Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to choose affordable and comfortable clothing without making the wrong purchase

Buying clothes online may seem straightforward, but an attractive product photo does not tell you everything. The wrong size, unclear fabric composition or a fit that does not suit how you intend to wear it can leave a garment unworn in your wardrobe. This applies to women’s clothing, men’s clothing, sportswear and casual clothing.

The following points will help you compare clothing based on verifiable information, rather than relying solely on the brand name, discount or appearance.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. A well-known brand name does not tell you everything about the fit

A Nike T-shirt or adidas sweatshirt may be appealing because of the brand, but the cut varies from one model to another. A regular fit sits differently from a slim fit or athletic fit. Always check the size chart, chest width and product measurements. Also check whether the size is given as an EU, UK or international size.

2. “Soft” or “breathable” is not a complete fabric specification

Marketing copy often uses general terms such as comfortable, lightweight or warm. The practical information is found in the fibre composition. Cotton often feels soft, while polyester can be lightweight and retain its shape well. A blend can combine different properties, but how it feels to wear also depends on the weave, thickness and finish.

For some products, the description and specification table may differ. The Nike Dri-FIT Park 20 Tee is described as 100% polyester, while the product specifications state 57% cotton and 43% polyester. If in doubt, check the current product page before placing your order.

3. A low price can lead to extra costs

A cheap garment is not automatically good value if you rarely wear it, need to replace it quickly or incur return costs. Pay attention to the size, care instructions and intended use. For work, a women’s blazer may be more versatile than a trend-led item. For layering, a women’s gilet, women’s blouse or lightweight women’s jacket is often more practical than one thick garment.

The most important specifications to check

Fit and sizing

Bear the following points in mind before buying clothes online:

  • Fit: regular fit generally offers more room than slim fit; athletic fit is often designed with freedom of movement in mind.
  • Measurements: compare the chest width, length and sleeve length with a garment you already own.
  • Sizing system: check whether the stated size is EU, UK, US or an international size.
  • Use: sportswear should not restrict movement, while a blazer or blouse should fit well around the shoulders and torso.

“Colours may vary between screens” is not a detail to ignore. Dark grey, moonbeam, oatmeal and cabernet may look different in reality from how they appear on your phone. Also check the written colour description.

Fabric, stretch and layering

For comfortable clothing, the fibre type is not the only important factor. Also look for:

  • the percentage of elastane in garments that need to move with you;
  • fleece or another thicker fabric in sweatshirts;
  • stretch fibres in underwear;
  • recycled polyester as part of the composition;
  • the presence of a lining or built-in cups.

A seamless bralette with built-in cups can be useful under a blouse, blazer, women’s gilet or low-cut top. According to Utree’s product description, this model has wide elastic straps, semi-firm cups and a stretch fabric. The stated antibacterial and dust-mite-resistant properties are claims from the brand’s product information and should not be interpreted as a medical guarantee.

Care and frequency of use

Check the care label before completing your purchase. According to the product information, the adidas sweatshirt requires a delicate wash programme, a low drying temperature and washing inside out. Dark colours are best washed separately. These are practical requirements to consider if you plan to wear a garment frequently.

For intensive use, shape retention, seams, cuffs and washing instructions are more important than appearance alone. According to Nike’s own product description, Nike Dri-FIT technology is associated with moisture management. Treat this as a product specification from the brand; the experience may vary depending on the user and activity.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JDY Shirt Long Sleeve Oatmeal Size S

JDY Shirt Long Sleeve Oatmeal Size S

Why it suits this profile: A neutral long-sleeved top is easy to pair with jeans, a skirt or trousers. This makes it a practical foundation for affordable casual clothing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The simple colour and versatile design make the garment less dependent on a particular trend or outfit.

Key benefit & advantages

Long sleeves and a neutral oatmeal colour; suitable for pairing with a range of garments.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why it suits this profile: This adidas sweatshirt is ideal if you want to combine a recognisable brand, fleece comfort and a neat regular fit in one casual layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition and care instructions are clearly stated. However, check that the fixed size S matches your own measurements.

Key benefit & advantages

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester according to the product information; fleece fabric, a crew neck and ribbed cuffs and hem.

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

Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Why it suits this profile: A sporty T-shirt for football, exercise and everyday wear. The short sleeves and regular fit suit anyone looking for a versatile wardrobe essential.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit, size L and dark grey colour are specified. Check the fabric composition on the product page because the description contains the differences mentioned above.

Key benefit & advantages

Short sleeves, a crew neck, regular fit and a design that Nike states is suitable for sports and casual wear.

How to compare women’s and men’s clothing effectively

Before you start searching, make a short list of requirements:

  1. Purpose: work, sport, relaxing at home, travel or everyday wear.
  2. Layer: base layer, mid-layer or jacket.
  3. Fit: close-fitting, regular or looser.
  4. Fabric: cotton, polyester, wool blend, stretch or fleece.
  5. Size: compare the measurements with a garment from your own wardrobe.
  6. Care: machine washing, drying programme and ironing instructions.

For women’s clothing, you can pair a JDY blazer in chocolate brown with a blouse or long-sleeved top. According to the product information, a JDY cardigan in cabernet is made from a blend containing recycled polyester, wool, elastane and acrylic. A JDY blouson in moonbeam is stated to consist of recycled polyester and is intended for everyday wear. Always check the current composition and size before placing your order.

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.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I determine my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips, then compare these measurements with the size chart for the specific product. A size S from one brand may fit differently from a size S from another. Also pay attention to the fit and product measurements, such as chest width or garment length.

What clothing is suitable for everyday wear?

Neutral tops, sweatshirts, blouses, cardigans and lightweight jackets are usually easy to mix and match. Choose fabrics and fits that suit your routine. A short-sleeved T-shirt works as a standalone top or base layer, while a cardigan, sweatshirt or blazer offers extra options as a mid-layer.

How can I prevent clothes bought online from losing their shape quickly?

Follow the care label, use the recommended programme and avoid unnecessarily high drying temperatures. Wash dark clothing inside out when instructed to do so. Before buying, also check that the fabric and construction are suitable for how often and how intensively you plan to wear the garment.