Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes and accessories online: how to choose wisely and avoid a bad buy

Buying clothes and accessories online might seem straightforward, but an attractive photo and a low price don’t tell the whole story. The fit can turn out differently than expected, a jacket may be less suitable for prolonged rain, and a multipack can look like a bargain while the fabric composition disappoints.

With this practical checklist, you can compare men’s clothing, women’s clothing, underwear, socks, shoes, outdoor jackets and workwear on the features that really matter in everyday use.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Confusing a marketing term with a measurable feature

Words like “waterproof”, “durable” and “breathable” only have value when you know what they’re based on. For some outdoor jackets, the product description mentions a water column, moisture vapour permeability or abrasion resistance, for example. Without such a specification, a general claim is hard to assess.

Also pay attention to the source. Statements about a jacket’s performance are based on the product information from the brand or seller. According to Pelliot’s own data, a specific 3-in-1 jacket has a water column of 35,900 mm H₂O, a breathability rating of 16,000 g/m²/24 hours and an abrasion resistance of more than 40,000 rubbing cycles. These are product specifications, not a guarantee that the jacket will perform the same in every weather condition.

2. Only choosing the standard size

A size L is not the same across every brand or garment. An outdoor jacket also needs room for a jumper or fleece, while underwear should not be too loose. Always check:

  • chest, waist and hip measurements;
  • inside leg length or garment length;
  • the size guide for the specific product;
  • the desired fit, such as fitted, relaxed or low rise;
  • extra room for layering with winter jackets and waterproof jackets.

The Pelliot Hard Shell Jacket, for example, includes a separate table with chest circumference, shoulder width, sleeve length and garment length. That’s more useful than just the label “L”.

3. Ignoring care instructions and maintenance costs

A garment that can only be washed at a low temperature or cannot go in the tumble dryer requires more attention. This is especially relevant for multipacks of underwear, sportswear and socks that are washed frequently.

Check before you buy:

  • maximum washing temperature;
  • whether tumble drying is allowed;
  • whether ironing is possible;
  • whether dry cleaning is prohibited;
  • whether zips and fastenings must be closed before washing.

Always follow the label on the item you receive. Product descriptions may give general care information, but the label is the final authority.

The key specifications to compare

Material and composition

For underwear, cotton, modal and elastane make a difference in how it feels to wear and how much stretch it has. According to the product information, the Calvin Klein Bikini 020 is made from a cotton-modal blend with 53% regenerative cotton and 12% elastane. “Regenerative cotton” here refers to the farming method, which, according to the brand’s description, focuses on soil, waterways and biodiversity. It is not an automatic guarantee of a fully sustainable production chain.

If recycled materials matter to you, the material details are especially relevant. The LEE Laminated Recycled Polyester is, according to the product description, made from recycled polyester and has a laminated finish that is said to support water resistance and abrasion resistance. Also look at the rest of the composition and the care instructions: one recycled fibre doesn’t tell you everything about the lifespan or total environmental impact.

Fit and freedom of movement

For everyday use, a well-fitting waistband and enough stretch are more important than just the look. With boxer shorts and briefs, pay attention to the waist height, the leg opening and the amount of elastane. With sportswear, the fabric needs to move with you without constricting.

A multipack can be practical for families or daily use. The Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk comes as a 3-pack, the Lee Trunk Innes as a 5-pack and the Urban Classics Organic Boxer Shorts as a 5-pack. Just check that all items are the same colour, size and fit before you order.

Protection against weather and conditions of use

Choose a jacket based on when you’ll use it:

  • Daily commute: look at the hood, pockets, wind protection and room for layers.
  • Rainy cycling trips: check for waterproof zips, taped seams and the type of coating.
  • Hiking and camping: consider breathability, abrasion resistance and adjustable cuffs.
  • Cold winter days: pay attention to the lining, insulation material and the ability to wear an extra layer.

According to Urban Classics’ own product information, the Basic Puffer Jacket has an outer shell of 100% polyamide, a polyester lining and a polyester filling. That makes the composition verifiable, but it doesn’t in itself tell you how warm you’ll personally feel.

Recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Levi's Children Socks LHN Box Tab Low Cut 6-Pack Dress Blues Size 4 BL0267

Levi's Children Socks LHN Box Tab Low Cut 6-Pack

Why this fits the profile: Six pairs of children’s socks provide a practical foundation for school, play and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of items is clearly stated. The low cut is designed for trainers and casual shoes.

Key benefit & highlights

6-pack; cotton, polyester and elastane blend; reinforced heel and toe according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
The North Face men's jackets NF0A8DY2 estate blue L

The North Face men's jackets NF0A8DY2

Why this fits the profile: Ideal for anyone looking for an outdoor jacket for running, training and changeable weather.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions seam-sealed DryVent and a standard fit. Check the size guide and care label before purchase.

Key benefit & highlights

100% recycled polyester according to the product description; hood, chest pocket and zip hand pockets.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
CAT NEXUS HOLSTER STRETCH TROUSER BLACK SIZE 34/32

CAT Nexus Holster Stretch Trouser

Why this fits the profile: A practical choice for workwear with room for tools and extra reinforcement.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details mention specific pockets, knee reinforcement and Cordura panels rather than just general durability claims.

Key benefit & highlights

50% cotton, 48% polyester and 2% elastane; holster pockets, hammer loop and knee pockets according to the product information.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urban Classics Organic Boxer Shorts 5-Pack Underwear

Urban Classics Organic Boxer Shorts 5-Pack

Why this fits the profile: A multipack for everyday use when you want to stock up on several boxer shorts at once.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states the exact number of five items and the composition of 95% organic cotton and 5% polyester.

Key benefit & highlights

5-pack; organic cotton according to the product description; suitable as an everyday staple.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I determine my size when buying clothes online?

Measure yourself according to the instructions on the product page and compare the result with the size guide for that item. Also look at the fit: relaxed, fitted and low rise can fit quite differently. With jackets, you need to allow for an extra layer underneath.

Is clothing made from recycled materials automatically more sustainable?

No. Recycled materials can be a relevant feature, but the overall impact also depends on lifespan, care, transport, production and disposal. So check the exact fibre composition and avoid drawing conclusions that go beyond the available product information.

Are multipacks better value when buying online?

A multipack can lower the price per item and is practical for underwear, socks and children’s socks. But do compare the total price, the number of items, the fabric composition and the care instructions. That way, you can avoid a large pack turning out to be less suitable than a smaller pack with a better fit.