Joybuy Insights

Buying clothes online: how to pick women’s and men’s clothing without regret

Buying clothes online is convenient, but a great product photo doesn’t always tell the full story. Sizing, materials and fits can vary widely between brands, especially with women’s clothing online and men’s clothing online. A sweatshirt might turn out thinner than you expected, while a jacket that looks roomy in photos could offer limited freedom of movement.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer helps you assess deals based on verifiable information. So don’t just focus on the brand name, discount or look. Prioritise the features that determine whether a garment suits your everyday use.

Common pitfalls when buying clothing online

1. Relying solely on the standard size

An S, M or XL isn’t a fixed size across all brands. Measurements, cuts and size charts can differ. For instance, the Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt lists size S with a chest width of 48 cm. That’s more useful than looking at the size label alone.

For every order, check:

  • chest, waist and hip measurements;
  • sleeve length and leg length;
  • the stated fit, such as regular, fitted, oversized or relaxed;
  • whether measurements are in centimetres or another unit.

2. Confusing marketing words with measurable properties

Terms like “soft”, “breathable” or “warm” only become useful when linked to the material and construction. A fleece sweatshirt can feel comfortable, but that doesn’t automatically make it suitable for intensive sport or prolonged outdoor use.

So look at the fibre composition, lining, fastening and any technical finish. With an outdoor jacket, there’s a meaningful difference between a standard polyester shell and one with specified water- and windproofing technology. Also check whether the claim comes from the manufacturer. According to The North Face product information, the model in question has DryVent technology; this is a brand claim and not a universal guarantee for every weather situation.

3. Ignoring care and ongoing costs

A low purchase price can be less attractive if a garment is hand-wash only or can’t go in the tumble dryer. Check the care instructions before buying. A blouse, lingerie item or loungewear set may require different care than a cotton sweatshirt.

Pay attention to:

  • maximum washing temperature;
  • whether it’s suitable for the tumble dryer;
  • ironing and bleaching instructions;
  • hand wash or machine wash;
  • washing with similar colours.

The most important specifications to check

Material and when you’ll wear it

For casual clothing, sweatshirts and women’s cardigans, cotton blends are often practical for daily wear. According to the product description, the Adidas sweatshirt is made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester with a fleece construction. That gives a clearer picture than simply “comfortable” in the title.

For sportswear, freedom of movement matters more than just a soft interior. Check for stretch fibres, ventilating panels or a specific cut. For outdoor jackets, the outer fabric, water-repellent finish, hood, cuffs and pockets all matter.

Fit and freedom of movement

A regular fit typically sits between slim and loose. A relaxed or oversized style gives you more room, but may come up longer or wider. With women’s blouses and women’s cardigans, shoulder width can determine how a garment hangs. For women’s lingerie and underwear, waist and hip measurements are often more important than length.

Use a garment from your own wardrobe for comparison. Measure the chest width flat from armpit to armpit and compare it with the product details. If you’re between sizes, consult the size chart and returns policy; don’t automatically size up or down based on reviews alone.

Construction and practical details

Details that are sometimes glossed over online can make a difference in daily use:

  • ribbed trims on sweatshirts;
  • adjustable waist or cuffs on jackets;
  • zipped pockets for outdoor activities;
  • adjustable straps and fastenings on lingerie;
  • lining and fastening on blouses and cardigans;
  • number of poppers or type of waistband on bodysuits and loungewear.

A product with more features isn’t automatically better. Choose functions that fit your routine.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Only Sweatshirt Light Grey Melange Size L

Only Sweatshirt Light Grey Melange Size L

Why it suits this profile: A simple sweatshirt is a practical starting point for a casual wardrobe. The neutral light grey is easy to pair with jeans, joggers or a cardigan.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Opting for a basic design reduces the risk of paying for features you won’t use. Do check the available size information for size L first.

Key benefit & highlights

Neutral colour and versatile design for everyday use. The product page lists size L.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking top quality
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt IY4932 Black S

Why it suits this profile: Ideal if you want a recognisable sporty design that also works beyond the gym, for example on a walk or for a casual meet-up.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a regular fit and gives a chest width of 48 cm for size S. This lets you compare the fit in advance more accurately than the size label alone.

Key benefit & highlights

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester according to the product description. Fleece, crew neck and ribbed cuffs are clearly specified.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users
The North Face Women Jackets NF0A8EGV Space XL

The North Face Women Jackets NF0A8EGV Space XL

Why it suits this profile: This women’s jacket is designed for walking and outdoor activities where wind and precipitation may come into play. The zip-in function is relevant if you layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies features such as an adjustable hood, elastic cuffs and zipped pockets. According to The North Face’s own information, DryVent is waterproof, windproof and breathable; check the current product specifications and the label.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester outer fabric according to the product information. Available with a size chart from XXS to 3XL and suitable as a standalone layer or compatible zip-in layer.

Looking for more options?

We’ve compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Other clothing categories to compare

If you’re searching with a specific purpose, you can refine your selection by use and season:

  • Women’s jackets and outdoor jackets: compare the lining, fastening, hood, pockets and the stated weather protection.
  • Women’s blouses: check material, transparency, collar, sleeve length and room around the shoulders and bust.
  • Women’s cardigans: see whether the cardigan is intended as a light mid-layer or a warmer piece.
  • Women’s lingerie and underwear: review the material blend, elastic parts, fastening and care instructions.
  • Women’s loungewear: look at softness, waistband, freedom of movement and whether the set allows separate sizing.
  • Sportswear: check stretch, seams, moisture management according to the product description and the difference between training and everyday use.

FAQ about buying clothes online

How do I determine my clothing size when ordering online?

Measure your chest, waist and hips with a flexible tape measure and compare the results with the size chart on the product page. Don’t pull the tape tight. Also consider the fit: a regular fit differs from a fitted or oversized style. If in doubt, the returns policy is important, especially if you want to compare multiple sizes.

Which materials are practical for everyday use?

That depends on the garment. Many people find cotton pleasant to wear, while polyester is often used for sports and outerwear. A blend can combine properties, but always check the exact percentages. For the Adidas sweatshirt, for example, 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester are listed. The product description remains the most important source; properties can vary by weave and finish.

How can I make online-bought clothing last longer?

Follow the care label, use an appropriate wash programme and avoid unnecessarily hot washes. Wash dark colours separately when indicated and turn printed garments inside out. Dry lingerie, delicate blouses and clothing with stretch according to the specific instructions where possible. This helps reduce wear on colour, fibres, elastic and fit.