Define your customer and your range
Decide who you sell to, at what price and in which channel. A small, focused range is easier to sample, easier to photograph and easier to sell than a broad one.
Many new brands start with a handful of styles and add colours before adding more styles, because each new fabric adds its own minimum.
Prepare references or a tech pack
Collect reference photos, a similar garment or a sketch, and write down fabrics, colours, sizes and the quantities you hope to order. A tech pack is ideal; a clear brief is enough to get a first quote.
Sample and approve
Sample in the production fabric, check fit in more than one size and approve the pre-production sample in writing. That sample is the reference for bulk production and inspection.
Place a small first order
Use made-to-order production in small quantities to test the market. Keep the first order inside a budget that includes labels, packaging, freight, duties and photography, not only the garment price.
Sell, learn and reorder
Watch what sells, then reorder best sellers early. A stock programme lets repeat styles restock without waiting for a new production run.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a company before I order?
Commercial importing usually needs a registered business and a customs or tax identifier. Rules differ by country, so check with a customs broker or adviser.
Can I start with only a few styles?
Yes. A few focused styles with a small colour run is a sound start, and you can add styles as you learn what your customers buy.