Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to choose comfortable fashion without making the wrong purchase

Buying clothes online is easy, but an attractive product photo tells you little about fit, material or practical use. A hoodie may be roomier than expected, a jacket may be less suitable for wet weather and jeans without stretch will feel different from an elasticated pair. By checking a few key points, you can compare women’s clothing, men’s clothing, sportswear and casualwear much more effectively.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Looking only at the brand or photo

Nike clothing, adidas clothing and Urban Classics clothing are recognisable, but a brand name does not automatically mean an item is right for how you plan to use it. Always check the size, fit, fabric composition and care instructions. A regular-fit sweatshirt provides different freedom of movement from slim-fit jogging bottoms. Colour reproduction can also vary between screens.

2. Comparing sizes between brands like for like

An S from one brand does not necessarily match an S from another. Look for additional information such as chest width, waist measurement, inside-leg length and the fit description. Some products list several sizing systems, such as EU, UK, US or JP. Use the size guide on the product page and, if in doubt, measure a garment you already own that fits you well.

3. Confusing marketing claims with guaranteed performance

Terms such as “breathable”, “waterproof” and “moisture management” often come from the brand’s product information. Treat them as product claims and look at the underlying specifications. The product description for the Nike Team Park 20 Hoodie mentions Nike Dri-FIT for moisture management. That does not mean the hoodie will provide the same experience for every sport or weather condition. The fabric, weight and fit remain important.

Which specifications should you check?

Material and composition

The fabric largely determines how a garment feels and how it needs to be cared for.

  • Cotton generally feels soft and works well for T-shirts, sweatshirts and casualwear.
  • Polyester is lightweight and often used in sportswear and jackets.
  • Elastane provides extra stretch, which can be useful for close-fitting styles.
  • Recycled polyester tells you something about some of the fibres, but not automatically about the garment’s overall sustainability.
  • Denim without stretch can feel sturdy, but offers less give and comfort than jeans containing elastane.

For example, the adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt lists a composition of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. The adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants list the same fibre ratio. The Nike Dri-FIT Park 20 Tee includes both a polyester description and a composition of 57% cotton and 43% polyester in its product details. Always check the current composition on the product page and care label.

Fit and measurements

Pay attention to the difference between:

  • Slim fit: follows the body more closely and may provide less room around the thighs or shoulders.
  • Regular fit: a more conventional cut with room for movement.
  • Oversized or relaxed fit: cut more generously, often with dropped shoulders.
  • Athletic fit: designed with sporting movement in mind, but not necessarily suitable for every body shape.

An exact measurement is more useful than a letter size alone. For example, the Levi’s Women’s Jeans 501 Collection lists waist, hip and inside-leg measurements. This model is made from 100% cotton and has no stretch. If you normally wear jeans containing elastane, you should take this into account when choosing.

Care and durability

A garment can stay looking good for longer when you wash it according to the label. In particular, check:

  1. The maximum washing temperature.
  2. Whether bleaching, tumble-drying or dry cleaning is permitted.
  3. Whether the item needs to be washed inside out.
  4. Whether dark colours should be washed separately.
  5. Whether prints, logos or water-repellent layers need extra care.

The North Face jacket in this selection lists, among other details, a 100% recycled polyester outer fabric and a non-PFC DWR finish, according to the product information. The manufacturer advises following the label and caring for the water-repellent finish using the stated method. This does not guarantee that the jacket will stay dry in all conditions, so check whether the specifications suit how you intend to use it.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why it suits this profile: A regular-fit sweatshirt that is easy to pair with jeans, T-shirts or jogging bottoms for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly state a composition of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester, along with a regular fit.

Key benefit & highlights

Fleece fabric, crew neck and ribbed trims; suitable as a standalone layer or underneath a jacket.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
LEVI'S Women's Jeans Blue 501 Collection 32/32

LEVI'S Women's Jeans Blue 501 Collection 32/32

Why it suits this profile: Suitable if you are looking for classic women’s jeans and value a consistent fit and recognisable details.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists waist, hip and inside-leg measurements. This means you do not have to rely on size 32/32 alone.

Key benefit & highlights

501 Original Fit, straight leg, five pockets and 100% cotton denim without stretch.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Nike Team Park 20 Hoodie CW6894-463 S

Nike Team Park 20 Hoodie CW6894-463 S

Why it suits this profile: A practical layer for training, team sports or leisure, with details designed for ease of use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The hoodie features an adjustable hood, kangaroo pocket and ribbed cuffs. However, check the exact fabric composition on the product page.

Key benefit & highlights

Nike states that Dri-FIT is designed for moisture management; the hood and front pocket are also practical for everyday use.

Suitable for: Conscious everyday shoppers
JdyCardiganCabernetSize M

JdyCardiganCabernetSize M

Why it suits this profile: A versatile layering piece for the office, home and everyday plans, without a sporty cut.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material details list 50% polyester, 40% recycled polyester, 5% wool, 3% elastane and 2% acrylic. You can therefore assess whether it matches your preferences.

Key benefit & highlights

A blend containing recycled polyester and elastane; can be worn as a standalone layer or over a T-shirt.

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.

Handy checklist for your purchase

Use these points before placing an order:

  • Measure your chest, waist, hips and inside-leg length where relevant.
  • Check whether the style is women’s clothing, men’s clothing or a unisex fit.
  • Compare the fabric composition with the feel and intended use you want.
  • Read the care instructions before choosing a delicate fabric.
  • Check the colour, size, stock availability and any product details on the product page.
  • Make sure the cut suits sport, everyday wear, work or leisure.
  • Keep your order information and, on delivery, check that the size and product match.

For online purchases within the European Union, consumer rights apply, including the statutory guarantee. The product information for several of the items mentioned states a minimum statutory guarantee of two years. Before placing your order, check the current terms, returns information and any exclusions that apply to the specific product.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

Is buying clothes online cheaper than buying them in a shop?

That depends on the brand, collection, material and available offers. Online, you can compare several styles and specifications side by side, but any delivery or returns charges must also be taken into account. Compare the total cost rather than just the displayed item price.

How can I prevent clothes bought online from fitting badly?

Measure yourself and compare the results with the size guide. Also look out for terms such as slim fit, regular fit, relaxed fit and oversized. Read the information about stretch too. For example, 100% cotton jeans without stretch require a different size choice from a style containing elastane.

How long will clothes stay looking good?

This varies according to the material, construction, how often the garment is worn and how it is cared for. Wash according to the label, use a suitable wash programme and avoid unnecessarily hot washing or drying. With jeans, washing them less often can help preserve the fabric and colour for longer, provided the garment is aired sufficiently and cared for according to the label.