Buying clothes online: how to choose casual wear that fits and avoid a bad buy

Buying clothes online is convenient, but a great product photo doesn’t always tell the whole story. The wrong size, unclear fabric information or a style that only looks versatile in the picture can mean return costs and a garment you rarely wear.

For Dutch shoppers looking for affordable, comfortable clothing, these three pitfalls are particularly relevant:

• Sizes vary by brand and style. An M in a women’s dress may fit differently from an M in a men’s T-shirt.
• Fabric names don’t tell you everything. “Cotton blend”, for example, could mean 60% cotton and 40% polyester. That feels different from a 100% cotton T-shirt.
• Versatility is easily overstated. A denim dress may work for everyday wear, but its fit, length and fabric weight determine whether you’ll also feel comfortable wearing it when travelling or in warm weather.

So always check the product page, size guide, fabric composition and care instructions before you order.

What should you look for when buying clothes online?

1. Check the size, fit and unit of measurement

Don’t just look at the S, M, L or XL label. Also check:

• the stated bust, waist and hip measurements;
• whether the style is slim fit, regular fit or relaxed fit;
• the stated EU size;
• the garment length, particularly for a women’s dress or denim dress.

For example, the adidas Adicolor Classics 3-Stripes Tee lists EU size 46 as size M, with a chest width of 48 cm. That’s more useful than simply seeing “M”. The white T-shirt from The North Face comes with a size guide showing bust, waist and hip measurements. Use those details to compare it with a T-shirt you already find comfortable.

A blue denim dress in size S, M, L or XL may also fit differently depending on the style. Joybuy has several sizes of the ONLY denim dress available. So compare the specific product page rather than relying on the brand name alone.

2. Check the fibre composition

The fabric affects how a garment feels, breathes and needs to be cared for. Check the percentage of each fibre:

• 100% cotton: According to the product information, the Levi’s men’s polo shirt and the adidas T-shirt are made from 100% cotton.
• Cotton blend: The North Face T-shirt in Deep Dijon is described as 60% cotton and 40% polyester. The heather colour has a different stated composition of 85% cotton and 15% polyester.
• Denim: A denim dress is generally sturdier than a lightweight T-shirt. Check whether the product page gives information about stretch, lining and care instructions.

A cotton blend can be practical for everyday wear, while 100% cotton is often preferred if you’re looking for a natural fibre. Neither is automatically right for every situation. Consider the season, how freely you can move and how often you plan to wash the garment.

3. Check how it will be worn, cared for and the colour

A T-shirt for everyday wear doesn’t need the same features as clothing for camping or travelling. Check:

• machine-washing instructions and the maximum temperature;
• whether it can go in the tumble dryer;
• ironing advice and how to protect prints;
• colour fastness and whether to wash it with similar colours;
• whether it’s suitable for wearing under a jacket or jumper.

According to the product information, the The North Face NF0A87NG T-shirt can be washed at up to 40 °C and hung up to dry. A delicate wash cycle and a lower temperature are recommended for the adidas T-shirt. Always follow the label on the garment if it differs from the online information.

Our recommendations for different shoppers

The selection below is based on verifiable details such as fabric, size, fit, colour and stated uses. Brand names don’t guarantee a fit that’s right for you, so always check the latest product information.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

ONLY dress, medium blue denim, size M

Why it suits this shopper: This medium-blue denim dress is a simple starting point for everyday outfits. Team it with trainers for a casual look or boots for a different style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The colour, style and available size are clearly stated in the product information. Do check that size M matches your measurements.

Key benefit & highlights

Medium-blue denim; one garment for a complete casual outfit; size M.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

adidas Adicolor Classics 3-Stripes Tee IA4845, black, M

Why it suits this shopper: This black T-shirt is easy to style with jeans and other casual clothes, whether you’re a woman or a man. The product information lists 100% cotton, a slim fit and a ribbed neck.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric composition is clearly stated. Bear in mind that it has a slim fit, and check the chest width before you order.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton; black; ribbed neck and cuffs; size M.

Suitable for: Specific activities & frequent wear

The North Face men's T-shirt NF0A8E4E, White Dune, S

Why it suits this shopper: The relaxed fit and 100% cotton, 160 g/m² knitted fabric make it suitable for casual wear, travelling, camping and layering under warmer clothes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit is described as relaxed, and a size guide is available. That makes it less likely that a roomy fit will feel unexpectedly too large.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton; 160 g/m² fabric; relaxed fit; size S with body measurements provided.

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes online

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

Measure a garment that already fits you well and compare its bust, waist and hip measurements with the size guide on the product page. Check the fit too: slim fit is closer to the body, while relaxed fit gives you more room. For a women’s dress, also look at the length and any information about stretch.

Is a cotton T-shirt always more comfortable than a cotton blend?

Not necessarily. A 100% cotton T-shirt has a clearly stated fibre composition, but according to the product description, a cotton blend may be lighter or more practical for certain types of everyday wear. The right choice depends on your preference, the season and your care routine.

How can I stop clothes bought online from wearing out quickly?

Follow the care label, wash dark colours separately and use the recommended temperature. According to the product information, hanging some shirts up to dry may be the recommended method. Also avoid tumble-drying if the label advises against it. This helps you look after the fabric, print and shape of the garment.