Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to find the right fit and avoid a costly mistake

Buying clothes online seems simple: choose a style, select your size and place your order. Yet many disappointing purchases come down to the same problems. Trousers may fit differently than expected, a T-shirt may lose its shape after a few washes, and a dress may look versatile online but prove difficult to style in real life.

Use this practical checklist to compare women’s clothing, men’s clothing, sports shirts, blouses, jogging bottoms and loungewear sets using details you can check in advance. That way, you can look beyond the marketing language and choose clothes that suit your everyday life in the Netherlands.

Three common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Relying on the size letter alone

A size S, M, L or XL doesn’t mean the same thing across every brand. For example, an XL pair of Adidas trousers may have a waist measurement of 91–96 cm, while another brand may use a different size chart. Fit matters too: slim fit is closer-fitting, regular fit offers more room to move, and relaxed fit is deliberately looser.

So always check:

  • the measurements in centimetres;
  • the chest, waist and hip measurements;
  • the description of the fit;
  • any differences between EU, UK and US sizes;
  • whether the garment is designed to fit close, normally or loosely.

2. Confusing material names with comfort

Words such as “soft”, “airy” or “cooling” sound appealing, but don’t tell you much without details of the fabric composition. First, check the percentages of cotton, polyester or recycled fibres. Cotton clothing feels comfortable for everyday wear for many people, while polyester is often chosen for sports shirts and clothes that need to dry quickly.

A fabric label also doesn’t guarantee that a garment will feel the same to everyone. Check the thickness of the fabric, whether it contains fleece, how stretchy it is and the care instructions too.

3. Ignoring care costs and washing instructions

A low purchase price may be less appealing if a garment needs special cleaning or quickly loses its shape when washed incorrectly. Before buying, check:

  • the maximum washing temperature;
  • whether the garment is tumble-dryer safe;
  • whether dark colours need to be washed separately;
  • whether it needs to be ironed on a low heat;
  • whether prints must not be ironed directly.

For some Adidas garments, for example, the care instructions specify a delicate wash cycle, mild detergent and washing inside out. This kind of information helps you work out how much care the garment will need.

The key specifications to compare

Fit and measurements

Choose the fit to suit how you’ll wear the garment. For travelling, cycling or layering, a regular or relaxed fit may be more practical. For a smart-casual outfit, slim fit can work well, as long as the sizing is right.

Size is especially important with dresses, as you can’t adjust the fit by changing your trousers or top. The ONLY denim dress is available in several product variants, including sizes S and L. So check carefully which size variant you’ve selected before ordering. The same applies to an ONLY dress, JDY clothing and women’s dresses from other brands.

Fabric composition

Look for specific details rather than relying on product labels alone:

  • 100% cotton: often used for T-shirts and polo shirts;
  • cotton and polyester: can combine a soft fibre with added shape retention;
  • polyester: widely used in sportswear and outerwear;
  • recycled polyester: indicates the use of recycled polyester fibres, but says nothing by itself about the product’s overall environmental impact;
  • fleece: a soft, warmer fabric often found in jogging bottoms.

According to the product information, the Levi’s polo shirt is made from 100% cotton. The Adidas Trefoil Essentials trousers are listed as 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester fleece. These details can be checked and are more useful than general terms such as “premium” or “luxury”.

How you’ll use it

Before you start searching, decide what you need:

  • Everyday and casual wear: T-shirts, blouses, polo shirts and denim dresses;
  • Sport and exercise: sports shirts with a suitable cut and fabric for your activity;
  • Travel and outdoor wear: layers, long sleeves and clothes that are easy to mix and match;
  • Relaxing at home: loungewear sets and jogging bottoms;
  • Summer and warm days: lightweight blouses, cotton clothing and airy dresses.

Searching with a specific purpose in mind helps prevent a striking garment from being left unworn in your wardrobe.

Recommended choices for different shoppers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PELLIOT women's long-sleeved T-shirt, beige, L, for camping and travel, waterproof and durable

PELLIOT Long-sleeved T-shirt for Woman Beige L Camping Travel Waterproof Durable

Why it suits this shopper: This beige long-sleeved T-shirt is a practical staple for casual wear, travel and outdoor activities. The product title lists size L and describes it as water-repellent and durable. Check the full product specifications and care label before buying.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is straightforward, with a set colour and size. Be sure to check the size chart first, and treat the term “waterproof” as a claim in the seller’s product listing, not as a general guarantee.

Key benefit & advantages

Long sleeves, a beige colour and a design described in the product title as suitable for travel and camping.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black XL

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black XL

Why it suits this shopper: These black jogging bottoms are a good choice for working from home, travelling and relaxing at the weekend. The listed slim fit, fleece fabric and adjustable waist make the specifications easy to check.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The waist measurement of 91–96 cm is listed. The washing instructions are specific too: wash cold on a delicate cycle, do not bleach and do not tumble dry.

Key benefit & advantages

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester fleece, plus an elasticated waist with a drawstring and side pockets.

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

Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Why it suits this shopper: According to the product information, this sports shirt is designed for football and everyday wear. Its regular fit and size L make it a good choice if you value room to move.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material details aren’t fully consistent between the description and product specifications. So check the composition on the product label and follow the washing instructions.

Key benefit & advantages

Regular fit, short sleeves and a weight of 176 grams according to the listed packaging information.

Compare more clothes

If you’re looking for women’s clothing, men’s clothing, Adidas clothing, Nike sportswear, a Levi’s polo shirt or a The North Face T-shirt, use filters for size, colour, material and intended use. On each product page, check the current stock, price, size chart and returns policy.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I work out my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips with a flexible tape measure, then compare the measurements with the size chart for the specific product. Don’t rely only on the size you usually wear. Check whether the style is slim fit, regular fit or relaxed fit too.

What clothes are suitable for everyday wear?

T-shirts, polo shirts, blouses, denim dresses and jogging bottoms are usually easy to pair with other clothes. Choose colours that already feature in your wardrobe, and check that the fabric suits the season and the freedom of movement you want.

How can I keep clothes bought online looking good for longer?

Follow the care label, wash dark colours separately and use the recommended temperature. Avoid tumble drying if it isn’t permitted, and don’t iron directly over prints. With cotton, fleece and garments containing elasticated components, care can affect the shape and appearance.