Online store fails to deliver

Papamoa resident Louise Watson is warning people against shopping at a Facebook-based clothing store after she failed to receive purchases from the online shop.

The 21-year-old spent more than $150 on items displayed on the Facebook page called Kimbers Boutique six weeks ago but has failed to receive the goods.

Louise Watson says more than 70 people have failed to receive items purchased through Facebook-based online store Kimbers Boutique.

Louise, who says does not normally shop online, was contacted by an “old friend” who she knew through friends on Facebook when she posted a picture of a pair of shoes she ‘liked’ on her Facebook page.

This woman then told Louise she could purchase the same shoes at a cheaper price through her own Facebook page and business Kimbers Boutique.

“I just sort of met her through friends,” says Louise.

“I don’t normally shop online, but because I knew her I thought it would be alright.”

Kimbers Boutique claimed to be selling expensive brands of clothing, including Ed Hardy and Juicy Couture, and looked very real, she says.

After depositing $150 cash into this woman’s private account in March for a dress and pair of shoes Louise waited for her items to arrive.

When the items did not arrive three weeks later Louise was told the items were stuck in customs.

“This was a lie obviously.”

Louise then attempted to contact the woman on two different cell phone numbers she provided. Neither of them worked.

She then emailed the woman and tried to message her on Facebook.

Louise says the woman then promised to provide a refund, due on Monday this week.  

“Monday has gone and there’s no refund in my account.

“I feel really gutted.”

Louise has since been in contact with a number of other women who have failed to receive items from Kimbers Boutique.

“She has made $1940 and that’s from girls we know about.”

Louise has set up a Facebook page called ‘I was ripped off by Kimbers Boutique too!’ which now has approximately 70 members.

“Some of the other girls are young mums who only allow themselves so much money.”

Louise is warning others that may be tempted to purchase clothes online – especially from Facebook.

“I know for a fact I won’t be doing it again.”

The Facebook site has been taken down but the business website remains.

SunLive was unable to contact the Kimbers Boutique at the time of publishing.