We compare ASOS and THE ICONIC, two of the biggest online fashion retailers, against each other to find out where you should shop.
ASOS was one of the first and biggest online stores in the high street space. It was lauded as a new standard in shopping offering great prices and a convenient online experience to customers around the world. In 2013, it was reported that almost four jumbo jets of ASOS clothing were making their way to Australia each week. ASOS could do no wrong.
Then, along came THE ICONIC - a new player in the world of online. Launched in 2011, THE ICONIC made a splash into the Australian market offering customers the ability to shop thousands of much-loved brands in the one place.
There are a whole bunch of other big shopping sites available to consumers like (Missguided and Boohoo, for a start) but for Australian customers, two of the best are undoubtedly ASOS and THE ICONIC.
So, which online fashion site should you be spending your hard earned dollar at?
Get the facts about ASOS
- Launched: June 2000
- What is it? A UK based online fashion retailer stocking hundreds brands of clothing, footwear and beauty.
- Who owns it? UK multi-millionaire Nick Robertson
- How much does it make? Sales for the financial year ending August 31, 2013 were £753.8 million.
Get the facts about The Iconic
- Launched: November 2011
- What is it? A Sydney based online fashion retailer stocking dozens of Australian and international designers.
- Who owns it? German group Rocket Internet
- How much does it make? Accounts for August 2011 to December 2012 show a revenue of $30.6 million but a loss of $44.7 million.
Is it cheaper to buy clothes from ASOS or THE ICONIC?
Both ASOS and THE ICONIC stock a range of brands, some which are affordable and some which are a little more luxurious.
As THE ICONIC and ASOS are required to adhere to zonal pricing by certain brands. Zonal pricing or geographical pricing often sees the prices of items increase as shipping distances increase or alternatively zonal pricing can see costs decrease to fall in line the prices expected by a certain international market.
This is why occasionally you will see a price difference on the same items. For example, the Finders Keepers dress below has a price of originally $189.95 (now on sale for $132.97) at THE ICONIC and $177.00 at ASOS.
If you want to be sure you are getting the best price, it is worth checking both sites before committing to your purchase. It is also worth looking to see if either ASOS or THE ICONIC are running any sales to increase your chances of getting the best price.
Which store has the biggest range of items, ASOS or THE ICONIC?
Both online retailers stock mens and women fashion. Both stock clothes, shoes, accessories, jewellery, plus size items, swimwear and gifts with thousands of items from hundred of brands. So where do they differ?
THE ICONIC has a dedicated sport section where you can pick up quality exercise gear including bras, shoes, and accessories. While ASOS also stocks brands such as Adidas or Nike, you have to hunt a little harder for the workout clothes.
As an Australian site, THE ICONIC has a more extensive selection of Australian brands and high-end Australian designers, comparatively ASOS offers more international brands.
ASOS leads the way when it comes to beauty. THE ICONIC does not have a skincare or beauty products section, whereas ASOS stocks a very extensive range of makeup, skincare, haircare and body products.
Another tick for ASOS is the ASOS Marketplace, which offers individual the ability to buy and sell pre-loved and vintage items. There is no section on THE ICONIC to purchase vintage items.
In essence, both stores have an impressive range of products but each store has it's own specialties.
Which one has the fastest delivery time?
For most Australians THE ICONIC will have faster shipping times. THE ICONIC offers free overnight shipping (for orders over $50) to those in Sydney and Melbourne metro areas. A three hour shipping service is also available for $14.95.
ASOS has a lower free shipping threshold of $40 so it's easier to get your order shipped for free. Orders from ASOS are delivered within five business days for metro areas and seven business days for regional areas. ASOS also offers free 3-4 day express shipping if you spend over $125.
For orders under the free shipping threshold, ASOS charges $5 and THE ICONIC charges $7.95. You can view both the ASOS shipping policy and THE ICONIC shipping policy by clicking on the links.
Which one has the best returns policy?
THE ICONIC offers free returns on eligible items. You can even opt to get a full cash refund or a 110% store credit. Not bad.
Good news for ASOS shoppers! The store has just introduced free returns for Australian customers. Eligible items must be returned within 28 days of receiving your order.
Coupon codes and sales for ASOS and THE ICONIC
Here you go! Use them well.
