Joybuy Insights

Buying branded clothing and shoes online: how to choose wisely and avoid costly mistakes

Buying branded clothing and shoes online may seem straightforward, but an appealing photo and a familiar brand name don’t tell you everything. The fit can vary between styles, material information is sometimes limited, and a jacket that looks warm isn’t necessarily suitable for rain or prolonged outdoor use.

Use this practical checklist to compare men’s clothing online, women’s underwear, children’s socks, winter coats and men’s trainers using details you can check in advance.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Assuming a brand name means it’s the right choice

A well-known label tells you something about style and origin, but not necessarily about comfort, sizing or suitability for your needs. Lounge trousers for wearing at home need different features from trousers for your commute. When choosing outdoor jackets, you should also check the construction, fastenings and care instructions.

2. Looking only at the size label

An L or XL isn’t a universal size. Always check the size guide, especially for jackets and shoes. For clothing, check your chest, waist and hip measurements. For shoes, the EU size, fit and room around the toes all matter. A product may be described as “true to size”, but that’s the retailer’s guidance, not a guarantee that it will suit every foot or body shape.

3. Not translating marketing language into product specifications

Words such as “water-repellent”, “durable” or “comfortable” only mean something when you know what materials and construction are used. For example, check for:

  • the percentage of recycled polyester;
  • a coating or membrane;
  • seams and fastenings;
  • reinforced heels and toes in socks;
  • sole material and insoles in trainers;
  • washing and drying instructions.

A brand’s product description may say that certain materials help provide protection or comfort. Treat this as a product specification or brand claim, and compare it with the specific details on the product page.

Three things you should always check

Materials and composition

When choosing sustainable clothing, it’s useful to look beyond the word “sustainable”. A jacket made from 100% recycled polyester has a different composition from a style made from a cotton, elastane and polyester blend. Recycled polyester also doesn’t automatically tell you anything about the product’s lifespan, repair options or overall environmental impact.

Some combinations can be practical for everyday use:

  • Cotton, polyester and elastane in children’s socks for a combination of comfort and flexibility;
  • Polyamide with polyester padding in a padded winter coat;
  • Mesh, suede and synthetic overlays in lifestyle trainers;
  • Modal, cotton and elastane in women’s underwear for a soft, flexible fit.

Protection from the weather and suitability for your needs

Choose an outdoor jacket or The North Face jacket to suit the conditions. Check whether the description mentions a water-repellent finish, waterproof fabric, taped seams or simply wind protection. These features aren’t interchangeable.

A jacket with removable or separately wearable layers can be useful in changeable weather. For everyday cycling, an adjustable hood, secure pockets and adjustable cuffs are handy. For walking or training, useful features to look for include ventilation openings, low weight and room to move.

Fit, care and lifespan

A good purchase involves more than choosing the right size. Also check whether the item:

  • is machine washable and, if so, at what temperature;
  • can be tumble dried;
  • should be washed with similar colours;
  • must not be bleached or dry cleaned;
  • needs specific care to maintain its coating.

A product with a low purchase price may work out less economical if it needs a lot of care or quickly loses its shape. Equally, a more expensive garment isn’t automatically a better choice. Compare the materials, construction and how often you’ll use it.

Recommended choices for different shoppers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket with Hood, black, XXL

Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket with Hood Winter Jackets/Coats Black XXL

Why it suits this shopper: This Urban Classics puffer jacket is designed for everyday wear. It has a hood, a 100% polyamide outer layer and 100% polyester filling.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The composition and size guide are listed, so you don’t have to rely on the product photo or brand name alone.

Key benefits

Hood, polyester filling and machine-washable according to the product information; suitable as an everyday winter coat.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Lacoste L003 2K24 trainers, white and grey, size 45

LACOSTE L003 2K24 224 7 SMA WHT/GRY 45

Why it suits this shopper: These Lacoste men’s trainers combine mesh and suede with synthetic overlays, an EVA midsole and an OrthoLite insole.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The product information details the individual materials, sole construction and recommended hand-washing, rather than making a claim based on style alone.

Key benefits

EVA midsole, OrthoLite insole and rubber outsole with an anti-slip tread, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific activities and frequent use
The North Face men’s jacket NF0A8DY2, estate blue

The North Face men's jackets NF0A8DY2 estate blue XL

Why it suits this shopper: The product description says this jacket is designed for training and outdoor activities. It features DryVent material, taped seams and a shell made from 100% recycled polyester.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The description lists the material, seams, pockets, size range and care instructions. Before buying, check that the fit and protection suit your activity.

Key benefits

Zipped pockets, hood, adjustable cuffs and a PFC-free DWR finish, according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

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

Also useful for socks, underwear and basics

For children’s socks, practical details matter more than a prominent logo. According to the product description, the Levi's socks come in a pack of six pairs and have a high-cut design, reinforced heels and toes, and a cotton, polyester and elastane composition. Check the size carefully, as children’s feet grow quickly.

For women’s underwear, check the proportions of modal, cotton and elastane, the waistband and the recommended washing method. The Calvin Klein Boyshorts list this material blend in the product information. For men’s boxers, useful points to compare include a supportive fit, an elasticated waistband and care instructions. Wrangler Trunks are sold in a multipack and designed for everyday wear.

Frequently asked questions

What should I look for when buying branded clothing and shoes online?

Check the brand, materials, sizing, returns policy, care instructions and intended use. Compare the product measurements with a garment or pair of shoes you already own that fits well. For jackets, check how they protect you from wind and rain, rather than relying on terms such as winter coat or outdoor jacket.

How can I avoid clothes not fitting properly when I shop online?

Measure your chest, waist, hips or foot length according to the retailer’s instructions. Compare your measurements with the size guide on the product page. Also check the fit: slim, regular or loose. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to check the returns policy before you buy.

How can I make clothes bought online last longer?

Follow the care label, wash with similar colours and don’t use bleach unless the instructions allow it. Dry jackets and trainers as directed, and avoid washing them unnecessarily at high temperatures. Regular care can help materials and shape last longer, but it won’t make up for choosing something unsuitable for its intended use.