Remote mode and fitting

Clothing online: choose size, material and return

A displayed size does not always match the same measurements from one brand to another. To limit errors, you must compare the actual garment, its material and maintenance constraints before looking at the number or letter on the label.

Quick response

Essential in a minute

Measure a similar garment that suits you well and compare width, length, sleeves and cut to the reference guide. Check the percentage composition, the possible presence of several materials and maintenance tips. Look at the photos from several angles without deducing the texture of flattering lighting. Before ordering several sizes, read the fee, address and return time as well as the rules applicable to custom or unsealed items.

Person measuring a shirt flat laid near fabrics and a computer
Comparing the measurements of the product to those of a known garment is more reliable than relying only on a standard size.AI-generated illustration.

1. Create his reference garment

Choose a piece of the same type that falls correctly in your wardrobe. Put it flat without stretching and raise breast or waist width, total length, crotch and sleeves depending on the product. Compare these measurements to the seller's scheme, as a table of body measurements does not read like the dimensions of the finished garment. Note also if you want a fit, straight or large. In case of intermediate value, look at the particulars of the cut rather than a general rule.

  • Comparable piece measured flat.
  • Table unit and method identified.
  • Desired cut noted before the choice.

2. Read fibers and anticipate behaviour

The composition label must indicate the fibers and their percentages. The material influences heat, breathability, elasticity, curling and maintenance, but the name of a fiber is not enough to predict all the quality. Also examine the apparent density, lining, parts of different compositions and visible fabric details. A vague mention as "premium material" does not bring objective information of a complete composition. For a sensitive skin or a specific need, rely on the product data, not the only marketing argument.

  • Percentage of fibers available.
  • Lining and separate parts examined.
  • Promesses separated from verifiable characteristics.

3. Integrate maintenance with the cost of use

An affordable garment can become binding if it requires frequent professional cleaning, flat drying or delicate ironing. The maintenance label is recommended even if its presence does not have the same mandatory character as the composition. Look for the instructions given on the sheet and check their consistency with your use. Anticipate also the risk of dimensional variation and avoid removing the labels or using the part beyond a reasonable fitting until your decision is made.

  • Washing and drying compatible with use.
  • Estimated maintenance cost.
  • Labels kept during fitting.

4. Prepare a clean fitting and return

Read before payment the applicable time, procedure, return fee and return address. Try the garment in a clean environment, without perfume, makeup or prolonged use. Photograph a defect, poor reference or a different composition upon opening. A change of opinion and a lack of compliance do not treat itself in the same way. If you return the item, keep the form, the tracking number and proof of deposit until the full refund.

  • Return conditions read before order.
  • Failure or error documented immediately.
  • Proof of shipment retained.

Compare

Compare two similar clothes

CriteriaUseful informationAvoid
SizeProduct measurements and methodLetter only without table
MaterialFibres and percentagesQualitative vague formula
MaintenanceWashing, drying, ironingNo exploitable indication
ReturnTime, cost and procedureConditions discovered after payment

Fictional example · No merchant prices

Compare a scenario involving a return too

Fictional example: when a partial return occurs, offer A leaves €30 for the garment kept, €5 non-refunded delivery and €8 return postage, totalling €43. B leaves €38 with delivery and return included. Without a return, A costs €35. The outcome depends on that event; €43 must not be presented as certain.

Calculation breakdown · Fictional amounts in euros
Expense itemOffer AOffer B
Product or basket30.00 €38.00 €
Non-refunded delivery5.00 €0.00 €
Assumed partial return8.00 €0.00 €
Total of included items43.00 €38.00 €

Table limited to the partial-return scenario, with no probability assigned.

  • Check garment measurements before ordering several sizes.
  • Read which charges remain after a partial return.

Enter these items in the comparison tool

Before you continue

Final checklist : Choose clothing online

Check the points you actually checked. Checks stay in this page during the visit; they are not sent to the server. A checked point does not constitute a validation of the merchant.

Guide: Choose clothing online · Révision éditoriale : 28 October 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful answers

Should we order two sizes systematically?

No. Measuring a comparable piece and reading the product-specific table limits multiple orders. If doubt remains, check first the fees and return conditions.

Should the composition of a garment be indicated?

Yes, the composition label is mandatory and must include the percentages of textile fibres. The on-line sheet must be able to identify the essential characteristics before purchase.

Can we try a garment purchased remotely?

A reasonable fitting to verify the size and cut is different from a real use. Keep labels and packaging and check the exceptions or conditions applicable to the product.

To check

Reference sources and documentation

The editorial update date does not guarantee a new verification of each source. See the references for an individual situation or regulatory evolution.