Whether you need some trendy clothes for the new season, a replacement for some worn-out furniture, or the latest home electronics – a great way to shop is using a credit catalogue.
If you prefer to spread your payments in installments instead of paying upfront, you can apply for a catalogue with credit. These are sometimes referred to as “shopping accounts”, “personal accounts” or “flexible payment accounts”.
Spread the cost
Using a credit catalogue is no different from any other type of credit, which means that you have to be extra careful and plan your purchases with a clear budget in mind. Using catalogue credit can be a good way to get the things you want now, but remember that paying cash is always the best way to go, providing that you can afford it.
UK Catalogues 2017
The following is a list of popular shopping catalogues which all offer credit accounts. Further down this page, there is more information on each catalogue retailer. All catalogue credit accounts on this page are subject to affordability and credit checks.
*APR rates shown below are representative APR (variable)
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Dial a TV
Best catalogue for bad credit
If you need to replace a broken home appliance, TV or laptop but have a limited budget or poor credit history, Dial a TV is an ideal solution.
Because they provide a rental service instead of finance, they may be more flexible in helping people who have had financial struggles in the past.
Choose from a selection of white goods, home entertainment options, and latest technology that you require. With over 24 years in the industry, you can be sure of a great service and top quality branded products from Dial a TV.
Dial a TV offers something a little different to traditional home shopping catalogues as they offer a rent to buy option rather than simply buying on finance.
The benefits of this include being able to exchange your product every year for the latest, most up to date model, and enjoying free repairs throughout your rental term so that you never have the worry, expense and stress of having to organise an independent repair service. A standard rent to own contract lasts for 39 months after which time you will own the product.
When you rent a product from Dial a TV, you can take advantage from free delivery and installation in your home by the company’s expert team.
Payments are extremely affordable, and are made on a weekly basis depending on which option suits your needs best. There is always a great selection of big name brands and latest models available across all ranges, so you can be sure that you will always receive a high quality product that perfectly suits your needs.
La Redoute
La Redoute pay monthly catalogue really stands out from the crowd with their fantastic French fashion that brings the best of continental style to your front door.
Specialising in fashion with flair for all the family as well as stylish homewares, this is the ideal home shopping catalogue for anyone who loves clothing with a difference.
Choose from garments that reflect all the most up to date trends or opt for classical pieces with a contemporary twist, whichever you select you can be certain that you will look and feel fantastic in outfits to suit every occasion.
La Redoute have worked in conjunction with some of the top French designers to bring elegant clothing ranges within your reach.
From Coralie Marabelle to Christine Phung and Etienne Deroeux, you can be sure of the highest quality, finest fabrics, and most stylish cuts.
Curvier ladies will be delighted to find a stunning plus size range with garments specially designed to fit and flatter in sizes 14 to 32, and with petite collections and trousers in a choice of 3 leg lengths, it’s easier than ever to find clothing that looks just right.
If you don’t want to pay extra for delivery, you can benefit from the free Click and Collect service at your local ParcelShop, or if you are in a hurry, you can arrange for next day delivery and get the latest looks in super-fast time. If you change your mind, don’t worry as you can return your items for free via courier or through the Post Office.
Curvissa
Curvissa is an online credit catalogue specialising in plus size clothing for women from size 14 to 32. Bringing gorgeous and up to the minute fashion trends within reach of the curvier woman, Curvissa offers a great choice of beautiful garments that fit and flatter the more voluptuous figure.
For women who want to feel and look great regardless of their size, this catalogue offers a stunning selection of both casuals and evening wear, making it easy to find an outfit for every occasion.
Whether you need smart tailoring for the workplace, jeans for the weekend, or cosy knitwear for chilly days, Curvissa has it all. With lingerie in larger cup sizes and wider fit footwear, it’s never been easier to feel comfortable and yet look fashionable in clothes that have a perfect fit.
There is also a range of stunning accessories for completing every outfit, with handbags, scarves, jewellery and belts in a range of colours and styles. Big brands like Miss Mary of Sweden, Bonprix, Triumph and Gabor are all represented, giving you great value for money on top quality products.
You can manage your account online, so it couldn’t be more simple to make payments, track deliveries and view statements, and you can easily arrange no-quibble returns for any unwanted purchases.
Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscope represents the perfect choice for more mature shoppers who want a great choice of flattering and elegant ladieswear, together with good quality mens clothing, home furnishings and electricals.
Choose from beautifully designed skirts, trousers, dresses and tops in styles to suit all occasions, and find accessories to complement any outfit. Choose from big brands like Jacques Vert, Clarks, Fiorelli and Triumph and know that you are getting great quality and value.
With unique detailing, beautiful fabrics and well cut designs, Kaleidoscope boasts a range that offers something a little different to the standard high street with exclusive key fashion items in their collections.
Whether you need a size 8 or a size 32, you are sure to fit the perfect fit, and with a choice of leg lengths also available, you’ll never have to struggle to find the right pair of trousers again. Shoppers can also enjoy browsing for beautiful homewares, from gorgeous towels and bedlinen to beautifully crafted furniture to complement any living room or dining room. Even your pets are catered for, with a wonderful selection of dog and cat beds, toys and feeding accessories.
Customers can get fast delivery on their purchases, with next day delivery being available on selected items and Sunday delivery being a convenient option. If you change your mind about a purchase, Kaleidoscope makes returns really easy by giving you a 14 day approval period and free returns by courier, Post Office or myHermes ParcelShop service.
Look Again
It’s no wonder that Look Again is emerging as one of the UK’s top pay monthly catalogues as they offer a truly extensive range of products from clothing and homewares to appliances and home entertainment systems.
