So, Brexit has really happened, and since the 1st January 2021, the UK is no longer part of the EU. The Brexit trade deal launches a new chapter for Europe’s relationship with the UK after months of negotiations. Consequently, what will change when online shopping for Europeans buying fashion from UK-based companies after Brexit? Is it time to say goodbye to British brands?
Shopping online from outside the EU
European online shoppers should consider that after Brexit, they will be buying from a non-EU country when shopping from UK-based shops. As a result, EU consumers’ rights may no longer apply. This means, before buying something online after Brexit, you should check out the return and exchange policies on the website you are shopping from, in case you want to cancel or return your order. Additionally, you should check the rules about the delivery of the non-EU based online store.
Will you pay extra?
As for the fear that online shopping from the UK would become more expensive after Brexit; we have excellent news for the lovers of British fashion! Thanks to the Brexit deal agreed only days before the deadline, European online shoppers will be able to continue buying from British companies without paying extra.
Even so, make sure you buy from reliable online shops and read the T&Cs on their website to check if you will be charged VAT or customs charges upon delivery. And lastly, remember that the pound fell after Brexit, so European savvy shoppers buying with Euros can find great deals online. Have a look here and here.
UK-based sites we like for online shopping
Our editors select independently all products featured on Notorious-mag. However, when you buy through our links, we may get a commission.
- ASOS
One of the most popular UK-based online fashion retailers, which offers over 80,000 products and free delivery.
- SELFRIDGES
Founded in 1908, the mother and father of all department stores, Selfridges is the only shop that became a tv series, Mr Selfridge, produced by ITV Studios.
- MARKS & SPENCER
The quintessentially British brand is part of anyone’s life in the UK, and it offers international shipping for clothes. M&S is the place to go for basic staples.
- BODEN
This brand embodies the British culture with its British Heritage Collection and pieces with beautiful prints. Boden takes care of the customs duties for its European customers buying online after Brexit.
- BROWNS
For high-end fashion, we can’t live without Browns. Fortunately, London’s most influential boutique is Brexit friendly, it means we can buy there without paying extra import taxes.