Though browsing for clothing and apparel online is a way to avoid traffic jams and long lines in crowded stores, a new Gallup poll indicates that consumers are hesitant about buying clothes online, writes eMarketer. Over three-quarters of those surveyed said they preferred to buy clothes in stores rather than online, and only 9 percent said they preferred to shop online for clothes rather than in stores.

One obvious reason for consumers' preference is the perceived need to try on clothes, which 62 percent of respondents said they do before buying. A significant factor may also be a fear of credit card fraud. Some 44 percent of consumers surveyed said they thought making online purchases exposed them to a greater chance of credit card theft.