Blog 15 - Web Critique & Analysis

I reviewed two sites - Le Tote and Stitch Fix which are two sites that deal in paying a subscription to receive styled clothing in the mail. However, they are different in that Le Tote lets you wear and return the clothes whereas Stitch Fix styles the box for a nominal fee and you keep what you want, return what you don't.  The styling fee is then applied towards whatever you buy.

Here are some of the observations from the sites:

Le Tote -

• They communicate this is a styled clothing box for a fee where you can wear the clothes and then return them when you're done.  
• Its obviously for women only and excludes: men,children, and anyone who doesn't want to shop online.  
• Its easy to determine how the site works.  They have a "how it works" video that lays it out very well and all their text makes it clear what they're doing. 

Stitch Fix - 

• This site is very similarly set up to Le Tote.  So all the same bullets above apply; however, there is way more information available on the homepage about what the program is and how it works.

Both sites are very easy to navigate and find more information about.  It's also very easy to sign up and take the necessary actions.  HOWEVER, you cannot see any products or samples until you sign up.  So you HAVE to sign up in order to see more information! 

Both sites are also bright, classy, stylish, and easy to use. This is important since these sites cater to women and fashion.  Their audience is obviously those women who have more of discretionary income that want to change their wardrobe more often but either can't style for themselves or don't have the time.  Therefore, having a clean/classic/feminine site is a central theme of both. 

I like both sites but I do think that it's a pain that you MUST create an account to see anything more. I think they ought to offer sample photos or something that gives you a little bit more.  But then again, you're way more likely to sign up and pay for a box when you already have an account. Check out the homepage for the sites and see what you think!! 

Both sites use javascript and some web kits.  

I think these sites make shopping online much easier. Not only does the service make it easier in general to shop online, but its less overwhelming than going to Macys or Nordstroms.com and scroll through hundreds of pages to find what you're looking for.  

Plus, they offer you some customer photos so you can see the products on real customers which is really helpful.  I love both these sites and their services!!