Online shopping for bargain clothing can be thrilling, especially when the prices are jaw-droppingly low. But, as seasoned shoppers know, ordering cheap clothes online can be a gamble. Here are 10 things you should brace yourself for when clicking “add to cart” on those too-good-to-be-true deals.
1. Sizing Roulette
Cheap clothes often come with unreliable sizing. A “medium” might fit like an “extra small,” or that “one-size-fits-all” dress may only fit a doll. Be prepared to order up—or down—depending on sketchy size charts and inconsistent measurements.
2. Fabric Surprises
That dress looked soft and flowy in the picture, but when it arrives, it’s more plastic-y than polyester. Cheap clothes are notorious for being made from synthetic, low-quality materials that often feel stiff, scratchy, or paper-thin.
3. Color Mismatch
That bold red blouse you were excited about? It could show up as a washed-out pink or, worse, a shade of orange no one asked for. Cheap manufacturers sometimes use filters or enhanced lighting to make colors look more vibrant than they actually are.
4. Seams That Won’t Last
Expect the stitching on your bargain clothes to be weak. Seams may be crooked, unfinished, or unraveling straight out of the package. A little tug, and you could be facing wardrobe malfunctions sooner than you think.
5. Delayed Shipping (or No Shipping)
The countdown for that $5 dress may feel endless. Cheap online retailers often operate from distant countries, leading to weeks or even months of waiting. In some cases, the item may never even arrive—especially if it’s coming from a shady retailer.
6. Misleading Product Photos
The perfectly tailored dress or cool graphic tee on the model might look nothing like what you get. Cheap clothing sites have a tendency to use photos of higher-end products, leading to a disappointing “knock-off” version when your package arrives.
7. Itchy Tags or Labels
Incredibly cheap clothes may come with scratchy or bulky tags that irritate your skin, and removing them often requires a delicate touch, or you risk ripping the fabric. Look out for poorly attached or oversized labels, too.
8. Awkward Fit
Even if the size is technically right, cheap clothes can have awkward fits. Ill-placed seams, tight sleeves, or an unflattering neckline can make even the cheapest deal feel like a total miss when it comes to comfort and style.
9. Strange Odors
Sometimes bargain clothes arrive with an off-putting smell—like chemicals, mildew, or a factory scent. These odors can linger, even after a wash or two, leaving you wondering what exactly the clothes have been through.
10. Return Drama
If your purchase isn’t as expected, returning it might be more hassle than it’s worth. Some retailers offer no return options, while others require you to foot the bill for international shipping, making a refund nearly impossible for low-cost items.
In Conclusion
Ordering ridiculously cheap clothes online can be a fun gamble, but it comes with risks. To avoid major disappointment, manage your expectations, read reviews, and check return policies before you hit “buy.” You might just get what you pay for.
