When creating your dream apparel line it is important to consider the intended body type of your brand. This is a crucial aspect to consider for your brand as it will determine your sizing and overall desired fit of your garments. With millions of brands out on the market suited to fit all body types, “standard clothing sizes” is a term of the past that now has a very vague meaning, if any at all! Every factory in the US and/or in other countries will have different size sets when referring to “standard clothing sizes” which can become very confusing should you ever decide to switch manufacturers. The purpose of a fit session is to assure that your garment fits your intended body type in the way you envision.
First, a sample, also known as a prototype, is created to model your design ideas and to finalize and prepare the pattern that will be used for production. Here at Clothier Design Source, we typically work through 2-4 rounds of sampling/prototyping to assure the fit and design is exactly what you are hoping for before creating a tech pack. Our goal is to simulate production in our prototype room! Furthermore, we also offer a 3D prototype option that not only provides true fit and style simulation through a custom made avatar, it also allows clients to quickly make changes to the style. We like to offer this option because it gives the opportunity to correct early fit or styling issues before actually cutting any cloth.
Next, it is equally important to find fit models who have similar body types and measurements of your intended customers. Fit sessions typically consist of the designer (you), the design manager, and fit models. Having the fit models try on your samples will help you assess if the fit, size, and design are suitable for your customers. We recommend fit models to report any discomfort or restriction of arm or leg movement while trying on the sample to guarantee the garment is comfortable as it is fitting. This is also an opportunity to see all of the elements of your garment such as trims, fabrics, cut, style, and design come together and come to life! Fit sessions are important because they allow you to visually see, and physically feel how your garments will look, fit, and feel to your intended customers. See something you don’t like in your fit session? Commenting on what you like, and what you would like to see revised will help you finalize your sample. Having fit models try on the sample garments will allow you to give feedback and suggest improvements that you would like for your following rounds of sampling.
Figuring out your desired sizing will help move your project along to the next step, pattern making. Patterns are diagrams that represent the 2D shapes that are eventually sewn together to create your garment. This process is essential for perfecting the fit, style and construction of your product. Once you are entirely, 100% satisfied with your sample, approve it and prepare to start manufacturing!
At Clothier Design Source we have the ability to create patterns from scratch to accomodate to all sizes. We specialize in men's, women's, children's, sewn accessories and even some pet! Contact us today for a free consult and quote 651-225-8025.
