman dealing with the same online shopping roulette - it's pretty clear our fashion system is seriously broken and probably terrible for the planet.
This is why Unvarnished Clothing exists: a photo review platform where women can see how clothes actually look in real life, not just in perfectly lit marketing photos.
The Resale Plot Twist
Recently, my inbox started filling with messages asking about item availability and selling opportunities—it felt like a natural next step. While several resale platforms exist, the current options all have their drawbacks.
One popular platform focuses mainly on fast fashion with social media features that require constant engagement. Another specializing in luxury brands takes hefty commissions that eat into your profits.
As someone who's dealt with the same online shopping challenges, this is my attempt to create something better.
I'd love to hear your thoughts at
[email protected]
(Constructive) feedback is always welcome!