What to do if the size does not fit

Short answer: Try the item on indoors with the tags attached and without washing it. If it does not fit, pack it as it arrived and send it back within the deadline, and the exchange goes smoothly.

Try it with the tags on

An item with tags attached and no signs of wear can usually be returned without trouble. So try it on at home, indoors, on clean skin and without perfume or lotion. The same goes for a bamboo bra and other close fitting items, where it matters even more that they are completely unworn.

Wash only when you are sure

A washed item can rarely be returned, and shrinkage makes it harder to tell whether the size or the wash was the problem. So wait to wash until the size is confirmed. This also applies to socks for women, which should be tried on clean and dry and put back in the packaging if they do not fit.

Note what was wrong

Write down whether the item was too big or too small, and by how much. Was it the chest, the length or the waistband that did not fit. That knowledge is valuable when you order again. Next time you will get it right in bamboo sweatwear and other types, because you know what to adjust.

How to try it on properly

Put the item on and move around in it for a few minutes. Raise your arms, sit down and bend forward. Notice whether anything feels tight or slips. Look in the mirror from the front and the side. An item that feels fine standing still can behave differently when you move, and you want to know that before you decide.

Pack it as it came

Put the item back in its original packaging, neatly folded and with all tags attached. Use the same bag or box it arrived in if you can. That makes it easy for the shop to receive and process the return quickly. Include any paperwork so it is clear which order the item belongs to.

Keep an eye on the deadline

The withdrawal period runs from the day you receive the item. Note the date when the parcel arrives so you do not forget. It is better to try the item quickly than to wait until the deadline has almost passed. Check the shop's terms so you know how long you have and how returns work.

Exchange for another size

If the only problem is the size, you can often exchange rather than return. Then you get the same item in the right size without starting over. Use your notes on what was wrong to choose the new size. If you are unsure, compare with the garment measurements in the size guide before ordering.

Learn from it for next time

An item that did not fit is not wasted if you learn from it. Keep your notes with your body measurements, so you have a better basis next time. Over time you get a feel for how different types of garments fit you, and you will need to return things less often.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the withdrawal period

At least fourteen days in the EU, often longer at individual shops. Always check the terms so you know the exact deadline.

Can you return underwear

Only unworn and in the original packaging. So try it on carefully and without washing until you are sure of the size.

Do you have to pay for return shipping

It depends on the shop and is stated in the terms. Read them before sending the item back so you know the cost.