Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes and shoes online: how to choose practically, comfortably and without a bad buy

Buying clothes and shoes online might seem straightforward, but a nice product photo doesn’t tell the whole story. A trainer can look roomy on screen yet run narrow. A T-shirt might be described as “soft”, while the fabric composition is mostly polyester. The same goes for pyjamas, underwear, children’s sets and socks – size, care and intended use can make a big difference.

Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer selects items based on verifiable information such as material, sizing, construction and care advice. This way, you can look beyond the marketing claims and decide which purchase suits your everyday needs.

Three common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. A well-known brand name doesn’t guarantee the fit

A brand can inspire confidence, but the fit varies from model to model. Always check the size guide for the specific item. With shoes, the foot length in millimetres is often more useful than just your usual EU size. The Lacoste L003 2K24 224 2 SMA, for example, runs from EU 39.5 to 48, with a corresponding foot length of 246 to 305 mm.

2. “Comfortable” isn’t a technical specification

Words like soft, breathable or light are only useful when linked to concrete details. Look out for:

  • Fabric composition: for example, 60% cotton and 40% polyester in the Under Armour T-shirt.
  • Sole construction: EVA can be used for cushioning, while rubber is relevant for grip.
  • Construction: a reinforced heel, elasticated waistband or seamless design can affect how it feels to wear.
  • Care: a garment that can only be washed at a low temperature requires more attention than a simple, easy-to-wash basic item.

According to the product description, the Under Armour Sportstyle Logo T-shirt is made from a cotton blend and designed for both sporty and everyday wear. The stated features, such as moisture wicking and odour control, are brand claims and should not be taken as a guaranteed result for every wearer.

3. A multi-pack isn’t automatically better value

With multi-pack clothing, you often pay a lower price per item, but only if you actually use all the colours, sizes and styles. Also check whether the set consists of identical items. The Chicco girls’ tank tops, for instance, are offered as a 2-pack in light pink, while a Chicco T-shirt and shorts set contains two different garments.

Which specifications should you prioritise?

Size and fit

For women’s shoes and men’s shoes, it’s best to measure both feet at the end of the day. Compare the longest foot with the size guide. With trainers, pay attention to the fit description: “normal fit” doesn’t mean the model suits every foot width.

For clothing, compare your chest, waist and hip measurements with the stated sizes. With underwear and boxer shorts, the waist measurement is more important than just the letter size. The Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack is available here in XL; check before you buy whether that size matches your waist.

Material and composition

Cotton feels familiar to many people, but a blend can offer extra stretch or shape retention. Examples from the range:

  • T-shirts: cotton/polyester can be suitable for casual wear and sports activities.
  • Women’s underwear: 95% cotton and 5% elastane, as in the Reebok Carina briefs, combines a high cotton content with stretch.
  • Socks: the Urban Classics no-show socks are made from 75% cotton, 23% polyester and 2% elastane.
  • Children’s sets: the Chicco tank tops and clothing sets consist of 95% cotton and 5% elastane according to the product information.

If you’re sensitive to certain fabrics, always check the full label. A product description does not replace the information on the physical care and fabric label.

Care and intended use

A purchase for daily commuting has different requirements than sportswear or nightwear. Trainers with a rubber outsole can be practical for city use, while no-show socks work better with low-top trainers or loafers. For home use, a breathable pyjama, comfortable clothing and lightweight slippers are logical combinations.

Always follow the care label. For various products in this range, washing at 30 or 40 °C is mentioned, while tumble drying is not recommended. This can affect the time and cost of care.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Under Armour Sportstyle Logo - Navy Blue M

Under Armour Sportstyle Logo - Navy Blue M

Why this fits the profile: A versatile T-shirt for anyone looking for one garment for casual outfits, training and everyday wear. The regular fit and size M are clearly described.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition of 60% cotton and 40% polyester is stated, so you don’t have to rely solely on the term “comfortable”.

Key benefit & highlights

Cotton blend, short sleeves, ribbed collar and size guide with chest measurement per size.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Lacoste Lineshot 223 4 SFA WHT/WHT 36

Lacoste Lineshot 223 4 SFA WHT/WHT 36

Why this fits the profile: Ideal for anyone looking for a white Lacoste trainer that goes with a range of casual outfits, from jeans to sporty looks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information includes an EU size guide with foot lengths. This lets you compare size 36 to approximately 225 mm, rather than relying solely on the brand size.

Key benefit & highlights

Synthetic upper, textile lining, padded insole and rubber outsole according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users
Urban Classics No Show Socks 5-Pack Socks Blk/Wht/Gry 35-38

Urban Classics No Show Socks 5-Pack Socks Blk/Wht/Gry 35-38

Why this fits the profile: A practical choice for daily wear with trainers, loafers or low shoes where you prefer minimal sock visibility.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit isn’t just described as “invisible”: the low cut and size 35-38 are clearly stated.

Key benefit & highlights

5 pairs per pack, 75% cotton, elastane for flexibility and machine washable at 30 °C according to the product information.

Suitable for: Families looking to stock up
Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack UB1 Black Men XL

Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack UB1 Black Men XL

Why this fits the profile: A set of three boxer shorts is practical when you want to top up your basic underwear without selecting multiple individual items.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging, colour and available size XL are clearly indicated. Do check yourself whether the waist and desired fit match.

Key benefit & highlights

3-pack, black colour, elasticated waistband and cotton with elastane according to the product description.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about buying clothes and shoes online

How do I determine the right size when buying shoes online?

Measure your foot length in millimetres and compare it with the size guide for the chosen model. Also look at the fit and available width. If you normally wear a certain size, still check the specific brand and model.

Which clothing materials are practical for everyday use?

That depends on the garment. Cotton is often chosen for T-shirts, underwear and children’s sets. Polyester or elastane can offer extra flexibility, shape retention or durability. Always check the percentage per fibre and look at the care label.

Are multi-pack clothes better value?

A multi-pack can lower the price per item, but that depends on the total price and your use. Compare the price per item, check the contents of the pack and only choose colours and sizes you actually need.