Joybuy Insights

Buying men’s clothing online: how to choose the right fit, fabric and comfort without making a mistake

Buying men’s clothing online may seem easy, but a good-looking product photo tells you little about the fit, fabric or how practical an item will be. For example, a T-shirt may be roomier than expected, while a slim-fit shirt might not allow enough freedom of movement. With men’s underwear, the fabric and waistband can also make the difference between everyday comfort and a disappointing purchase.

This buying guide helps you compare Calvin Klein men’s clothing, casual menswear, shirts, hoodies, jackets, jeans and men’s underwear.

Common pitfalls when buying men’s clothing

1. Relying on the size letter alone

An M or L doesn’t mean the same thing for every style. Regular, slim and relaxed fits each have a different shape. What’s more, a product may be described as coming up large or as true to size. So don’t just look at the size letter. Check:

  • the stated fit;
  • chest, waist or waistband measurements;
  • the garment length;
  • the advice on the product page;
  • how much room you want to move.

For example, the Calvin Klein Core Monologo Pocket Slim Tee is described as coming up large. According to the product information, you may want to consider going down a size if you prefer a standard fit. That’s an important distinction from a T-shirt described as true to size.

2. Misinterpreting a fabric blend

‘Soft’, ‘breathable’ and ‘easy care’ are broad descriptions. Always check the fibre content. A 100% cotton men’s T-shirt feels different from one containing polyester or elastane. Polyester can help a garment keep its shape, while elastane adds stretch. The way it feels to wear also depends on the weave and fabric weight.

Remember to check the care instructions, too. A garment that can’t go in the tumble dryer takes more planning than one that can be tumble-dried on a low heat.

3. Prioritising the brand name over how you’ll wear it

A logo doesn’t determine whether a shirt is right for work, leisure or layering under a jacket. Start by thinking about how you’ll wear it. Neutral colours and easy-care fabrics are practical for everyday wear. For a formal occasion, the collar, cut and fabric matter more than a prominent logo.

The same goes for Calvin Klein underwear: compare the number of pieces in the pack, the rise, the fabric composition and the fit. A thong, trunk and classic style aren’t interchangeable.

The key specifications to check

Fit: regular, slim or relaxed

  • Regular fit: generally offers more room around the chest and waist; suitable for everyday wear and layering.
  • Slim fit: cut closer to the body for a more fitted look. Check whether the fabric contains elastane and whether you’ll have enough room to move.
  • Relaxed fit: cut with more room; a good choice when comfort and freedom of movement come first.

When buying slim-fit men’s clothing, choosing the right size is especially important. A shirt may fit well at the neck but feel too tight around the shoulders or stomach. So check the collar size when buying shirts, for example with a Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt in EU size 39, 41 or 43.

Fabric and care

Check these three things:

  1. Fibre content: for example, cotton, polyester, elastane or a blend.
  2. Care instructions: machine wash, hand wash, temperature and drying method.
  3. Shape retention: look for stretch and follow the care label to help prevent shrinkage or distortion.

According to the supplied product information, the Calvin Klein CK Essential Reg CN is available in a cotton-polyester blend and has a regular fit. Another style, the CK Essential Slim Tee, is described as 100% cotton with a slim fit. So these two styles differ not just in colour or logo, but also in feel and silhouette.

How you’ll wear it, colour and styling

Black, white, grey and navy are easy to pair with jeans, chinos or a men’s jacket. A dark shirt works with smart trousers as well as casual jeans. When buying jeans, also check:

  • the rise;
  • the leg shape;
  • how much stretch they have;
  • the washing and drying instructions;
  • the fastening, such as a zip or buttons.

The JACK&JONES JJI MIKE JJORIGINAL has a tapered fit, mid-rise waist, roomier thighs and a narrower leg opening. Its fabric contains cotton, recycled cotton and elastane. These specifications tell you more than simply describing them as ‘casual jeans’.

Recommended choices for different shoppers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Calvin Klein S/S V Neck 3PK, MP1, Black/White/Grey Heather, Men S

Calvin Klein S/S V Neck 3PK, MP1, Black/White/Grey Heather, Men S

Why it suits this profile: Three T-shirts in black, white and grey make a practical everyday basic, whether you wear them under a shirt or with jeans.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack is listed as containing three T-shirts with a regular fit. So you know what you’re getting upfront and don’t have to rely solely on a marketing claim about versatility.

Key benefits

V-neck, short sleeves, three colours and machine washable at 30 °C according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 39

Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 39

Why it suits this profile: The black colour, Kent collar and slim fit make it a good match for work, dinners and occasions when you want a smart look.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the fit, collar, size and fabric composition. This makes it easier to compare slim-fit shirts using concrete details.

Key benefits

Stretch poplin with cotton and elastane; machine washable at 40 °C and not suitable for tumble drying according to the stated care advice.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent wear
Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack MP1 Black, White, Grey Heather Men 4XL

Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack MP1 Black, White, Grey Heather Men 4XL

Why it suits this profile: A pack of three trunks in several colours is a practical way to keep your everyday essentials stocked, including if you’re looking for men’s plus sizes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product listing specifies the 4XL size, mid-rise waist and relaxed fit. That makes it easier to assess than a vague description such as ‘comfortable’.

Key benefits

Three trunks, a cotton-elastane blend and a logo waistband according to the available product information.

Looking for more options?

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

Practical tips for everyday wear

  • Choose a regular fit if you often wear clothes as a layer.
  • For slim-fit men’s clothing, check the chest and waist measurements, not just the collar size.
  • Check whether a hoodie, jacket or shirt can go in the tumble dryer.
  • When buying men’s underwear, compare the number of pieces in the pack and the rise.
  • If you’re looking for men’s plus sizes, check that your size is actually available.
  • Pair neutral basics with one standout piece, such as a Joma Doha Jacket or a dark shirt.
  • Before ordering jeans, check the leg shape and elastane content.

Frequently asked questions about men’s clothing

What men’s clothing is suitable for everyday wear?

T-shirts, jeans, trunks and hoodies are often practical choices for everyday wear. Choose a fit that lets you move freely and check the care instructions. A regular-fit T-shirt is generally easier to style than a very fitted one.

How do I find the right size in men’s underwear?

Measure your waist where the waistband will sit and compare it with the product’s size chart. Also check the difference between fitted, relaxed and slim styles. A size letter alone doesn’t tell you enough, especially when buying men’s plus sizes.

How can I keep men’s clothing looking good for longer?

Follow the care label, turn dark colours inside out before washing if needed, and avoid the tumble dryer when the instructions advise against it. Hang shirts up straight after washing and iron them at the recommended temperature. This helps reduce unnecessary wear and tear and keeps the original fit for longer.