Joybuy Insights

Buying T-shirts and shirts online: how to choose the right style and avoid a poor purchase

Anyone looking to buy T-shirts and shirts online will often see dozens of styles that appear similar at first glance. Yet materials, fit and care requirements can vary significantly. A shirt that looks comfortable in the product photo may be too tight in practice, lose its shape quickly or be unsuitable for sport.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter product information for practical details. This helps you compare men’s T-shirts, women’s T-shirts, sports shirts, casual shirts and long-sleeve shirts based on features that can be checked.

Common pitfalls when buying shirts online

1. Looking only at the brand or photo

A Nike T-shirt, adidas T-shirt or The North Face T-shirt can serve different purposes. A cotton T-shirt for everyday wear is not automatically suitable for football or a walk. Always check the fabric composition, fit and intended use.

2. Confusing “comfortable” with the right fabric

Cotton feels soft and breathable to many people. However, it can behave differently from polyester during intense exercise. According to Nike’s product information, Dri-FIT is designed to draw moisture away from the skin. This is a brand claim about its performance, so also check the listed fibre composition and care instructions.

Other styles specifically state 100% cotton, including various The North Face models and the Tommy Hilfiger long-sleeve shirt. This may work well for everyday wear, but on its own it tells you nothing about thickness, shrinkage or the final fit.

3. Checking the size without consulting the size guide

Sizes vary by brand, collection and style. A regular fit, slim fit or relaxed fit may have the same letter size but fit quite differently. When ordering online, check chest, waist or hip measurements in centimetres. Also look for terms such as “true to size” or “roomy fit”, provided they match the product information.

The key specifications to check

Material: cotton, polyester or a blend

  • Cotton: often chosen for casual shirts, layering and everyday wear. The fabric generally feels natural, but the care label remains the deciding factor for maintaining its shape and colour.
  • Polyester: widely used in sports shirts and outdoor T-shirts. According to certain brands’ product descriptions, the fabric may be lightweight and breathable; check the specific product page for its exact properties.
  • Cotton blend: combines fibres with different properties. A cotton-polyester blend can be practical for shirts that are washed regularly.
  • Elastane: a small amount of elastane can provide extra stretch. A Calvin Klein V-neck lists a combination of cotton and elastane, but the exact percentages should be checked on the product page or label.

Fit and shirt length

Choose a fit based on how you intend to wear it:

  • Regular fit: a traditional cut with room around the body.
  • Slim fit: closer-fitting and works well under a blazer or overshirt.
  • Relaxed fit: looser and offers greater freedom of movement.
  • Long-sleeve shirts: useful for layering, cooler days or a smart-casual outfit.

A football shirt or sports shirt should not feel too tight around the shoulders. For everyday wear, a regular fit can be more versatile. If you plan to wear a shirt under a jumper, look for a smooth fabric and sufficient length.

Colour, care and durability in use

Black T-shirts are easy to style, but wash dark colours according to the care instructions. White T-shirts can become visibly discoloured when washed with dark clothes. Always check:

  1. maximum washing temperature;
  2. whether bleach can be used;
  3. tumble-drying instructions;
  4. ironing instructions;
  5. warnings relating to prints or logos.

The product information for the adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee recommends, among other things, a delicate wash programme, a low drying temperature and washing dark colours with similar colours. A The North Face model, on the other hand, specifically advises air-drying and not using a tumble dryer.

Recommendations by user type

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee JI8545 Black S

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Tee JI8545 Black S

Why it suits this profile: A simple black cotton T-shirt with a regular fit and crew neck is easy to pair with jeans, shorts or a jacket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the cotton jersey fabric, regular fit and specific washing instructions. This means you do not have to rely solely on a lifestyle photo.

Key benefit & advantages

100% cotton according to the product information; black; subtle Trefoil logo; suitable for casual wear and layering.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tommy Hilfiger TJM Original Rib Longsleeve Tee Men Black Iris XS

Tommy Hilfiger TJM Original Rib Longsleeve Tee Men Black Iris XS

Why it suits this profile: The ribbed texture, long sleeves and dark Black Iris colour work well for a polished casual outfit and layered looks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size guide includes chest and sleeve measurements for each size. Check these before buying rather than relying solely on XS as a starting point.

Key benefit & advantages

100% organic cotton according to the product information; ribbed texture; long sleeves; size guide with measurements in centimetres.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
The North Face Women T-Shirts NF0A8E1D White Dune XL

The North Face Women T-Shirts NF0A8E1D White Dune XL

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this outdoor T-shirt is designed for hiking, backpacking and mountain activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists the material, fit, sizes and care instructions separately. According to The North Face’s product information, UPF sun protection is part of the design; check the current product specifications.

Key benefit & advantages

100% polyester according to the product information; standard fit; sizes from XXS to 3XL; lightweight LIGHTRANGE fabric according to the brand description.

Suitable for: Football and match use
Nike Dri-FIT Referee Jersey Longsleeve DH8027-010 L

Nike Dri-FIT Referee Jersey Longsleeve DH8027-010 L

Why it suits this profile: The long sleeves, regular fit and two chest pockets meet the practical needs of referees.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This is not a general casual shirt marketed for sport: the product description explicitly mentions the referee style, pockets and long sleeves.

Key benefit & advantages

100% polyester according to the product description; long sleeves; two chest pockets; ribbed cuffs.

How to make a well-informed choice

First decide what you need the shirt for: everyday wear, sport, football, outdoor activities or layering. Then compare at least the material, fit, sizing and care requirements. With well-known brands such as Nike, adidas, The North Face and Tommy Hilfiger, also pay attention to the specific style; a brand name does not guarantee one particular fabric or cut.

Finally, check the delivery information, returns policy and product measurements. In the European Union, consumers generally have a legal guarantee of at least two years in cases of non-conformity. This is separate from whether a shirt retains its original appearance after normal use and incorrect washing.

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 T-shirts and shirts online

How do I work out my size when buying T-shirts online?

Measure your chest at the fullest point and compare it with the size guide for the specific style. Also consider the fit. With a relaxed fit, the same size may feel roomier than with a slim fit.

Which material is suitable for sports shirts?

That depends on the activity and your personal preference. Polyester is often used in sports and outdoor T-shirts. According to brands’ product information, certain technical fabrics may be lightweight, breathable or moisture-managing. Always check the fibre composition and washing instructions on the product page.

How can I stop cotton T-shirts from losing their shape quickly?

Wash them according to the care label, avoid unnecessarily hot programmes and only use a tumble dryer when permitted. Turn T-shirts with prints inside out and wash black T-shirts with similar dark colours. This helps reduce wear caused by washing and drying.