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.
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
| Criteria | Useful information | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Product measurements and method | Letter only without table |
| Material | Fibres and percentages | Qualitative vague formula |
| Maintenance | Washing, drying, ironing | No exploitable indication |
| Return | Time, cost and procedure | Conditions 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.
| Expense item | Offer A | Offer B |
|---|---|---|
| Product or basket | 30.00 € | 38.00 € |
| Non-refunded delivery | 5.00 € | 0.00 € |
| Assumed partial return | 8.00 € | 0.00 € |
| Total of included items | 43.00 € | 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.
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.
- DGCCRF — Clothing labellingComposition, fibre designation, size and maintenance.
- DGCCRF — Purchase on the Internet: buy sereneDescription, measures, composition, payment and return.


