Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to choose garments that suit your style and needs

Buying clothes online is convenient, but an attractive product photo does not always tell the full story. A sweatshirt may look thicker than it is, a coat may fit differently than expected and an appealing “sustainable” claim means little without a material percentage. A few simple checks can significantly reduce the risk of making the wrong purchase.

This guide will help you choose from women’s clothing, men’s clothing, casual clothing and sportswear. You’ll also find practical examples for everyday wear, commuting and outdoor activities.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Looking only at the size label

A size S, M or 40 is not the same everywhere. Brands may use different size charts and international size conversions. For example, the Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench lists EU, UK/IE and body measurements separately. So always check your chest, waist and hip measurements where available.

Pay attention to the fit too:

  • Regular fit generally offers room without being intentionally oversized.
  • Relaxed or oversized fit is roomier and may feel different if you are between sizes.
  • Coats should leave enough room for a jumper or sweatshirt underneath.
  • For trousers, check the leg length and cut as well as the waist, such as wide leg or chino.

2. Confusing a material name with quality

“Cotton”, “fleece” or “recycled polyester” does not automatically describe how warm, soft or hard-wearing a garment is. Check the full composition. According to the product information, the adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt consists of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. The Urban Classics hoodies have the same stated ratio.

A recycled content percentage may be relevant if sustainable clothing is important to you, but it does not tell you everything about the product’s overall environmental impact. Also check the expected lifespan, washing instructions and information about its origin. Do not treat a brand’s sustainability claims as definitive proof; start by checking the verifiable product specifications.

3. Assuming features without checking the details

For outdoor jackets, terms such as water-repellent, waterproof and breathable are not interchangeable. Check whether the description lists specific features, such as waterproof fabric, taped seams, an adjustable hood or a DWR finish.

According to the product description for The North Face jacket NF0A8DY2, it features DryVent material with sealed seams and a PFC-free DWR finish. These are specific product features. How well the jacket performs in your situation will also depend on the fit, care, wear and weather conditions.

Three parameters you should always compare

Material and care

A soft fabric does not automatically require complicated care. Check:

  • the percentage of cotton, polyester, wool or elastane;
  • whether the garment is machine washable;
  • whether it can go in the tumble dryer;
  • whether dark colours need to be washed separately;
  • whether a water-repellent finish needs to be reapplied or maintained.

For the adidas sweatshirt, a delicate wash programme, low drying temperature and washing inside out are recommended. For The North Face jacket NF0A8DY2, you are advised to follow the care label carefully and allow the jacket to dry naturally, unless the label specifies otherwise.

Fit and measurements

Use your own body measurements rather than relying only on a previous size. Measure with a flexible tape measure while wearing thin clothing. For black clothing, dresses, blouses and cardigans, the shoulder and chest width often determine the overall look. With chino trousers, the waistband should sit comfortably without feeling tight.

A garment with a fixed size, such as the JDY Wedgewood dress in size 40, is most suitable when you are already familiar with that sizing or can compare the measurements.

Intended use

Ask yourself when you will wear the garment:

  • For relaxing at home and informal occasions: sweatshirts, hoodies and jumpers.
  • For a polished office look: blouses, dresses, cardigans and a trench coat.
  • For everyday cycling or walking: a lightweight jacket with a hood and pockets.
  • For changeable weather: an outdoor jacket with adjustable features or a 3-in-1 system.

A garment with lots of features is not automatically practical for everyone. A technical jacket, for example, may be heavier or warmer than necessary for short trips around town.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urban Classics Ladies Fluffy Zip Hoody black

Urban Classics Ladies Fluffy Zip Hoody Sweat & Fleece - Hoodies Zipthrough Black S

Why it suits this profile: The zip fastening makes layering easy. The hoodie works well with jeans, leggings and other casual clothing for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the fit, pockets, ribbed trims and composition of 70% cotton and 30% polyester.

Key benefit & highlights

Zip fastening, hood, relaxed fit and machine washing in line with the stated care instructions.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Tommy Hilfiger Heritage women’s trench coat

Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench Women Midnight S

Why it suits this profile: This women’s coat combines a classic trench-coat shape with a midnight colour for the office, social occasions and smart everyday outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The detailed size chart shows chest, waist and hip measurements. This means you do not have to rely solely on the letter S.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton according to the product information, with a single-breasted design for versatile styling.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
The North Face men’s 3-in-1 outdoor jacket

The North Face Men Jackets NF0A84FC Estate Blue/TNF Black M

Why it suits this profile: The 3-in-1 system is designed for changing conditions while walking, travelling and taking part in other outdoor activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description lists separately wearable layers, taped seams, adjustable cuffs, ventilation zips and a hood.

Key benefit & highlights

The outer layer and insulating inner layer can be worn separately or together; the materials contain recycled polyester according to the product information.

Suitable for: Fans of sportswear
adidas Trefoil Essentials crew sweatshirt black

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why it suits this profile: A crew-neck sweatshirt without a hood is easy to wear as a standalone layer or under a jacket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify a regular fit, ribbed trims and a precise material ratio rather than relying solely on general comfort claims.

Key benefit & highlights

Fleece construction, regular fit, embroidered Trefoil logo and 30% recycled polyester according to the product description.

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.

Useful checks before you order

Use this quick checklist before completing your purchase:

  1. Compare your body measurements with the size chart for the specific product.
  2. Check the material, lining and any insulation.
  3. Look at the care instructions: washing, drying and ironing.
  4. Assess whether the fit works with layers and your usual clothing style.
  5. Check the colour, stock availability, delivery time, returns policy and product information.
  6. Keep your order confirmation and information about the legal guarantee. In the EU, consumers buying new products have a statutory legal guarantee of conformity; additional terms may vary depending on the seller and the circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I determine my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips according to the retailer’s instructions, then compare the results with the brand’s size chart. Remember that a women’s coat, men’s jacket, dress and hoodie may all fit differently. If you are unsure, product measurements and fit descriptions such as regular or relaxed fit are more useful than relying solely on your usual size.

Which clothes are suitable for everyday wear?

For everyday wear, versatile wardrobe staples are often the most practical choice: a sweatshirt, hoodie, cardigan, blouse, chino trousers or lightweight jacket. Choose materials and colours that are easy to mix and match. Black clothing, for example, is easy to style, but dark fabrics may need to be washed separately according to the care instructions.

What should I look for in an outdoor jacket?

Check the type of protection, seams, hood, pockets, ventilation and adjustability. Also look at how to care for the DWR finish and examine the material construction. A jacket for walking or intensive outdoor use requires different features from a lightweight city jacket. Use the product specifications and your own intended use as your starting point.