Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to choose women’s and men’s clothing without making a costly mistake

Buying clothes online is convenient, but a polished product photo does not tell you everything. The fit may be different from expected, the fabric may feel thinner than anticipated and a brand’s sizing does not always match your usual size. With a few standard checks, you can compare women’s clothing online, men’s clothing online, sportswear and underwear much more effectively.

Common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Looking only at the size on the label

An S, M or XL does not have a universal fit. Sizes vary by brand, collection and style. Always check the size guide and compare the stated body measurements with a garment you already know fits well.

Also pay attention to the difference between:

  • Regular fit: a straight, moderately roomy fit.
  • Slim or athletic fit: cut closer to the body.
  • Oversized fit: deliberately designed to be roomier and longer.
  • Plus-size clothing: check bust, waist and hip measurements particularly carefully, as sizing varies between retailers.

2. Confusing a material name with a guarantee of quality

Cotton, polyester and wool tell you something about the fibre, but not necessarily about thickness, drape or durability. For example, a garment with a high cotton content may feel different depending on the weave and finish. That is why you should check both the fabric composition and the care instructions.

The Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench, for example, is listed as 100% cotton. The adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt contains 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. These are verifiable details, but they do not alone determine how warm or soft a garment feels.

3. Treating a performance claim as a guaranteed result

Brands use terms such as moisture-wicking, breathable and insulating in their product descriptions. Treat these as information from the brand, not as a guaranteed result for every wearer. According to Nike’s product description, the Dri-FIT Park 20 Tee is designed to manage moisture during sport. Your experience may vary depending on activity, temperature, fit and personal preference.

What should you check before ordering women’s or men’s clothing?

Fit and measurements

Do not look only at the clothing size. Pay particular attention to the measurements in centimetres. For a women’s coat, women’s trench coat or women’s blazer, bust, waist and hip measurements are important. For a women’s dress, women’s blouse or women’s waistcoat, you should also check the garment length and sleeve length.

For men’s T-shirts and sweatshirts, chest width, shoulder line and overall length are often decisive. A men’s regular-fit T-shirt may be roomier than a sports shirt with an athletic fit, even when both are the same size.

Fabric and care

Before ordering, check:

  • The exact fibre composition.
  • Whether the garment is machine washable.
  • Whether it can be tumble dried.
  • Whether dark colours need to be washed separately.
  • Whether ironing, bleaching or dry cleaning is not recommended.

According to the product information, the adidas sweatshirt in this selection should be washed on a delicate cycle and dried at a low temperature. The Calvin Klein thongs are machine washable but must not be tumble dried. Details like these have a direct impact on everyday use and the garment’s lifespan.

Purpose and when you will wear it

A trench coat is suitable for layering and a smart outfit, while a women’s jumper or cardigan may be more practical at home, at work or on the go. For sportswear, consider freedom of movement, fabric and cut. For underwear, waist and hip measurements are more important than the label alone.

If you are looking for clothing for women and men, the quickest way to filter the selection is by size, colour, brand, clothing type and occasion. This allows you to compare casual clothing, designer clothing, sportswear and basics based on relevant features rather than appearance alone.

Recommended choices for different shopper profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JdyCardiganCabernetSize M

JdyCardiganCabernetSize M

Why it suits this profile: This cardigan is ideal for layering in everyday outfits and can be worn on its own or over a blouse.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric composition is clearly stated: 50% polyester, 40% recycled polyester, 5% wool, 3% elastane and 2% acrylic.

Main benefit & advantages

Ideal for layering; the cabernet colour adds a distinctive styling accent.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench Women Midnight S

Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench Women Midnight S

Why it suits this profile: A trench coat is ideal for commuting, appointments and occasions when you want a smart outer layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description states the midnight colour, single-breasted design and 100% cotton composition. The detailed size guide makes comparison easier.

Main benefit & advantages

100% cotton; sizes from XS to 3XL are included in the product information.

Suitable for: Specific purposes & 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 T-shirt is designed for football and other activities where freedom of movement and a lightweight sports fit are important.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details state a regular fit, short sleeves, size L and a composition of 57% cotton and 43% polyester.

Main benefit & advantages

Regular fit; suitable for sports and casual wear according to the product information.

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

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why it suits this profile: The black men’s sweatshirt is designed for everyday wear, from working at home to informal meet-ups.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a regular fit, fleece construction and a composition of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester.

Main benefit & advantages

Ribbed collar, cuffs and hem; suitable as a standalone layer or base layer.

Comparing underwear, dresses and plus-size styles

For women’s briefs, such as the Calvin Klein thongs, check the waist and hip measurements and the proportion of cotton to elastane. The product information states 90% cotton and 10% elastane and a pack of three. Always check the returns policy for underwear, as hygiene products may be subject to different conditions.

For a women’s dress, the length and cut are just as relevant as the size. A size 40 dress may have a loose, straight or fitted shape depending on the style. For a women’s blouse, waistcoat or jumper, consider whether you want to wear the garment over another item. If so, you may need extra room around the bust and shoulders.

For plus-size styles, such as a V-neck cable-knit jumper in XXL, it is advisable to check the available measurements before ordering. A description without comprehensive material or sizing information offers less certainty. In that case, choose a product page that clearly lists the relevant specifications.

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 know which clothing size to order online?

Measure your bust, waist and hips with a tape measure and compare the results with the size guide on the product page. Do not rely solely on the size you usually wear. Also consider the fit, such as regular, slim or oversized.

Is designer clothing always more durable?

Not necessarily. A brand name alone says nothing about the expected lifespan. Check the fabric, seams, care instructions and warranty terms. For example, adidas’ product information lists 30% recycled polyester in the Trefoil sweatshirt. That is a specific product detail, but not a general guarantee of durability.

What should I look for in sportswear?

Check the fit, fabric, freedom of movement and care instructions. According to Nike’s product description, the Park 20 Tee is designed for football and moisture management. Also check the current fabric details and sizing on the product page before ordering.