Buying clothes online is easy, but an appealing photo does not always tell you everything. A coat may look sturdy yet offer little protection from rain. A blouse may drape beautifully on the model but feel tight on your body shape. Sizes, materials and care requirements are also often misjudged.
So keep an eye out for three common pitfalls:
With the right checks, you can compare women’s clothing, men’s clothing and women’s and men’s coats more effectively.
The material determines how a garment feels, hangs and needs to be cared for. Cotton can be comfortable for everyday wear, while polyester is often chosen for shape retention or outdoor clothing. A blend combines different properties, but you should still check the care label.
For example, the adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt lists a composition of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. The product description mentions fleece, a regular fit and ribbed hems. These are verifiable features for anyone looking for sweatshirts online for everyday wear.
For men’s outdoor jackets, it is not just the outer fabric that matters. Also check:
According to The North Face’s product information, the NF0A8DY2 has a DryVent outer fabric with sealed seams and a PFC-free DWR finish. Present this as brand information; actual performance depends on factors including use, wear and care.
Do not automatically choose your usual size. Measure your chest, waist, hips and, if necessary, sleeve length, then compare these measurements with the product’s size guide. Also pay attention to the fit: regular, slim, oversized, wide leg or relaxed.
The Tommy Hilfiger Heritage Single Breasted Trench for women is available in several sizes and has its own chart with chest, waist, hip and sleeve measurements. Check this chart directly on the product page before ordering a women’s trench coat. A coat should leave enough room for the clothes you plan to wear underneath, without the shoulders or sleeves feeling too loose.
For women’s chino trousers, the relationship between the rise, hip width and leg shape is particularly important. A high-waist wide-leg style fits differently from a straight-leg chino. With trousers featuring an elasticated waist, the feel when worn may also differ from the size you would normally choose.
Ask yourself where you will wear the garment most often. Casual clothing for relaxing at home has different requirements from sportswear for cycling, walking or training. A women’s loungewear set does not need to provide technical protection, but comfort, freedom of movement and washing instructions are still important.
Check before buying:
For example, a men’s waterproof jacket with a technical coating may perform less effectively if the care label is not followed. According to The North Face’s product information, care of the NF0A8DY2 should follow the label, and the water-repellent finish may need to be reapplied.
Why it suits this profile: The black wide-leg chino can be paired with a blouse, T-shirt or jumper, making it suitable for a range of everyday outfits.
The product name makes the waist height, leg shape, colour and size clearer than a general description would.
High waist, wide legs and black colour; suitable for both casual and smarter outfits.
Why it suits this profile: This women’s trench coat is designed to create a polished look for commuting, appointments and everyday wear.
The product information states 100% cotton and provides separate chest, waist, hip and sleeve measurements.
Midnight colour, single-breasted design and a clearly specified choice of material on the product page.
Why it suits this profile: This 3-in-1 jacket is designed for changing conditions during walking, travelling and other outdoor activities.
The product description mentions an outer layer and a separate inner jacket that can be worn together or separately.
GORE-TEX material according to the product information, 550 fill power down, and an adjustable hood, cuffs and hem.
Why it suits this profile: The black sweatshirt works well with casual clothing, travel outfits and relaxed days when freedom of movement matters.
The description specifies the regular fit, fleece construction, material blend and care instructions.
70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester, regular fit, and ribbed neck, cuffs and hem.
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.
Measure your chest, waist and hips with a flexible tape measure, then compare the measurements with the size guide on the product page. Also consider the fit and style. A regular fit sits differently from a wide-leg or relaxed style. When buying branded clothing, it is best to use the guide for the specific product rather than relying only on your usual size.
Check which features are actually mentioned: waterproof material, sealed seams, a water-repellent finish and a protective hood. According to the brand’s own product information, a particular jacket may feature DryVent or GORE-TEX; this is a brand claim and not a general guarantee for every situation. Also read the care instructions, as coatings can change through use and washing.
Always follow the care label. Wash dark colours inside out where appropriate and use a mild detergent when recommended. Air-dry clothing if the product information advises this. For sweatpants, hoodies and women’s loungewear, this helps preserve the shape, colour and softness for longer. Also check whether a garment is suitable for tumble drying before starting the programme.