Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to choose women’s and men’s clothing without making the wrong purchase

Buying clothes online seems straightforward: filter by size, choose a colour and place your order. Yet many disappointing purchases are caused by missing information or overly optimistic descriptions. A shirt may look loose-fitting in the photo, while the size chart shows a much closer fit. Terms such as “breathable”, “sustainable” and “waterproof” are also not always used consistently.

With these practical checks, you can compare clothing based on material, size, fit and intended use. This makes it easier to find casual clothing, sportswear or outdoor clothing that suits your everyday life in the UK.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Looking only at the letter size

A size L is not equally generous across every brand. Always check the measurements in centimetres. For tops, pay particular attention to chest, waist, hip and sleeve measurements. With women’s clothing, shoulder width and garment length can also make a significant difference.

A “relaxed fit” model is deliberately roomier. An “athletic fit” is usually more shaped around the body. These terms offer a useful indication, but they do not replace checking the size chart.

2. Confusing marketing terms with technical properties

A breathable shirt can be comfortable for everyday use, but “breathable” in itself says nothing about the exact fibres, weave structure or moisture management. For a cotton T-shirt, it is important to check the material percentage and fabric weight. A 100% cotton shirt feels different from a cotton and polyester blend.

Technology also varies between brands when it comes to sports shirts. According to Nike’s product description, the Nike Dri-FIT shirt is designed to draw moisture away from the skin. This is a claim from the brand’s product information, so you should also check the stated composition and fit.

3. Ignoring care requirements and how the garment will be used

A garment that looks great may be impractical if it can only be washed in a particular way. Therefore, check:

  • the recommended washing temperature;
  • whether the garment can go in the tumble dryer;
  • whether the fabric creases easily;
  • whether the model is suitable for layering;
  • whether the fit works for sitting, cycling, travelling or sport.

For British conditions, a women’s long-sleeved top can be useful as a mid-layer. For intense activity, a men’s sports shirt is often more suitable than a heavy cotton shirt. A women’s dress or women’s blouse requires different considerations, particularly regarding length, shoulder fit and care.

Three specifications you should always check

Material and fibres

Do not look only at the brand name; check the fibre composition. Cotton is known for its natural feel and is suitable for many everyday outfits. Polyester is often used in sportswear because it is lightweight and because brands attribute moisture-management properties to the fabric.

The Nike Dri-FIT Park 20 Tee product information contains different composition details: the overview states 100% polyester, while the additional product details mention 57% cotton and 43% polyester. This is exactly why you should check the current product page, label and returns policy before buying if the material is a deciding factor for you.

Fit and measurements

Pay attention to the difference between:

  • regular fit: a standard fit that is not particularly close-fitting;
  • relaxed fit: more room around the body;
  • athletic fit: designed for freedom of movement and a sportier shape.

Compare your body measurements with the chart rather than automatically repeating a previous purchase. The North Face T-shirt, for example, is listed as having a relaxed fit. The product page also provides chest, waist, hip and sleeve measurements for each size.

Care and durability in use

A garment does not last longer because of its material alone; suitable care also matters. Where possible, wash colours with similar shades, use the temperature stated on the label and avoid unnecessarily hot washes. The product information for the The North Face shirt states that it should be washed at a maximum of 40 °C, not bleached and hung up to dry naturally instead of being placed in the tumble dryer.

Also check whether sustainability claims come from an independent source or from the brand itself. Without a verifiable specification, it is better to focus on concrete information about the fabric, seams, care instructions and warranty.

Recommended clothing 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: According to the product description, this women’s long-sleeved top can be paired with jeans, trousers or skirts. This makes it suitable for simple everyday outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page highlights a specific styling use rather than relying only on general fashion claims. However, check size S against the available information.

Main benefit & advantages

Neutral oatmeal colour; long sleeves; suitable for multiple outfit combinations.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
THE North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

THE North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

Why it suits this profile: The relaxed fit and 100% cotton knit weighing 160 g/m² are designed for everyday use, camping and casual city outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing states the material, fabric weight, fit, size chart and care instructions. This makes it easier to compare than relying solely on the product photo.

Main benefit & advantages

100% cotton according to the product information; 160 g/m²; relaxed fit; machine washable at up to 40 °C.

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: This men’s sports shirt has a regular fit, short sleeves and a classic crew neck. According to the product information, it is intended for football and casual use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing states the fit, size advice, colour and care instructions. As the material details do not fully match, checking everything before purchase is particularly important.

Main benefit & advantages

Regular fit; short sleeves; crew neck; product description mentions Nike Dri-FIT technology.

Suitable for: Travellers and outdoor use
PELLIOT Long-sleeved T-shirt for Woman Beige L Camping Travel Waterproof Durable

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

Why it suits this profile: The product title positions this women’s long-sleeved top for camping and travelling. The beige colour is easy to pair with casual or outdoor clothing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The title mentions water-repellent properties, but the available description provides no technical water-column rating or testing standard. Do not therefore automatically regard it as offering complete rain protection.

Main benefit & advantages

Long sleeves; size L; beige colour; product title mentions camping, travelling and waterproof.

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.

More choices for women and men

When browsing clothing online, you can refine your selection further by use and style:

  • Women’s clothing for everyday use: a JDY women’s dress in size 40 can be paired with sandals for daytime or accessories for a more formal occasion. Pay particular attention to the exact length and composition on the product page.
  • Women’s blouse for multiple outfits: a blouse in oatmeal or a similar neutral shade works well with jeans, a skirt or tailored trousers.
  • Women’s and men’s T-shirts: pay attention to fabric weight, neckline and sleeve length. A heavier cotton fabric feels different from a lightweight technical shirt.
  • Casual clothing for travelling: choose colours that work well together and check whether the clothing can be washed and dried easily.
  • Outdoor clothing: alongside the product title, look for specific information about water repellency, seams, fastenings and layering.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

How do I find the right clothing size online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips with a flexible tape measure and compare the results with the size chart for the specific product. Also consider the fit: a relaxed fit offers more room than a regular fit. If you are unsure, the returns policy and product reviews can provide additional information, but the size chart remains the starting point.

Which material is suitable for everyday use?

That depends on your preferences and activity. Cotton feels comfortable to many people when worn as casual clothing. A polyester blend may be lighter and is often used in sportswear. Always check the exact material percentage, especially when the product page contains multiple descriptions.

How can I make clothes bought online last longer?

Follow the care label, wash with similar colours and avoid higher temperatures than necessary. Hang up clothing that cannot go in the tumble dryer straight away. Before buying, also check whether the model suits how you intend to use it: a football shirt, a women’s blouse for the office and a long-sleeved top for travelling all have different care and wearing requirements.