SAMPLE. IMPROVE. SUCCEED.

Navigating the Sampling Process: A Guide for Intimate Apparel Start-Ups

Starting an intimate apparel brand is such an exciting journey, full of creativity and endless possibilities. But let’s be open, it’s not all cool sailing. One of the trickiest parts is the sampling process. It can feel like diving into a maze of decisions and small details. At Interior B Studio, we understand the intricacies involved in bringing your vision to life, which is why we’ve put together this detailed guide to help you breeze through the sampling process with confidence and clarity. Let’s dive in and make your vision a reality!

UNDERSTANDING THE SAMPLING PROCESS

The sampling process is the keystone of product development in the intimate apparel industry. It involves translating design concepts into tangible prototypes, evaluating fit, fabric quality, and overall aesthetic appeal. The first step towards sampling is submitting detailed development tech packs to your chosen manufacturer. These tech packs provide them with essential guidance for patternmaking and the creation of initial prototypes.

REVIEWING 1ST FIT SAMPLES AND LAP DIPS

Once you receive the initial fit samples, your focus shifts to assessing the fit and construction of your designs. While these samples may not showcase the final fabric or trim colorways, they are invaluable for identifying necessary corrections and adjustments. Concurrently, reviewing and approving lap dips ensures consistency in color and fabric quality across your collection.

ITERATIVE REFINEMENT AND COST EVALUATION

The sampling process is iterative, often necessitating multiple rounds of revisions (ideally three times) to refine your designs. Effective communication with your manufacturer is crucial during this phase, as you collaborate to implement necessary corrections while staying aligned with your financial goals. Evaluating cost estimates per style empowers you to make informed decisions, ensuring that your designs remain economically viable without compromising on quality.

APPROVE PRE-PRODUCTION SAMPLES

Once the fit samples have been refined and cost considerations addressed, it’s time to approve Pre-Production Samples (PPS). These final prototypes represent the culmination of the sampling process and serve as a preview of the finished product. Review the PPS carefully, ensuring that every detail meets your expectations before proceeding to production.

As the sampling process progresses, your manufacturer may request a purchase order to confirm your commitment to moving forward. Consistent and clear communication remains paramount throughout this phase. Maintain regular contact with your manufacturing partner, whether they operate under CMT (Cut, Make, and Trim) or FPP (Full Package Production), and offer detailed feedback on each sample iteration. Also conduct rigorous quality control inspections at every stage, ensuring that each garment meets your exacting standards. Be specific about any revisions or adjustments, ensuring that your vision is accurately realized.

The sampling process is certainly a critical phase in the journey of bringing your intimate apparel designs to life. By partnering with a trusted and experienced studio like Interior B Studio, you can navigate this process with confidence and ease. Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, from design to prototype and sampling to bulk manufacture, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality.