Joybuy Insights

Buying designer clothes online: how to choose comfortable clothing without making a mistake

Buying designer clothes online seems straightforward: you filter by brand, size and colour, then place an order. Yet a beautiful product photo can give the wrong impression. With women's clothing, men's clothing and casual wear especially, mistakes happen because of an unclear fit, a fabric that doesn't suit its intended use, or care instructions that demand more effort than expected.

With these practical selection points, you can compare hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts, dresses, blouses, chino trousers and jackets based on verifiable information rather than just the brand name.

Three common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Relying solely on the standard size

A size S or 40 isn't the same across every brand. A relaxed fit T-shirt can be roomier than a regular fit sweatshirt. International size markings, such as US, UK and EU, can also cause confusion. Always check the size guide and relevant body measurements before you order.

2. Confusing a fabric name with the full material composition

"Soft", "premium" and "comfortable" are general descriptions. They don't automatically tell you how much cotton, polyester or recycled material is in a garment. Look at the material percentage. The composition affects warmth, breathability, shape retention and care requirements.

3. Skipping the care instructions

Black clothing can show colour variation more quickly when you mix dark and light washes. Some garments shouldn't go in the tumble dryer, while others can be dried on a low temperature. Check before you buy whether the care routine fits your lifestyle. A garment that only stays looking good with complicated maintenance isn't practical for everyone.

The key specifications to compare

Material and when to wear it

For everyday use, material and weight are more important than a flashy logo. A sweatshirt with a fleece lining is suitable for cooler days or as an extra layer. The adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt is made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester according to the product information. The description also mentions a soft fleece construction and a regular fit.

A 100% cotton T-shirt can be comfortable as a standalone layer. The The North Face T-shirt features a 160 g/m² cotton jersey fabric, a relaxed fit and a round neckline according to the product information. That makes it suitable for casual city wear, travel or as a base layer. However, the roomy fit isn't the same as a slim-fit style.

Fit and measurements

Look out for these terms:

  • Regular fit: an average fit that is neither tight nor particularly roomy.
  • Relaxed fit: more room around the body; handy when you value freedom of movement or layering.
  • High waist and wide leg: with chino trousers, these details affect the waist position and the room around the legs.
  • Size range: check whether your size is actually available and not just mentioned in a general product title.

With a women's trench coat, it's useful to compare chest, waist and hip measurements against the size guide. The Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench is made from 100% cotton according to the product information and comes with a detailed table for chest, waist, hip and sleeve length.

Care, colour and guarantee

Check whether the garment is machine washable and which drying method is recommended. For the adidas sweatshirt, the care instructions include: wash on a delicate cycle, low tumble dryer temperature, wash dark colours separately and iron inside out. The The North Face T-shirt can be washed at a maximum of 40 °C with similar colours and should be air dried, according to the product information.

For consumers in the EU, statutory conformity protection applies. The adidas product information also mentions a minimum statutory guarantee of two years, with additional rights possible under national legislation. Keep your order details and always check the seller's terms and conditions.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why this suits the profile: This black sweatshirt is a straightforward choice for everyday wear, with a regular fit and a composition that's clearly stated in the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists the material, fit and care instructions. So you don't have to rely solely on general terms like "soft" or "warm".

Key benefit & highlights

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester; fleece lining; ribbed collar, cuffs and hem.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Calvin Klein Badge Hoodie Black XXL

Calvin Klein Badge Hoodie - Black XXL

Why this suits the profile: The classic black colour and adjustable hood fit well with a simple everyday wardrobe of jeans, joggers or shorts.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The hoodie has an adjustable drawcord and ribbed trims. Do check the specific material composition on the label, as the product description mentions a cotton blend.

Key benefit & highlights

Adjustable hood; black colour; ribbed cuffs and hem; chest badge.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy-duty users
THE North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

THE North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

Why this suits the profile: The relaxed fit and cotton fabric are designed for everyday wear, travel, camping and casual city outfits, according to the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric weight of 160 g/m² and the size guide are more concrete than a general claim about comfort. Bear in mind the roomier fit.

Key benefit & highlights

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

Suitable for: Layer-wearers and commuters
Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench Women Midnight S

Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench Women Midnight S

Why this suits the profile: A women's trench coat is practical for changeable weather and pairs well with dresses, blouses, chino trousers and other everyday outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information includes multiple body measurements per size. Compare those details before choosing a coat you might want to wear over a sweatshirt.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton according to the product information; single-breasted design; Midnight colour; comprehensive size guide.

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 designer clothes online

How do I know which clothing size to choose online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips with a flexible tape measure and compare the results with the size guide for the specific product. Also look at the fit: a relaxed fit is roomier than a regular fit. With jackets and trench coats, you'll need extra room if you plan to wear a hoodie or sweatshirt underneath.

Which materials are suitable for comfortable everyday clothing?

That depends on how you'll use it. Cotton is often chosen for T-shirts, blouses and lightweight casual wear. A cotton blend can be used for hoodies and sweatshirts. Always look at the exact percentage and the care instructions. "Cotton blend" isn't a fixed composition.

How can I keep black clothing looking good for longer?

Wash black clothing inside out with similar dark colours and use a mild detergent. Avoid high temperatures and follow the care label. Air dry any items that shouldn't go in the tumble dryer. This way, you'll preserve the colour, shape and fabric properties.