Joybuy Insights

Buying branded clothing online: how to choose clothes that suit you

Buying branded clothing online may seem simple: choose a recognisable logo, select a size and check out. Yet the wrong choice can quickly turn into a disappointing purchase. A photo reveals little about the fit, fabric composition or care requirements. A well-known brand name also does not guarantee that a garment will suit your everyday needs.

So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • An unclear fit: slim fit, regular fit and relaxed fit all fit differently. A tailored shirt, for example, may look smart but offer less room around the shoulders.
  • Marketing around materials: terms such as “soft”, “breathable” or “sustainable” are not always sufficiently substantiated. Check the percentage of cotton, polyester, elastane or recycled fibres.
  • Incorrect size conversion: EU, UK and US sizes can vary between brands. It is better to check chest, waist or hip measurements than to rely solely on the letter S, M or L.

Which specifications should you check before ordering?

1. Fit and measurements

First decide which silhouette you are looking for. Slim fit sits closer to the body, while regular fit generally allows more freedom of movement. A relaxed style often has a roomier upper body and lower shoulder seams.

For men’s clothing, chest measurement, sleeve length and collar size are important. For women’s clothing, bust, waist and hip measurements play a greater role. Check the individual size guide for every product. A Tommy Hilfiger hoodie, for example, may have different proportions from an adidas sweatshirt, even when both are offered in size L.

2. Fabric composition

The fibres determine how a garment feels, how much stretch it has and how it should be cared for:

  • Cotton: generally feels comfortable and is suitable for T-shirts, polo shirts and sweatshirts.
  • Polyester: widely used in sportswear because of its light weight and practical properties.
  • Elastane: gives fabric stretch. A small percentage can improve freedom of movement.
  • Recycled polyester or cotton: always check how much of the fabric is actually made from recycled fibres.

The Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 39, for example, is listed as being made from stretch poplin with cotton and elastane. The product information also mentions a Kent collar, fitted cut and machine washing at 40 °C. If the information conflicts, always check the care label and the current product page.

3. Care and use

A garment that is worn frequently should fit in with your washing routine. Check the machine-washing instructions, drying advice, ironing temperature and any restrictions regarding bleach or dry cleaning.

A fleece-lined sweatshirt may be suitable for layering on cold days, but it may need to be washed inside out and dried at a low temperature. For everyday wear, hoodies, sweatshirts and T-shirts with straightforward care instructions are often practical choices. A trench coat or shirt, on the other hand, requires more attention to its shape, tendency to crease and how it can be styled.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Calvin Klein Twill Easy Care Slim Shirt Night Sky Men 40

Calvin Klein Twill Easy Care Slim Shirt Night Sky Men 40

Why it suits this profile: This shirt combines a slim fit with a dark blue colour, making it suitable for workwear and casual outfits. The product information mentions easy-care twill and machine washing at 40 °C.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit and care instructions are described clearly. However, check the size guide before ordering size 40.

Key benefit & advantages

Slim fit, midnight blue colour and easy-care twill according to the product description.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 39

Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 39

Why it suits this profile: This black shirt is designed to create a polished look for both formal and informal occasions. The listed stretch poplin and slim fit will appeal to anyone who pays attention to fabric and cut.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition and washing instructions are provided. Please note: the product details list different percentages, so check the label when your order arrives.

Key benefit & advantages

Black colour, Kent collar, slim fit and elastane according to the available product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Why it suits this profile: For sporty users looking for a T-shirt for football, training or casual wear. According to the product description, Dri-FIT is designed to wick away moisture; check the current material specifications on the product page.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit, colour, sports category and size L are described. Because the material information is contradictory, checking before purchase is particularly important.

Key benefit & advantages

Regular fit, crew neck and a design for sport and everyday wear.

Suitable for: Everyday casual wear
Tommy Hilfiger CORE TOMMY LOGO HOODY Men M JET BLACK

Tommy Hilfiger CORE TOMMY LOGO HOODY Men M JET BLACK

Why it suits this profile: The regular fit, adjustable hood and kangaroo pocket make this hoodie practical for commuting, weekends and layering.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size information includes chest, waist and sleeve measurements. This allows you to compare size M with your own measurements instead of relying solely on the label.

Key benefit & advantages

72% cotton and 28% polyester, regular fit, hood and kangaroo pocket according to the product details.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Comparing branded clothing: which style suits you?

For a workwear wardrobe, shirts, polo shirts and a trench coat are versatile choices. A black Calvin Klein shirt is easy to pair with tailored trousers or dark jeans. For women’s clothing, a Tommy Hilfiger trench coat in midnight can work as an outer layer for both formal and casual outfits.

If comfort is your priority, consider hoodies and sweatshirts from Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, adidas or U.S. Polo Assn. According to the product details, the U.S. Polo Assn. Knitwear style uses 70% cotton and 30% polyamide and features rib-knitted cuffs and hem. For sporty basics, adidas clothing and Nike clothing are logical places to start, but always pay attention to the fit, fabric and washing instructions.

Designer clothing is about more than the logo. Look at the construction, seams, material and how you intend to wear the garment. A T-shirt that works with just one outfit may offer less value in use than a neutral polo shirt or sweatshirt that you can style in a variety of ways.

Frequently asked questions about buying branded clothing online

How do I know which size to order?

Measure a garment that fits you well and compare its chest, waist or hip measurements with the size guide on the product page. Also check whether the style is slim, regular or relaxed fit. If you are unsure, the product measurements are more reliable than a general size letter.

Is buying branded clothing online cheaper than buying it in a shop?

That depends on the product, collection and offer. Compare the total price, including any delivery costs and returns policy. Also consider the fabric composition and care requirements: a low purchase price is less appealing if the garment does not suit your needs or fit.

How long does branded clothing last?

How long it lasts depends on the fabric, seams, frequency of wear and care. Wash it according to the label, use a suitable programme and avoid tumble-drying when advised against. Turn printed or dark clothing inside out regularly and check on delivery that the size, colour and product details match your order.