Let’s admit it: no matter how much anyone says they love shopping, a few hours spent in Cabot can be a thoroughly unpleasant way to pass an afternoon.

Queuing for stuffy, badly-lit changing rooms, battling with hordes of 14-year-olds and politely trying to explain to fellow shoppers that it was, in fact, you who saw that last pair of jeans in the Topshop sale (which, on returning home, you’ll probably realise you don’t even like) is often enough to make you detest the human race.

Thankfully, humanity has been blessed with internet shopping, and now we can indulge in a bit of retail therapy while we’re sitting in bed with a cup of tea.

However, now with even more shops to choose from, internet shopping can still be bewildering for those not in the know, and it’s easy just to head for big-name brands like Asos. Luckily for you, Tab Fashion is on hand to reveal some of the best kept secrets of online shopping.

www.sheinside.com

Stocks a huge range of clothes, all at bargain prices. A great selection of art-inspired printed sweatshirts and unusual jewellery. Free shipping worldwide; orders will reach you in 5-15 days. The returns policy isn’t so great: you have to contact customer services and pay the delivery fee yourself.

Birth of Venus Print Sweatshirt, £16.70

Silver mask hollow chain necklace, £4. 74

www.monki.com

The Swedish sister company of H&M, Monki sells a blend of simple cuts and loud, graphic prints, with really original accessories that will have everyone asking you where they’re from. Shipping costs £6 and deliveries will reach you in 3-5 working days. 14 days free returns policy.

‘Chiara’ faux fur hood, £25

‘Megan’ handchain, £6

www.prettylittlething.com

Launched early this year, Pretty Little Thing offers affordable fashion of a similar style to the popular site, Missguided.com. UK standard delivery is £3.99 and they have a 14 day free returns policy.

‘Bridie’ tartan shift dress, £18

‘Amba’ neon red rucksack, £20

www.justfab.co.uk

All the shoes and handbags on here are £35, and if you spend that you get free delivery. If you refer a friend you get store credit (i.e. FREE CLOTHES). Free returns on all orders.

‘Parisian’ bag, £35

‘Davenport’ bag, £35

www.shoeaholics.com

To all of the devoted shoeaholics out there: this site will change your life . The kindhearted folk at Kurt Geiger have decided to sell all their ex-display shoes and accessories at ridiculously discounted prices, meaning your feet can look expensive without the hefty pricetag. Standard delivery is £5 and the only downside is that there are no free returns.

‘Hyacinth’ shoes, were £160 now £19!

Box clutch, was £80 now £19.

www.nastygal.com

An increasingly popular American site, selling almost unbearably cool clothes, shoes and accessories. The cost of shipping and tax will make any student wince, but it’s a good place to indulge in some fantasy shopping when procrastinating for essays.

‘Mesmerize’ faux fur sweater, £42.43

‘Slick’ skater dress, £33.67