July 25, 2024

How to Start a Clothing Brand: Selecting a Trusted Supplier

We've been getting many people reach out to us on where we source our products, so we decided to create a series of blog posts to help you start your own clothing brand. This first part focuses on one of the most crucial steps: selecting a good, trusted supplier.

Finding the Right Supplier

Choosing the right supplier is essential for the success of your clothing brand. Here are some strategies to help you find reliable suppliers:
  • Facebook / Reddit Groups: Join groups where you can connect with other entrepreneurs and get recommendations for suppliers.
  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like Alibaba and Global Sources can connect you with numerous suppliers. Look for those with high ratings and positive reviews.
  • Industry Meetups: Attend fashion industry events and trade shows to network with potential suppliers and see their products firsthand.
  • Old-fashioned Research: Ask for referrals from other brands in your niche and request samples to evaluate quality.

Sampling: A Crucial Step

If you're a perfectionist like us, before committing to a supplier, always order samples. This allows you to:
  • Assess Quality: Ensure the fabric, stitching, and overall quality meet your standards.
  • Make Adjustments: Identify any changes needed before full-scale production.
  • Build Trust: Establish a relationship with the supplier and gauge their reliability.

Remember, don't be afraid to spend a bit more on sampling! 

Tips to Save Costs

We've learned the hard way, so we're including some tips here for you so you don't make the same mistakes. Starting a clothing brand can be expensive, but there are ways to save costs:
  • Freight Forwarders: Use freight forwarders to consolidate and ship all your samples together, reducing shipping costs.
  • Bulk Orders: Ordering in bulk can get you better prices and more favorable terms from suppliers.
  • Early Orders: Place orders early to take advantage of off-peak production times and potential discounts.
  • Optimize Fabric Use: Refine your fabric usage to minimize waste and choose cost-effective fabric sizes.
  • Negotiate: Always negotiate terms and prices with suppliers. Building a good relationship can lead to better deals.
  • Start Small: Begin with small orders to minimize risk. As you establish trust, you can gradually increase order sizes

Get Started Now

Selecting a trusted supplier and managing costs effectively are foundational steps in starting a successful clothing brand. Stay tuned for the next parts of this series, where we'll delve into other critical aspects of building your brand. As a bonus to get you started, you can join the Clothing Brand Entrepreneurs & Manufacturers Facebook group to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and potential suppliers. If we missed anything, leave a message in the comments below. Stay tuned for the next parts of our series, where we’ll delve deeper into other aspects of launching your brand. Happy sourcing!

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