App combats lonely online shopping experience

The rise of online shopping means fashion fans have never had it easier when it comes to picking up the latest must-have item, although scouring the web can be a solitary experience. Enter Zara's new iPad app Zara+Connect!, enabling consumers to...

The rise of online shopping means fashion fans have never had it easier when it comes to picking up the latest must-have item, although scouring the web can be a solitary experience. Enter Zara's new iPad app Zara+Connect!, enabling consumers to recreate the experience of perusing the local mall with their favorite shopping buddy.

The Spanish clothing and accessories retailer, which introduced its e-shop to the US back in September, has launched the new app allowing users to converse with a friend while perusing the latest collection.

Shoppers who download the app will be able to seek a second opinion on their possible purchases by entering a friend's email address. Once the invitee accepts the shopping date, it's possible to share judgment via voice or video chat, or instant messages.

For now the app is only available in the United States. A video explaining how it works in greater detail can be found here:

http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/home/us/en/zara-us-W2011

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Ladies planning on making purchases via a desktop can also make the most of services such as WebEx, which allows online shoppers to share what they are browsing in real time.

WebEx introduced the free service last year, allowing users with a WebEx beta account to send invites to their shopping pals. Once friends have accepted the invite it's possible to schedule a rendezvous for later in the day or connect instantly. The desktop sharing works both ways, so they too can share any items they may be investing in.

Meanwhile, online shopping fans in the UK can look forward to Vogue.co.uk's Online Fashion Week, which is set to take place December 5-9.

A host of brands ranging from Chanel to Topshop are scheduled to take part in the virtual fashion showcase, while stores such as Browns, Net-A-Porter and Matches will be bringing international designer labels to the event.