Joybuy Insights

How to buy clothes online without costly mistakes: choosing the right size, material and fit

Buying clothes online may seem straightforward, but an attractive photo does not always tell the whole story. The wrong size, unclear material composition or a fit that does not suit how you intend to use the item can lead to returns and unnecessary costs. This applies to men’s clothing, women’s underwear, children’s clothing, men’s underwear and practical clothing accessories.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter product information according to verifiable criteria. This helps you identify the relevant specifications more quickly and approach marketing language with a little more caution.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Relying solely on the size letter

A size L is not the same size at every brand. Some products refer to EU, UK or US sizes, while other listings show body measurements in centimetres. Always check the chest, waist or hip measurement and compare it with the size chart for the specific product.

For children’s clothing, age is only an indication. A size chart showing height in centimetres is more practical, especially when buying clothes for fast-growing children.

2. Confusing a material name with a quality guarantee

Words such as “soft”, “premium” or “sustainable” do not say much on their own. Check the full material composition, such as 100% organic cotton, 70% cotton and 30% polyester, or a blend of modal, cotton and elastane.

When a brand provides information about an environmental impact or certification, treat that claim as product information supplied by the brand. For example, the Tommy Jeans T-shirt is stated to be made from independently certified organic cotton. The Tommy Jeans hoodie’s product description mentions independently certified recycled polyester and recycled cotton. According to Tommy Hilfiger’s own product information, these are the materials used; this is not a general guarantee regarding the garment’s overall environmental impact.

3. Failing to match functionality to its intended use

A lightweight hoodie is not automatically suitable as a winter layer. Lounge shorts are designed for relaxing and are not appropriate for every working environment. For workwear, pockets, reinforced sections, freedom of movement and care requirements are more important than appearance alone.

With winter coats, check the outer fabric, lining, filling, hood and washing instructions. For a clothes rack, also check its stability, dimensions and maximum load. A product description may show conflicting information in different places, so check these details when the item arrives and use the rack in accordance with the safety instructions.

Three parameters you should always check

1. Size, cut and freedom of movement

Do not just look at S, M or XL; also consider the fit:

  • Fitted sits closer to the body and offers less extra room.
  • Relaxed fit provides more freedom of movement.
  • Oversized deliberately features broader shoulders or longer sleeves.
  • For children’s clothing, height, chest, waist and hip measurements are important points to check.

For underwear such as men’s boxers, trunks and women’s underwear, the waistband is at least as important as the size. An elasticated waistband should sit comfortably without visibly rolling or digging in.

2. Material and weight

Cotton feels familiar and comfortable for many everyday garments. Elastane can provide extra stretch, while modal is used in combination with cotton and elastane according to Urban Classics’ product description. Always check that the composition actually applies to the item in question. For example, the Lee lounge shorts are listed as being made from 98% cotton and 2% elastane, with a warning to check the label when the item arrives.

Fabric weight can also indicate how an item is intended to be used. The Urban Classics Ultra Heavy Hoody lists 460 g/m², indicating a heavyweight fabric. This is a verifiable specification, but it does not automatically tell you how warm or comfortable someone will find the garment.

3. Care and running costs

Washing instructions affect both the garment’s lifespan and the convenience of everyday use. In particular, check:

  • washing temperature;
  • whether or not it can be tumble-dried;
  • ironing temperature;
  • whether a delicate cycle should be used;
  • colour guidance and washing with similar colours.

Several products in this selection recommend washing at a low temperature and not tumble-drying. This can help preserve the shape and material for longer, but it does require more care when washing. Always follow the label inside the garment, as this contains the most relevant care information.

Recommended choices for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Chicco T-Shirt M/L T-Shirt Long Sleeve 110 WHITE

Chicco T-Shirt M/L T-Shirt Long Sleeve 110 WHITE

Why it suits this profile: A simple long-sleeved shirt for everyday wear, with a clear children’s size chart based on age and height.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing uses several children’s sizes in centimetres, so you are less dependent on the age indication alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Long sleeves, white colour and suitable for everyday wear; check the label for the exact composition and care instructions.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Calvin Klein Men's 3-Pack Boxer Briefs - Black, S

Calvin Klein Men's 3-Pack Boxer Briefs - Black, S

Why it suits this profile: A 3-pack with a fitted cut, long legs and a lyocell blend for anyone who values the material and finish.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit, rise, leg length and material groups are specified, allowing you to compare products more effectively.

Key benefit & advantages

3-pack, lyocell, polyester and elastane; machine washable at 40 °C according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
CAT Nexus Holster Stretch Trouser Black Size 38/32

CAT Nexus Holster Stretch Trouser Black Size 38/32

Why it suits this profile: Designed as workwear, with tool pockets, knee pockets and reinforced areas.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information highlights specific features rather than relying solely on general claims about functionality.

Key benefit & advantages

50% cotton, 48% polyester and 2% elastane; Cordura reinforcements and several pockets according to the product description.

Suitable for: Families with limited storage space
Alpina Mobile Clothes Rack Adjustable Height

Alpina Mobile Clothes Rack - Adjustable Height

Why it suits this profile: A mobile clothes-rack solution for bedrooms, offices or temporary storage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The adjustable height and dimensions are specified. However, check the conflicting information about the wheels and maximum load before use.

Key benefit & advantages

Height adjustable from approximately 93 to 158 cm, with hooks for accessories; for indoor use in accordance with the safety instructions.

How to compare clothes in practical terms

Before ordering, make a quick comparison using four columns:

  1. Size and fit – note your body measurements and check the size chart.
  2. Material – compare fibres and percentages, not just the product name.
  3. Use – decide whether the garment is intended for everyday wear, sport, home, work or cold conditions.
  4. Care – check washing, drying and ironing instructions.

When looking at sustainable clothing, consider the stated certification and material source, as well as the expected frequency of use and the care requirements. A garment that is worn regularly and cared for correctly may be more practical and valuable than an item bought mainly because of a sustainability claim.

Clothing accessories also deserve attention. A mobile clothes rack must fit within the available space and must not be used as a climbing frame. If you are unsure about the product details, compare the information on the product page, packaging and label.

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I determine my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips at the widest point, then compare the results with the item’s size chart. Also check whether the fit is fitted, relaxed or oversized. For children, use their height in centimetres as the main reference.

How long do clothes bought online last?

This depends on the material, construction, frequency of wear and care. Follow the label’s washing instructions, avoid unnecessarily high temperatures and only use a tumble dryer when permitted. With workwear, pay attention to reinforced sections and seams.

Is multipack underwear better value?

A 2-pack or 3-pack can be practical when you already know the model and size. However, compare the price per item and check that the composition, fit and care instructions suit how you intend to use it. This helps prevent a larger pack from leaving you with several unworn items.