With a choice of over 60,000 items, this credit catalogue is a fabulous and convenient department store allowing you to shop for everything you could need from your sofa. Whether you need a funky new outfit, gym equipment, celebratory gifts or a cutting edge mobile phone, you can find it all in the Look Again home shopping catalogue.
Unique among other catalogues, Look Again releases 200 new styles onto the market every single week and gives customers the opportunity to buy any of them at a 10% discount.
It couldn’t be cheaper or easier to get your hands on all the latest fashions from brand leaders like Burberry, Calvin Klein, Lipsy and Monsoon, so whether you are looking for comfortable casuals or special occasion wear, you will be spoiled for choice. The rest of the family have not been forgotten either, with fashionable menswear and childrenswear to suit every taste.
You can even opt for next day or nominated day delivery for your convenience, or even the Click and Collect service at your local ParcelShop.
Credit Catalogues FAQ
Catalogues with credit – how do I apply?
Applications for an online credit account are usually made when you are ready to checkout. You may be approved immediately or within a few hours. To open a credit account, you must be at least 18 years of age, and a resident of the UK. When you make your application, you will be asked several questions which will help the catalogue company to determine your suitability. Certain information, such as your Post Code, credit status, and employment status will be allocated points. The main reason for this, is to ensure that you can afford the repayments. You can apply for an online catalogue 247 /365.
What credit limit will I get?
The amount of credit you may receive can vary from person to person. It will depend on your personal circumstances, credit rating and the catalogue retailer themselves. There is no way for you to know in advance what your credit limit will be. As a general rule, the higher your credit rating, the higher your credit limit will be. Paying for your shopping using a credit account will cost you more and take you longer to repay than if you pay for the items in full. Before applying with catalogues with credit, always make sure that you will be able to meet the required monthly repayments.
Will I be credit checked?
Yes. In order for you to be approved for a line of credit, your application order is subject to an identification and credit check. It is the responsibility of the catalogue to ensure they are lending responsible which a credit check will help determine . If you are registered on the Electoral Roll, it will greatly improve your chances of being accepted.
Can I apply if I have bad credit rating?
If you have a poor credit history or a bad credit rating you may still be able to open an account online using catalogues for bad credit. A poor credit rating does not mean an automatic denial. People with poor credit rating can be approved, but it will depend on the individual retailer. If you are able to open a credit account, it can help you rebuild your credit rating. As long as you make your repayments on time, and stay within your credit limit, your credit rating may improve.
How do I keep track of my credit account?
Every month, you will receive a statement and a payment slip, either online or by post. The statement will include:
- Items that have already been sent to you
- The payments which you have made during the period
- Your outstanding balance
- Your minimum payment
- The date the minimum payment is due
This will vary depending on which catalogue you apply with, but with an online account, you can check your informarion 24/7.
How do I pay?
Usually you will have two options:
- 1) Pay in full: You can choose to pay the amount in full.
- 2) Spread the cost: You can choose to make the minimum payment. The amount will be listed on the statement and is the minimum payment to keep your account in good shape.
What will my catalogue repayments be?
Each catalogue retailer has different payment terms. Most operate on a repayment period of between one and three years. If you have a longer repayment schedule, you will have lower monthly payments, however, you will end up paying more money in interest over the total time of your repayment.
The average monthly repayment is around 5% of the balanced owed. For example, it you purchase a television, which costs £1,000, your monthly payment would be around £50. It is important to read the payment terms carefully upon placing your order.
You should beware of the additional costs you may incur including:
- Fees for late payments
- Fees for missed payments
Can I buy now and pay later?
Some catalogues with credit allow you to defer repayments at a later date. For example, you may receive the items the next day, but you can are only required to begin repayments after 3 months. This is known as buy now pay later, because that is exactly what you are doing. By spreading the cost of your shopping, you can get the items you need now and repay on terms that suit your budget. As long as the full amount is paid off within the set period of time, no interest is charged. Not all credit catalogues offer this, so make sure you check before applying.
What if my catalogue account is refused?
If your application was rejected, it can be due to many factors. If you have been declined credit, make sure that you are on the electoral register and make sure that all of the details are correct. You should check the accuracy of your credit report to be sure that you are not a victim of fraud. If everything seems right, you should consider the following:
CCJ’s: These remain on your credit report for six years, even if they have been settled.
Defaults: these will remain on your credit file for six year. The older the defaults are, the less important they are to the company checking your credit report. If a company has a strict policy not to approve customers with defaults or CCJ’s, it is unlikely that you would be approved.
Current commitments: It is important to check on all of the repayments that you are committed to. These include your electricity bill, mobile phone bill, and even your credit cards. If these repayments are late, they are being reported. This will make it difficult to be accepted. If you keep up on your agreements for a period of two years, it will strengthen your chances of acceptance.
Previous debts: If you have had previous debts with the catalogue company which you are applying for, it can have a huge effect on your application. There have been instances when a customer opens an account, runs up debt, then opens a new account. In this case, it is very unlikely that the company would take a gamble on this person.
Fraud: If there is a history of fraud on your credit file, such as CIFA warnings, it can pose a problem. If there is fraud on your credit file, you will not be able to get a decision instantly, and the chances of being approved for credit are very low.
No credit history: If you have no credit history at all, it can be difficult to get a line of credit. This is because the company cannot see how you manage credit. If you are denied due to a lack of credit history, it is worth appealing the decision in writing.
For example, if you are denied by a company, such as the JD Williams group of stores, it is likely that you will be rejected by all companies in the same group.
Remember that if your application has been denied, you can still purchase items using a debit or credit card from the list of catalogues above.